Craving something soft, fluffy, and packed with flavor?
Bao buns are the answer, and New York City is the place to find the best of them. Whether you’re a bao newbie or a seasoned fan, NYC offers a variety of spots where you can enjoy these pillowy delights, filled with everything from savory pork to crispy chicken or even unique veggie options.
With so many amazing bao spots across the city, it can be overwhelming to choose where to go. But don’t worry — we’ve got you covered with a list of the best bao buns in NYC, so you’ll never miss out on that perfect bite!
1. Momofuku Noodle Bar – The Classic
If you’ve heard of bao in NYC, you’ve probably heard of Momofuku. David Chang’s famous restaurant has been serving up bao buns for years, and they’re still a crowd favorite. The pork belly bao, with its tender meat, pickled cucumbers, and hoisin sauce, is a must-try. Simple, delicious, and always a hit — these bao buns are as iconic as the city itself.
Address: 171 1st Ave, New York, NY 10003, United States
2. Bao by Kaya – Bold Flavors and Creative Twists
Looking for a more adventurous bao experience? Bao by Kaya is the place to be. This spot takes traditional bao and gives it a modern spin. Think crispy chicken with a spicy kick or their delectable braised short rib bao. The bao buns here are always soft and perfectly steamed, making every bite feel like a warm hug for your taste buds.
Address: Vanderbilt Market – Bars & Eateries, 230 Park Ave, New York, NY 10169, United States
3. The Bao Shop – A Little Taste of Everything
Located in the heart of Manhattan, The Bao Shop serves up a fantastic variety of bao buns that’ll leave you coming back for more. Whether you’re in the mood for the classic pork belly or want to try something new like their tofu and shiitake mushroom bao, there’s something for everyone. The flavors are on point, and the bao buns are fluffy with just the right amount of filling.
Address: 13 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10003, United States
4. Khao Nom – For the Love of Thai-Inspired Bao
Craving something a little different? Khao Nom serves up Thai-inspired bao buns that are as flavorful as they are beautiful. From the spicy pork belly bao to their veggie-packed options, the flavors here are bold and vibrant. Plus, the fluffy bao buns are always a hit, making this a must-visit spot for bao lovers looking for a twist.
Address: 42-06 77th St, Elmhurst, NY 11373, United States
5. Xian Famous Foods – A Fusion of Flavors
Xian Famous Foods has been serving up bao buns that are anything but ordinary. Their pork and lamb bao buns come with a delicious mix of spices that give each bite a unique flavor profile. Don’t be afraid to try something new — their bao is anything but traditional, and that’s what makes it so special.
Address: 45 Bayard St, New York, NY 10013, United States
New York City is home to some of the best bao buns you’ll ever taste. Whether you’re craving a traditional pork belly bao or want to try something more adventurous, there’s no shortage of delicious spots in the city. So next time you’re wandering through the streets of NYC, make sure to grab a bao bun (or two) from one of these top spots. Your taste buds will thank you!