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Bao
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
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.
Bao
8.5
Compact Mission Dolores spot focused on handmade dim sum and wok classics. Freshly made dumplings and quick, friendly service make it a reliable Valencia Street option for a casual meal or small-plates feast.
Must-Try Dishes:
Xiao Long Bao, Shrimp Har Gow, Singapore Noodles
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Made-to-order dim sum with a broad small-plates menu.
Who should go: Dim sum fans and casual groups
When to visit: Late lunch or early dinner to avoid waits
What to order: XLB, har gow, Singapore noodles
Insider tip: Order a couple of steamed baskets first—then add pan-fried round two.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; typically tight on Valencia Street after 6pm, better luck on side streets mid-day.
Dress code: Casual—jeans and sneakers are fine; no dress requirements.
Noise level: Moderate—busy at peak hours but you can generally hold a conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes depending on party size; no reservations accepted.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait; tables turn quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple dim sum and noodle dishes are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 vegetable-based dim sum and stir-fry options available.
Gluten-free options: Not explicitly accommodated; most dumplings and noodles contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual dates—lively but not too loud, shareable plates make it interactive. Less ideal if you want an intimate, quiet setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins only. Expect to wait during peak dinner hours but turnover is fairly quick.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—kids who enjoy dumplings will be happy here. Space is small with limited stroller room, so best for older kids.
Best For
Better for: Quick, affordable dim sum in the Mission with handmade dumplings and casual group-friendly energy.
Skip if: You want fine-dining Chinese, extensive banquet menus, or guaranteed gluten-free accommodations.