Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Loved by locals

Affordable bao buns in California

You want a bao bun that hits the spot without an inflated price tag. You know that quality does not have to be expensive.

Based on 825 Opinions
+822
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
4SEASONS TEA CAFE image 1
4SEASONS TEA CAFE image 2
4SEASONS TEA CAFE image 3
View all
Bubble tea store

Bubble tea shop with cozy, plant-filled interior and comfortable seating creates a calm, welcoming vibe. Arcade and board games add playful energy, making it a spot for casual hangouts. The atmosphere stays relaxed, with a clean, bright design and quiet background noise.

Bao buns come super warm and fluffy with a gooey taro center. Options include ham with cheese and Nutella with banana, paired well with taiyaki combos.

Deals stand out with prices like $6.75 for a 20oz hurricane smoothie topped with cheese foam and boba. Family owned spot keeps things very affordable across the menu.

People are saying

"The tea here feels so welcoming and delicious."

"It's affordable, with a 20oz hurricane smoothie for only $6.75."

"The bao buns are warm and fluffy with a gooey taro center."

Good to know

1

The café tends to get busy during weekends due to fan events.

2

There is plenty of parking available in the plaza.

3

The menu is diverse with many drink and food options.

02
Meimei Dumpling image 1
Dumpling restaurant

Small space mainly for takeout with some tables for dining in creates a cozy atmosphere with soft background music. Affordable prices and large portions make it suitable for quick meals and family-style sharing. Dumplings stand out as handmade and flavorful, drawing a crowd looking for quality and value.

BBQ bao buns offer a solid, flavorful option alongside the Char Siu Bao. The Xiaolong Bao come smaller and served in tins, which makes them a bit tricky to eat but still tasty with a delicious broth.

Dishes come at an affordable price without skimping on quality. Food offers good value for the cost.

People are saying

"I found the dumplings to be juicy and flavorful."

"I found the food here to be delicious and affordable."

"The soup dumplings and BBQ bao buns are my favorite dishes."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers affordable dishes with large portion sizes.

2

Parking can be tricky, so plan accordingly.

3

The menu is easy to understand and quick to order from.

03
P P Pop Taiwanese Noodle Restaurant image 1

Small, cozy Taiwanese restaurant offers a casual and lively atmosphere with Chinese chill R&B music and close table seating. The vibe is friendly and affordable, attracting those seeking authentic flavors in a homey setting. Popular spot often requires waiting or ordering to go due to limited space.

Pan-fried pork bao stands out with its crispy exterior and flavorful filling. It consistently appears as a highlight among other dishes like fried bao buns and dumplings.

Prices stay affordable with dinner for four around sixty-five dollars. The vibe feels chill and not pretentious.

People are saying

"The beef noodle soup is authentic and delightful."

"The bao buns here are full of flavor and soup."

"The food here is delicious and the prices are very good."

Good to know

1

The kitchen closes at 8:30 pm, so get your order in before then.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid waiting, especially during peak hours.

3

Parking is shared with a supermarket, which may make finding a spot difficult.

04
1st Dumpling & Noodle image 1
Asian restaurant

Large, clean Asian restaurant with a see-through kitchen and a window to watch dumpling making adds an engaging touch. Atmosphere stays quiet and relaxing with comfortable music. Space fills with diners who appreciate fresh handmade dumplings and a spacious, well-kept interior.

Xiao Long Bao come out fresh and juicy, with the pork filling standing out as a better option. Watching them make the bao adds to the experience, and the sheng zhen bao are also juicy and delicious.

Prices stay very affordable and reasonable for the amount of food served. Cost remains consistently affordable across visits.

People are saying

"The Chinese food dumplings here are fantastic, especially the soup dumplings."

"The beef noodle soup here is rich and flavorful."

"The xiao long bao here are so juicy and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high kitchen demand during peak hours.

2

Takeout orders should be placed in person rather than over the phone or online.

3

Customers must write down their orders before everyone arrives at the table.

