When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Bamboo House Austin
Why Bamboo House Austin is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Bamboo House Austin offers an authentic and trendy Szechuan dining experience perfect for meeting friends or enjoying a flavorful meal. Located at 7010 Easy Wind Dr, this bustling restaurant is known for its generous portions and popular dishes like the crispy, tender Peking duck served on a signature duck-shaped platter, and the broiled spicy fish pot (Sui Zu Yu). Guests can also enjoy standout specialties such as salt and pepper lobster, mapo tofu, and mala chicken, which bring traditional Chinese flavors with a modern twist. The casual yet vibrant atmosphere, complemented by prompt waiter service and a good selection of tea, makes it a great spot for groups or dinner outings. With options for delivery and takeout, plus wheelchair accessibility and moderate noise levels, Bamboo House Austin balances convenience and a lively dining vibe. It also welcomes vegetarians and vegans with many menu choices, making it an inclusive venue to gather. While the restaurant does not take reservations, guests find plenty of parking and can bring their own containers for leftovers, emphasizing a customer-friendly approach.
Here's what people think of Bamboo House Austin
As of recent, Bamboo House Austin holds a 4.3-star rating based on 749 reviews.
User reviews of Bamboo House Austin are generally positive, reflected in its solid 4.3-star rating from 749 reviewers. Positive feedback highlights the exceptional quality of the Peking duck, praised for its crispy skin and tender meat, often described as the best in Austin. Reviewers also appreciate the generous portion sizes, flavorful Sichuan specialties like mapo tofu and mala chicken, and standout dishes such as salt and pepper lobster. The trendy casual atmosphere and good service enhance the dining experience, making it a favored spot for groups and dinner outings. On the downside, some reviews mention mixed opinions about certain dishes like the orange chicken, which some found lacking in preparation. Additionally, service during peak hours can feel rushed and lead to longer wait times, which some diners saw as a drawback. Despite these minor criticisms, the majority of diners express enthusiasm for returning, often citing the unique and authentic flavors as compelling reasons to come back. Overall, Bamboo House Austin emerges as a beloved Chinese restaurant in the Austin area, well-regarded for its delicious food and welcoming environment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Anh Le
I think this might be the best place for Peking duck in the Austin area. Their salt & pepper lobster was a hit with us too. Please note that their portions are on the larger side, so keep that in mind when you place your orders. The place is almost always packed on weekends, so I would recommend making online take out order in advance if you don’t want to wait.
Tony Trinh
The duck is among the best in the area. They serve it so well with the pancakes. They provide all the fixings that you would need to create the perfect duck wrap. The skin is also very crispy which adds to the texture of the dish. Highly recommend getting to doc. The other food is also very good, however the duck is the star.
General Malice (Malice Media LLC.)
Bamboo House Austin is one of my favorite places to go to. When they first opened this location and advertised the Peking duck I about jumped out of my shoes. Starting off we ordered the appetizer cream cheese wontons. The wontons were so crispy and so large. It looks like they utilize the egg roll wrappers. Stuffed very much full and the sweet and sour sauce was delicious. The specialty here is the Peking duck and we get a half order to share between us. You cannot get a full order unless you have three or more people. You're giving an array of different sauces, sugar, different greens and the whole setup is just a beautiful presentation. There will be a long wait because this place is so popular and the peaking duck can run out. So if you're worried about that, give a call later in the day more often it's going to be possibly sold out. I definitely recommend stopping by and giving this place a try
David C
Probably one of the authentic Chinese foods I had in a while in my years here in Austin. Even though I am not a duck aficionado, I did truly enjoy their Peking duck; the skin was crispy, the meat was tender and nicely flavored, the thin pancakes, sauces, shredded green onions and cucumbers were nicely placed in a tray. We also ordered Twice cooked pork, Szechuan Beef, Crispy and Spicy chicken, I personally really liked the chicken; small chunks of lightly battered yet well flavored fried chicken stir fried with dry chilies, it was delicious. Overall, I'm very happy to have found the place and will not hesitate to recommend it to others.
