The Absolute Best Bao in Boston [Updated 2024]

Having grown up in the vibrant city of Boston, I have tasted my fair share of baos from all corners of this culinary mecca. With fifteen different baos under my belt, I am confident in my ability to guide you through the bustling food scene and direct you straight to the most mouthwatering steamed buns in town.

Whether it's the classic pork belly bao or a creative fusion creation, I have rigorously sampled them all, evaluating each one with a discerning palate. So sit back, prepare your taste buds, and get ready to embark on a delectable journey through the best bao Boston has to offer!

Bao Bao Bakery & Cafe

Highlights
Egg tart
Brown Sugar Boba Cream Puff
Macarons
Crepe cakes
Red Bean Sesame Ball

Nestled in the bustling streets of Boston, Bao Bao Bakery & Cafe offers an eclectic selection of delectable treats that will tantalize your taste buds. One might find it difficult to resist the tempting array of baos found here.

As I stepped into the cafe, the sweet aroma of egg tarts whisked me away to a world of fluffy goodness. With their flaky golden crust and silky smooth custard filling, these egg tarts were simply divine. Each bite transported me to a land of pure bliss.

Another standout creation was the brown sugar boba cream puff, a delightful twist on a classic. Encased in a delicate choux pastry, the creamy filling was generously dotted with chewy boba pearls. The interplay of textures and the subtle sweetness was a true revelation.

For those seeking a taste of Paris, Bao Bao Bakery & Cafe’s collection of macarons will transport you to the charming cafes of the French capital. The delicate pastel shells were filled with luscious ganache, creating a symphony of flavors that left me craving for more.

Make sure to save room for their impressive array of crepe cakes. Each layer was meticulously stacked to create a tower of delicate pancakes, with a velvety filling between each layer. The combination of flavors and textures made for a truly memorable experience.

To round off my delightful visit, I couldn't resist trying their red bean sesame ball. It was the perfect balance of nutty sesame flavor and creamy red bean paste, encased in a fried crispy shell that crumbled with each bite.

In my quest for the best bao in Boston, Bao Bao Bakery & Cafe certainly stood out. The creativity, craftsmanship, and exceptional flavors showcased in their baos and other delectable treats left a lasting impression. Plan a visit and I guarantee you'll be captivated by this bao haven.

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Myers+Chang

Highlights
Dan Dan noodles
Bao
Cocktails
Fine dining experience
Desserts

Walking into Myers+Chang is like stepping into a culinary wonderland, where bold flavors dance on your palate and tantalize your senses. As a devout bao-lover, I was thrilled to try their famous baos, and boy, did they deliver!

The baos at Myers+Chang are a work of art. Each bite transports you to a realm of mouthwatering flavors and textures. From the tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork belly bao, dripping with rich hoisin sauce, to the crispy tofu bao, bursting with umami flavors, these little pillows of goodness are a testament to their craft.

But the baos are just the beginning. Myers+Chang offers a variety of delectable dishes that will leave you craving more. One standout is the Dan Dan noodles, a spicy Sichuan delicacy that packs a fiery punch. The thick, chewy noodles are perfectly coated in a fragrant, savory sauce, creating a taste explosion in every bite.

And let's not forget the cocktails! Myers+Chang's cocktail menu is a delightful blend of creativity and craftsmanship. Whether you opt for a refreshing lychee martini or a bold and smoky mezcal concoction, their mixologists know how to create liquid masterpieces that complement the bold flavors of their dishes.

The fine dining experience at Myers+Chang is accentuated by its vibrant and lively atmosphere. The restaurant buzzes with energy, making every visit feel like a celebration. The staff are knowledgeable, attentive, and always ready to recommend the perfect dish or drink to suit your preferences.

To end your meal on a sweet note, make sure to indulge in one of Myers+Chang's exquisite desserts. From the decadent coconut cream pie to the tangy passion fruit sorbet, these desserts are the perfect finale to a memorable dining experience.

All in all, Myers+Chang is a must-visit destination for bao enthusiasts and adventurous foodies alike. Their creative and playful menu, coupled with impeccable execution, sets a standard that is hard to beat. So, if you're in Boston and on the hunt for the best bao, make your way to Myers+Chang for a transcendent culinary journey.