05
Steamy Piggy Point Loma image 1
Asian restaurant

Asian restaurant with modern, inviting decor and photo-worthy corners creates a friendly, vibey atmosphere. Loud, chill music and several TVs showing sports and K-pop fill the space. Cocktails like lychee and passionfruit complement soft dumplings and flavorful chicken rolls.

Bao buns here are super filling and very yummy. They stand out as a fun and satisfying choice to eat.

Food comes out quickly and stays affordable with inexpensive prices for the portion size. Cocktails, noodles, dumplings, and soups all fall within a fair price range.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and the portions huge."

"The servers here are so friendly and quick with recommendations for the Bao Buns."

"The food and cocktails here are delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 8pm with $1 wings and late night deals.

2

The $1 wings are a popular choice during happy hour.

3

Parking is easier at this location compared to others in the area.

06
Long’s Family Pastry image 1

Small hole-in-the-wall bakery with onsite pastry production and a take-out only setup. Lines form early due to popular dim sum and baked goods, including unique items like almond rice cake. Atmosphere feels old-fashioned and busy, with one person serving long lines in a compact space.

Special chicken bao stands out as a go-to choice. Baked cha siu bao offers a distinct baked texture and rich flavor.

Large cake rolls and big custard egg tarts come at low prices. Pastries, dim sum, and pineapple custard buns stay affordable and fresh compared to other spots.

People are saying

"You have to try their dim sum and bakery goods; they're the best."

"The baked BBQ pork buns are a must-try."

"I found the pastries here to be super affordable and good quality."

Good to know

1

Long’s Family Pastry is a take-out only establishment.

2

Expect popular items to sell out by 7:30 am.

3

Cash is preferred, but credit cards are accepted with a $10 minimum order.

07
Yum Dumpling image 1
Restaurant

Small dining space features bright orange walls and cat-themed decorations creating a cozy, welcoming vibe. Atmosphere stays calm and quiet, with a clean, simple decor that feels inviting. Affordable prices match the friendly, relaxed energy of the place.

Steamed pork bao dumplings come out juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. The pork xiao long bao stands out for its rich taste and delicate texture.

Food comes in large portions with affordable prices. Meals offer good value without skimping on quantity.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here, especially the dumplings, is amazing and delicious."

"These Bao Buns are packed with flavor and delicious."

"The prices here are really affordable."

Good to know

1

Yum Dumpling offers authentic Hubei Wuhan specialty snacks.

2

Pricing is reasonable, and everything is made to order.

3

Expect no wait time for dining.

08
Min Min Pie House 福香园 image 1

Small restaurant with an authentic Asian vibe and cozy atmosphere. Seating is limited to a few tables, creating a quiet and chill environment. Kitchen staff prepare fresh, savory dumplings and pies made to order, offering a hole-in-the-wall experience with hands-on cooking.

Shen jian bao and fried baos stand out here, with the soy milk pairing noted as excellent. The menu offers a solid mix of dumplings, meat pies, and pan-fried bao that complement each other well.

Prices stay very affordable here. The food offers good value without stretching the budget.

People are saying

"These dumplings are so juicy and flavorful, truly delicious."

"I found the pan-fried bao and dumplings to be great."

"I found the food to be very good and affordable."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait for steamed buns as they are made to order.

2

Parking is available in the back lot and on the street, but check signs for permits.

3

Prices are reasonable, with wonton bowls costing only $6.99.

09
Canaan Restaurant image 1
Asian restaurant

Medium-sized Asian restaurant features large family tables with Lazy Susan and a live lobster tank near the entrance. Atmosphere feels cozy and vibrant, offering a clean, homey vibe that attracts locals seeking authentic Taiwanese and Chinese dishes.

Xiao long bao are little soup bombs that burst with broth in every bite, making slurping part of the experience. Pork pan-fried bao offer a different texture, while gua bao with duck can be tricky due to large bones.

