This little mom and pop shop is inside the front doors of The World Journal by the elevators. It's a takeout only spot with a nice older gentleman working alone side his wife. Kid gets out of school and sit there reading books while his parents wait. This is the kind of business I want to support.
Now, let's talk about the food. This shop specializes in Chinese bao (steam buns, often stuffed with a filling). Honestly, prices were pretty high relative to competitors. However, filling aside (discuss later), this bun has one of the fluffiest dough in Flushing, or anywhere in NYC for that matter of fact.
Most common bao in China has a pork meatball-like filling. I will say that their version was definitely delicious, but absolutely smaller than 99% of places where I usually buy baos. At $2.00 a piece, I will likely stick with other options. Btw, the beef bao at $2.50 should be skipped altogether.
With that said, the vegetable bao is heavenly, just like ones I remember from China when I was young. Once again, the airy bun on every bite sets the mood, but the flavor bomb that comes from the vegetable is totally unexpected. The freshness of the vegetables is accented by the crunch of bok choy, with that mustardy taste and a ever so slight hint of bitterness. Along with yummy shiitake mushrooms, there are also wood ear mushrooms and tofu that add some great texture to the flavors. Lastly, it's all pulled together with a touch of aromatic sesame oil. Wow! I'm addicted. At $2.50 per piece, it's certainly more expensive than any others in Flushing, but you pay for quality like I do, get this!
Finally, I bought some tea marinated eggs, which was extremely flavorful, albeit a slight bit rubbery from overcooking. Could have been a batch sitting around a little too long since it's been a cold day and not much business from what I could see the two times I visited today. First time to try one bao and the second trip to bring home $40 worth of food.
In summary, the prices are high compared to their competitors in the area. However, that vegetable bao is one of my new food loves in Flushing. As a bonus, I get to support a nice family in their new business venture during the pandemic. If you can overlook the price tag, please go try the vegetable bao and spread the word. Let's help keep this mom and pop shop alive. read more