When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
Mee Sum Pastry
Why Mee Sum Pastry is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Mee Sum Pastry is a well-loved Chinese restaurant with two prime locations in Seattle: Pike Place Market and the University District. Renowned for its delicious and authentic dim sum, this eatery offers a great spot for friends to gather over traditional flavors. The Pike Place Market location is famous for its giant steamed buns called hum bao, filled with savory options like barbecue pork or vegetables. Visitors appreciate the quick, no-frills service which makes it easy to grab a tasty snack or small meal while exploring the bustling market. The University District cafe expands the menu, serving over 100 different meals and appetizers alongside an extensive selection of bubble tea. This location appeals to those seeking a casual yet flavorful dining experience with fresh ingredients and classic Taiwanese dishes. Mee Sum Pastry offers an inviting atmosphere for groups looking to enjoy unique and satisfying Chinese bites, coupled with the vibrant energy of Seattle's iconic neighborhoods. Highlights include the juicy BBQ pork buns, shumai dumplings, supersized potstickers, and a variety of bubble teas, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike.
Here's what people think of Mee Sum Pastry
As of recent, Mee Sum Pastry holds a 4.4-star rating based on 1066 reviews.
Customer reviews of Mee Sum Pastry reflect a generally positive experience with a 4.4-star rating based on over 1,000 reviews. Many reviewers praise the restaurant for its authentic and flavorful dim sum, especially highlighting the steamed BBQ pork hum bao and potstickers, which are described as delicious and satisfying snacks or meals. Positive feedback often mentions the convenience of the quick, grab-and-go service at the Pike Place Market location, making it an excellent spot for a tasty and speedy bite while touring the market. The University District venue also receives compliments for its broad menu and quality bubble teas, making it a popular spot for casual dining and bubble tea enthusiasts. However, some negative reviews note occasional issues such as long wait times during busy hours, inconsistent service, and crowding in the Pike Place Market storefront. A few customers have mentioned that some items can be a bit pricey given the casual setup. Despite these critiques, the overall sentiment remains very favorable, with many appreciating the flavorful food and unique experience Mee Sum Pastry provides. The restaurant's blend of authentic Chinese flavors, convenient locations, and approachable prices make it a beloved choice for dim sum cravings in Seattle.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Harrison Roane
The real treasure of Pike Place. I think the ‘Public Market Center’ sign is overrated and Mee Sum is the real attraction. I know I’d only return for this place, the food is magical. The moment I laid eyes on the pork BBQ hombow, its golden and well-shaped allure pulled me in, and I knew I had to have it. Even upon first bite, I felt as if I had transcended, and I’m not exaggerating. I also tried a moon cake, which was quite good, a first time trying red bean paste for me and not the last I’m sure. After exploring more of Pike Place, I found myself back to Mee Sum, ordering yet another pork BBQ hombow, along with 6 of their dumplings. The only trouble I have with Mee Sum is that now that I’ve had it, I crave it constantly. It’s like a drug to me, it’s like my own personal brand of heroin.
JD
I'm so glad I stopped by this bakery. I asked the woman working there which sweet pastry was her favorite and she said the red bean moon cake, so I got that one! It was dense and surprisingly hearty, and not overly sweet! I am glad I tried something new, and even though the egg yolk in the middle wasn't my favorite, it was still very tasty. I will definitely go back and try their other pastries.
Ayler Ehling
Right in the middle of Pike place market area. Worth the small wait to get some amazing buns. The balance between filling and outer bun was perfect for me and I wish I had gotten more. Highly recommend!
John Walls
Wow! The Starbucks line was crazy. I walked a block and a half up towards Pike Place market. I found Mee Sum. They made me a four shot of iced Americano that rocked my socks off. I got through half of it started sweating. Had to nurse it for the rest of the day. Truly amazing. Then I went back and got an energy protein smoothie. All fresh fruit. Amazing yet again. Highly recommend Mee Sum!
Melly Felly
I didn’t like the flavors of the pork or chicken baked buns. the chicken had too much cinnamon. the bbq pork also had an unfamiliar taste. the buns themselves are amazing. light fluffy and fresh. but the fillings weren’t good to me. it wasn’t bad, just flavors that i didn’t care for. the crab ragoons are really good. just expensive. at least try 1 of those.
