Can you imagine going to a place which serves a fusion bao? Well, we were surprised to see how amazing this place was. They had amazing interiors of beautiful service where everyone is welcoming and suggesting what to try and a great hospitality Let's talk about the food. I've always heard and experienced amazing fried chicken from Asian eateries well anything fried Asians have aced it. The fried chicken bao was out of the world. It's a must try and if you are a vegetarian or a vegan, they have options for you too. We tried tofu and it was amazing as well. They have various types of drinks to complement the food eatery, and must try. read more

Ekiben - Tofu bao - Asian Fusion Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

See all

Delicious - ordered the tofu brah bun, ancho chile pork bun and ramen broccoli to go. Food was ready early. Place was hopping on a Saturday night - you love to see it! read more

My sister got takeout for us before the Springsteen concert and I had never tried Ekiben before. Even though it was takeout, the spicy fried chicken was still hot and crispy and the bao bun was not soggy. Deliciousness overall - and I ate the whole sandwich no problem! The tempura broccoli side was not so crisp (i didn't realize until just now when looking at the menu that it was tempura) but still delicious since I wasn't expecting it to be crispy. Now that I know, I can see the benefit of getting it in-restaurant as opposed to takeout. I don't typically like cilantro in any of my food, but didn't mind it at all in both items. I look forward to more Ekiben when I'm next in Baltimore! read more

Ekiben lives up to the hype! Almost everything was sauced up, crispy, perfectly cooked and packed with flavor. Ironically the one item that was a little disappointing was the tempura broccoli- until we asked for some soy aioli on the side which really took it up a notch. Loved the buns themselves, the fluffy but dense texture is closer to a japanese steamed bun (nikuman) than bao bun that most people are familiar with. My friend said the spicy chicken was pretty mild despite reviews. I was surprised to find that it was a fast casual place so there's a bit of seating outside and two outdoor tables but otherwise you might need to take it to go! Will be back! read more

See all

Eeeh, was let down. Totally looking forward to the "Tempura broccoli" whitch was bearly beaded. Just average main dish(can't remember) not going back. read more

An unbelievably delicious shop in Baltimore serving some of the best fried chicken I've ever had with moist, delicious buns. Get the "Neighborhood Bird". You won't regret it. One orders at the counter, and it can take 10 minutes for the food to be prepared as many locals order takeout. There isn't much space inside (8 chairs for 3 counters, 2 tables to stand at) and 2 tables outside. There is a bathroom that is well-maintained and the staff are quite friendly and lively. read more

See all

I want to give this place a 5 for its creativity, flavor, quick service, and great location. However, here are a few reasons I took off a star: Sandwich Construction: the preparation wasn't fully thought out, where of some of the proteins on the sandwiches didn't work. For the tofu, small pieces don't work on a sandwich, so it can't really be consumed by hand. A friend got the meatballs and said it didn't work as a sandwich either. However, it held up perfectly for the chicken breast. Tempura Broccoli: it was a great portion, but lacked flavor. A plum sauce or spicy mayo would have made this a 5/5. Pricing: the pricing of some of the sides is outrageously high. We were tempted, but couldn't get comfortable paying more for a side than the main sandwich. Maybe smaller portions of the sides at lower prices would make them more appealing. read more

Ekiben - Tofu Brah - Asian Fusion Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

See all

This place is a gem I wish they had a location in northern Virginia because I would be a regular. Their chicken portion is huge and my boyfriend would say the bowl is equivalent to a whole chicken. The sauce for broccoli is chef's kiss if you like cilantro and some sweet tanginess with garlic. Definitely a must go spot if you're in Baltimore and they're open late too! read more

Ekiben - Broccoli, fried shrimp, chicken bap bun - Asian Fusion Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

See all

Food was next level. It's not really a sit-down spot, so be warned, but the fried chicken and the tofu were seriously excellent.