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Banyan Bar + Refuge

Highlights
Phenomenal meal
Great drinks
Friendly and attentive staff
Pork belly bao
Outdoor seating

Let me start by saying that Banyan Bar + Refuge certainly deserves a spot on the list of the best baos in Boston. From the moment I stepped foot into this establishment, I knew I was in for a phenomenal meal.

The atmosphere at Banyan Bar + Refuge is vibrant and welcoming, with a trendy yet cozy interior. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive, making me feel right at home. They were more than happy to recommend drink pairings for the baos, and I must say, the drinks were great.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show—the pork belly bao. This bao was truly a work of art. The pillowy soft steamed bun encased tender slices of melt-in-your-mouth pork belly, complemented by a perfect balance of flavors from the pickled cucumbers and hoisin sauce. Each bite was bursting with umami goodness. I couldn't help but savor every single morsel.

To top it all off, Banyan Bar + Refuge offers outdoor seating which is perfect for enjoying your bao on a sunny day.

In conclusion, Banyan Bar + Refuge is a must-visit for any bao enthusiast in Boston. With their phenomenal meal, great drinks, and friendly staff, it's a dining experience that will leave you craving for more. So, don't miss out on this bao haven!

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wagamama

Highlights
Right on Quincy Market
Asian fusion with variety
Tasty and delicious
Vegan options available
Enjoy live music while eating

At first glance, wagamama strikes you with its prime location right on Quincy Market. It's the ideal spot to grab a quick and delicious bao before venturing off to explore the historic streets of Boston.

Upon entering, I was immediately captivated by the vibrant and lively atmosphere. wagamama offers a unique blend of Asian fusion dishes that cater to a range of taste preferences. From traditional to innovative options, they have it all.

Of course, the main attraction for me was the bao. I was delighted to discover that wagamama's baos exceeded my expectations in both taste and presentation. Each bite was a symphony of flavors, perfectly balanced and expertly crafted. From the steamed pork belly with hoisin sauce to the crispy fried chicken with kimchee, every bao was a delightful burst of deliciousness.

For my vegan friends, wagamama doesn't disappoint either. With vegan options available, they ensure that everyone can indulge in the bao experience.

But what truly sets wagamama apart is the experience. Not only do you get to savor mouthwatering baos, but you can also enjoy live music while dining. This adds an extra layer of entertainment and excitement to your meal, making it an unforgettable experience.

In conclusion, wagamama is a must-visit destination for any bao lover in Boston. With its perfect location, flavorful baos, and lively atmosphere, it's a true gem in the city's culinary scene. So, grab a friend, head to wagamama, and let your taste buds embark on an unforgettable bao journey.

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Double Chin Modern Asian Restaurant

Highlights
Delicious food
Fun drink options
Cozy atmosphere
Friendly staff
Variety of desserts

Double Chin Modern Asian Restaurant in Boston is a gem when it comes to baos. The moment I stepped in, I was greeted by a friendly staff and instantly felt the cozy atmosphere.

Now let's talk about the star of the show – the delicious food! The baos at Double Chin are simply out of this world. From the moment I took my first bite, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The buns were pillowy-soft and perfectly steamed, while the fillings were bursting with flavor. Whether you prefer the classic Pork Belly Bao or the adventurous Szechuan Chicken Bao, each bite is an explosion of taste.

But it doesn't stop there. Double Chin also offers a variety of desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth. From their decadent Matcha Lava Cake to the heavenly Red Bean Mochi Ice Cream, you won't be able to resist indulging in these delightful treats.

To accompany your meal, Double Chin offers a range of fun drink options. Whether you're in the mood for a refreshing Lychee Lemonade or a unique Bubble Tea Martini, they have something to quench your thirst and enhance your dining experience.

In my search for the best bao in Boston, Double Chin Modern Asian Restaurant has certainly made an impression. With its delectable food, cozy ambiance, and friendly staff, it's a must-visit for all bao lovers. So, gather your friends, head over to Double Chin, and prepare to have your taste buds tantalized by their incredible baos.

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Gene's Chinese Flatbread Cafe

Highlights
Thick noodles
Delicious broth
Large serving
Quick service
Affordable pricing

Gene's Chinese Flatbread Cafe in Boston is a hidden gem that serves up some of the best baos in the city. As soon as you step inside, you are greeted with the mouthwatering aroma of freshly made flatbreads and delectable spices.

