The 16 Best Bao Buns in Chicago

For those craving bao buns in the windy city, Chicago offers a plethora of options to satisfy your hunger. From traditional to fusion, there are countless restaurants serving up these delicious and fluffy steamed buns filled with various ingredients.
Whether you're a local looking for a new favorite spot or a visitor eager to try this popular dish, the search for the best bao buns in Chicago can be overwhelming. To help narrow down your options, we've compiled a list of the top establishments known for their mouthwatering buns.
- Quality of ingredients
- Authenticity of flavors
- Variety of fillings
- Pricing
- Atmosphere and ambiance
Get ready to embark on a culinary journey through Chicago's vibrant food scene with this curated list of the 16 best bao buns in the city.

- Monday: 4:30–10 PM
- Tuesday: 4:30–10 PM
- Wednesday: 4:30–10 PM
- Thursday: 4:30–10 PM
- Friday: 4:30–11 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–3 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–3 PM
1. Duck Duck Goat
Information and Reviews
- Aaron Moore described Duck Duck Goat as a place where the food is exquisite and highly recommended for its perfect medley of flavors.
- Jazz B. shared that the quality of ingredients and calm ambiance make the dining experience memorable, especially recommending the freshly hand-made noodles.
- Michael Damato highlighted the incredible taste of the food, the large portions meant for sharing, and the accommodating space for larger groups.
- Eric Wilson mentioned the vibrant atmosphere and eclectic decor, noting that some dishes may cater more to the Midwestern palate, but overall delivering a good meal in a unique location.

- Monday: 8 AM–5 PM
- Tuesday: 8 AM–5 PM
- Wednesday: 8 AM–5 PM
- Thursday: 8 AM–5 PM
- Friday: 8 AM–5 PM
- Saturday: 8 AM–5 PM
- Sunday: 8 AM–5 PM
2. Sweet Bean
Information and Reviews
- Customers appreciate the friendly staff and delicious pastries.
- The airy and flavorful pastries are described as an incredible display of artistry.
- Visitors love the variety of sweet and savory treats with unique flavors.
- Many patrons make a point to stop by whenever they are in town, citing the great food and service as reasons to return.
Whether you're looking for a quick bite or craving a leisurely breakfast, Sweet Bean offers a delightful experience that is sure to satisfy your cravings. It's no wonder why so many visitors keep coming back for more!

- Monday: 10 AM–11 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–11 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–11 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–11 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–11 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–11 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–11 PM
3. Take a Bao Eats
Information and Reviews

- Monday: 7 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday: 7 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday: 7 AM–9 PM
- Thursday: 7 AM–9 PM
- Friday: 7 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 7 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 7 AM–9 PM
4. Chiu Quon Bakery
Information and Reviews
- Solid classic dim sum and bakery with good selection of pastries and steamed items.
- Excellent variety of pastries for catering events with on-time delivery.
- Delicious red bean mochi and unique winter melon moonpie.
- Efficient service with delicious and cheap pastries.

- Monday: 8 AM–6 PM
- Tuesday: 8 AM–6 PM
- Wednesday: 8 AM–6 PM
- Thursday: 8 AM–6 PM
- Friday: 8 AM–6 PM
- Saturday: 8 AM–6 PM
- Sunday: 8 AM–6 PM
5. Saint Anna Bakery
Information and Reviews
- Customers rave about the bbq pork bun, coconut filled bun, and sesame ball. The fluffy buns and savory fillings keep patrons coming back for more.
- Although the atmosphere may not be ideal for lingering, the friendly and helpful staff make every visit enjoyable. Customers appreciate the fast and courteous service.
- With affordable prices, including 3 small egg tarts for $1, customers can indulge in a variety of treats without breaking the bank.
If you're in the mood for a delicious pastry or a savory snack, Saint Anna Bakery is the place to visit!

