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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of New York

Bao buns and fried chicken

You need the crunch of fried chicken balanced by the soft, pillowy texture of a bao bun.

Based on 887 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
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Taiwanese restaurant

Small, cozy dining spot with a chill vibe and clean setting. Quick service and budget-friendly prices attract students and office workers looking for a quick bite. Known for juicy sheng jian bao with crispy bottoms and flavorful pork, alongside authentic beef noodle soup reminiscent of Taiwan.

Shengjian bao here have crispy bottoms and a juicy pork filling with soup inside. They come piping hot and need about 10 minutes to cool before eating, with advice to sip the soup first to avoid bursting.

Deep fried chicken cutlet stays crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Fried Chicken rice and dumplings come highly recommended for a satisfying meal.

People are saying

"The beef noodle soup's beef is so tender it falls apart."

"These pork Bao Buns are so juicy and flavorful."

"The fried chicken cutlet is crispy and juicy."

Good to know

1

The $20 deal for a bowl and sheng jian bao offers great value.

2

For $19.99, enjoy beef noodles, pork sheng jian bao, and cucumber salad.

3

Portion sizes are huge, making it a filling option for lunch.

02
Bao Bao Cafe image 1
Chinese restaurant

Spacious setup with glass dividers creates a peaceful vibe. Pork belly bao shines with perfect size and texture, while Korean fried chicken pairs well with noodles. Comfortable seating and phone charging stations add to the relaxed mood.

Steam buns and bao buns have perfect consistency and size with a standout pork belly bao. Vegan options impress and the bao bao pairs well with other dishes like noodles.

Korean fried chicken stands out as very good and often paired with noodles or ramen. The fried chicken nugget meal and pork belly fried rice also get frequent mentions for their taste.

People are saying

"This is a great lunch spot for fast, delicious food."

"I found the bao buns to be delicious and amazing."

"I found the fried chicken here to be really good and yummy."

Good to know

1

The total cost for two people, including two drinks, is under $30.

2

The price for the noodles is $10.

3

Expect a quick service during lunch hours.

03
Meijin image 1
Japanese restaurant

Large space with hundreds of origami cranes hanging from the ceiling and an interior that looks into the kitchen creates a beautiful, intimate atmosphere. Karaoke and a cozy bar add lively energy, while Japanese-style cocktails and sake complement the experience. The vibe suits conversation and group gatherings alike.

Crab and pork fill the bao buns, offering a yummy taste. These buns pair well with Japanese fried chicken and sake bombs.

Crispy outside and juicy inside, the fried chicken offers full flavor without being too oily. Both Japanese and Korean styles stand out as delicious and well-prepared.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly cooked."

"The fried chicken here is full of flavor and perfectly fried."

"The crab Bao Buns here are really yummy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all night with great drink deals.

2

The restaurant has a last call for orders at 3pm.

3

Reservations are recommended for groups of five or more.

04
ChinGoo image 1
Korean restaurant

Small, cozy Korean restaurant with a modern, clean design and warm, welcoming atmosphere. The space stays quiet and comfortable, with light background music that allows easy conversation. Known for authentic, flavorful dishes and a great selection of soju and Korean beer.

Spicy chicken and bulgogi stand out among the excellent bao options. Pork bao, galbi, and beef and veggie japchae also appear regularly on the menu.

Korean fried chicken comes out flavorful and well cooked with a nice aroma. Fried chicken wings offer a crispy texture alongside other fried items like rock shrimp and pork katsu.

People are saying

"I thought the Korean food here was authentic and truly delicious."

"The Korean fried chicken here is unreal, so flavorful and aromatic."

"The spicy chicken bao were really good."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation on a weekend night is recommended as the restaurant fills up easily.

2

During lunch time from 1:00 to 3:00, you can eat at a slightly cheaper price.

3

The lunch specials are well priced at $13 each and absolutely filling.