Prices stay very reasonable with insanely inexpensive lunch specials. Dishes come out delicious, healthy, savory, and consistently affordable.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and full of flavor."

"I found the food to be delicious and affordable."

"These bao buns burst with broth and joy."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are priced between $10 to $15 and include rice and soup.

2

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

3

The restaurant is family-friendly and has a welcoming atmosphere.

10
Prince Dumpling image 1
Restaurant

Spacious restaurant with modern, sleek interior and glassed-in kitchen where dumplings are made fresh. Atmosphere feels upscale yet cozy, lively and friendly, suited for groups and casual meals. Popular spot known for authentic dumplings and a clean, bright setting.

Juicy and perfectly wrapped xiao long bao stand out here, especially the kurobuta variety. Dessert bao buns come in unique flavors like chocolate, taro, and black sesame.

Prices stay slightly lower than Din Tai Fung while offering a more extensive menu. This spot delivers good value for quality food on a budget.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here, especially the xiao long bao, has a thin wrapper and rich broth."

"The Xiao Long Bao here are bursting with juicy meat."

"The dumplings here are perfect and never leak."

Good to know

1

Arrive early to avoid long wait times, especially during peak hours.

2

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating.

3

Parking is available in the plaza, but it can get crowded.

11
Pan Dumpling House image 1

Open kitchen reveals staff making dumplings through a glass partition, creating a lively and authentic atmosphere. Dining area feels cozy and welcoming, with a casual vibe despite occasional crowd noise. Space is clean and spacious, supporting family-style meals and quick service.

Xiao Long Bao stands out with its chewy texture and soup that flows out when broken, served with chili oil. The pork bao is soft and tasty, making both solid choices for bao buns.

Large portion sizes come with super affordable prices. The menu offers fairly priced dishes that deliver good value for the money.

People are saying

"The handmade dumplings here are juicy and delicious."

"The xiao long bao here have thin skin and plenty of broth."

"I was amazed at how little we spent and how full we got."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 9:00 pm.

2

Expect busy periods that may lead to wait times.

3

You can feed a party of 6 for less than $20 per person.

12
ixlb DimSum Eats image 1
Chinese restaurant

Open kitchen resembles a spotless laboratory with chefs in white shirts and aprons. Outdoor patio offers casual seating with exposure to elements, creating a comfortable atmosphere. Dim sum features generous portions and affordable prices, drawing a steady crowd for lunch, dinner, and late night.

Sweet and savory options stand out with the French Cha Siu Bao and the juicy, bouncy steamed seafood pearls. The fish bao offers a distinct flavor that many find especially delicious.

Prices stay consistently affordable across the menu. Food offers freshness and delicious flavors without high cost.

People are saying

"The dim sum here is so fresh and authentic."

"The outdoor seating here is nice, with a clean patio area."

"The food here is seriously good and affordable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has only outdoor seating available on a busy street.

2

Prices are very affordable, with dishes costing around $6.95 each.

3

Caution is advised due to reports of food poisoning from shrimp dumplings.

13
Fuwa Dumpling image 1
Chinese restaurant

Simple, clean space with spacious seating and unassuming decor creates a calm, family-friendly atmosphere. Energy stays easygoing and unpretentious, welcoming a steady flow of diners. Focus centers on authentic, handmade dumplings served in generous portions at affordable prices.

Xiao long bao come in pork and are a key item alongside Napa cabbage & pork dumplings and pan-fried options. The menu offers a variety of dumplings including boiled, pan-fried, and xiao long bao styles.

Generous portions come with affordable prices and authentic flavors. The food offers a tasty, guilt-free option for eating out with nice service.

People are saying

"I had some of the best dumplings I've ever experienced."

"These bao buns are the most delicious I've ever had."

"It's a tasty, affordable, and relatively guilt-free option for eating out."

Good to know

1

The restaurant serves a variety of dumplings, including boiled, pan-fried, and soup dumplings.

2

Prices are very low compared to other dumpling places in the city.

3

Portions are generous, with 14 dumplings per order.