- Monday: 11 AM–9:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–9:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–9:30 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–9:30 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–10 PM
6. Hing Kee
Information and Reviews
Customer Reviews:
- Great food and fast service. Loved the Korean style BBQ ribs and soup dumplings. - 4 stars
- Awesome food and impeccable service. Yummy dishes like spring rolls and potstickers. - 5 stars
- Delicious soup dumplings and hand-pulled noodles at an affordable price. Fast service and great atmosphere. - 4 stars
- Great Sichuan options on cold days. Flavorful dishes and satisfying portions. - 5 stars

- Monday: 9 AM–8 PM
- Tuesday: 9 AM–8 PM
- Wednesday: 9 AM–8 PM
- Thursday: 9 AM–8 PM
- Friday: 9 AM–8 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM–8 PM
- Sunday: 9 AM–8 PM
7. Legend Dumpling + Bao
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews praise Legend Dumpling + Bao for its flavorful dishes and welcoming atmosphere. Some key points from reviews include:
- Great spot for a snack with small portions perfect for sharing
- Homey atmosphere with tasty options like shrimp pork dumplings and Taiwan braised beef noodles
- Efficient service during busy times like the Chicago marathon, offering steamed beef dumplings and chicken wings
- Delicious food at fair prices, with favorites like pork dumplings and a friendly, authentic vibe
With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, Legend Dumpling + Bao continues to impress guests with its flavorful offerings and excellent service.

- Monday: 8 AM–8 PM
- Tuesday: 8 AM–8 PM
- Wednesday: 8 AM–8 PM
- Thursday: 8 AM–8 PM
- Friday: 8 AM–8 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–8 PM
- Sunday: 12–8 PM
8. Wow Bao – Theater District
Information and Reviews
- Customers rave about the delicious pot stickers and chicken bone broth
- Some customers found the food to be expensive and lacking in flavor
- Others appreciated the friendly staff but felt the food was unseasoned
- One reviewer suggested sticking to the baos as they found other dishes to be disappointing

- Monday: 9 AM–8 PM
- Tuesday: 9 AM–8 PM
- Wednesday: 9 AM–8 PM
- Thursday: 9 AM–8 PM
- Friday: 9 AM–8 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM–8 PM
- Sunday: 9 AM–8 PM
9. Bao Bae Bakery
Information and Reviews
- Impressive selection of baked goods, including milk bread, mango 杨枝甘露, Ube mochi cake, osmanthus jelly pudding, and coconut pudding.
- Customers appreciate the freshness, variety, and individual packaging of the baked goods.
- Despite limited seating in the food court, many recommend taking the treats "to go" for a cleaner experience.
- The coconut pudding and matcha cake roll are particularly highlighted as must-try items.
With a rating of 4.6 stars and glowing reviews, Bao Bae Bakery is a must-visit destination for bakery lovers in Chicago.

- Monday: 7 AM–8 PM
- Tuesday: 7 AM–8 PM
- Wednesday: 7 AM–8 PM
- Thursday: 7 AM–8 PM
- Friday: 7 AM–8 PM
- Saturday: 7 AM–8 PM
- Sunday: 7 AM–8 PM
10. Feida Bakery
Information and Reviews
- Customers love the soft and flavorful pastries with generous fillings, all at surprisingly inexpensive prices.
- They appreciate the clean and cozy atmosphere, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
- Reviewers mention the authenticity of the pastries and the variety of options available, making it a must-visit spot for Chinese bakery enthusiasts.
Experience the taste of traditional Chinese pastries at Feida Bakery and indulge in a wide selection of sweet treats that won't break the bank!

- Monday: 11 AM–7 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–7 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–7 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–7 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–8 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–8 PM
- Sunday: 12–6 PM
11. Wow Bao
Information and Reviews
With service options including no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in, customers have the flexibility to enjoy their favorite dishes however they prefer. Amenities like Wi-Fi and a wheelchair-accessible entrance contribute to a positive dining experience for all guests.
Reviews for Wow Bao highlight some key points:
- Delicious menu options, including the Thai Ginger bone broth and Chocolate Lava Bao
- Outstanding customer service from friendly staff members like Demeon and Cisco
- Efficient service with quick order fulfillment
Experience the delectable flavors and exceptional service at Wow Bao for a memorable dining experience in the heart of Chicago.

