Ni Hao Bao Dumpling House, a brand new concept from two Arizona natives, is preparing to debut in Scottsdale at 9301 E Shea Blvd #105.
The new restaurant is set to move into the current home of Ahipoke within the Mercado Del Rancho shopping center, according to co-owner Arin Finger. He and co-owner Darrell Ngo, both natives of Arizona, hope to open Ni Hao Bao Dumpling House in early 2025, possibly in January or February. This is the first time the two longtime friends will open a restaurant together, merging Darrell’s culinary expertise with Arin’s entrepreneurial spirit.
Darrell’s journey began in the kitchens of his parents’ Asian restaurants, where the aromas of traditional Chinese dishes filled his childhood. His parents, Chinese immigrants, unknowingly set the stage for Darrell’s lifelong passion for the culinary arts. With the knowledge and drive instilled in him from a young age, Darrell pursued hospitality and culinary arts education at Northern Arizona University. He later graduated from Le Cordon Bleu Scottsdale Culinary Institute.
Darrell’s professional journey started at P.F. Chang’s Asian Bistro. What began as a part-time job turned into a 21-year career, where he rose to Senior Culinary Innovation Chef at the corporate level. His role allowed him to influence global culinary development, contributing to eight restaurant openings and creating over 250 recipes. More than just food, Darrell’s leadership and mentorship shaped the workplace culture, training hundreds of team members. Today, as a dedicated husband and father, Darrell remains committed to elevating the culinary scene in Phoenix with passion and expertise.
Arin Finger’s path to success is equally inspiring, though it began in the world of visual effects. Armed with a degree in Media Arts and a minor in Business from the University of Arizona, Arin quickly made a name for himself in Hollywood. He contributed to visual effects for blockbuster films like Hellboy, Sin City, Tron Legacy, and Thor. His career reached a high point when he led a studio for DreamWorks Animation in Bangalore, producing The Penguins of Madagascar. Despite his success in film, Arin sought a career that allowed more balance with family life.
In 2013, Arin returned to Phoenix and acquired an i9 Sports franchise, where he applied his leadership skills to build a thriving youth sports program. Starting with a single location serving 150 kids, Arin expanded the franchise to 13 locations with over 2,000 participants each season. His focus on fostering a supportive environment for youth sports created opportunities for children and families to engage in positive, skill-building activities.
During the challenges of COVID-19, Arin launched Dough Riders, a mobile wood-fired pizza business. Combining his love for food with business acumen, Arin engaged with the local community through events and private parties. Dough Riders became a symbol of his resilience and creativity during challenging times.
Now, Darrell and Arin’s stories intertwine as they prepare to collaborate on a new venture. Their shared passion for food, community, and innovation is set to make a lasting impact on the Greater Phoenix area and beyond. When Ni Hao Bao Dumpling House opens early next year, customers can expect a customizable experience, where guests are encouraged to pick a main protein that is available either as a sandwich, with rice, or with a stir-fried Asian vegetable slaw, and paired with a side. The restaurant will also have a variety of dumplings and wontons, a kid’s menu, and desserts.
