A worldwide maker of dumplings has soft-opened in an expansive spot overlooking the ocean in Santa Monica.

Din Tai Fung, which is known for its xiao long bao, a type of soup dumpling that originated in Shanghai, is holding a grand opening today at its new, 10,615-square-foot, indoor-outdoor dining space at 395 Santa Monica Place.

Founded as a cooking oil retail business in Taiwan in 1958, Din Tai Fung became a small dumpling and noodle shop in 1972. Today the Michelin-recognized restaurant has more than 165 locations in 13 countries worldwide. That growth came largely as a result of the restaurant’s xiao long bao, which are made through an intricate, 18-fold process that balances fillings in what is known as the restaurant’s “Golden Ratio.” Other popular menu options include dishes such as the cucumber salad, and spicy wontons in a signature sauce, plus the pear lychee martini, made with Grey Goose La Poire Vodka and St-Germain. The sleek, new spot has beachy hues and natural light, floating circular canopies in the patio space, and xiao long bao steamer baskets throughout. Din Tai Fung opened its first local restaurant in Arcadia in 2000 and now has nine Southern California spots. For more information go to dtf.com.