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Bao Buns for Lunch

A few bao buns make for a light, efficient lunch spot choice.

Based on 813 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Bobby Wong’s- Hawthorne image 1
Bobby Wong’s- Hawthorne image 2
Bobby Wong’s- Hawthorne image 3
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Fast food restaurant

Small dining area features live plant walls creating a garden-like atmosphere. The vibe is clean and chill, attracting students looking for a peaceful spot. Food offers modern Asian cuisine with generous portions and affordable prices, focusing on quality and freshness.

Beef bao buns come out very tender and stand out alongside the new chicken options. Both beef and chicken bao buns deliver amazing flavors that complement the veggie lo mein well.

Happy energy from the staff creates a nice atmosphere for lunch. The menu offers reasonably priced options with good lunch specials.

People are saying

"The shrimp dishes here are delicious and cooked perfectly."

"The beef in the Bao Buns was so tender and killer."

"The beef buns at this Lunch Spot are superb, especially the soft, flavorful bun."

Good to know

1

The prices at Bobby Wong’s in Hawthorne are very affordable.

2

Each bowl at Bobby Wong’s could easily feed two people.

3

Finding parking can be somewhat difficult near the restaurant.

02
Tojo Restaurant image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small space with traditional yet modern design and copper accents creates a cozy, warm atmosphere. Jazz music and anime on TV add a chill vibe. Setup includes a counter for single seating and a modest outdoor area.

Thick, crispy chicken bao buns stand out as filling and flavorful. Other bao buns also come highly recommended for their tasty quality.

Arriving just after noon avoids the lunch crowd and gets you seated right away. The Shoyu Whiskey Ramen offers a quick, flavorful option for a late lunch during work hours.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is light, savory, and so good."

"It's a cozy place, perfect for winter."

"This lunch spot's Shoyu Whiskey Ramen broth is delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Expect longer wait times on Saturdays; visiting with two people is best.

3

The restaurant often runs out of popular broths and appetizers.

03
KUROBUTA - White Charcoal Grille image 1

Elegant interior blends with a cozy, vibrant atmosphere and a stunning outdoor patio that invites dining and live music. Guests enjoy a private party room and a beautiful garden setting perfect for socializing. The space balances charm and sophistication with a welcoming vibe.

Bao buns feature fluffy bread with tender roasted pork and crunchy vegetable shreds. The chashu bao includes a soy-based sauce with spicy fried chili, peanut, and garlic mala sauce for extra flavor.

Empty space at 2PM creates a quiet setting for lunch. The overall vibe feels unique and makes the meal stand out.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully presented."

"This Lunch Spot's pork buns are spicy, flavorful, and delicious."

"I will be talking about those Japanese soufflé pancakes for days."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB, which is a unique feature.

2

They offer a winter deal every Wednesday with special prices.

3

Brunch events start on September 8, featuring special menu items.

04
Dumpling House image 1
Chinese restaurant

Bright, clean space with clear chairs and cute Asian toys creates a cozy, relaxed vibe. Freshly made dumplings are prepared by hand in view, adding to the authentic atmosphere. Smiles and friendly energy fill the room, making it suitable for casual meals.

Spicy pork bao offers a Taiwan-style flavor with a satisfying kick. Beef, pork, and chicken katsu bao buns come alongside pork dumplings and noodle soups for a full meal.

Casual setting suits quick meals with a charming vibe. Offers dumplings and ramen ideal for lunch or takeout.

People are saying

"I loved the handmade dumplings; they were seriously so good."

"This lunch spot's dumplings and ramen are so fresh and tasty."

"I'd drive 45 minutes for these Bao Buns again."

Good to know

1

Prices are reasonable for the quality and portion sizes.

2

The portion sizes are large and filling.

3

Dumplings are made to order with many options available.

05
Mumbai Maskaa image 1
Indian restaurant

Small space with live kitchen and dim lighting creates a cozy, vibrant atmosphere. Soft instrumental music plays at a comfortable volume. Decor features vibrant wall art and unique serving dishes, enhancing a homely yet energetic vibe.

Fusion dishes like Chicken Tikka Masala Bao Buns stand out with bold flavors. Options include chicken bao buns and vada pav, all consistently flavorful and well-prepared.

Lunch specials offer amazing quality and quantity with options like vada pav and Thai lamb basil appetizer. Portions are generous and the fish special stands out as delicious.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful, delicious, and wonderfully spiced."

"This lunch spot serves delicious Indian food that tastes like Mumbai."

"I thought the Chicken Tikka Bao Buns were amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant accommodates Jain dietary preferences with a separate menu.