One of the highlights of Gene's is their thick noodles. These noodles are perfectly chewy and absorbent, making each bite a delightful experience. And the delicious broth that accompanies the baos is simply divine. It's rich, flavorful, and has just the right amount of seasoning to enhance the entire dish.

What sets Gene's apart from other bao joints is their generous portion size. Each bao is large and packed with fillings, ensuring that you leave satisfied and full. And if you're in a hurry, their quick service ensures that you can enjoy your bao on-the-go without any delay.

Another aspect that makes Gene's stand out is their affordable pricing. Despite the high quality and taste of their baos, they are reasonably priced, making it a great option for a delicious and wallet-friendly meal.

Overall, my experience at Gene's Chinese Flatbread Cafe was a delightful one. The combination of thick noodles, delicious broth, large servings, quick service, and affordable pricing make this place a must-visit for any bao enthusiast in Boston.

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Great Taste Bakery & Restaurant

Highlights
Huge menu
Friendly staff
Affordable prices
Fast and hot food
Great bakery

This hidden gem of a place has a huge menu that will leave bao enthusiasts drooling with anticipation. From traditional fillings like pork belly and chicken to unique options like vegetarian and seafood, there is something for everyone's taste buds.

One of the first things that stood out to me was the friendly staff. They were attentive, helpful, and genuinely seemed to love their job. They were more than happy to answer any questions I had and provide recommendations for my bao adventure.

The best part? The affordable prices. Great Taste Bakery & Restaurant offers top-notch quality baos at a fraction of the price compared to some other places in Boston. This means you can indulge in a variety of baos without breaking the bank.

But what really sets this place apart is the speed at which they serve their food. I barely had time to sit down and soak in the atmosphere before my piping hot bao was placed in front of me. The wait time was minimal, ensuring that I could satisfy my bao cravings without any unnecessary delay.

And let's not forget about their great bakery. Not only do they excel at baos, but their baked goods are also equally impressive. From fluffy pastries to delectable cakes, this place is a haven for those with a sweet tooth.

In conclusion, Great Taste Bakery & Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone on the hunt for the best bao in Boston. With a huge menu, friendly staff, affordable prices, fast service, and a great bakery to boot, it truly embodies the essence of bao perfection. Give it a try and you won't be disappointed!

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Nan Xiang Express

Highlights
Very good soup dumplings
Reasonable prices
Chill and clean atmosphere
Friendly staff
Fast service

Upon entering Nan Xiang Express, I was instantly impressed by its chill and clean atmosphere. The restaurant had a friendly staff who greeted me with warm smiles and quickly seated me. As I perused the menu, I couldn't help but notice the reasonable prices, which is always a plus.

Of course, the main highlight at Nan Xiang Express is their soup dumplings, and let me tell you, they were very good. Each dumpling was a tiny burst of flavor, with a perfectly thin and delicate wrapper encasing a delectable filling. The soup inside was rich and flavorful, making every bite a delight.

What impressed me further was the fast service at Nan Xiang Express. Despite the restaurant being busy, my order arrived swiftly, which is essential for a quick and satisfying meal.

Whether you're a regular bao enthusiast or a first-timer looking to dive into the world of soup dumplings, Nan Xiang Express is definitely a place worth exploring. With its delicious offerings, reasonable prices, and welcoming atmosphere, it certainly deserves its spot as one of the best baos in Boston. So, why not head on over and prepare for an explosion of flavor?

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Winsor Dim Sum Café

Highlights
Favorite dimsum
Delicious and fresh
NY-level yummy
Biggest all-day menu
Affordable relative to other dimsum

Winsor Dim Sum Café is a hidden gem for bao lovers in Boston. As soon as I stepped foot into the cozy dim sum restaurant, I knew I was in for a treat. The aroma of delicious, freshly-steamed buns filled the air, enticing my taste buds and heightening my anticipation.

What sets Winsor Dim Sum Café apart from the rest is its vast selection of mouthwatering dim sum options. From traditional favorites to creative variations, their all-day menu is undoubtedly the biggest I've come across in Boston. Whether you're craving a classic char siu bao or feeling adventurous with a salted egg custard bao, Winsor Dim Sum Café has got you covered.