Zoey Chen
The duck is authentic, must try! It’s sold out pretty fast in weekends. Need to get there before 5 to avoid the long line. Other dishes are great too, very large portions. The mouth watering chicken is so tender and juicy!
How to reach Bamboo House Austin
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Why Bamboo House Austin may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Bamboo House Austin with your friends?
If you’re looking for a lively, delicious, and authentic gathering spot, Bamboo House Austin is an outstanding choice to rally your friends. The restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where groups can share hearty, family-style Chinese meals that naturally foster conversation and connection. It’s not just about eating; it’s about experiencing the rich culinary traditions of Sichuan and Peking duck specialties together. With a solid rating of 4.3 from nearly 750 reviews, Bamboo House enjoys an enthusiastic following thanks to its authentic flavors and portions made for sharing. Whether it’s the crispy, perfectly prepared Peking duck or the bold, spicy Sichuan dishes like mapo tofu and mala chicken, each dish encourages communal enjoyment and lively discussion. The attentive service and a setting that balances casual comfort with vibrant energy make it ideal for group meetups. Plus, the limited availability of their well-loved Peking duck adds a sense of occasion to the gathering, making your meetup at Bamboo House feel special and memorable. Altogether, this is the kind of place that effortlessly turns a meal into a meaningful social experience.
What activities and group experiences does Bamboo House Austin offer?
Bamboo House Austin centers its group experience around food, creating a space that’s perfect for sharing and indulging in authentic Chinese cuisine. The main activity here is communal dining, which is ideal for groups because many dishes are designed for multiple people to enjoy together. Sharing a meal allows friends and family to sample a wide array of flavors and textures, sparking conversation and enjoyment all around the table.
Order the iconic Peking duck—renowned for its crispy skin and tender meat—which is served with thin flour pancakes, hoisin and plum sauces, green onions, and cucumbers to wrap into individual bites. Ordering the duck is itself a communal activity, as the quantity is portioned according to party size and often enjoyed as the centerpiece to be shared. This elevates your meetup into a culinary event that feels both interactive and indulgent.
Beyond the duck, the extensive menu offers regional Sichuan specialties such as mapo tofu, mala chicken (spicy and crispy chicken), salt and pepper lobster, and the surprisingly delightful strawberry chicken—a sweet and savory dish perfect for sharing. These dishes offer a range of spice levels and flavors, accommodating diverse tastes within your group. The portions are generous, meaning leftovers—and lively conversation—often follow the meal.
The restaurant fills with a convivial energy that’s especially vibrant on weekends, so arriving early gives your group a better chance at securing a spot, especially for the coveted Peking duck. The quick service ensures you spend more time enjoying the company and less time waiting, which is essential for a social gathering.
Why is Bamboo House Austin perfect for a group meetup?
Bamboo House Austin is perfect for group meetups because it balances authentic, high-quality food with an environment that encourages sharing and interaction. The family-style dining approach naturally fosters a sense of community around the table. Unlike meals where everyone orders separately, here the focus is on passing dishes around, trying different flavors, and enjoying a shared experience of discovery. This dynamic makes it easier for groups to bond.
The restaurant’s ambiance is warm and bustling but not overwhelming, offering a moderate noise level conducive to conversation without distractions. This is important for larger groups who want to catch up, celebrate, or simply enjoy each other's company while savoring their meal.
Availability of dishes like Peking duck is limited to dine-in and controlled by party size, which encourages groups to plan and come together specifically for the experience. This exclusivity adds value to the meetup because it feels like you are sharing something special, something that can’t be easily replicated elsewhere in Austin.
The attentive staff contributes to a smooth group experience by managing orders efficiently, offering recommendations, and ensuring large parties receive prompt care. This helps prevent the frustrations that can arise when dining in big groups, allowing everyone to focus on the social aspect of the meetup.
What kind of menu options are ideal for groups at Bamboo House Austin?
The menu at Bamboo House Austin is designed to please a broad spectrum of palates, making it well-suited for groups with varying preferences. The centerpiece is the Peking duck, a local favorite famous for its crispy skin and flavorful meat, beautifully presented and served in a way that encourages sharing. Many groups come specifically for this dish, which pairs perfectly with the thin pancakes and an assortment of fresh vegetables and sauces for wrapping.