- Monday: 8:30 AM–8 PM
- Tuesday: 8:30 AM–8 PM
- Wednesday: 8:30 AM–8 PM
- Thursday: 8:30 AM–8 PM
- Friday: 8:30 AM–8 PM
- Saturday: 8:30 AM–8 PM
- Sunday: 8:30 AM–8 PM
12. Dim Dim
Information and Reviews
Customers have shared positive reviews about their experiences at Dim Dim:
- Great food selection, including unique items like the pork floss egg sandwich.
- Reasonable prices compared to other dim sum spots in Chicago.
- Efficient and quick service, even when the restaurant is busy.
These reviews highlight the quality of the food, affordability, and overall pleasant dining atmosphere at Dim Dim. Customers praise the authenticity of the Cantonese dim sum and meals, emphasizing the delicious flavors and welcoming environment. With a 3.9-star rating and numerous positive comments, Dim Dim stands out as a top choice for those seeking Hong Kong style cuisine in Chicago.

- Monday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–9 PM
13. Wow Bao – Lakeview
Information and Reviews
The atmosphere at Wow Bao – Lakeview is described as casual and trendy, appealing to a diverse crowd, including families, tourists, and university students. The restaurant offers amenities like gender-neutral toilets and Wi-Fi for customers' convenience.
Customer reviews highlight key points such as:
- Food quality and pricing
- Flavorful dishes and pleasant experiences
- Nice staff and friendly service
Overall, Wow Bao – Lakeview is a must-visit spot for those craving delicious Asian fusion cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.

14. Dong bei Ren jia
Information and Reviews
- The food was decent and the owners are super sweet and friendly.
- Prices are affordable compared to other options in Chinatown.
- Food quality and taste are highly praised by customers.
- Customers appreciate the homemade feel of the dumplings and pancakes.

- Monday: 8 AM–6 PM
- Tuesday: 8 AM–6 PM
- Wednesday: 8 AM–6 PM
- Thursday: 9 AM–2 PM
- Friday: 8 AM–6 PM
- Saturday: 8 AM–6 PM
- Sunday: 8 AM–6 PM
15. Ying Dim Sum 蓝天点心
Information and Reviews
- Delicious and unique dim sum items not found elsewhere in the city
- Fresh and authentic Chinese cuisine with a wide selection
- Great value for money with generous portions
Customers have lauded the restaurant for its unique offerings, with one reviewer praising the thin and authentic rice rolls and another highlighting the delicious wonton soup. Visitors appreciate the fresh and flavorful dishes as well as the friendly staff. Overall, Ying Dim Sum 蓝天点心 is a must-visit destination for dim sum enthusiasts seeking delicious and authentic Chinese cuisine in Chicago.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–9:30 PM
- Saturday: 12–9:30 PM
- Sunday: 12–9:30 PM
16. Baos N Bowls
Information and Reviews
Here are some highlights from customer reviews:
- My chicken was nice and crispy, and the sauce was SO GOOD. The egg rolls were yummy as well. Would order again. - 5 stars
- Huge baos with lots of flavor and freshly fried veggie egg rolls. Plenty of extras included in the order like fortune cookies and sauces. - 5 stars
- Decent food but it was room temperature. Hoping it was precooked and heated up properly. - 4 stars
- Amazing service, so friendly! The gal who took my order even made sure to put extra utensils and complimentary egg rolls. Must try!! - 5 stars
Whether you're craving a delicious rice bowl or a flavorful bao, Baos N Bowls is a top choice for Chinese cuisine in Chicago. Visit their website for more information and menu options.
Map of Bao Buns in Chicago
Looking for the best bao buns in Chicago? Look no further! This map showcases all the top spots in the city where you can indulge in these delicious and flavorful steamed buns. From traditional fillings to unique fusion creations, Chicago has a diverse array of options for every bao bun lover to enjoy.

Related Services