But the true star of the show is undoubtedly their baos. Each bun is meticulously crafted with a fluffy, pillowy exterior that encases a burst of fresh and flavorful fillings. My personal favorite? The char siu bao. The tender and succulent barbecued pork combined with the softness of the bun was a match made in dim sum heaven.

What impressed me the most about Winsor Dim Sum Café is that despite the high-quality and deliciousness of their baos, the prices remain affordable compared to other dim sum establishments. It's like experiencing the flavors of New York's Chinatown right here in Boston, without breaking the bank.

Overall, Winsor Dim Sum Café exceeded my expectations and left me craving for more. If you're a bao enthusiast searching for the best bao in Boston, make sure to add Winsor Dim Sum Café to the top of your list. It's an experience you won't want to miss!

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Hei La Moon Restaurant (Food Opera)

Highlights
Authentic
Classic
Traditional
Wonderful
Lovely

Let me tell you, this place is a gem! As soon as I stepped foot inside, I was greeted with the enticing aroma of authentic Chinese cuisine. The restaurant exuded a traditional charm that immediately put me at ease.

Now, onto the main event - their baos. Oh boy, were they a treat! I tried a variety of their offerings, and each one was simply wonderful. The classic flavors burst in my mouth, transporting me to the streets of Shanghai.

The bao dough was fluffy and perfectly steamed, serving as the ideal vessel for the delicious fillings. Whether it was the tender braised pork, succulent chicken, or flavorful vegetarian options, each bite left me craving for more.

What truly set Hei La Moon apart was their attention to detail. Every lovely bao was meticulously crafted, ensuring that the flavors harmonized beautifully. It was evident that the chefs took immense pride in their culinary creations.

I must also mention the side dishes that accompanied the baos. With the variety of dim sum options available, I couldn't resist indulging in a few more bites of pure pleasure. The savory dumplings and crispy spring rolls were divine.

Overall, Hei La Moon Restaurant (Food Opera) is a must-visit for all bao enthusiasts. Their authentic and traditional approach to these delightful treats truly sets them apart. So, if you find yourself in Boston and in need of a bao fix, make sure to swing by Hei La Moon - you won't be disappointed!

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Dumpling Cafe

Highlights
Hidden gem
Authentic Chinese
Amazing dumplings
Scallion pancakes
Great food variety

Dumpling Cafe truly is a hidden gem nestled within the bustling streets of Boston. As soon as I stepped inside, I was greeted by the cozy atmosphere and the irresistible smell of authentic Chinese cuisine. This place already had me hooked.

Now, let's talk about the bao—the star of the show. I must say, Dumpling Cafe does not disappoint. Their baos are a work of art, perfectly fluffy steamed buns filled with a variety of delectable options. Each bite is an explosion of flavors that will leave you craving more. From traditional pork to unique vegetarian options, Dumpling Cafe has something to satisfy every palate.

But that's not all. While the baos are undoubtedly the main attraction, don't forget to try their dumplings. These expertly crafted delights are simply divine, with each bite bursting with mouthwatering fillings. And oh, please do yourself a favor and order some scallion pancakes too; they are crispy, savory perfection.

One thing I loved about Dumpling Cafe is the authenticity of their dishes. It felt like I was transported to the bustling streets of China with every bite. The menu offers a great variety of options, ensuring that there's something for everyone, whether you're a bao connoisseur or just discovering this delightful cuisine.

So, if you're on the hunt for the best bao in Boston, look no further than Dumpling Cafe. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

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Dumpling Palace

Highlights
Prompt service
Generous portions
Excellent boba tea
Helpful waitress
Good quality food

Let me start by saying that Dumpling Palace certainly lived up to its name when it came to prompt service. As soon as I walked through the door, I was promptly seated and handed a menu.

One of the first things I noticed was the generous portions that they serve. When my bao dish arrived, I was pleasantly surprised by the size of the buns. Each one was plump and overflowing with flavorful fillings.

To accompany the bao, I decided to try their excellent boba tea. The tea was perfectly sweetened and the tapioca pearls were chewy and delightful. It was the perfect companion to the savory buns.

What truly stood out during my visit was the helpful waitress who took the time to explain the different bao options on the menu. She also provided recommendations based on my preferences. It was clear that she was knowledgeable and passionate about the food.

Lastly, I must mention the good quality food at Dumpling Palace. The bao itself was soft and fluffy, and the fillings were flavorful and well-balanced. Every bite was a burst of delightful taste.