If I could eat here everyday, I WOULD. I ordered so many dishes and they were all perfectly prepared, flavors were balanced. The pickles and herbs highlighted the rich flavors of the meat and sauce. I LOVE EKIBEN. Please come to Virginia so I don't have to drive an hour to eat you. read more

See all

I've been waiting for the chance to try Ekiben and finally got the opportunity today. I ordered the Spicy Neighborhood Bird Bun and Pho Spiced Cheesesteak Egg Roll which was around $23 all together. They give big portions and everything was delicious! At first I thought the bun might be tough, but it was fluffy, moist, and slightly sweet - paired so well with the chicken and sauces. It can get a little bit messy so eating with a fork and knife is a good option. My order came out pretty quick - within 10 min and I walked a few min to the harbor to find a bench to sit and eat. I was full but did not feel bloated and did not feel like my mouth was too salty or anything. Very satisfying lunch Really want to try The Beef and shrimp sides next time read more

Ekiben - Pho Spiced Cheesesteak Egg Roll - Asian Fusion Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

See all

As I travel, I like to check Yelp lists to see if any local restaurants in the city I'm visiting have made those lists. I was excited to discover Ekiben in that way, disappointed that so many other folks already knew about it thus full often) but excited again to happen to walk by during a quieter period, instantly justifying a lunch meal there. The hype is real, the food is amazing, and comments about their Neighborhood Bird Sandwich are spot on. It takes a few minutes for them to prepare it, so sit down, get comfortable, maybe get a bottle of their Thai Iced Tea (which pairs really well with the sandwich). I likewise enjoyed the pickled vegetables side with my meal - maybe not quite as exciting, but again a good pairing. I would be here so often if I lived locally!! read more

Ekiben - Asian Fusion Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

I was really excited to try this place and it was very good. We got the tofu bites as well as a couple sandwiches. Unfortunately, I think I can hyped up so much that I didn't wake up to my expectations, but it was still really great. All the staff were super friendly and efficient. I think we waited about 10 minutes for our food. The chicken is cooked incredibly well it melts in your mouth. I go back again next time I'm in Baltimore, but I wouldn't go out of my way to get this read more

See all

I heard a lot of my friends recommend to try Ekiben, so we made a stop by here while in Baltimore. It was an absolute treat! On their entree menu, you can either get your meal on a bun (sandwich) or in a bowl. We opted to get the buns. I got the classic while my friends got the Neighborhood Bird. I personally enjoyed the Neighborhood Bird better and wasn't the biggest fan of the coconut sauce on the Classic. Regardless, I still enjoyed it and thought the portions were great (the sandwich was huge-- much of the fillings were spilling out). One of my friends also got the Tempura Broccoli which was also delicious. This place is certainly worth checking out! read more

See all

Ahhh-mazing! Top 100 Yelp 2023, baby! I was really impressed with the buns! They were textured porously more like American sliced bread than sticky buns. We tried two flavors of the Shrimp Snacks. The one seasoned in the special Cantonese dry rub, chili, nori and sesame had several layers of flavor. The wet shrimp snack is tossed in their walnut shrimp sauce (but doesn't contain walnuts). This was divine! So good! The shrimps were pretty big as well. The negative being the shrimp snacks are more expensive than the entrees...almost $20. The chicken piece in the buns was huge. In the rice bowl, I received 3 massive thigh pieces. I really liked the pickled cucumbers and other veggies that complimented well with the thick chicken breading. Would definitely come again! Oh, the Thai Iced Tea was perfect, it wasn't overly sweet. read more

See all

If I could sell my soul for unlimited Ekiben, I would. Ekiben is THAT GIRL in Baltimore. Any and every time I have friends, family, etc from out of town, I direct them to Ekiben. Their spicy neighborhood bird on a bun has my heart! I love their tempura broccoli and their rice bowls are delicious!! I love that there are so many options for many dietary preferences and allergies. read more

One of my favorite places to eat in Baltimore. My favorite is to get the spicy neighborhood bird bowl. The tempura broccoli is . The wait is typically at least 30 minutes. Take out, but great food to grab and eat by the water, no real ambiance to enjoy. read more

