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Mao's Bao offers a variety of Chinese bao and dumplings with both positive and negative feedback from patrons. Some customers appreciate the authentic flavors and unique offerings, while others have expressed concerns about food quality and service. The establishment provides options for vegan and vegetarian diets, and is known for its takeout and delivery services. The ambiance is casual, with both indoor and outdoor seating available. Payment methods include cash, credit, and debit cards, as well as mobile payments. The venue is wheelchair accessible and offers free Wi-Fi. Mao's Bao operates on weekends and holidays, with extended hours on certain days. The establishment is family and pet-friendly, and offers private event hosting. Reservations are accepted, and free parking is available nearby.

Discover Mao's Bao in Manhattan's Chelsea Market District 

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Manhattan at 75 9th Avenue, Mao's Bao serves up an enticing array of Chinese bao and dumplings that promise a quick, flavorful bite for food lovers and busy urbanites alike. Situated in the bustling Chelsea Market basement, this casual eatery has become a go-to spot for those craving authentic steamed and pan-fried bao with a modern twist. Whether you're a devoted foodie, a digital nomad seeking convenient eats, or a trend-conscious traveler exploring New York's culinary scene, Mao's Bao blends tradition with convenience in a lively setting.

Mao's Bao delights guests with an assortment of bao fillings, including juicy lamb, savory beef, and pork options that have earned praise for their rich flavors. 

For vegan diners, the Impossibao, crafted with Impossible Foods Patty, offers a delicious plant-based alternative, showcasing the eatery's commitment to inclusive dining. The menu caters to lunch and dinner, with easy takeout and delivery services for a hassle-free meal on the go. Small but mighty, the baos are a perfect snack or light meal complemented by nearby boba tea and convenience stores.

Mao's Bao offers a casual, friendly atmosphere complemented by both indoor and outdoor seating options, allowing guests to enjoy their meals in comfort. The location inside the iconic Chelsea Market places diners in the midst of a lively food hub, famous for its diverse culinary experiences. Accessibility is a priority here, with wheelchair access ensuring everyone can enjoy the bao delights with ease. The venue also offers free Wi-Fi, making it a great pit stop for digital nomads and casual visitors alike.

Community Sentiment and Visitor Experiences

Mao's Bao has gathered a mix of reviews reflecting a range of visitor experiences. Enthusiasts often highlight the bold flavors of the lamb and beef baos, praising the quick service and convenient location within Chelsea Market. These positive voices celebrate the establishment as a fast, flavorful option for on-the-go meals and mention the friendly staff and clean setting. However, some guests have noted inconsistencies in food quality, such as dryness in chicken options or limited sauce portions, as well as a higher price point compared to other dumpling vendors in New York City. Despite this, its unique offerings and accessibility keep it a notable stop for bao lovers exploring Manhattan.

What are the operating hours of Mao's Bao?

 Mao's Bao operates from Wednesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Is there outdoor seating available at Mao's Bao?

 Yes, Mao's Bao offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

 Yes, Mao's Bao accepts cash, credit, and debit cards, as well as mobile payments.

 Yes, the establishment is wheelchair accessible.

 Yes, Mao's Bao provides vegan-friendly options, including the Impossibao made with Impossible Foods Patty.

North America

United States

Nestled in the vibrant Chelsea Market, Mao's Bao is a culinary gem that offers a delightful escape into the world of authentic Chinese bao. This cozy eatery, located at 75 9th Ave, New York, NY, invites food lovers to indulge in a variety of freshly steamed and pan-fried buns, each bursting with flavor. The atmosphere is lively, with the bustling sounds of the market enhancing the experience of enjoying these delectable treats.

Mao's Bao is not just about the food; it’s about the experience. The moment you step inside, the aroma of freshly steamed buns fills the air, making it impossible to resist. The signature dish, the lamb bao, is a must-try. Each bite reveals juicy, tender lamb enveloped in a fluffy, perfectly steamed bun, complemented by a hint of savory sauce that elevates the flavor. Another standout is the pork bao, which features a delightful balance of spices that dance on your palate, leaving you craving more.