05
Tampopo Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small space with compact counter seating creates an intimate setting. Lively atmosphere filled with pop and R&B music adds energy but can be loud. Frequent customers enjoy the cozy vibe and friendly environment ideal for casual dining or takeout.

Steamed bao buns stand out with their incredible flavor and soft texture. Chicken and pork options offer delicious fillings that pair well with other favorites like gyoza and mushroom bao buns.

Juicy and tasty Kaarage fried chicken stands out here. The fried chicken is generally delicious and good, though the tender appetizer is just okay.

People are saying

"I found this ramen to be the best I've ever had."

"You have to try the bao buns; they're so tasty."

"I enjoyed the fried chicken; it was crisp and juicy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great drink deals from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Special holiday noodles, like black noodles for Halloween, are sometimes available.

3

The space is limited, so arrive early to avoid long waits.

06
Slowloris image 1
Korean restaurant

Sloth-themed decor and stained glass paintings create a cozy, intimate atmosphere with a laid-back vibe. Compact space offers comfortable dining and bar seating, accompanied by Kpop music in the evenings. The setting suits couples or groups seeking a welcoming, charming experience.

Bao sandwiches feature fried chicken katsu with cucumbers and spicy mayo in the J-bao. The fried kimchi bao offers a crispy, flavorful bite.

Korean fried chicken stands out with its extra crispy texture. The J-bao features fried chicken katsu paired with cucumbers and spicy mayo for added flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and exceeded my expectations."

"The J-Bao's fried chicken was extra crispy and flavorful."

"The Korean fried chicken here is amazing, perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Get there early on busy nights to avoid long wait times.

2

The kitchen closes at 9:30 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Expect long wait times for both dine-in and takeout orders.

07
Kin ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small space captures authentic Japanese bar culture with gorgeous decor and graphic design. Atmosphere feels relaxing and lively, blending cozy vibes with unique cocktail menu styled like an anime comic. Crowds often form outside, reflecting its popularity and energy.

Soft shell crab and pork baos stand out with fresh, tasty buns. Veggie and chicken baos serve well as appetizers with great flavor.

Juicy and flavorful fried chicken stands out with options like karaage and Tang Yang styles. The chicken pairs well with cilantro, red onion, and seaweed over rice, and the dipping sauce adds a nice finishing touch.

People are saying

"I considered this the best ramen I've had in New York."

"You have to try the fried chicken starter; it's super juicy."

"The bao buns here are fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait of 10-15 minutes for 2 people around dinner time.

2

For 3-4 people, the wait can be closer to 15-25 minutes on weekends.

3

You should get there early if it’s a busy time.

08
Slurp Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small ramen spot with a cafeteria-style setup and vegan noodles offers a casual, lively atmosphere that fills up and gets loud. Seating is close together, creating a cozy but busy vibe suited for quick meals or casual gatherings.

Bao buns come with pork, chicken, and veggie tempura fillings. The buns are consistently delicious and melt in your mouth.

Crispy outside and tender inside, the fried chicken stands out with its traditional Japanese karaage style. The chicken karaage bowl offers a great balance of flavor and texture that rivals versions found outside Japan.

People are saying

"I found the ramen here to be rich and flavorful."

"The bao buns here just melt in your mouth."

"The fried chicken here is crispy outside and tender inside."

Good to know

1

Parking is very limited, so consider parking elsewhere.

2

Customers order at the counter, and staff deliver food to the table.

3

All noodles are vegan, providing a great option for plant-based eaters.

09
Uncle Lou 快樂人 image 1
Cantonese restaurant

Spacious dining area with Asian decor featuring lanterns and a lion head on the wall creates a modern Chinatown vibe. The atmosphere is loud and lively due to popularity, making conversation challenging. Lazy Susan tables facilitate sharing dishes, enhancing the communal dining experience.

Braised pork falls apart between the soft buns. Bao bread is spectacular, fluffy, and delicious.

Garlic soy sauce flavors the fried chicken deeply, giving it a rich, savory taste. The traditional garlic fried chicken stands out with its crispiness and bold seasoning.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is excellent, especially the Peking duck and dim sum."

