Dicky’s Dumps handmakes each delicious dumpling that they sell, and has since 2018. With flavours like Pork & Chive or Shrimp & Scallop, you can find them in the freezer section of many local stockists, or even on the menu at the likes of Sing Sing. If you want to learn to make your own, they even share the secrets of dumpling making in classes as well. We spoke with co-founder Pearl Lam to get to the meat of the dumpling.
What is your business called and what does it do?
Dicky’s Dumps, we sell premium frozen handmade dumplings.
What made you want to do this work?
Dicky’s Dumps was borne out of a desire to create meaningful work that combines a love of community, culture, food, and fun. I co-founded District Local, a Vancouver passion project, and through that, created Get Lucky Art Show as a way to showcase talented artists in the city, while celebrating heritage and Chinatown for Chinese New Year. In its second year, I asked my now life and business partner, Dickson, to run a dumpling bar as part of the programming. Fast forward a few more LNY dumpling pop-ups, a life-halting bike accident and a global pandemic, and the dumplings turned into a legitimate business.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
Bringing handmade, feel-good Chinese food into more homes, exemplifying generations of skill and artistry, in the form of a dumpling – a universally loved and recognized form of comfort.
Who are your clientele/demographics?
Anyone who appreciates a good dumpling, and having quick and easy meals they can easily make at home. We also have a strong lunchbox presence – moms often tell us our dumplings are their kids’ favourite request.
How does your business make money? How does it work?
Our frozen dumplings are sold online, through retailers, and served on select restaurant menus. We also host dumpling-making classes and pop-ups at community events.
Where in the city can we find your profession?
Our dumplings can be found at Stong’s Market, Gourmet Warehouse, Windsor Meats, Meridian Farm Markets, and other independent grocers and specialty food stores across the Lower Mainland.
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.
Not a question, but now and then we will hear “Your dumplings are pricey.” We take these as opportunities to educate consumers, as part of our mission to challenge outdated ideas about what different cuisines are truly worth. Each of our dumplings is made by hand, using skills and techniques passed down through generations. Just as there’s a clear difference between a can of Chef Boyardee and a fresh handmade ravioli, we are proud of the care and craft that goes into our dumplings.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
We love collaborating with other local businesses and restaurateurs to bring new food experiences to our community, and connecting and meeting so many wonderful people through our dumplings.
The challenging part is the blurred lines between life and business, and being cognizant to make an effort to enjoy ‘downtime’ together without making it about work.
What is your favourite joke about your own profession?
Being immigrant kids, I often say that Dickson’s and my parents sacrificed everything to give us a better life in Canada and for us to become doctors, lawyers, etc. And look at us now, mamas! We’re professional “sample ladies at the grocery store.” We know they’re proud of us, but never in a million years thought we would be selling dumplings for a living.
Where can we follow you?
Find us on Instagram for upcoming pop-ups, dumpling-making classes, recipe ideas, and fun life content!
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
We love the chocolate and confectionery wizardry from the talented team at Hype Chocolate! And of all the ready-to-drink cocktail brands on the market, we love Cinco Drink Co. the most.
