2017-2018
The Pop Up Days
The past reflects a series of thrilling pop-ups with Urbanspace in 2017, where we explored our grab-and-go Pelmeni concept, gained an initial fan-base, and landed significant exposure with TimeOut, CBS, and Eater.
2018-2021
Permanent Locations
From 2018 to 2021 we operated our first permanent location in Columbus Circle's subway station as part of a food hall, but later moved on to a stand-alone retail shop, where we continued to offer our frozen dumplings to cook at home and cooked dumplings with sour cream, pickles, and fresh dill.
2022-Today
The True Faces of The Company
Due to Covid-19's impact on NYC retail, we've closed retail operations, and now only offer our frozen dumplings via shipping, and thru our gourmet & specialty retail partners. Our original staff ("the true faces of the company") made us who we are, and without reservations we pay tribute to them in our branding.
Ownership
Raphael, born in beautiful Cuenca, Ecuador, has a background in product design and a deep passion for Pelmeni and Varenyky, despite not being Russian or Ukrainian. His mother is American-Italian, and his father is Ecuadorian.
When not attending to his dumpling business, Raphael enjoys playing soccer and spending time with his cat Pluto. His business, Daa! Dumplings, is proud to be part of the Made in NYC community. The idea for this business was inspired by the rich cultures and cuisines of New York City.