Bao buns, also known as steamed buns, have become a popular food item in America in recent years. Originally from China, these soft and fluffy buns have been adopted and adapted by chefs all over the country, resulting in a variety of flavors and styles. Here is a list of some of the best bao buns in America, from traditional to fusion.

1. Momofuku Pork Belly Buns, New York City Momofuku’s pork belly buns are a classic example of traditional bao buns. The pork belly is slow-cooked until it is tender and juicy, then sliced and served in a pillowy bun with hoisin sauce, cucumber slices, and scallions. This dish has become so popular that it is now served in Momofuku restaurants all over the world.
2. The Chairman’s Pork Belly Bao, San Francisco The Chairman’s pork belly bao is a fusion take on the classic dish. The pork belly is marinated in a blend of Chinese and Mexican spices, then served in a steamed bun with pickled daikon, cilantro, and a dollop of spicy sauce. The result is a flavorful and unique take on the traditional bao bun.
3. Baohaus Chairman Bao, New York City Baohaus is a popular Taiwanese-American restaurant in New York City that serves up a variety of bao buns. The Chairman Bao is their most popular dish, featuring braised pork belly, crushed peanuts, cilantro, and their signature Haus sauce, all served in a fluffy bun. This dish has won numerous awards and accolades, solidifying Baohaus’s place as one of the best bao bun spots in America.
4. Belly Bao’s Korean Fried Chicken Bao, Los Angeles Belly Bao is a popular food truck in Los Angeles that specializes in Asian-inspired street food, including bao buns. Their Korean Fried Chicken Bao is a fusion dish that features crispy fried chicken, kimchi slaw, and gochujang mayo, all served in a steamed bun. The combination of textures and flavors make this bao bun a must-try for anyone in the LA area.
5. BaoHaus Uncle Jesse Bao, Las Vegas BaoHaus’s Uncle Jesse Bao is a unique take on the classic pork belly bao. This dish features a crispy fried chicken cutlet, pickled radish, and spicy mayo, all served in a fluffy bun. The result is a mouthwatering fusion of Taiwanese and American flavors that is sure to satisfy any foodie’s cravings.
6. Wow Bao’s Teriyaki Chicken Bao, Chicago Wow Bao is a fast-casual restaurant chain that specializes in bao buns. Their Teriyaki Chicken Bao is a popular item on their menu, featuring tender chicken in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, all served in a steamed bun. This dish is a great option for anyone looking for a quick and tasty meal in Chicago.
7. Boke Bowl’s Korean Fried Chicken Bao, Portland Boke Bowl is a popular restaurant in Portland that serves up a variety of Asian-inspired dishes, including bao buns. Their Korean Fried Chicken Bao is a must-try dish, featuring crispy fried chicken, pickled daikon, and a spicy mayo sauce, all served in a soft and fluffy bun.

In conclusion, bao buns have become a staple in the American food scene, and chefs all over the country are putting their own unique spin on this classic dish. Whether you prefer traditional or fusion bao buns, there are plenty of options to choose from.