3

Lunch specials offer great deals for budget-conscious diners.

06
Momoya Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small, cozy restaurant with light, bright interior and plenty of space between tables creates a calm, chill atmosphere. Background features classic jazz piano and old Japanese pop music at a comfortable volume. The vibe is quiet and relaxing, making it easy to enjoy meals and conversation.

Bao buns feature tender chasu that is char-grilled and perfectly cooked. The crab bao buns offer a delicious option alongside the savory pork.

Quick lunches focus on vegetable ramen with a warm, comforting vibe. The spot suits a winter day meal with simple, satisfying options.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is rich, deep, and flavorful."

"The ramen at this Lunch Spot is rich, flavorful, and delicious."

"I thought the crab bao buns were delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult to find near the restaurant.

2

The prices are reasonable compared to other ramen places.

3

Momoya Ramen offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

07
Blue Anchor image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers breathtaking waterfront views of Manhattan with a comfortable, local feel. Atmosphere balances refined and trendy vibes, making it a relaxing spot for dining or hanging out. Outdoor patio overlooks park and waterfront, enhancing the overall experience.

Soft bao buns come in a sampler with four flavors: soft-shell crab, beef, sautéed mushrooms, and a lighter salad. The beef bao is rich and slightly spicy, while the mushroom bao is fragrant but a bit salty.

Lunch offers a solid mix of good food and a pleasant setting. It suits both casual meals and team lunches well.

People are saying

"The food and cocktails here are amazing for Date Spots."

"This lunch spot has amazing food, I was genuinely impressed."

"The soft-shell crab bao buns are nicely fried and tender."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 7pm on weekdays with good options.

2

A 20% service charge is automatically added to all dining bills.

3

The restaurant is child-friendly with a kids’ menu and activities.

08
The Indian Tapas image 1
Indian restaurant

Chic Indian restaurant with vibrant ambiance and cozy, bricky setting evokes the feel of Indian street food. Family-friendly atmosphere features ample vegetarian options and perfectly sized portions for sharing. Music and kiosk ordering add to the casual, pleasant dining experience.

Soft and tasty bao buns come in both paneer and chicken varieties. They offer great quality and variety alongside other flavorful rolls.

Offers fast casual Indian food ideal for a quick grab-and-go lunch. Meals come in at under $10, making it a solid choice for a quick lunch or pickup.

People are saying

"I found the food packed with authentic Indian spices and flavors."

"I thought the paneer bao bun was amazing."

"The Chicken Tikka Roll is a delicious lunch spot."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers ample vegetarian options for diners.

2

Portion sizes are perfect for sharing, making it ideal for groups.

3

Prices are higher than average for Indian street food.

09
Ondubu image 1
Korean restaurant

Korean restaurant with picnic tables and no air conditioning creates a casual, slightly quiet atmosphere. Food arrives in long brown takeout boxes or stone bowls, offering generous portions with a focus on meat dishes. Music plays loudly, and the space feels comfortable though not busy.

Bao buns come with tasty chicken and a pork bun that looks similar to the beef version, with meat cut like the beef in the lunch special. Chicken katsu and pork bao buns are available.

Lunch specials include a beef with rice dish known for its exceptional taste. The pork bao bun closely resembles the beef bao bun in appearance. Prices drop during lunch hour, making it a popular spot for coworkers.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, hot, and delicious."

"The Japanese food here is so flavorful, especially the ramen."

"I wondered if the pork bao bun meat was supposed to look like the beef."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, and seating is limited due to takeout focus.

2

The restaurant closes at 8 pm, so plan to arrive early.

3

Parking is limited in the area, so consider alternative transport.

10
BowlBa Taiwan Eatery image 1
Bubble tea store

Spacious bubble tea shop with charming decor and chill bossa nova music creates a homey, inviting atmosphere. Staff often play movies and offer cute trinkets, adding to a relaxed, welcoming vibe. The place suits casual hangouts and family visits.

Bao buns feature melt-in-your-mouth pork belly and large shrimp tempura options. Vegetarian baos and pulled pork varieties offer authentic, filling flavors.

Offers a cute Taiwanese boba and lunch spot vibe with options suitable for both quick meals and sitting down. Serves as a reliable choice for lunch or dinner with friends or family.

People are saying

"The mango green tea here is made with real mangoes."

"The pork belly and pulled pork bao buns were delicious."

"The braised pork belly noodle soup bowl is delicious and tender."

Good to know

1

The menu offers a wide variety of authentic Taiwanese food and drink options.

2

Expect a clean and organized environment when you visit.

3

The eatery is easily accessible via public transit from Hoboken, NJ.

