Famous Bao - Berkeley

Chinese, Asian, Soup

Famous Bao

★ 3.3 / 5 (305 reviews)

Famous Bao offers a mix of experiences in an often crowded setting, with some dishes praised for their authentic flavors and generous portions, particularly the ox-tail hand-pulled noodle soup. However, disappointment looms with inconsistent food quality, service issues, and sometimes a lack of key menu items like bao. Despite high hopes from previous commendations, guests find varying results, prompting a suggestion to manage expectations when visiting. The affordable pricing combined with authentic Chinese comfort food keeps some diners returning, despite previous grievances.

Last update: 09.01.2026 from: Noelle

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★ 3.3 / 5 from 305 reviews

Was Dawn Lim at Famous Bao a mag?
Nice Hotpot, Reasonable Prices Having read so many good reviews, I decided to give Famous Bao a try. I went on a Thursday afternoon. It was after lunch hours so it wasn't too crowded. I ordered the Signature Spicy Hotpot for $10. It was yummy though a little too salty. The portion was large, and came with a rice too. Maybe it was the expectations I had so the experience didn't seem quite as enjoyable as it should be.... View all feedback.

What Geraldine Renner dislikes about Famous Bao:
I was extremely disappointed with my experience. I went in hoping to try some bao, but they were out of that. I then asked for the Chinese pork burger, only to find that they didn’t have that either. In the end, I settled for the cumin lamb rice, but it arrived completely devoid of any cumin and had no flavor whatsoever! The lamb was tasteless and had a rubbery texture. You could clearly tell the quality of the meat... View all feedback.

Kip 18.08.2023 - 18:08

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

After enjoying Szechuan chili beef, mapo tofu, and Shanxi noodles, I have to give this place six stars for serving the best Chinese food I've ever tasted in the Bay Area. The flavors are authentically regional, the spices are bold and perfectly balanced, and everything is as it should be—hot when it needs to be, and cold when appropriate. The culinary talent here is truly outstanding. You’ll experience a delightful sensation of food shock that lingers for a whole hour after your meal.

Maggie 18.08.2023 - 18:08

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

The Chinese food here is truly incredible and authentic. I really enjoyed the 肉夹馍 (Chinese burgers), along with the variety of dishes and noodles offered. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the service is quick. I would highly recommend this place for a pleasant sit-down meal with friends, or even for a quick takeout option.

Kyle 18.08.2023 - 18:08

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I had the ox-tail hand-pulled noodle soup for lunch today, and I really loved it. It's the most authentic and affordable Chinese comfort food you can find around Berkeley. The portions are generous and the flavors are genuine. I highly recommend it!

Noelle 18.08.2023 - 18:08

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

The spicy lamb or beef noodles were excellent and hit the spot. No frills, good food, authentic spiciness levels in these dishes and the mapo tofu. Take a look around, and it's pretty clear. Native eaters eat here.

Kelly 18.08.2023 - 18:08

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I had this for lunch today and it was SO GOOD. By far the best most authentic Chinese food in Berkeley, and it's extremely affordable too! I tried the ox tail soup and it was SO GOOD. This is true Chinese comfort food eat here if you want an authentic Chinese food experience for a great price.

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Cocktails

Lychee-Prosecco Spritz

Lychee Saketini, Titos And Junmai Sake

Jade Collins: Fresh Ginger Lemonade, Bombay Gin

Spicy Blueberry Margarita: Chili Infused Hornitos, Yuzo, Lime

Muddled Cucumber Kyuri Gin And Tonic

Ludlow St, Manhattan: Knob Creek And Del Professore Vermouth, Luxardo Cherry