"The bao buns here are fluffy and delicious."

"The garlic fried chicken has a golden, crispy skin."

Good to know

1

Prepare for a long wait during dinner time.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

3

Cash payments warrant a 9% discount.

10
Antidote image 1
Chinese restaurant

Spacious spot blends live jazz and tropical bar vibes for a lively feel. Bao buns shine with Sichuan chili fried chicken and sweet egg custard options. Fried chicken is crispy and spicy, pairing well with Dan Dan noodles for bold flavors.

Bao buns come in savory and sweet forms here, with bao gua and Sichuan chili fried chicken standing out. The egg custard bao serves as a notable dessert option.

Sichuan chili fried chicken stands out with its great spice level and perfect crisp. It pairs well with dishes like Dan Dan noodles and pea shoots for a flavorful meal.

People are saying

"The food here is packed with flavor and delicious."

"The Sichuan chili fried chicken is tender, juicy, and perfectly crisp."

"The bao gua and Sichuan chili fried chicken are favorites."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to dine at a table.

2

Customers are expected to leave their table within 1.5 hours if the restaurant is booked.

3

Happy hour is until 6 PM.

11
Ivan Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small ramen restaurant offers cozy vintage atmosphere with close tables and a loud, chaotic vibe inside. Outdoor seating includes a heated, dog-friendly patio that provides a more private and comfortable experience. The space feels lively and crowded, making conversation difficult indoors but more relaxed outside.

Pastrami bao buns come in pairs and stand out for their tender, flavorful quality. Pork baos are succulent and serve as a great appetizer.

Japanese fried chicken stands out with great seasoning and phenomenal cooking. It appears as a tasty appetizer alongside green beans and pairs well with dishes like Tonkotsu Tsukemen.

People are saying

"I thought the ramen here was the best I ever had."

"The soy garlic fried chicken here is a must-have."

"You have to try the pastrami bao buns; they're fantastic."

Good to know

1

Make sure to reserve ahead of time to secure your table.

2

You must respond within five minutes if you receive an SMS about your table.

3

You need all members of your party to be present to get seated.

12
Kame image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small, cozy ramen spot with minimalistic Japanese decor and a trendy, relaxed vibe. Atmosphere ranges from loud and lively to chill and intimate depending on seating and crowd. Known for outstanding ramen and sake, it draws a mix of diners seeking quality and ambiance.

Bao buns stand out with beef and pork fillings that earn high praise, especially the beef which many prefer. Options include impossible bao and gyoza, both noted for their strong flavors and quality.

Crispy fried chicken features a crunchy batter topped with sesame seeds, peanuts, and scallions. Spicy versions balance heat and sweetness, while the lightly fried chicken katsu pairs well with curry and sticky rice.

People are saying

"The Tonkotsu Ramen broth is rich, flavorful, and incredible."

"These bao buns are simply delicious."

"The fried chicken is perfectly crispy and juicy inside."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for Friday nights.

2

You should book in advance due to the small size of the restaurant.

3

They check for vaccine cards before dining in.

13
Suzume image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Tiny space feels like a cozy pub with dim lighting that creates an intimate vibe. The atmosphere stays cool and relaxed, attracting small groups and couples for quiet dinners. Gluten-free and vegetarian options stand out alongside a notable drink program featuring unique cocktails.

Bao buns feature a super crunchy chicken filling that feels satisfying. The texture and flavor make these buns stand out.

Perfectly juicy fried chicken stands out with a crispy texture. It appears in various dishes like the fried chicken bun and fried chicken plate, often paired with sides like Mac salad and kale salad.

People are saying

"I thought the ramen here was superb and delicious."

"The fried chicken bao buns are unreal and super crunchy."

"The fried chicken here is perfectly juicy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to secure a table.

2

Suzume offers a variety of gluten-free options clearly marked on the menu.

3

Happy hour is available, offering discounts on drinks and appetizers.