11
LaoWu Authentic ShangHai Dumpling image 1

Tiny dining space creates a cramped, fast-paced environment with limited seating and a hole-in-the-wall, authentic vibe. Atmosphere feels cozy and homey, reminiscent of Shanghai street food vendors. Soup dumplings stand out as a signature specialty highly praised for quality.

Xiao long bao here have thick flour wrappers and vary in quality from average to very good. Sheng jian bao and beef scallion pancakes also stand out among the dim sum snacks.

Lines form during lunch hour, but seating happens promptly when lucky. Waiting can be worth it for the experience.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The soup dumplings here are the best in the area."

"These soup dumplings and bao buns are the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait in line during peak dining hours due to limited seating.

2

The restaurant does not accept reservations, so arrive early to avoid long waits.

3

Prices are very affordable, making it a great option for budget-conscious diners.

12
Muteki Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Ramen restaurant with Tokyo-style decor and classic Japanese rock music creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere. The vibe is modern and hipster, welcoming families and casual diners alike. Fresh noodles and a variety of non-spicy and vegetarian options complement the stylish setting.

Bao buns come in pork and chicken varieties with a spicy creamy dipping sauce on the side. They stand out as a top appetizer choice alongside other items like takoyaki and sweet potato fries.

Lunch offers a wholesome experience with options suitable for a quiet meal or a small chat. Takeout is available, making it easy to grab a meal on the go.

People are saying

"I found the ramen here to be delicious."

"The ramen here is so good, especially the tonkotsu."

"I found the bao buns to be very good."

Good to know

1

Muteki Ramen is a BYOB restaurant, and they open your bottle of wine at no cost.

2

The restaurant is small, so it gets crowded around lunchtime.

3

You can replace any ramen base with a vegetarian option if you are vegetarian.

13
The Rose- Pan Asian Cusine image 1

Small, beautifully decorated space creates a warm and inviting atmosphere with a comfortable vibe. Indo-Chinese dishes offer flavorful, high-quality cuisine enjoyed alongside personalized music choices. Crowded seating can feel cramped but adds to the lively energy.

Bao buns come in Paneer, chicken, and vegetarian options. Crispy and flavorful, they pair well with momos and soups as appetizers. The veg bao buns stand out for their taste and texture.

Weekday lunch offers huge portions with good quality food. The lunch special provides an adequate quantity and the portion size suits most appetites.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding, with authentic, flavorful dishes."

"I found the paneer bao bun to be a bomb of flavor."

"This Indo-Chinese lunch spot has some of the best tasting dishes I've had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating capacity.

2

The menu features a wide variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

3

The chef accommodates dietary restrictions, ensuring food is nut and egg-free upon request.

14
Hiro Ramen image 1
Japanese restaurant

Modern space features a robot server that delivers food directly to tables, adding a unique touch. Atmosphere feels cozy and clean with a simple, neat design. Guests often enjoy well-priced ramen with standout dishes like gluten-free noodles and flavorful broths.

Pork belly bao buns offer a good flavor and work well for sharing. Shrimp and pork bao buns come out delicious and pair nicely with other appetizers.

Ordering lunch happens mainly through delivery services like DoorDash. No dedicated lunch menu exists, which shapes the midday options available.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is so flavorful and not salty."

"The ramen here is delicious, with flavorful broth and fresh ingredients."

"I loved the pork bao buns; they were delicious."

Good to know

1

Hiro Ramen had its grand opening recently, making it a new spot to check out.

2

The restaurant is very clean and well-maintained.

3

Prices are on the higher side, so be prepared for that.

15
CZEN Restaurant Englewood image 1
Caribbean restaurant

Small, beautifully decorated space blends Asian and Caribbean styles with bright, tropical colors. Loud, energetic atmosphere features live music and DJs creating a vibrant vibe. Food and drinks stand out with spicy jerk chicken and amazing rum punch among highlights.

Succulent Saki Braised Oxtail and Berry Jerry short rib bao buns stand out with rich flavors. The Shrimp BAO appetizer offers a tasty option alongside other well-made bao varieties.

Lunch offers delicious dishes with a pleasant atmosphere suitable for celebrations. The food quality stays consistent and satisfies during midday visits.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and expertly prepared."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is so attentive and friendly."

"The bao buns here are amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day on Wednesdays with $10 drinks and appetizers.

2

Taco and tequila deals are available every Tuesday.

3

A Pre-Show Menu is offered for events at the Bergen PAC next door.

