Full Steam Dumpling - Santa Cruz

I don’t review things often, but this place deserves a review. The chef is an artist. We have eaten at Full Steam many times, gone to pop-ups, and farmers markets. His food is amazing. It isn’t traditional, it is leveled up. Yes, it ain’t cheap. Every time I pay I cringe a bit. But then when I eat I remember why it costs what it does. The broths are complex. The dumplings are robust. And the side gigs like his Pho pop up and Bahn Mi are special. And weird hack, I’m not a vegetarian at all, but some of the vegetarian dishes are better than his meat dishes. I hope they keep at it. As a foodie I think Full Steam is an important part of making SC a great place to live.

I 've had Full Steam a few times now and have loved their food and service. They are situated here at 11th Hour on most days as a special pop-up kitchen, and am glad to see them doing well.I ordered their Vegan Gyoza which are made from mushrooms, tofu, and veggies, laid over with their own chili oil that brings out a lot of flavor. The dumplings were pan fried to perfection and were really delicious. I highly recommend trying the mushroom ones even if you eat meat.Although I love their food offerings, I can 't deny that $14 for five dumplings seems to be on the higher side of things. They are indeed delicious and probably the best homemade dumplings you 'll find in Santa Cruz, but to pay almost $20 for the meal including tip is a bit steep.Definitely a once in a while type of spot for me. Next time I 'll try their vegan ramen which looked creamy and delicious.Vegetarian options: Vegan Ramen, Vegan Gyoza, Mushroom Baos

LOVED THE DUMPLINGS LOVED THE RAMEN ?? AWESOME FOOD!!!

I 've had Full Steam a few times now and have loved their food and service. They are situated here at 11th Hour on most days as a special pop-up kitchen, and am glad to see them doing well.I ordered their Vegan Gyoza which are made from mushrooms, tofu, and veggies, laid over with their own chili oil that brings out a lot of flavor. The dumplings were pan fried to perfection and were really delicious. I highly recommend trying the mushroom ones even if you eat meat.Although I love their food offerings, I can 't deny that $14 for five dumplings seems to be on the higher side of things. They are indeed delicious and probably the best homemade dumplings you 'll find in Santa Cruz, but to pay almost $20 for the meal including tip is a bit steep.Definitely a once in a while type of spot for me. Next time I 'll try their vegan ramen which looked creamy and delicious.

Unexpectedly, unbelievably good. We had chicken ramen, vegan ramen, chicken/leek gyoza, and mushroom bao. The ramen is outstanding.Seriously, cannot wait to eat here again.