Behind the scenes, Mao's Bao has a rich history rooted in traditional Chinese culinary practices. The chef, who hails from a long line of bao makers, brings family recipes to life, ensuring that each bao is crafted with love and authenticity. This dedication to quality is evident in every bite, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Mao's Bao is renowned for its authentic Chinese bao, particularly the lamb and pork varieties that are made fresh daily.

Visitors flock to Mao's Bao for the unique flavors and the lively atmosphere of Chelsea Market, making it a perfect stop for a quick bite.

Mao's Bao is open daily for lunch and dinner, making it a convenient option for any time of day.

Whether you're a local or a traveler exploring the culinary scene of New York City, make sure to stop by Mao's Bao for an unforgettable taste of authentic bao. With its vibrant atmosphere and mouthwatering offerings, it promises to be a highlight of your culinary journey.

Don't miss out on the chance to savor the best bao in New York! Head over to Mao's Bao at Chelsea Market and treat yourself to an experience that tantalizes your taste buds and warms your heart.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQN3NIOW1BRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJQfytQhFZwokRyeN50tkBnFI/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQN3NIOW1BRRAB

They had run out of the shiitake I got the 5 for 12
The beef is the best
The chicken is dry and flavorless and the lamb was gamey
I can live without ever eating that again.
Plus they're stingy with their soy sauce.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNMbGRUQ1d3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJQfytQhFZwokRyeN50tkBnFI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNMbGRUQ1d3EAE

It’s located in the basement of Chelsea Market. The woman behind the counter was perfectly friendly.

However, these dumpling are awful. You can find better dumplings practically anywhere else in the city, especially when china town is not so far away. On top of that, the price is $12 for 5 dumplings, which is more than double what you would pay anywhere else. As a dumpling enjoyer, I can’t stress enough to avoid this place. I feel bad to leave such a negative review, but the difference in quality needs to be noted so tourists don’t waste a meal and experience here.

There are plenty of great options for food in Chelsea Market, but this is definitely not one of them!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmcl9HM2hBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJQfytQhFZwokRyeN50tkBnFI/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmcl9HM2hBRRAB

Visited the stall at the Dragon fest and I loved it. I enjoyed the pork and chicken

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURMM1pxcEx3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJQfytQhFZwokRyeN50tkBnFI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURMM1pxcEx3EAE

Loved the baos. My favorite is definitely the lamb it was so juicy and flavorful. It was a super fast order didn't wait long at all. Liked that they have the other little boba place and the convenience store near to get a drink and snack!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNOLXRuOGt3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJQfytQhFZwokRyeN50tkBnFI/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNOLXRuOGt3RRAB

I'm on my search for the best Bao. I was visiting the Chelsea market and stopped in Mao's Bao. I ordered 6 pork baos pan fried.
The meat filling wasn't as juicy as I expected. The dough was good and it was a nice size. The sauce he gave me was literally a teaspoon. You can even see how little he gave me in the picture. So to share it I decided to just wait and go home to make my sauce.
Great on the go!
What are your favorite places for bao??
I'd love to go and try them!!
Enjoy!!

Mao's Bao: Tasty Dumplings in Chelsea Market, NYC

Mao's Bao specializes in traditional Chinese bao and dumplings, offering a variety of fillings and flavors. The establishment has received mixed reviews, with some patrons praising the authentic taste and others noting inconsistencies in quality and service.

Mao's Bao: A historic journey of New York's beloved bao spot in Chelsea Market.

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Manhattan's Chelsea Market, Mao's Bao has become a notable destination for food enthusiasts craving authentic Chinese bao and dumplings. Since opening, it has carved a niche by specializing in a variety of traditional steamed and pan-fried buns stuffed with flavorful fillings that evoke the rich culinary heritage of China.

Mao's Bao first made waves in 2023 when it participated in Smorgasburg, North America's largest outdoor food market. This event spotlighted their bao offerings, introducing a wider audience to their distinct take on traditional Chinese street food. Their presence at this bustling market helped establish their reputation as a go-to spot for quick yet authentic bites in New York City.

