San Francisco is known for its diverse culinary scene, and bao buns are a standout offering that showcases the city’s vibrant food culture. These fluffy, steamed buns filled with a variety of savory and sweet ingredients have become a beloved staple. Whether you’re a bao bun aficionado or trying them for the first time, here are the top 10 delicious bao buns in San Francisco that you must try.
List of Top 10 Delicious Bao Buns in San Francisco
1. The Bao Bun at The Chairman
Located in the heart of the Mission District, The Chairman is a hotspot for bao buns. Their signature bao features tender pork belly, pickled daikon, and a flavorful hoisin sauce. The buns are perfectly steamed, making each bite a delightful experience.
2. Pork Belly Bao at Mamahuhu
Mamahuhu combines traditional Chinese flavors with a modern twist. Their pork belly bao is a crowd-pleaser, offering crispy pork belly paired with cucumber, pickled mustard greens, and a touch of spicy sriracha. The balance of flavors and textures makes this bao a must-try.
3. Shu Mai Bao at Rice & Roll
Rice & Roll serves up innovative bao options, and their Shu Mai Bao is no exception. Filled with a savory mix of shrimp and pork, these buns are light and packed with flavor. The addition of sesame seeds and fresh herbs elevates the taste and presentation.
4. Bao Buns at Liholiho Yacht Club
Liholiho Yacht Club is known for its eclectic menu, and their bao buns are a standout item. The restaurant’s bao features tender beef brisket, pickled cabbage, and a sweet soy glaze. The combination of juicy beef and crisp vegetables creates a satisfying and flavorful bite.
5. Vegan Bao at Moby’s
For those seeking a plant-based option, Moby’s offers delicious vegan bao buns. Their version includes marinated tofu, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy peanut sauce. The bao is both hearty and satisfying, making it a great choice for vegans and non-vegans alike.
6. Chicken Katsu Bao at The Ramen Bar
The Ramen Bar’s chicken katsu bao is a flavorful fusion dish that pairs crispy chicken katsu with a creamy slaw and spicy mayo. The bao buns are steamed to perfection, and the combination of crispy chicken and tangy sauce creates a unique and enjoyable flavor profile.
7. Peking Duck Bao at China Live
China Live offers a high-end bao experience with their Peking Duck Bao. Filled with succulent duck breast, hoisin sauce, and crispy scallions, this bao is a gourmet take on a classic. The rich and savory flavors are enhanced by the soft, pillowy bao bun.
8. BBQ Pork Bao at Yum Cha
Yum Cha is a popular spot for dim sum, and their BBQ Pork Bao is a standout. The tender BBQ pork is complemented by a sweet and savory sauce, all encased in a fluffy bun. The bao is both flavorful and comforting, making it a favorite among locals.
9. Soft Shell Crab Bao at State Bird Provisions
State Bird Provisions is known for its inventive dishes, and their Soft Shell Crab Bao is no exception. The bao features crispy soft shell crab, pickled radishes, and a zesty aioli. The crunchy crab and tangy toppings make this bao a memorable treat.
10. Sweet Red Bean Bao at Golden Gate Bakery
For a sweet twist on the classic bao, Golden Gate Bakery offers a delectable Sweet Red Bean Bao. Filled with smooth red bean paste and lightly sweetened, these buns are perfect for those with a sweet tooth. The soft, slightly sweet bao makes for a delightful dessert.
Conclusion
San Francisco’s bao buns offer a variety of flavors and styles, each providing a unique taste experience. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory or sweet, these top 10 bao buns are sure to satisfy your cravings.
