BAO - Redwood City (CA)

3 /5 Cindy N: I finally had the chance to try out this restaurant. At first glance, the exterior isn’t very impressive and might make you second-guess your choice. However, once you step inside, it’s a completely different vibe — cozy, clean, and inviting. The staff were friendly and attentive, which definitely added to the overall experience. When the food arrived, everything looked beautifully presented. Unfortunately, the taste didn’t quite live up to the visuals. The dishes were just okay — not bad, but nothing memorable either. If you’re coming for the atmosphere and some nice photos, this place delivers. But if you’re looking for an outstanding culinary experience, you might leave a little underwhelmed.

5 /5 Sudatta Jeevan: If you’re a fan of dumplings and bao, this place is an absolute must-try! The bao are perfectly fluffy with generous, flavorful fillings — each bite is warm, soft, and deeply satisfying. You can really taste the quality and freshness in every dish. Service was great, and the vibe of the place is cozy but modern, making it a great spot for both a quick bite or a casual meal with friends. Highly recommend this spot if you’re craving authentic, freshly made bao and dumplings. Can’t wait to come back and try more!

5 /5 TheDivine Group: Many will agree that even though there are many Chinese restaurants in the Bay Area that this one just keeps you coming back for its flavor. One favorite is the Shanghai Noddles that is great for 2 people and you can combine it with any of the Pot Stickers. For drinks the Lemon Ice Tea or the Thai Ice Tea. There are many more but you cant go wrong with these if you are coming in for the first time. Wait times are longer for parties of 3+ and reservations are suggested. To no surprise this restaurant keeps busy almost every day of the week. The staff are friendly and have always had positive impressions from each server. If you bisit during the right time it can be quiet but it can get noisy when it is at full capicity; nevertheless, it still is enjoyable.

5 /5 Bitter Sweet: Absolutely love this place! My friends and I ordered a few dishes to share. We ordered on an iPad and in a few mins, our food appeared on the table. The food was fresh and flavor-able, very tasty. Staff was pleasant. It can get packed fast after 6pm. kid friendly, but you can also go in a group or on a date night. I would definitely go here again to try more on the menu and will recommend this place to others

2 /5 Chris Lee: C’mon. Each soup dumpling is $2. Each has thick mushy dough that falls apart. Each leaks soup, each were the worse XLB I’ve ever had. Gosh was good, noodles with nothing but onions and green onions was $22 and ok I guess but I mean c’mon! Just don’t have soup dumplings on the menu and the place might be fine. The waiter said the manager told him the soup dumplings “just does this sometimes” and that was that. Our neighbors got soup dumplings too and same thing. This place is skippable.