Overall, my visit to Dumpling Palace was a delightful experience. With their prompt service, generous portions, excellent boba tea, helpful waitress, and good quality food, this spot definitely deserves a spot on the list of the best baos in Boston.

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Wow Bao

Highlights
Pleasant surprise
Delicious bao buns
Stellar main dish
Excellent customer service
Cute name

Wow Bao was a pleasant surprise in my quest for the best bao in Boston. As soon as I stepped into the vibrant eatery, my nostrils were greeted with the enticing aroma of these soft and fluffy bao buns.

The delicious bao buns at Wow Bao deserve a standing ovation. Each bite was like a burst of flavor in my mouth, with the tender filling perfectly complementing the pillowy dough. From classic options like pork and chicken to unique vegetarian choices, there was something to satisfy every palate.

But it didn't stop there! Wow Bao's menu also offered a stellar main dish selection. I couldn't resist trying their mouthwatering rice bowls, which were as impressive as their bao buns. The combination of perfectly cooked rice, succulent meats, and flavorful sauces was simply divine.

What impressed me just as much as their food was the excellent customer service. The staff at Wow Bao were friendly, accommodating, and eager to answer any questions I had about their menu. They truly went above and beyond to ensure a memorable dining experience.

And let's not forget the cute name of this gem of a bao place. Wow Bao does indeed make you go "wow" with their delectable offerings.

In conclusion, Wow Bao in Boston is a must-visit for bao enthusiasts looking for a unique and satisfying dining experience. With their delicious bao buns, stellar main dishes, excellent customer service, and of course, their cute name, Wow Bao has truly earned its spot as one of the best baos in Boston.

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Dumpling King

Highlights
Delicious
Fast
Best price
Limited seating
Frozen dumplings

Dumpling King in Boston is a hidden gem for bao lovers. Upon entering the cozy restaurant, I was immediately greeted by the aromatic scent of fresh dumplings being steamed to perfection.

The highlight of my visit was undoubtedly the delicious baos. Each bite was a burst of flavors, with the fluffy steamed buns encasing flavorful fillings. From the classic pork belly to the innovative vegetarian options, every bao was a symphony of taste that left me wanting more.

One of the things that impressed me most was the fast service. Despite the bustling atmosphere, my order was promptly taken and my baos arrived at the table within minutes. This made it the perfect spot for a quick and satisfying meal.

Not only were the baos exceptional, but the prices at Dumpling King were also the best in town. For the quality and portion size, I couldn't believe how reasonable the prices were. It made my taste buds dance with joy, while keeping my wallet happy.

The only downside was the limited seating within the restaurant. However, this did not diminish the overall experience of enjoying the mouthwatering baos. If the seating is full, you can always opt for their frozen dumplings to take home and enjoy later.

In conclusion, Dumpling King is an excellent choice for those seeking the best bao in Boston. With their delicious flavors, fast service, and unbeatable prices, it's no wonder why it's a favorite among locals. I highly recommend paying a visit to Dumpling King for a bao experience that will leave you craving more.

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Shōjō Boston

Highlights
Phenomenal food
Creative and delicious
Excellent staff
Cool vibe
Refreshing cocktails

Shōjō Boston is a hidden gem when it comes to baos in Boston. From the moment I stepped into this cozy restaurant, I knew I was in for a treat. The atmosphere is playful and inviting, with a cool vibe that sets the perfect tone for enjoying some phenomenal food.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the baos! Shōjō takes the classic bao to a whole new level with their creative and delicious offerings. Each bite is a burst of flavor and texture that will leave you wanting more. Whether you're a meat lover or prefer vegetarian options, Shōjō has got you covered with their diverse bao selection.

What sets Shōjō apart is not just their food, but also their excellent staff. They are friendly, knowledgeable, and always willing to provide recommendations and answer any questions you may have. Their passion for their craft truly shines through in every aspect of the dining experience.

To complement their delectable baos, Shōjō offers refreshing cocktails that perfectly complement the bold flavors of their dishes. Each sip is like a mini vacation for your taste buds, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your meal.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best bao in Boston, look no further than Shōjō Boston. Their phenomenal food, creative offerings, excellent staff, and cool vibe make for an unforgettable dining experience. Don't miss out on the opportunity to indulge in their mouthwatering baos and sip on refreshing cocktails. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

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