New York City's Chinatown is home to several Vietnamese bakeries that serve bánh bao. While Manhattan's Vietnamese community is smaller than other cities, the Chinatown bakeries produce excellent versions of these steamed buns.
Golden Steamer top-pick
A bakery on Mott Street known for their steamed buns. Their pork dumplings are filled with ground pork, eggs, and Chinese sausage — the classic Vietnamese preparation. The bun is fluffy and slightly sweet, the filling is savory. Grab a few to go from this no-frills Chinatown spot.
Pasteur Grill & Noodles best-value
The oldest Vietnamese restaurant in Chinatown at 36 years. While known for pho and banh mi, they also serve dumplings as a traditional appetizer. A reliable option with proven longevity in the neighborhood.
Pho Grand hidden-gem
This Chinatown Vietnamese restaurant serves a solid dumpling alongside their well-known pho and vermicelli dishes. A good option for a full Vietnamese meal with dumplings as a starter.