In 2024, Mao's Bao earned recognition for expanding their menu to embrace more inclusive, vegan-friendly options. The standout item, the Impossibao, features a patty from Impossible Foods, catering to plant-based diners seeking delicious alternatives without compromising flavor. This progressive move highlights their commitment to innovation while respecting culinary traditions.

Mao's Bao sits in the basement of Chelsea Market, offering quick dine-in, takeout, and delivery options focused on traditional bao and dumplings. Visitors often praise the juicy lamb and beef baos for their flavorful fillings and satisfying textures. However, some patrons have noted inconsistencies, mentioning that chicken can occasionally be dry and that certain dumplings lack the punch of Chinatown's offerings. Despite mixed reviews, many appreciate the convenience, fast service, and unique bao varieties.

 - Steamed and pan-fried buns with diverse fillings including beef, pork, chicken, and lamb.

 - Introduction of the Impossibao with Impossible Foods Patty appealing to plant-based eaters.

 - Located in the basement of Chelsea Market with options for dine-in, takeout, and delivery.

As a destination for lovers of Asian cuisine and street food culture, Mao's Bao offers a flavorful glimpse into traditional Chinese bao artistry fused with New York's fast-paced vibe. Whether you’re a local or a traveler exploring Manhattan’s culinary tapestry, this spot provides a unique experience that complements the diverse food scene of Chelsea Market and beyond.

Mao's Bao continues to evolve, balancing authentic flavors with modern dining trends, making it a noteworthy stop for anyone craving the comforting embrace of a perfectly steamed bao.

Authentic Chinese bao and dumplings with a variety of fillings and flavors.

Pork Bao

Chicken Bao

Beef Bao

Lamb Bao

Shiitake Bao

Impossibao

Pork Gua Bao

Chicken Gua Bao

Beef Gua Bao

Lamb Gua Bao

Shiitake Gua Bao

Jian Bao (Pan Fried Bun)

Jiao Zi (Boiled Dumpling)

Tang Hulu

Mao's Bao Menu

Mao's Bao Menu Overview New York City Chelsea Market Authentic Chinese Bao and Dumplings Place 

Nestled in the vibrant Chelsea Market of Manhattan, Mao's Bao offers an enticing journey into authentic Chinese bao and dumplings. This quaint spot invites food lovers to savor an array of flavorful steamed and pan-fried buns, showcasing a delightful variety of fillings that promise a taste sensation. Whether you are a local foodie or a curious traveler, Mao's Bao presents a menu crafted for those who adore freshly prepared, hand-crafted dumplings and baos with rich, aromatic flavors.

Begin your culinary experience with classic Jiao Zi, the boiled dumplings that embody the true essence of Chinese street food. These dumplings come filled with an enticing mix of pork, beef, chicken, lamb, and shiitake mushrooms, offering a robust and diverse flavor profile that caters to many palates.

The heart of Mao's Bao lies in its incredible selection of baos and gua baos, each bursting with distinctive ingredients and textures. From the tender Pork Bao to the richly flavored Beef Bao, the menu caters to meat lovers and vegetarians alike. Notable offerings include the juicy Lamb Bao with its unique gamey notes and the Shiitake Bao highlighting earthy mushroom flavors. For plant-based diners, the Impossibao made with an Impossible Foods patty offers a satisfying alternative.

Elevating the bao experience are the Gua Baos — pillowy buns filled with succulent braised meats or mushrooms accented by pickled mustard greens, fresh coriander, and a sprinkle of peanut powder for a delightful crunch. Choices include Pork Belly, Chicken Thigh, Braised Beef, Braised Lamb, and Braised Shiitake Mushrooms, offering a perfect harmony of savory and tangy flavors. For a crispy delight, the Jian Bao or pan-fried buns combine a mix of pork, beef, chicken, lamb, and shiitake mushrooms in a golden exterior that seals in juicy goodness.

To complete your meal, indulge in the traditional Tang Hulu — a charming assortment of candied fruits that provide a sweet and crunchy contrast to the savory baos and dumplings. This dessert offers a nostalgic bite reminiscent of lively Chinese street fairs, adding a perfect finishing touch.

While Mao's Bao primarily shines through its bao and dumpling specialties, its location in Chelsea Market offers easy access to a variety of beverages nearby, including boba tea and other refreshing drinks. The convenience of enjoying a quick bao paired with a specialty beverage makes it an ideal spot for lunch or dinner on the go.