16
Wu's Shanghai Dumpling上海小笼- North Brunswick image 1

Modern-Asian design creates a bright and spacious dining area with floating dumpling decorations. Atmosphere feels cozy and relaxing with calming music and a welcoming vibe. Families find it accommodating with high chairs for kids.

Bao buns come juicy and flavorful, with some versions made from scratch. Xiao long bao feature delicate, thin skins and rich, savory broth inside.

Peaceful atmosphere suits a short lunch break well. Good spot for a quick meal with friends or family.

People are saying

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

"These bao buns are juicy and bursting with rich, flavorful broth."

"It's a really cute lunch spot with a great atmosphere."

Good to know

1

There is generally no wait at this restaurant.

2

The prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

3

The bathrooms are clean and equipped with baby changing facilities.

17
Pho Ninh Kieu image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Small, cozy space with dim lighting and a homey, calm atmosphere encourages quiet conversations. The vibe feels like a mom-and-pop restaurant with clean, comfortable surroundings. It stays relaxed and welcoming, making it easy to feel at home.

Bao buns feature marinated chicken cooked just right and grilled pork with strong flavors. The bao buns stand out as a solid choice alongside pho and bahn mi.

Busy during lunch with only one person working the front, the spot serves Pho Bo Vien and Cha Gio. The atmosphere lets you enjoy some Law and Order while eating.

People are saying

"The pho broth here is fragrant, clear, and deeply authentic."

"The pork bao buns are soft, flavorful, and not to be skipped."

"The beef stew and pho here are amazing."

Good to know

1

They charge a 3% surcharge if you pay with a card.

2

You do not need a reservation on weekday nights.

3

There is a good amount of parking available.

18
Saltwater Bar and Kitchen by Big Mike image 1

Restaurant offers a multi-level dining area with elegant decor and soft lighting that creates a coastal cozy atmosphere. Bar features comfortable seating and TVs, attracting a mix of guests seeking strong cocktails and flavorful food. Space feels welcoming and relaxed, with a layout that balances intimacy and openness.

Pork bao buns stand out with their rich flavor and soft texture. They work well as an appetizer and deliver a delicious bite every time.

Lunch offers homemade macaroni and cheese with generous portions that can be shared or saved for later. The overall experience during the day feels fantastic and satisfying.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding, especially the thin-crust pizza."

"You have to try the pork belly Bao Buns."

"The sandwiches and fries at this Lunch Spot were excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy summer months.

2

Taco Tuesdays offer great deals on food and drinks.

3

Happy hour features discounted full-size dishes.

19
Fork image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers elegant decor with high ceilings and a chill, romantic vibe. Live music and TVs create a relaxed atmosphere suited for date nights or casual gatherings. Drinks include well-crafted martinis that complement the diverse menu.

Short rib bao buns feature a light and airy bun with a sweet flavor that complements the meat well. They serve as a notable appetizer option alongside other dishes.

Menu offers a great brunch and lunch selection. Setup suits both casual lunch and evening outings.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and delicious."

"This lunch spot's food was outstanding and delicious."

"The short rib bao buns are tender with a delicious sauce."

Good to know

1

Live music starts at 6 PM on select nights.

2

Valet parking is available for guests.

3

A 3% surcharge applies to all credit card payments.

20
Kinya Ramen · Sushi · Bubble Tea image 1

Japanese restaurant offers private booths with modern, clean decor that transports diners to Tokyo. The atmosphere stays peaceful and tranquil with funky disco house music setting a relaxed vibe. Staff uniforms add an authentic cultural touch, enhancing the overall experience.

Bao buns come out very hot and include pork and spicy shrimp options. The pork buns range from okay to exceptional in taste.

Sushi taco combo offers a smaller but filling lunch option. The spot works well for a quick lunch or a casual meal with friends and family.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always comes out quickly."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is amazing and delicious."

"The pork bao buns here are delicious and served hot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant offers a limited-time lobster ramen promotion.

3

Happy hour features discounted ramen from 5-7pm on weekdays.

21
Ramen Nagomi image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small, intimate space with minimal decor and a communal table creates a cozy atmosphere. The vibe is refreshing and welcoming, with good music enhancing the experience. Seating is tight when packed, making it suited for quiet, intimate meals.

Bao buns come in several standout varieties like the tofu bao, pork floss bao, and bao kakuni which is rich. The tempura shrimp and spicy crispy chicken bao also get strong recommendations as appetizers.

People are saying

"I've had the best ramen I've ever tasted here."

"The bao buns here are crispy and have just enough kick."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is so flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the street near the restaurant.

2

Reservations are not accepted; join the waitlist on Yelp.