For vegans Ekiben has like, 7 things, but half of those are just variations on a principle, and that's out of a very short menu overall. Luckily, they're all great! They stick to a principle of doing fewer things better, and they succeed. Whether it's What The Bird Eats or Tofu Brah the portions are honest and the flavors are awesome. read more

Pros: excellent neighborhood chicken sandwich, friendly professional staff, cool neighborhood (Fells Point). Cons: long wait, small dining room and waiting area I highly recommend going here, but probably best to order ahead. I want to give a big thank you to the staff. I told them I was in town for a conference and leaving the next day, so I asked what was the "need to get" item on the menu. I was torn between the neighborhood chicken sandwich and the original Thai meatball sandwich. The dude at the counter sold me both sandwiches, but comped me one of the sandwiches. Awesome gesture that wasn't necessary or needed, but truly appreciated. This place is my first stop for food the next time I'm in Baltimore because it's so delicious (with even better service). 6 out of 5 stars! read more

Ekiben - Dining room art work - Asian Fusion Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Food was delicious! The bun was soft, the chicken was crunchy and flavorful, and pretty big size. I also got the cheesesteak spring roll, which was again delicious. Only wish they had more dining space. Regardless, I'd make a return read more

A very yummy establishment! Portion sizes are very big, especially the chicken in the original bowl with rice. It includes two big pieces of chicken. The pickles and pickled vegetables give a refreshing tangy bite to the rich and fatty meal. The spicy maco definitely has a little bit of a kick to it as well. Everything is super flavorful and yummy! Service was good and the spot is a big favorite with many in the area. read more

Ekiben - The Original Bowl - Asian Fusion Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

See all

Messed up my order, but were quick to fix it, food was great as all locations. Friendly and polite service

Got the neighborhood bird, garlic chili oil noodles, and tofu nuggets and every single thing was amazing

I don't think there's one bad thing I can say about this place I discovered it last year when I came to visit a friend in Baltimore and I have been dreaming about it ever since I don't think there's a trip to Baltimore that I can do now without going here. The chicken meat is always so tender and slides right off in your mouth and any tempura dish that you order - my favorite is the tempura broccoli - is always slightly fried and not drenched in oil. Also, the cilantro onion sauce is amazing with the tempura broccoli! I love the ambience and the music and how vibrant and energetic the workers are can't wait for my next trip to Baltimore and to go back. I recommend finding parking a few blocks up from fells point and then walking there ordering your food or ordering online in advance and then taking it either to fells point to sit by the water or sit in Broadway market. read more

See all

Love it!!! This is one of my go-to spots in the city. The food is so unique, always cooked to perfection. The flavors are so interesting, and go together super well. I also think its a great value for the amount of food that you get. My favorites are the spicy bird bowl (or buns), or the chili garlic noodles with tofu! The tofu is perfectly puffy, soaked in a sweet & spicy sauce. Deliciouss! I also love the broccoli side. Staff there is always super friendly, and willing to go the extra mile to make your experience the best it can be. Its a bit small to sit in and eat at, but they do have some outdoor seating. Or you can take it and go sit by the water. This is definitely one of my go-to spots to take people visiting the city. read more

iconic baltimore. nothing else to say. pro tip: ask for the sauce to be on the side instead of on the chicken! read more

Fresh, fresh, FRESH! Everything we had was pouncing with flavor and smells. The chicken was soft, tender and flavored with Cantonese spices, though the steam bun was lacking in moisture, but the wonderful sauce made up for it. The tempura broccoli is something I'll dream of for weeks to come, sweet, savory onions, mint, and spice. The shrimp were fresh, large and deliciously crunchy with light but flavorful seasonings and wonderful pickled onions. The homemade pickle cucumbers were legit! read more

See all

Busy Saturday night! Always with the wait. Was hoping g the catfish special was being offered, more of an excuse for me to return on a Tuesday! read more