 Mao's Bao specializes in authentic Chinese bao and dumplings with a variety of fillings made fresh daily, located conveniently in New York's Chelsea Market.

 Yes, vegetarian diners can enjoy the Shiitake Bao and Shiitake Gua Bao made with braised shiitake mushrooms and fresh herbs.

 Mao's Bao offers both takeout and delivery options, making it easy to enjoy their baos and dumplings anywhere in New York City.

Discover Mao's Bao in New York's vibrant Manhattan, offering delectable Chinese bao in a bustling atmosphere. A must-visit dining spot!

Mao's Bao: Best Chinese Bao in Manhattan, NYC

New York County

Mao's Bao

Fluffy steamed buns filled with various ingredients like pork, chicken, beef, lamb, or shiitake mushrooms.

Bao Buns

Braised meats or mushrooms served in a steamed bun with pickled mustard greens, coriander, and peanut powder.

Gua Bao

Pan-fried buns with crispy bottoms, available with different fillings.

Traditional Chinese dumplings filled with pork, beef, chicken, lamb, or shiitake mushrooms.

Candied fruits on skewers, offering a sweet and tangy treat.

Discover Mao's Bao in Manhattan's Chelsea Market New York City New York 10011 USA 

Nestled in the vibrant basement of Chelsea Market, Mao's Bao offers a unique culinary journey into authentic Chinese street food right in the heart of Manhattan. This popular spot is a haven for food enthusiasts seeking delicious, flavorful bao buns and traditional dumplings in New York City. 

Mao's Bao specializes in a variety of soft, fluffy baos that are both comforting and packed with flavor. You can indulge in 

 stuffed with pork, chicken, beef, lamb, or shiitake mushrooms. Each bite offers a blend of tender meat or earthy mushrooms enveloped by a pillowy steamed bun. For those craving a crispy texture, the pan-fried Jian Bao with its golden, crunchy bottom is a must-try. 

Besides baos, Mao's Bao also serves Gua Bao — a delectable steamed bun loaded with braised meats or mushrooms, pickled mustard greens, fresh coriander, and a dusting of peanut powder. Their Jiao Zi dumplings, classic boiled dumplings filled with a variety of meats or mushrooms, offer a traditional Chinese taste experience. 

For a sweet finish, don't miss their Tang Hulu — skewers of candied fruits that provide a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, a refreshing way to end your meal or snack while exploring Chelsea Market. 

Mao's Bao caters to diverse dining preferences with dine-in seating available in the bustling Chelsea Market, as well as takeout and delivery options for those on the go. Outdoor seating is also offered, perfect for enjoying New York's vibrant street scenes. Whether you're grabbing a quick lunch, a casual dinner, or a snack between adventures, this spot fits the bill. 

 — The lamb bao is praised for its juiciness and rich flavor, making it a standout dish to try.

 — Expect to pay around $2.40 for individual baos and $12 for sets of dumplings or gua bao, reflecting the authentic flavors and Chelsea Market setting.

 — While the staff is friendly, some visitors have noted limited soy sauce portions, so you might want to bring your own or request extra.

For food lovers and curious travelers exploring New York's Chelsea Market, Mao's Bao offers a flavorful glimpse into classic Chinese street fare with a modern twist. Whether you stop by for a quick bite or to savor a variety of baos and dumplings, this spot adds a distinct flavor to your Manhattan food adventures.

Discover the best bao in NYC at Mao's Bao, located in Chelsea Market. Enjoy a variety of delicious fillings and a casual dining experience. Visit us today!

Taste Authentic Bao at Mao's Bao, NYC

Get insider tips for enjoying the best dumplings in NYC. From Mao's Bao to other hotspots, navigate your way to delicious culinary experiences. Start your adventure!

Explore NYC's Best Dumpling Tips and Itineraries

Learn about Mao's Bao, where traditional Chinese flavors meet modern culinary delights in the heart of NYC. Enjoy vegan options and cozy seating!

Mao's Bao: Tasty Dumplings in Chelsea Market, NYC

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