14
Dumpling Master image 1
Chinese restaurant

Roomy interior combines modern, fresh design with clean, soothing atmosphere. Outdoor patio offers dog-friendly seating and a relaxed vibe. An unlimited sauce bar adds interactive flavor options to the dining experience.

Xiao Long Bao stands out with fresh homemade wrappers and a juicy pork filling. The bao buns are flavorful and served very hot, making them a family favorite.

Prices stay consistently affordable across the menu. Food quality matches the low cost, especially the pork dumplings which offer great value for the price.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here, especially the dumplings, is delicious and flavorful."

"I thought the xiao long bao were very, very good."

"The food here is great and affordable."

Good to know

1

Dumpling Master doesn't accept reservations.

2

Expect a wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred for smaller orders.

15
四姐 Special Noodle image 1
Chinese noodle restaurant

Restaurant features an underground cyberpunk aesthetic with neon light decorations and tables separated by fish tanks. Atmosphere feels cozy and inviting with bright, exuberant lighting and good music. Open late, attracting a friendly crowd seeking authentic Chinese noodle dishes.

Fluffy baos come filled with rich pork broth and seasoned with ginger, especially in the pan-fried pork buns that are crispy outside. Soup bao stand out for their juicy, flavorful broth, while red bean buns were once available but removed from the menu.

Food comes in generous portions with flavorful dishes that stay super affordable.

People are saying

"You have to try the soup dumplings; they're amazing."

"The soup bao here are so juicy and flavorful."

"The food here is delicious and super affordable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open late, until 12am or later on weekends.

2

Reservations are accepted for larger parties.

3

Parking is easy and accessible.

16
Mama Lu's Dumpling House image 1
Dumpling restaurant

Dim sum restaurant with banquet-style seating and a retro Chinatown vibe offers a spacious interior suited for large groups. Atmosphere ranges from family-style dining with lively energy to quieter, more rushed moments. Dim sum carts and traditional decor add to the authentic experience.

Xiao Long Bao offers excellent flavor and good value at $12. Soup dumplings and dumplings also stand out as solid choices.

Dim sum offers super affordable prices with delicious options. Pricing stays consistently affordable throughout the menu.

People are saying

"The Chinese food's honey garlic pork chop is crispy and aromatic."

"The xiao long bao here are divine, with a rich, savory broth."

"I found the dim sum here to be super affordable and delicious."

Good to know

1

Visiting on weekends offers a busy yet tasty dim sum experience with trolley carts to choose from.

2

During the Mid Autumn Festival 2024 on September 17, the restaurant encourages celebrating and enjoying their dishes.

3

Parking can fill up quickly during lunch hours.

17
Youpeng Seafood · Go Believe 友鹏海鲜·狗不理 image 1

Seafood steams directly at the table under a glass dome, creating an interactive dining experience. The space feels clean and elegant with bright lighting and a cozy atmosphere suitable for gatherings. Lines and some chaos occur outside, but inside the vibe remains inviting and comfortable.

Freshly steamed baos come out in a tabletop steamer that keeps them warm. The 狗不理 “Go Believe” Bao stands out with good flavor. Kurobota pork bao variations are decent but not remarkable.

Prices stay affordable across the menu. Brown crab offers good value without sacrificing taste.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh, especially the steamed lobster."

"I found the freshly steamed Bao Buns to be very good."

"The brown crab was so affordable and full of roe."

Good to know

1

Parking is very convenient with options including rear and underground parking.

2

The EV charging station is super convenient.

3

The lunch special with buns and a soup is reasonably priced.

18
Hui Tou Xiang image 1
Dumpling restaurant

Small space with disco ball ceiling and modern decor creates a casual, bustling vibe. Bar seating and open kitchen window add to the intimate, creative atmosphere. Music and lighting give a relaxed, jazz bar feel.

Xiao long bao here come in large orders with less wait. The pork xiao long bao stands out as a favorite, noted for its perfect quality and size compared to other spots.