Ekiben - Asian Fusion Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

A toilet trip and a reading trip!! This was delightful! This bathroom truly had so much personality. The floor was a little dirty with paper towels but overall a plain bathroom because so spruced up! Bathroom Overall : 5/10 read more

See all

I ordered the original in a bun to go. It didn't look busy but still took 15 minutes to make as there are alot of pickup orders. It looks like you can order ahead of time. The bun was so fluffy and had a little sweetness to it. The entire thing tasted really good but the Meatballs were not a good sandwich filling. It kept falling out so I couldn't really enjoy it on the move as I had intended. read more

The Ekiben in Fells Point seemed a lot less decorated than the Hampden location. I say seems because it was hard to tell with how crowded it was. But decorations do not a restaurant make. This location has the same great food. There are a few tables and a bar with chairs to sit in. There are also a limited number of outdoor tables here. My wife and I placed our order and then headed outside to wait. Despite the crowd, our food came out in a timely manner and our order was accurate. Ekiben has a limited number of vegan options but what they lack in choices, they make up for in quality. They have Tempura Broccoli (which is crispy battered broccoli tossed in vinegar, herbs, and onions), Tofu Nuggets (which is tofu topped with spicy peanut sauce, toasted aromatics, herbs and onions) and the Tofu Brah which you can do as a bun or bowl (Tofu Brah is tofu, spicy peanut sauce, mango/papaya/carrot slaw, fresh herbs and roasted aromatics). My wife and I ordered the Tofu Brah as a bun, the Tofu Nuggets and Tempura Broccoli. All three were tasty and well done. The bun was soft, pillowy and way bigger than I imagined. It is treated like a sandwich with tofu and everything inside and the bun serving as the top and bottom. The bun was loaded with tofu, slaw and sauce. The tofu nuggets were nice and saucy and crispy on the outside and soft and chewy inside. They held up well despite taking them to go. The tempura broccoli was lightly battered and the vinegar sauce, which is house made, added just the right touch. Ekiben has gotten some national recognition and it is well deserved. Their food is great. If you find yourself in Baltimore, find your way to Ekiben. read more

Ekiben - Tempura Broccoli - Asian Fusion Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

**Correcting my review since I wrote it for a different location oops I loved Ekiben the first time I had it elsewhere, so I'm here to get it again at this location! There's a lot more seating available here both inside and outside. The Neighborhood Bird (Spicy) with Rice 9/10 - two large portions of chicken on a bed of rice -- crispy and tender - spice adds a kick but not too spicy where you can't enjoy the food - there was a lot of fat (yellow layer) throughout the chicken -- not used to it and it made it a bit unappetizing but besides that the chicken was great - sweet and spicy sauce + cilantro on top - came w/ rice, pickled carrots, onions, and pickles Staff was friendly! It took about ~10 or so minutes before we got our food. There's a small table on the side to get water and utensils. read more

See all

Overall: 4.4/5 (dine in) We came at lunch time on a Thursday and the wait/line wasn't bad. We got a seat on the counter to eat and didn't feel rushed even though the place was small. They have a station set up where you can grab utensils, napkins, sauces, and water. The Original Bun ($12.99): This came with two huge Thai meatballs with coconut black peppercorn sauce, roasted aromatics, & fresh herbs. The bun was huge so you can split it with another person. I liked the sauce even though I'm not a huge fan of peppercorn. Everything went well together and was balanced. The meatball was really good and soft. Tackle Box ($22.25): I never had fried catfish like this before. I'm not sure what type of batter they used but it was like a rice Krispy pop texture. The flavors are subtle so we added a lot of sauce. I still recommend trying this if you want something different. Spicy Shrimp Snack ($18.75): This comes with 8 huge shrimps that were coated with chili, nori, and sesame. It was not spicy at all. The shrimps were too thick so they were not easy to bite into. I didn't enjoy them as much as my husband and didn't think they were worth it. The spicy walnut shrimp sauce though is really good so we got a second batch to eat with the catfish. Ekiben overall was good but I'm not sure why they're one of the top 50 restaurants in the US for 2023 as voted by Yelp. There was nothing that stood out to us or made them special. read more

