NYC's Best Pork Buns [Updated 2024]

I have eaten my way through the city, trying out countless pork buns from different establishments, and I am here to share my top picks with you. With a total of 12 pork bun joints meticulously reviewed, I can confidently say that I have covered all corners of the pork bun scene in NYC.

From traditional Chinese bakeries to modern fusion restaurants, this comprehensive guide has something for every pork bun enthusiast. So, get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey as I reveal the hidden gems and iconic spots that serve the most delectable pork buns in the Big Apple.

Bao by Kaya - 570 Lexington

Highlights
Filling portions
Great flavors
Peking duck
Pork belly
Szechuan beef

Let me start by saying wow! Bao by Kaya truly knows how to make a pork bun that's going to knock your socks off. As soon as I walked in, the aroma of freshly steamed buns hit my nose, and I knew I was in for something special.

The first thing that impressed me was the filling portions. These buns are not for the light eaters, my friend. They are generous with their fillings, making sure you get your money's worth. Each bite is a satisfying explosion of flavors.

Speaking of flavors, Bao by Kaya offers a variety of options that will satisfy even the most discerning taste buds. From classic pork belly to adventurous Peking duck, they have a bun for every meat lover out there. And let me tell you, these buns are flavorful. The combination of succulent meats, savory sauces, and pillowy-soft buns is simply divine.

But wait, there's more! Bao by Kaya doesn't stop at just pork buns. They also offer a Szechuan beef option for those who like a little spice in their life. The beef is tender, the spice level is just right, and the bun holds it all together perfectly.

All in all, Bao by Kaya - 570 Lexington is a must-visit for any pork bun enthusiast in NYC. The filling portions, the great flavors, and the variety of options make this place a standout. Trust me, once you have their pork buns, you'll find yourself craving them again and again. So grab a friend, head over to Bao by Kaya, and get ready for a bun-tastic experience!

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AweSum DimSum

Highlights
Allergen labeling
Easy touchscreen ordering
Legit Dim Sum
Freshly made in fast food style
Dim sum platter for solo eaters

From the moment I stepped into AweSum DimSum, I could tell this place meant business. The menu was easily accessible with its user-friendly touchscreen ordering system, allowing me to select my choices with just a few taps.

What sets AweSum DimSum apart from the rest is their commitment to allergen labeling. As someone with food sensitivities, it was a relief to know exactly what ingredients were used in each item. This level of transparency made me feel confident in my choices.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show – the pork buns. AweSum DimSum's legit Dim Sum instantly transported me to the bustling streets of Hong Kong. Freshly made and served in fast food-style, these buns were a delight to behold. The fluffy and slightly sweet bun exterior perfectly complemented the rich and savory pork filling. Each bite was a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.

What impressed me even more was their dim sum platter designed for solo eaters. It consisted of a variety of bite-sized delights, including their famous pork buns. This thoughtful option allowed me to try different items without feeling overwhelmed, while still enjoying their scrumptious pork buns.

In conclusion, AweSum DimSum undoubtedly lives up to its name. A visit to this NYC gem is a must for any pork bun enthusiast. With their dedication to allergen labeling, easy touchscreen ordering, and heavenly Dim Sum, it's no wonder AweSum DimSum stands out in a city filled with culinary delights.

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Bao by Kaya 14th street

Highlights
Delicious tofu
Chipotle aioli
Outdoor seating
Jenga set
Convenient location
Friendly service
Variety of options
Reasonably priced

Bao by Kaya 14th street is a delightful spot with a chipotle twist on the classic pork bun. As a lover of tofu, I was pleasantly surprised to find that they also offered a tofu option. The tofu was perfectly cooked and had a delightful texture that complemented the pillowy bun.

But let's not forget about the chipotle aioli. This sauce added a smoky and tangy kick to the buns, elevating them to a whole new level. It was a match made in pork bun heaven.

One of the things I loved about Bao by Kaya 14th street was their outdoor seating area. It was a great place to enjoy my pork buns in the sunshine, especially with the addition of their Jenga set that provided some playful entertainment.

The location of this bao shop is also worth mentioning. Nestled near all the bustling action of 14th street, it makes for a convenient stop during a day of exploring the city.

Not only is the food top-notch, but the friendly service at Bao by Kaya 14th street adds to the overall experience. The staff was knowledgeable about the menu and provided recommendations with a smile.

With a variety of options on their menu, including vegetarian alternatives, Bao by Kaya 14th street is suitable for everyone. The best part is, all this deliciousness is reasonably priced, so you can enjoy your buns without breaking the bank.

If you're looking for a pork bun experience with a twist, Bao by Kaya 14th street is the place to go. Don't miss out on their flavorful tofu option or the delightful chipotle aioli. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

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Real Kung Fu Little Steamed Buns Ramen

I must say, Real Kung Fu Little Steamed Buns Ramen lives up to its name! The pork buns here are like tiny pockets of deliciousness. The fluffy bun, filled with tender pork, melts in your mouth with each bite. It's no wonder why this place is a crowd favorite in NYC!

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Kung Fu Little Steamed Buns Ramen

I must say, Kung Fu Little Steamed Buns Ramen really knows how to pack a punch with their pork buns! The buns were fluffy and delicate, with a perfectly seasoned pork filling that had me craving for more. The juices from the meat were oozing with flavor, creating a party in my mouth. The umami explosion was definitely a knockout! So if you're in NYC and on the hunt for some serious pork bun mastery, make your way to Kung Fu Little Steamed Buns Ramen and prepare to be amazed!

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Golden Steamer

Golden Steamer in NYC is a hidden gem serving up heavenly pork buns. Steamed to perfection, these pillowy clouds of goodness are filled with succulent pork that melts in your mouth. The delicate balance of flavors left me craving for more. A must-visit for pork bun enthusiasts!

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Mei Lai Wah

With eager anticipation, I tasted the pork bun at NYC's Mei Lai Wah. The fluffy bun melted in my mouth as the succulent pork filling danced on my taste buds. The combination of flavors was simply divine. Mei Lai Wah undeniably deserves a spot on the list of the best pork buns in NYC.

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Carol's Bun

Carol's Bun in NYC is simply heaven in a bite! Their pork buns are a perfect blend of tender meat and fluffy dough. Each bite is like a burst of savory delight that leaves you craving for more. With their secret sauce and impeccable presentation, Carol's Bun is definitely a must-try for pork bun enthusiasts!

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Tim Ho Wan

I have to say, Tim Ho Wan definitely lives up to the hype when it comes to their pork buns. The buns are perfectly steamed, with a fluffy and succulent pork filling that practically melts in your mouth. The texture combination of tender meat and soft bun is simply divine. You won't regret trying these buns at Tim Ho Wan.

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Tao Hong

Ahhh, Tao Hong, the hidden gem in the heart of NYC. Their pork buns? Exceptional. Each bite brought an explosion of savory goodness that made my taste buds do a happy dance. The soft, fluffy buns embraced the juicy pork filling, creating a heavenly symphony of flavors. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for trying Tao Hong's pork buns!

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The Bao

If I were to sum it up in just 50 words, I'd say: The Bao in NYC delivers a delightful pork bun experience that will leave you craving for more! The fluffy and juicy pork filling is expertly balanced with the pillowy steamed bun. Each bite is a burst of flavor that will transport you to pork bun heaven!

Yan Wo Dou Bun

Yan Wo Dou Bun in NYC is a little taste of heaven for pork bun lovers like me. Their buns are pillowy soft and bursting with succulent pork fillings. The savory flavors are balanced perfectly, and the touch of sweetness adds a delightful twist. Don't miss out on this irresistible pork bun paradise!