Prices stay consistently affordable with inexpensive dishes and plentiful portions that offer good value.

People are saying

"These dumplings are fresh, flavorful, and handmade."

"I found the food here to be excellent and very affordable."

"These Bao Buns are amazing and offer great value."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant has limited seating, so arrive early or call ahead.

3

Street parking is available, but it can be challenging to find.

19
Bistro 1968 image 1
Dim sum restaurant

Large space with spacious seating and private rooms offers a modern take on dim sum dining. Noise levels vary, with some areas quiet enough for conversation and others lively due to parties. Decor is simple yet modern, featuring spread-out tables that provide ample room between diners.

Bao buns come in several varieties including creamy salty egg yolk bao, bolo bao, and baked snow capped BBQ pork buns. The BBQ pork bao offers a classic flavor while sticky rice and lotus leaf wraps add texture and variety.

All-you-can-eat dim sum costs less than $20 on weekdays, making it significantly more affordable than typical Hong Kong-style dim sum spots. Overall, the menu stays inexpensive without sacrificing variety.

People are saying

"The dim sum here is fresh and made to order, with soft dumplings."

"I found the dim sum to be very affordable, especially the all-you-can-eat option."

"You have to try the baked snow cap BBQ pork buns; they're better than others."

Good to know

1

All-you-can-eat dim sum is available for $19.68 on weekdays and $25.88 on weekends.

2

There is a 90-minute time limit for the all-you-can-eat dim sum.

3

Parking is available inside the building but can be limited.

20
Dumpling Artisan image 1
Asian restaurant

Open kitchen behind glass showcases chefs preparing dumplings from scratch, adding an engaging visual element. Atmosphere stays quiet and welcoming with calming music and a modern, clean interior featuring a fish tank that entertains while waiting. Space feels comfortable and suitable for friends or family gatherings.

Bao buns come with varied flavors, but the soup dumpling Xianlong bao lacks strong taste. Dumplings and baos generally stand out as amazing and leave a lasting craving.

Prices stay in the $20-$40 range per person. Food quality is exceptional while remaining inexpensive.

People are saying

"I loved the Chinese food, especially the dumplings and bao."

"The food here is exceptional and extremely affordable."

"I was still craving the amazing bao buns from my last visit."

Good to know

1

Dumpling Artisan had its grand opening today.

2

The restaurant offers both traditional and unique dumpling options.

3

There is only indoor seating, no outdoor seating available.

21
Happy AYCE Hot Pot 开心火锅 image 1

Hot pot restaurant offers all-you-can-eat buffet with a self-serve sauce bar and fondue fountain. Bright, modern decor creates a warm and inviting atmosphere suitable for groups or solo diners. Seating includes shared tables and booths, with a neat and clean environment.

Steamed salted egg buns stand out with a lava-cake-like center that melts in your mouth. The bao dough is soft and flavorful, making it a highlight among the all-you-can-eat dim sum options including steamed pork buns and cha shiu bao.

Prices stay consistently affordable with many delicious dishes offered. The spot suits families or couples looking for budget-friendly options.

People are saying

"I found the food to be fresh and delicious."

"I found the hot pot here to be delicious and affordable."

"The dim sum offerings, including bao buns, were the real star."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; consider street parking or nearby library lots.

2

There is a 90-minute time limit per table for dining.

3

On your birthday, if you come with at least two friends, the birthday person eats for free.

22
Mama Lu’s Dumpling House - Tustin image 1

Chinese restaurant inside a supermarket with spacious seating and high ceilings creates a relaxed, modern vibe. Warm lighting and enjoyable music set a chill atmosphere suitable for groups. Large round tables encourage gatherings, while a big TV adds casual energy.

Xiao long bao here match the quality at Din Tai Fung with good meat filling. Regular dishes like spicy wontons and sautéed green beans also complement the Xiao long bao well.

Portion sizes run double compared to similar spots, and prices stay very affordable. Dumplings come juicy with thicker skins yet keep flavorful soup inside, making leftovers common.