See all

My sister brought me here to try The Neighborhood Bird Bun, as it was one of her favorite restaurants in Baltimore. The chicken was perfectly tender and juicy, and the sauce was absolutely flavorful/delicious. The atmosphere was chill, and the staff were friendly. The food came out quick and I was pleasantly surprised with how delicious the bun was. Next time I definitely want to order the Broccoli tempura dish and I also want to try the Neighborhood Bird Bowl. I definitely recommend this place, so good!! read more

Ekiben - The Neighborhood Bird Bun - Asian Fusion Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Just wow. So much delicious food. We ordered two neighborhood chickens (one with the bao bun). We were surprised by the amount of fried chicken it came with. The photo doesn't do it Justice but there are two large chicken breasts for each dish! Talk about a great bang for your buck. Ambience: upbeat with top hits rap tunes playing in the background. Great vibes. Fun artwork. There is some outdoor seating and limited indoor seating. There were several busy peaks while with dined in- always a great sign that the food is legit (and it was). Service: great Quality: delicioussssss! The sauce, the chicken flavor- just wow! We probably could have split an entree because of amount of chicken it came with because it was a lot. read more

Ekiben - The neighborhood chicken - Asian Fusion Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

See all

Such a fun a delicious spot!! Highly recommend! The chicken was perfectly cooked. The sauces were incredible. The broccoli dishes were out of this world good. Service was super nice and helpful! read more

Service was great! Space is small, but just enough to enjoy a quick meal. I wish they had more drink options and the chicken was slightly underdone (in my opinion). read more

Ekiben - Tempura Broccoli - Asian Fusion Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

See all

Stopped by this awesome restaurant per recommendation by brother in law. This place is definitely worth checking out. The food tastes great and it was a pretty good deal. I had the original on a bao bun and my wife got the neighborhood bird rice bowl. She and I shared the pho sliced cheese steak egg roll, which was okay. I dipped almost everything in the spicy sauce they have available near the utensils and napkins counter. That added a kick of flavor to the already tasty food. Seating is limited, and the place is pretty small. It's quite loud if you sit by the front window (right below the speaker), but I seemed to be more bothered by it than my 3 year old. Would I come back? Yea, if in the area. Def worth checking out! read more

See all

Their Neighborhood Bird and Tofu Brah are top tier. I can see why this is one of the most popular, best food spots in Baltimore. Their sauces and sides really make the sandwich pop with flavor. I've tried both their bowls and buns. While the bun is cheaper, I prefer the bowls as they provide you rice with more meat and sides in my opinion. Interestingly enough, when I've tried their Neighborhood Bird and Tofu Brah bowls, my stomach got very upset shortly after. However, when I recently got the Spicy Neighborhood Bird in the Bun, I easily ate it without any issues. I just wish the spicy neighborhood bird had more heat to it. All in all, great place for flavorful fried chicken and tofu with an Asian twist. Anyone coming to Baltimore must check this place out. read more

See all

THE NECESSITY FOOD IF YOU COME TO BALTIMORE. It's not a "famous" food like Baltimore isn't know for it, but this small business is growing and it will be soon. I went to the small shop on Eastern, so there is basically an ordering counter, 2 bar table tops for waiting, and 6 chairs with counters to eat. Just be prepared that you may need to walk and eat your food somewhere nearby (broadway market has outdoor tables to eat at). The food... well you need to try it all! I recommend the classic chicken as a Bao bun sandwich or rice -- either way it's still good. The next item is the crispy walnut shrimp... UGHHH. Y'all they weren't playing with these... it's so so good. I could devour it by myself if I truly wanted - lies, you know it's too good to eat cold. Give it a shot, there's a little wait if you order there, so be prepared for that. You can also order online for pick up! read more