14
ONGI (41st/3ave) image 1
Korean restaurant

Small Korean restaurant with a modern design and efficient order system using reusable menus. Atmosphere is cozy and calming with Americana music playing instead of typical Korean pop. Seating includes casual chairs and benches suited for short visits, complemented by complimentary infused water.

Soft, fluffy bao buns come with a delicious taste and perfect texture.

Small bites include Korean fried chicken with options like soy garlic and sweet and spicy sauces. Medium bowls come with two proteins and a side of soy garlic fried chicken.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was excellent and fresh."

"I loved their Korean fried chicken with sweet and spicy sauce."

"I had the best bao buns ever."

Good to know

1

The standard bowl is 24 oz and costs $12.95, while the larger bowl is 32 oz for $15.95.

2

You can build your own bowl or choose from specialties with various base options.

3

The restaurant offers a great variety of proteins including shrimp, bulogi beef, and tofu.

15
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Cocktail bar

Retro-inspired space offers a stunning venue with live jazz and swing bands during brunch, creating a lively and classy atmosphere. The bar features an amazing gin selection and outstanding cocktails that stand out. Music volume can be high, sometimes making conversation difficult.

Bao buns come with standout fillings like Ahi tuna tartare and sweet shrimp. They pair well with other dishes but shine on their own.

Korean fried chicken pairs with a cornbread waffle for a unique combo. The menu also features fried chicken Benedict and classic fried chicken with waffles, all served in generous portions.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are delicious and creative."

"The shrimp Bao Buns here are otherworldly and divine."

"The Korean Fried Chicken and cornbread waffle were so unique."

Good to know

1

Happy hour includes cocktails and $1 oysters from 4-7 PM on weekdays.

2

Guests must leave within one hour due to bookings for events.

3

You should arrive between 11:30 AM and 2:30 PM to catch the live performance.

16
Tenichi Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Cozy spot with an open kitchen and classic Japanese atmosphere. Duck bao buns offer a savory, light starter that pairs well with ramen. Fried chicken buns feature soft buns and rich flavor, while karaage chicken serves as a tasty appetizer.

Duck bao bun offers a savory, light starter with a delicious flavor. Bao buns pair well with ramen, making them a popular choice for a satisfying meal.

Soft buns hold the fried chicken and shrimp, melting in your mouth. Karaage fried chicken appears as a small appetizer with thick breading, though the fried chicken bun earns high praise for flavor.

People are saying

"I thought the ramen here was delicious and authentic."

"The fried chicken here is so good, I didn't leave a crumb."

"The duck bao buns are light, fluffy, and savory."

Good to know

1

Tenichi Ramen is cash only but accepts Venmo and other digital payments.

2

They take your name for the waitlist if the wait exceeds 10 minutes.

3

No credit card payments are accepted.

17
Bua Thai Ramen & Robata Grill image 1

Elegant dining space features floral decor with hanging flowers and butterflies, creating a cozy yet stylish atmosphere. Covered outdoor patio with heaters offers a comfortable seating option. The vibe suits celebrations and gatherings, blending Instagram-worthy aesthetics with inviting warmth.

Bao buns come with pillow-soft bao and fillings like crispy pork belly glazed sweet and savory or shrimp. Options include Chicken Bao Buns and Organic Pork Belly Bun with a balance of textures and flavors.

Fried chicken dumplings and fried chicken wontons stand out as unique dishes. The Gai Tod Hat Yai offers a classic fried chicken experience, while fried chicken in curry adds a flavorful twist.

People are saying

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

"I loved the basil fried rice with the fried chicken."

"These Bao Buns were soft and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with limited drink specials.

2

Reservations are recommended for birthday celebrations and large groups.

3

Customers typically wait about 15 minutes for a table during peak hours.

18
Momosan Ramen & Sake image 1
Ramen restaurant

Modern ramen restaurant offers an open kitchen and stylish décor with sleek wood and industrial touches. Atmosphere feels warm and lively, though seating includes side-by-side communal tables that encourage close proximity. Music varies but often plays loudly, influencing the overall vibe.

