@Nan Xiang Express Official | Stepping Out of My Comfort Zone in University City
Let me start by saying this — I don’t usually gravitate toward Asian cuisine. But when Nan Xiang Express invited me out to their University City location at 3720 Chestnut Street here in Philly, I decided to step outside of my comfort zone… and I’m so glad I did.
We went all in with their famous dumplings — the Signature Pork Soup Dumplings (delicious), the Crab Meat & Pork Dumplings (so flavorful), and the Chicken Soup Dumplings (another winner). I even tried the Steamed Vegetable Dumplings… and let’s just say they weren’t my thing at all. They’re pretty, but not for me.
The Cucumber Salad was refreshing, the Spring Rolls with Vegetable & Shrimp were crisp and light, and the Shredded Beef & Pepper Noodles? Easily my favorite dish of the night — savory, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. Jazz went for a chicken and rice dish that gave off serious sesame chicken vibes, and she loved every bite.
I did try the Cold Soy Milk drink… and I’ll be honest, it just wasn’t for me. But that’s the beauty of trying something new — you figure out exactly what you love and what you’d skip next time.
The customer service? A 10 out of 10. The staff was warm, welcoming, and made sure every dish hit the table fresh and hot. I’d definitely come back here — but now that I know my favorites, I’d stick to my go-to’s and order them every time.
Nan Xiang Express, you may have just turned me into a dumpling girl.
Trying new cuisines can be both exciting and a little daunting, especially when it involves dishes like soup dumplings that require a bit of technique to enjoy fully. Nan Xiang Express offers a vibrant dining experience right in University City, Philadelphia, that makes stepping outside your comfort zone deliciously rewarding. The Signature Pork Soup Dumplings are a crowd favorite for good reason. Delicately wrapped, they burst with flavorful broth and tender pork, giving you a perfect balance of texture and taste. For those who appreciate a seafood twist, the Crab Meat & Pork Dumplings provide a rich and savory flavor that’s truly memorable. The Chicken Soup Dumplings are also a hit, offering a lighter yet equally tasty option. For diners who want to sample a variety of textures and flavors, the Cucumber Salad and the Spring Rolls with Vegetable & Shrimp provide refreshing and crisp contrasts to the warm, juicy dumplings. The Shredded Beef & Pepper Noodles stand out as an excellent choice for those craving a savory and well-seasoned noodle dish, perfectly cooked to complement the other menu items. If you’re curious about traditional drinks, Cold Soy Milk is a classic beverage often served alongside Chinese meals, known for its smooth texture and subtle sweetness. While it might not be to everyone’s taste, it’s worth trying to appreciate the full cultural experience. Customer service at Nan Xiang Express also enhances the dining experience with attentive and friendly staff, ensuring all dishes arrive fresh and hot. Whether you’re a dumpling enthusiast or a curious newcomer to Asian cuisine, this spot promises authenticity and warmth. Next time you visit University City, stepping into Nan Xiang Express allows you to enjoy a genuine taste of dumpling craftsmanship and other classic dishes — adding a new favorite to your culinary adventures in Philly.