People are saying

"I loved the Chinese food, especially the huge bowls of wonton soup."

"The portions are generous and the prices are affordable."

"These bao buns are as good as Din Tai Fung's."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are served Monday to Friday before 5 PM for $15.98, including a main dish, rice, and soup.

2

Mama Lu’s Dumpling House has various specials available.

3

Lunch time happy hour offers great deals on select items.

23
Kang Kang Food Court image 1
Chinese restaurant

Chinese fast food spot offers affordable combo meals with authentic dishes like crispy pan-fried buns and juicy pork dumplings. Surroundings feel rundown and unmaintained, with no air conditioning and occasional ceiling leaks. Taking food to go is common due to cleanliness concerns inside.

Fried bao here has a crispy bottom and a juicy bite that stands out. The pan fried bao is well-made and delicious, unlike many prefab versions elsewhere.

Offers delicious Chinese cuisine at inexpensive prices. Food is consistently affordable and satisfying.

People are saying

"The fried bao here have the best crispy bottom and juicy bite."

"The pan-fried bao buns have the best crispy bottom."

"I found the food to be delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the back, making it convenient for patrons.

2

Prices are very affordable, with a 3-item combo costing around $10.

3

Expect the food court to get busy during lunch hours.

24
HalalStreet Hot Pot | Newark image 1

Restaurant divides into hot pot buffet and a la carte sections, keeping steam separate from diners. Atmosphere blends Xinjiang-style decor with automated robot servers delivering meat. Space feels family-friendly with a warm, welcoming vibe and a small prayer room.

Buffet includes bao buns alongside egg rolls and fried rice. The lamb bao stands out as a notable option for first-timers.

Food offers incredible flavor at very affordable prices. Meals deliver great value without sacrificing taste.

People are saying

"The Chinese Food hot pot had so many options and great broths."

"These Bao Buns are fantastic with rich flavors."

"I found the food here to be delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

The lunch buffet is an incredible value at $20, offering a variety of options.

2

All ingredients served are halal, catering to dietary restrictions.

3

Parking is plentiful and easily accessible near the restaurant.

25
Tim Ho Wan image 1
Dim sum restaurant

Dim sum restaurant features a modern, lush interior blending Hong Kong, Chinese, and Singapore influences with an Orange County vibe. Atmosphere feels authentic and comfortable, though it can be loud and rushed during busy times. Dim sum offerings are highly authentic and well-regarded for quality and taste.

Signature bao stands out with delicious flavor and variety including BBQ pork buns and pork bao. Xiao long bao and shrimp rolls also feature prominently for their taste.

Prices stay around $7 to $8 per dish, making the dim sum quite affordable. Meals average about $30 per person including tax and tip, served on plastic plates.

People are saying

"I loved the dim sum; it's the best I've had in the US."

"The pork bao was really good, I ate four!"

"I found the dim sum to be pretty affordable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers reduced prices on most items.

2

The restaurant doesn't get busy until around 6 PM on Saturdays.

3

Ordering via QR code speeds up the process.

26
Won Kok Restaurant image 1
Chinese restaurant

Narrow dining space with outdated interiors and busy takeout windows creates a downscale atmosphere. The place draws crowds for its authentic dim sum despite a worn and cluttered setting. Energy feels low key, offering a break from city hustle.

Quick char siu bao comes through a service window for takeout. Both steamed and baked baos get popular orders, including char siew bao and baked pastries.

Chinese food here is inexpensive and authentic with affordable dim sum options. Prices stay low across dishes like baked bbq pork buns, making it a spot for quick, tasty meals without a big bill.

People are saying

"The food here, especially the buns, is worth driving for."

"I found the food to be really affordable and tasty."

"I really enjoyed the char siew bao here."

Good to know

1

The restaurant accepts cash only for all transactions.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Portions have decreased significantly, often not enough for two people.

Discover more

California

Area guide
Loading Map...