Soft shell crab bao stands out with its unique flavor and is often paired with hoisin and dijon mayo that elevate the taste. The bao offerings include a Tonkatsu and soft shell combo and even complementary duck tacos from the chef.

Sweet and spicy seasoning gives the fried chicken a distinct kick. It comes freshly fried with a sweet sauce that stands out for its flavor.

People are saying

"The ramen here is incredible, especially the tan tan."

"The pork bao buns had generous, tender pork and soft buns."

"This fried chicken is so crispy and delicious."

Good to know

1

Arriving before 5 PM allows you to get a seat right away.

2

The lunch special includes 1 ramen and 1 appetizer.

3

Making a reservation is highly suggested for dinner on a Friday evening.

19
E.A.K. RAMEN and IZAKAYA by Machida Shoten Hell’s Kitchen image 1

Small space with tasteful Japanese-inspired design and a welcoming outdoor terrace creates a cozy, vibrant atmosphere. Club music contrasts with quiet moments, attracting a mix of diners who enjoy customizable ramen and unique drinks like matcha beer and creative cocktails.

Chicken bao offers a solid, familiar taste with good bao buns that remind of a Big Mac. Pork bao lacks impact and feels underwhelming.

Lightly battered and fried, the Kaarage fried chicken offers a delicious, crispy texture. The flavor is rich and buttery, making it stand out among typical fried chicken dishes.

People are saying

"I thought the ramen here was superb."

"The fried chicken here is hot, fresh, and juicy."

"The chicken bao buns were cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is from 4pm to 6pm with $6 beers.

2

A waiting line starts to form before 9:00 pm.

3

The establishment closes at 1 AM.

20
Kuu image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small, cozy ramen restaurant with clean interiors and a real Japanese vibe. Atmosphere feels comfortable and friendly, enhanced by a great RnB music playlist. Seating is tight but comfortable, with options for solo diners.

Bao buns come with karaage chicken or shiitake mushrooms glazed in teriyaki sauce. They offer a flavorful combo that pairs well with other appetizers like spicy wings and gyoza.

Spicy fried chicken stands out with its Kuu spicy seasoning and comes with spicy mayo on the side to boost flavor. It pairs well with dishes like butter chicken ramen for a flavorful meal.

People are saying

"The ramen here is insanely good and delicious."

"I'm a ramen snob, and this ramen hit the spot."

"I found the fried chicken tender and delicious."

Good to know

1

They have a 'Buy One, Get One' promotion on select dishes.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm.

3

The price for dishes is generally not more than $20.

21
TONCHIN NEW YORK image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small, dark space with loud music creates a club-like vibe rather than a traditional ramen shop atmosphere. Contemporary Japanese decor and stylish lighting set a modern tone. Crowded and lively, it attracts a hip crowd enjoying high-quality cocktails and classic tonkotsu ramen.

Fried chicken baos stand out as a delicious option. The fish bao buns offer a distinctive flavor and pair well with classic ramen.

Crispy and juicy textures define the signature fried chicken here. The wings offer a sweet and crispy bite, while the fried chicken baos add a delicious twist.

People are saying

"I found the ramen here to be delicious and striking."

"The bao buns here are super good and flavorful."

"The fried chicken wings were so tasty, a little sweet and crispy."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is recommended because it gets very busy.

2

Expect a 60-90 minute wait on prime busy weekend evenings.

3

The happy hour goes from 2:30 to 5:30 PM from Monday to Friday.

22
IPPUDO NY image 1
Restaurant

Ramen restaurant with a fusion aesthetic and a large open kitchen creates a high-class atmosphere. Loud electronic dance music and dark lighting give the space a nightclub vibe. Seating options include communal tables and individual spots, encouraging both socializing and solo dining.

Soft, flavorful bao buns stand out with a perfectly balanced taste. The fried chicken bao features an amazing tartar sauce, and the bao slider ranks as a favorite among appetizers.

