Brooklyn Dumpling Shop is a fast-growing fast-casual dumpling franchise founded in May 2021 by NYC restaurateur Stratis Morfogen in the East Village of New York City. Headquartered in Cresskill, New Jersey, under BDS Franchising LLC, the brand blends classic diner flavors into creative dumplings, bowls, bites, boba, and frozen retail products.

The concept began franchising in 2021, with expansion underway across the U.S., Canada, and beyond. Notable growth includes a 100-unit master franchise deal in Canada and multiple development agreements throughout North America.

Franchisees operate tech-enabled, contactless automat shops featuring digital ordering and temperature-controlled lockers for pickup—offering convenience, consistency, and enhanced safety.

Brooklyn Dumpling Shop’s menu stands out with over 30 unique dumpling flavors, including Korean BBQ, Mac ’n Cheese, and even dessert options like Apple Pie. Beyond dumplings, the brand offers bowls, smash burgers, specialty sauces, boba tea, and a line of frozen dumplings for grocery retail.

Training

Brooklyn Dumpling Shop provides multiple levels of training to support its franchisees in running their operations effectively. These programs are designed to ensure the franchise is run in line with the brand’s standards. Below are the training programs offered by the franchisor:

1. Initial Training Program: Conducted in Hoboken, New Jersey, this training is offered at no charge for up to three attendees. Franchisees are responsible for all travel and related expenses. Additional trainees may be added at a cost of $3,500 per person, plus expenses.
2. Additional Training: The franchisor may offer or require additional training, especially if the franchise is underperforming or upon franchisee request. This training can be held at the franchise location, with fees of $1,000 per day per trainer, in addition to travel, lodging, and meal expenses.
3. Mandatory Annual Training: Franchisees may be required to attend additional training programs or a national business meeting/annual convention for up to five days per year. The location is designated by the franchisor and all related costs—including travel, lodging, and meals—are the franchisee’s responsibility.

Territory Protection

Brooklyn Dumpling Shop grants franchisees a defined territory, but it does not offer exclusive territorial protection. The franchisor reserves the right to establish company-owned or franchised locations and to sell products and services through alternative channels, including online platforms, within or outside of a franchisee’s designated area.

This arrangement means that while a franchisee is assigned a territory for their store, they are not shielded from all potential competition under the Brooklyn Dumpling Shop brand.

Additionally, the franchisor retains the discretion to approve new franchise sites based on various factors such as demographics, proximity to other franchises, and overall market potential.