3

The restaurant is BYOB, allowing guests to bring their own alcohol.

22
Bao Dumplings & Bao Tea 寶餃寶茶 image 1

Wooden interiors and spacious seating create a clean, serene atmosphere with soft music and a waterfall feature. The place feels welcoming and peaceful, evoking an Asian vibe. Fresh dumplings and bao buns stand out alongside cute cups for boba tea.

Soups inside the bao buns offer a flavorful surprise. The pork bao bun stands out as a recommended choice. The bao buns come with delicious fillings and pair well with various teas.

Offers a nice lunch with options to dine in or take home. Visits include both lunch and dinner, showing flexibility in meal times.

People are saying

"The soup dumplings here are delicious and packed with flavor."

"I thought the bao buns were the best I ever had."

"The soup dumplings here are so good, with tender beef and chicken."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so plan to arrive early.

2

Takeout orders are not available, so dining in is required.

3

Parking is plentiful and easily accessible near the restaurant.

23
Ani Ramen House image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers modern, clean decor with an open, airy space and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Vibe shifts from quiet and family-friendly on weeknights to loud and lively with groups of teens. Art from local artists decorates the walls, adding a unique touch to the cozy setting.

Fluffy and fresh bao buns come packed with flavor, especially the tofu bao buns that many crave. Options include pork and shrimp varieties, all consistently delicious and satisfying.

Lunch offers a solid chance to enjoy ramen in a relaxed setting. The spot works well for casual midday meals with friends.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the chef's special ramen."

"I loved their tofu bao buns; they're super delicious."

"Our server Jason made sure we were good throughout this Lunch Spot meal."

Good to know

1

During restaurant week, ramen, bao bun, and charred edamame are available for $22.

2

The ramen price increased from $11 pre-pandemic to around $20 now.

3

Credit card payments incur an additional charge.

24
Sushi Zero image 1
Sushi restaurant

Interior design features interactive floor animations and a digital koi pond creating a unique visual experience. Atmosphere is calming and sophisticated with relaxing music at a moderate volume. A delivery robot adds a modern touch, enhancing the overall vibe.

Softshell crab and roasted duck stand out as bold bao fillings. Tofu bao bun offers a spectacular vegetarian option. Fish and steak rolls add variety to the diverse bao selection.

Lunch specials include a bento box with numerous golden flake shrimp tempuras, more generous than typical servings. Happy hour deals also make meals accessible for different budgets.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and beautifully presented."

"This lunch spot has incredibly fresh sushi that melts in your mouth."

"You've got to try the tofu Bao Buns; they're spectacular."

Good to know

1

The place gets very busy, so check for reservations or seat availability.

2

On Thursdays at 7 pm, expect long wait times due to limited staff.

3

They offer lunch specials and happy hour deals for different budgets.

25
Street Kitchen Pub image 1

Modern space with second floor and rooftop bar offers a laid-back yet lively atmosphere filled with plentiful TVs and live music. Crowd enjoys diverse menu options and crafted cocktails in a vibrant setting perfect for gatherings.

Bao buns come soft and flavorful, standing out alongside other dishes like chicken tendies and the Banh Mi sandwich. They consistently deliver a solid, well-executed taste that complements the menu.

Lunch offers a family-friendly atmosphere with satisfying meals. The spot serves fresh, flavorful dishes that work well for a midday break.

People are saying

"The food at this pub is amazing, full of flavor and made with care."

"The bartender Jenn makes amazing cocktails and great food suggestions."

"The Bao Buns here have such a great vibe."

Good to know

1

The menu offers a wide variety of options for food and drinks.

2

Wine prices start at $15, but no prices are listed on the menu.

3

The restaurant was out of stock of the highly recommended Bao Buns.

26
Ming image 1
Pan-Asian restaurant

Pan-Asian restaurant offers an elegant yet inviting atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating, including a small private dining area. Live music enhances the vibe during certain evenings, creating a chic and comfortable setting. The space balances casual elegance and fine dining ambiance.

Manchurian Bao stands out with its flavorful profile. Other notable options include Chicken Bao and Korean Bao Buns, offering a variety of tastes.

Fixed lunch options cost $15.99 for vegetarians on weekdays. Staff regularly check in during lunch, and meals can be shared with family or teams.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the fried rice and noodles."

"This Lunch Spot's burnt chili garlic rice was the most delicious dish."

"You have to try the Manchurian Bao Buns; they're a must-try."

Good to know

1

A mandatory 20% gratuity is added to all dine-in bills.

2

An additional 3% credit card fee is charged on the total bill.

3

Ming accommodates Jain diet requests for guests.

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