Crispy fried chicken comes with an amazing tartar sauce. The fried chicken bao and fried chicken rice stand out as delicious dishes alongside spicy tonkotsu ramen.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is so rich and flavorful."

"The bao buns are soft, flavorful, and perfectly balanced."

"I found the fried chicken to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Come before 6 PM to avoid a long wait.

2

You must reserve a table at the Japanese restaurant.

3

IPPUDO NY only accepts card payments, so customers should have a credit card to eat there.

23
Continent Brooklyn image 1
Jamaican restaurant

Restaurant offers a swanky, elegant decor with soft velvet seating creating a cozy, intimate vibe. Music blends smoothly without overpowering, featuring a diverse DJ set including Haitian Kompa, supporting a warm, sophisticated atmosphere ideal for date nights and celebrations.

Succulent and juicy oxtail bao stands out among the appetizers. Tamarind wings complement the bao selection well.

Fried chicken comes with a sweet flavor and a kick. Options include hot honey and scotch bonnet styles, plus tamarind wings.

People are saying

"You have to try the oxtail Lo Mein; it exceeded expectations."

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

"The Scotch Bonnet Fried Chicken has a nice sweet flavor with a kick."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

The restaurant hosts a private event on Saturday evenings, affecting seating.

3

Happy hour runs from 5-7pm with discounted cocktails and appetizers.

24
ChiMaMa's Noodle House image 1
Taiwanese restaurant

Small Taiwanese restaurant with cozy wooden booths and warm jazz music creates a relaxed, homey vibe. The space is clean and bright with self-service tea and water, encouraging a casual dining flow. It fills up during busy times but maintains a friendly atmosphere.

Juicy pork belly pairs with fluffy bao for a delicious Gua Bao. The meat stays tender and soft, with fatty parts melting in your mouth.

Crispy outside and juicy inside, the fried chicken thigh offers a rich flavor that gets better with each bite. The fried chicken cutlet pairs well with rice and noodles, making it a hit with toddlers.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Taiwanese food, full of flavor."

"You have to try the gua bao with thick braised pork and peanut powder."

"The fried chicken is crispy outside and tender inside."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts cash for orders.

2

There is no service; customers pick up their own utensils and beverages.

3

The restaurant is self-service; you bus your plates after eating.

25
Kyuramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Honeycomb seating creates a unique, private dining experience with individual cubbies and call buttons for service. The atmosphere feels cozy and authentic, evoking a Japanese vibe with stylish, well-designed decor. Flavored sake and smooth soju add to the relaxed, enjoyable energy.

Pork belly bao stands out with its springy texture and packed flavor. Combos often include a bao, making it a solid choice for value and taste.

Salt-fried chicken stands out with a crisp, flavorful coating. Fried squid legs also complement the menu alongside the delicious fried chicken.

People are saying

"The ramen here is rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced."

"The bao buns were soft, fluffy, and packed with flavor."

"The ramen broth was so rich and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to secure a table.

2

Mandatory tips start from 20%, leaving no choice for the tip amount.

3

The lunchtime menu offers good value for the price.

26
Win Son Bakery image 1

Bakery combines inviting interiors with lively atmosphere and plentiful seating including bar and outdoor tables. The space attracts many working alone on laptops, creating a steady, focused energy. Decor balances trendy yet authentic vibes without pretension.

Laminated bolo bao stands out with its light, flaky texture and a nice crust on top. Almond Twice-Baked Bo Lo Bao offers a crunchy bite and a surprising layer of red bean paste inside.

Crispy skin stands out on the fried chicken, making it a highlight. The fried chicken sandwich delivers a spectacular and satisfying bite every time, paired well with fresh fries.

People are saying

"I loved the light crisp and moist center of the scallion pancakes."

"The fried chicken sandwich was messy and not special."

"The turnip cake is nice and crispy, elevated with bacon."

Good to know

1

Expect a long line on weekends.

2

Food takes about 25 minutes to prepare.

3

Sandwiches start being served after 3:30 PM.

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