The West Yorkshire village of Marsden is the last village in the Colne Valley. Known for its picture-perfect portrayal of the quaint British countryside, dog walkers, pub goers and now Vietnamese street food lovers flock in their droves, all thanks to award-winning pop-up Oi Dumplings.
Owned by couple Maisie and Molly, Oi Dumplings has recently been crowned one of the best street food restaurants in the North. The small cabin opened its doors in summer last year, but the pair had already spent time slinging out stuffed dumplings and Vietnamese specials at festivals and food markets across the UK before opening their permanent space.
Inspired by their travels across Vietnam, Oi Dumplings’ menu features snacks and small plates including Viet spring rolls, char siu braised pork belly, peanut loaded fries and wonton skins that come topped with a homemade sweet chilli dip.
But it’s their speciality dumplings that have left a lasting impression on locals and Marsden explorers. Each order comes with six hand-folded steamed dumplings, served with hibiscus pickles and a sauce. There’s traditional pork and ginger on the menu, Xinjian lamb that’s inspired by the signature cumin lamb from Xinjian, Chinese chicken curry and kimchi peanut and tofu. It’s food that’s hard to come by anywhere else in such a small village.
Since its open, the cabin has hosted supper clubs, workshops and hundreds of people stopping by to indulge in Maisie and Molly’s brilliant food. Unsuprisingly, in July this year Oi Dumplings won the title of Northern Champions in the Northern heats of the British Street Food Awards.
This week, Maisie and Molly head down to London to represent their local area in the semi-final. They said: “We’ve had some fantastic opportunities in the lead up, appearing on Steph’s Packed Lunch, BBC Radio and Sunday Brunch. Already winning the Northern title has been a rewarding experience, business has benefitted, and we feel affirmed by the recognition. Marsden is just a 30 minute train ride from Manchester city centre and perfect for those looking for a fun day out in the beautiful countryside.”
If they win, Oi Dumplings will go on to represent the UK as a northern business in Germany in the European Street Food Awards, due to take place at the end of September.
Oi Dumplings is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Check their google page or social media for opening times.