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Bao Dim Sum House
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Bao Dim Sum House
8.6
A long-running Beverly Grove favorite for Hong Kong-style dim sum, Bao Dim Sum House pairs baskets of handmade dumplings with a full bar and loungey dining room. With more than 15 years in the neighborhood and well over a thousand multi-platform reviews at around 4.3 stars, it’s a reliable choice for groups craving classic Cantonese small plates and cocktails.
Must-Try Dishes:
Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings), Crystal Shrimp Dumplings, Radish Cake with Diced Ham
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Handcrafted Hong Kong-style dim sum in a buzzy, cocktail-friendly setting.
Who should go: Dim sum lovers, groups, and date-night diners.
When to visit: Weekend midday for full dim sum menu and energy.
What to order: Xiao long bao, crystal shrimp dumplings, radish cake.
Insider tip: Sit at the bar for shorter waits and faster drink refills.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on Beverly and nearby residential blocks; can be tight during peak hours. Valet typically available for around $10–$12.
Dress code: Smart casual. Jeans and a nice top are perfectly fine, but many guests lean slightly dressy for night visits.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—easy enough for conversation, but the room gets buzzy during weekend rush.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for larger groups.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal to no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several dumplings, sautéed vegetables, and noodle dishes are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited—typically 2–3 options; confirm preparation since some items use egg or dairy.
Gluten-free options: Partial—certain dishes (like some rice-based items) can work, but most dumplings contain wheat. Inform your server for guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The lighting is flattering, the vibe is energetic but not overwhelming, and sharing dim sum makes for fun, low-pressure conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes—especially on weekdays. On weekends, walk-ins are common but expect a wait; the bar is a solid holding spot.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for most ages. The menu has approachable items for children and the pace of service is quick. No special play area, but the atmosphere is casual enough for families.
Best For
Better for: A lively, social dim sum outing with cocktails and a modern atmosphere—great for groups and date nights.
Skip if: You want ultra-traditional, cart-service dim sum or a quiet, low-key meal; consider more classic Cantonese teahouses instead.
Bao Dim Sum House
8.5
Long-running Beverly Grove standby for all-day Hong Kong–style dim sum, from xiao long bao to pan-fried radish cakes, in a loungey room with a full bar. Locals use it as an easy alternative to driving to the SGV for baskets of dumplings, especially for weekend brunch and group dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crystal shrimp dumplings (har gow), Juicy pork soup dumplings (xiao long bao), Pan-grilled radish cake with Chinese sausage
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Classic Cantonese dim sum executed at scale with cocktails and all-day hours.
Who should go: Groups craving SGV-style dim sum without the drive
When to visit: Weekend late-morning brunch or early evening before crowds
What to order: Har gow, pork xiao long bao, radish cake
Insider tip: Go early on weekends and order soup dumplings in the first round—they sell fast.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on Beverly Blvd and neighboring residential streets; usually manageable before noon but tight during peak brunch and dinner. Valet often available next door for around $10–$12.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual—anything from jeans and a tee to a relaxed brunch outfit fits right in.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially during weekend brunch. You can still hold a conversation, but it’s not a quiet room.
Weekend wait: Expect 35–55 minutes without a reservation, longer on holiday weekends.
Weekday lunch: Typically minimal to no wait, especially before 1pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection—veg dumplings, sautéed greens, and fried rice/noodle options are available.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 dumpling options and some vegetable sides, but confirm fillings and sauces.
Gluten-free options: Moderate—rice noodle rolls, sautéed greens, and select dumplings work, but cross-contamination is likely; ask staff for guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want something lively and low-pressure—sharing baskets of dim sum is fun and interactive, though the room can get loud, so skip it if you prefer something intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, but timing matters. Walk-ins are fine on weekdays and early weekends. For prime brunch and dinner windows, expect a wait or arrive right at opening.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families frequent it. High chairs are typically available, and the menu has approachable dumplings and noodles for younger kids.
Best For
Better for: Convenient, centrally located dim sum with cocktails, all-day service, and an upbeat dining room—ideal when you don’t want to drive to the SGV.
Skip if: You’re seeking ultra-traditional carts, the widest variety of dumplings, or the absolute best pricing—SGV spots will outperform on those fronts.