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ZipPicks Awards
Best Dim Sum in the Mission District
Best Chinese in the Mission District
Master Critic Review
Bao
7.8
Casual Mission counter for steamed buns, xiao long bao, and snackable dim sum standards at wallet-friendly prices. Portions are built for mixing and matching, with quick pacing that works for on-the-go lunches.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shanghai xiao long bao, Crab xiao long bao, Steamed chicken bao
Scores:
Value: 9.1
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Affordable, fast dim sum staples with multiple XLB variations.
Who should go: Budget-minded dumpling lovers
When to visit: Midday 11:45–1:00 for freshest steamers
What to order: Shanghai XLB; crab XLB; steamed chicken bao
Insider tip: Grab extra black vinegar—XLB shine with a generous dip.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on Valencia and 16th; limited availability, especially evenings.
Dress code: Casual and come-as-you-are—streetwear or weekday attire fits perfectly.
Noise level: Moderate—mostly takeout traffic and small talk, fine for solo dining or quick catch-ups.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes during peak hours; quick turnover means short waits.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before 12:15; light rush from nearby offices.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetable dumplings, mushroom bao, and sides available.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 steamed options, no dedicated vegan fillings.
Gluten-free options: No—most buns and dumplings use wheat-based dough.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—it's more of a counter-service, quick-bite setup than a linger-over-dinner vibe.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—first come, first served. Turnover is fast, and solo diners often find a spot quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—kids love the bao and dumplings, though limited seating and quick pacing suit older children best.
Best For
Better for: Fast, inexpensive XLB and bao when you’re craving dim sum flavors without committing to full service.
Skip if: You’re looking for a sit-down dim sum experience with carts or larger group tables.
Hours
Monday11:30am - 2:30pm, 5:30pm - 9:30pm
Tuesday11:30am - 2:30pm, 5:30pm - 9:30pm
Wednesday11:30am - 2:30pm, 5:30pm - 9:30pm
Thursday11:30am - 2:30pm, 5:30pm - 9:30pm
Friday11:30am - 2:30pm, 5:30pm - 9:30pm
Saturday11:30am - 2:30pm, 5:30pm - 9:30pm
Sunday11:30am - 2:30pm, 5:30pm - 9:30pm