From courage to cuisine: Judy Wu’s dumplings become a Perth favourite

In the vibrant heart of Leederville, a quiet but powerful food story is unfolding and it all begins with a woman who refused to give up.
 

Judy Wu, founder and owner of My House Dumpling, has turned personal hardship into one of Perth's most loved local dining experiences. Her journey from CEO in China to community icon in Western Australia is one of resilience, reinvention and fierce devotion to quality, culture and care.
 

"Starting over in a new country was the hardest thing I've ever done," Ms Wu said.
 

"I didn't speak the language, I didn't know the systems, but I knew I could offer something special; food made with real heart."
 

Before arriving in Australia in 2008, Judy led two successful manufacturing companies, employing over 300 staff and generating millions in revenue. However, when she migrated to Australia, she started again from zero, with no network, no local knowledge and little English. She supported her son's early ventures into hospitality while quietly learning the ropes. After a series of setbacks, she launched her own dumpling stall in a humble food court in 2017.
 

From food court to Perth institution
 

What began as a small dream soon evolved into My House Dumpling, a restaurant now recognised as a Perth institution. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Judy made the bold decision to move into her own independent venue in Leederville, a decision that proved transformative.
 

"I saw the end of our food court lease as an opportunity, not a failure," Ms Wu said.
 

"Leederville gave me the chance to create a space that truly felt like home, for me and for my customers."
 

Today, her restaurant is a staple for locals from all walks of life, offering warmth, comfort and authenticity in every dish.

Quality without compromise
 

Judy personally selects fresh ingredients from the markets every morning and oversees every aspect of service. She tastes, tests and approves every dish before it appears on the menu.
 

"Every dumpling is tasted and tested by me before it's allowed on the menu," Ms Wu said.
 

"Nothing is rushed and nothing is ever done without care."
 

Dumplings are crafted in full view of customers, each one rolled, filled and folded by Judy and her team as part of a daily ritual of care and craftsmanship.
 

"This isn't factory food, this is handmade, every time," she said.
 

"When people eat our food, I want them to feel the love and the effort that went into every bite."
 

A menu built on tradition
 

The menu features a rich variety of handmade Chinese dumplings, including pan-fried, boiled and vegetarian options, alongside signature xiao long bao (soup dumplings), stir-fried rice, noodles and classic mains. Customers can dine in or order via UberEATS and Doordash.
 

But no matter how the food is delivered, the standard never drops.
 

"I never compromise on ingredients," Ms Wu said.
 

"If the produce isn't fresh at the market, I don't buy it. It's that simple."
 

Loved by the community
 

Judy's reputation for excellence and her uncompromising dedication to quality have earned My House Dumpling a loyal following. Families, students, professionals and food lovers return time and again, not just for the food, but for the heart behind it.
 

"Customers tell me they feel at home here. That's the greatest compliment," Ms Wu said.
 

A vision with purpose
 

Judy's vision for the future is simple but ambitious. She plans to grow the My House Dumpling brand across Perth and eventually into retail or packaged delivery, without ever compromising on quality.
 

"My dream is to bring our dumplings into more homes, not just in Leederville, but all over the city," Ms Wu said.
 

"But I will never grow in a way that sacrifices our values. Quality comes first."
 

Values that go beyond business
 

Beyond business, Judy is a proud advocate for women in business, particularly migrant women who often face additional barriers. She is deeply connected to the local Buddhist community and believes in compassionate, values-driven leadership.

"I want women, especially migrant women, to know that it's never too late to start again," Ms Wu said.
 

"You just need courage, hard work and belief in your own hands."
 

Her recent collaboration with a local temple's VegeRun event reflects her commitment to healthy living and spiritual growth.
 

A woman, a mission, a dumpling
 

For Judy, this journey has never been about shortcuts or overnight success. It has been about waking up early, making things with care, leading by example and believing in the power of starting over.
 

"I believe the smallest things, how we fold a dumpling, how we greet a customer, create the biggest impact," Ms Wu said.
 

"To me, that is real success."
 

My House Dumpling is more than a restaurant. It is a home for heritage, a celebration of flavour, and a testament to the quiet strength of a woman who refused to let circumstance define her future.
 

About My House Dumpling
 

Founded in 2017 by Judy Wu, My House Dumpling is a proudly independent Chinese dumpling restaurant located in Leederville, Perth. Known for its handmade dumplings, fresh local ingredients and authentic flavours, the restaurant has become a beloved dining destination for locals and food lovers alike. Every dish is crafted with care, precision and tradition, under the personal guidance of Judy Wu, who brings over 30 years of entrepreneurial experience to the kitchen. With dine-in, takeaway and delivery options, My House Dumpling offers warmth, flavour and authenticity, one handmade dumpling at a time.

www.myhousedumpling.com.au