Other signature dishes include classic Sichuan options such as mapo tofu—a spicy, savory dish made with tofu and minced meat in a flavorful chili and bean sauce— and mala chicken, which combines heat and crunch for a memorable experience. These dishes are bold and designed to share, perfect for introducing friends to authentic flavors.
Seafood options like salt and pepper lobster add a luxurious touch to your group meal. This dish is both a visual and culinary highlight, making it a perfect choice for celebrations or special meetups with friends.
Unexpected and unique choices like the strawberry chicken showcase Bamboo House’s inventive take on traditional Chinese cuisine, offering a sweet-savory flavor profile that surprises and delights first-timers and regulars alike.
How does Bamboo House Austin’s atmosphere support group gatherings?
The atmosphere at Bamboo House Austin strikes a balance between casual and vibrant, making it ideal for groups. The interior is welcoming with decor that nods to traditional Chinese aesthetics without feeling overly formal. This creates a comfortable space where groups can feel relaxed but still enjoy an elevated dining experience.
The noise level remains moderate even when the restaurant is busy, supporting conversation without requiring people to raise their voices. This fosters an intimate environment within the buzz of a popular dining spot, helping groups stay connected during their meals.
Weekend popularity means a lively crowd, especially families and groups of friends, contribute to a social ambiance that enhances the feeling of dining out as a shared event. The restaurant’s size and layout accommodate groups well but arriving early is advised to ensure your whole party can be seated together, particularly if you want the Peking duck.
Friendly and attentive staff play a key role in maintaining a positive atmosphere by promptly catering to group needs, which helps the gathering flow smoothly from arrival to departure. This focus on customer experience makes the restaurant not just a place to eat, but a place to celebrate friendship and good food.
What makes Bamboo House Austin stand out compared to other Chinese restaurants in the area?
Bamboo House Austin stands out because of its commitment to authentic regional cuisine, especially its Peking duck, which has earned a near-cult following in Austin. The restaurant sources and prepares the duck in a manner that keeps it true to its original flavor and technique, differentiating it from many other Chinese or Asian restaurants in town that offer more generic or Cantonese-style roast duck.
This focus on Szechuan flavors and authentic preparations, including dishes like mapo tofu, mala chicken, and salt and pepper lobster, positions Bamboo House as a destination for serious food lovers and adventurous diners alike.
The way Bamboo House serves its food—large plates designed for sharing—honors Chinese communal dining traditions, which enhances the social aspect of a visit and is perfect for groups who want to enjoy a collective experience rather than individual meals.
Moreover, the enthusiastic response from local and visiting patrons, with many noting the restaurant’s high quality and flavor fidelity, reinforces its reputation as a top choice for groups wanting a special meal that goes beyond typical restaurant fare in Austin.
What should groups know before visiting Bamboo House Austin?
Groups planning a visit to Bamboo House Austin should know that the restaurant is popular, especially on weekends, and seating can be limited during peak hours. It’s recommended to arrive early, around 5:30 to 6:00 pm, particularly if you want to order the Peking duck, which is limited and only available for dine-in.
Since the Peking duck can take up to 45 minutes to prepare, planning ahead and ordering in advance if possible will ensure your group enjoys it at the right moment during the meal. This timing allows for a relaxed pace and maximizes the communal dining experience.
Be prepared to order several dishes typical for sharing, as portions are generous and designed to accommodate multiple people. This helps keep everyone satisfied and gives your group a chance to try many different flavors and textures.
Also, keep in mind that Bamboo House tends to attract a diverse crowd including families and food enthusiasts who appreciate authentic Chinese cuisine. Its moderate noise level and friendly staff mean your group will be comfortable but should keep a festive yet respectful dining spirit to enjoy the full experience.
In summary, Bamboo House Austin offers a delicious, engaging, and authentic Chinese dining experience perfect for groups looking to share a memorable meal in a warm and inviting setting. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply gathering with friends, Bamboo House creates the perfect environment and menu to make your meetup truly special.