How to reach Mee Sum Pastry
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Why Mee Sum Pastry may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Mee Sum Pastry with your friends?
Mee Sum Pastry, nestled in the bustling Pike Place Market in Seattle, is a hidden gem that offers a perfect gathering spot for friends or family looking to enjoy a casual yet flavorful experience together. The vibrant atmosphere of Pike Place sets the stage for a lively meet-up, and Mee Sum Pastry adds an unbeatable element with its freshly made Asian dim sum pastries renowned for their incredible taste and affordable prices. Whether you’re in the mood for their famous steamed BBQ pork hum bao or a mix of shumai dumplings, their menu caters to diverse palates and encourages sharing, making it ideal for groups. The bustling window setup encourages a walk-and-eat style, allowing you to grab your snacks and explore the rest of the market without hassle. This “grab and go” vibe naturally fosters camaraderie as you chat and munch while wandering. Plus, the location’s charm, combined with Mee Sum’s delicious food offerings, turns a simple meetup into an enjoyable, sensory-rich occasion — a perfect excuse to rally your friends or family around flavorsome bites and memorable moments.
What makes Mee Sum Pastry perfect for group meetups and activities?
Mee Sum Pastry’s offerings extend beyond just great food, making it an excellent destination for groups seeking a unique social experience. First, the bite-sized, easy-to-share nature of dim sum pastries invites communal eating, which inherently encourages conversation and bonding. Friends can sample a variety of items without committing to full meals, allowing for shared discovery and discussion about flavors. The marketplace setting adds an exploratory element to the outing. Groups can start at Mee Sum Pastry to collect their orders and then stroll through Pike Place Market’s numerous other vendors, artisans, and performers, turning a simple meetup into a flexible and engaging outing. For those who love food challenges, the diverse menu—featuring items like steamed BBQ pork buns, shumai dumplings, and unique Asian snacks—can inspire tasting competitions or shared culinary adventures. Additionally, outdoor seating nearby means groups can pause to relax together, enjoy their snacks, and soak in the vibrant market energy. Such dynamic options make Mee Sum an adaptable hub for friendly gatherings ranging from casual hangouts to celebratory events.
What kind of food and drinks can groups enjoy at Mee Sum Pastry?
Mee Sum Pastry is famous for its authentic Asian pastries, offering a menu rich in variety and flavor that caters well to groups. Must-try items include their steamed BBQ pork hum bao—fluffy buns filled with sweet and savory barbecue pork—a crowd favorite known for its freshness and generous portions. Alongside these iconic buns, the shop offers shumai (shumai) dumplings, potstickers, and egg tarts, all crafted on-site daily, ensuring each bite is fresh and full of flavor. For groups who enjoy sharing, ordering a medley or sampler is a great way to experience a broad range of tastes. The prices, while slightly higher than some Chinatown-style restaurants, are reasonable given the location and quality, with items like BBQ sticks costing about $4.50 each. Beyond pastries, Mee Sum also serves bubble tea, a popular beverage perfect for complementing the dim sum snacks and catering to diverse drink preferences within a group. This wide selection of savory and sweet options encourages groups to mix, match, and explore new flavors together, enhancing the social dining experience.
How does the location of Mee Sum Pastry enhance your group outing?
Mee Sum Pastry’s prime location in Pike Place Market is a significant factor in why it’s an excellent choice for a group meetup. Pike Place Market is one of Seattle’s most beloved and iconic destinations, known for its vibrant mix of shops, street performances, artisan vendors, and spectacular waterfront views, all within walking distance. Meeting at Mee Sum Pastry means your group can enjoy a quick yet satisfying meal or snack and then immediately immerse themselves in the diverse sights and sounds around the market, extending the outing naturally. This provides an opportunity for groups to explore together, browse local crafts, sample other street foods, or watch live performances, making the day more engaging and multimedia-rich. The market’s open-air design allows for easy social distancing and space to gather without feeling cramped. Moreover, its central location is accessible by public transit and close to other Seattle attractions, making it convenient for out-of-town visitors or locals alike. All these factors combined create a lively backdrop that enhances the social atmosphere of your group meetup.
What kind of group sizes and occasions work well at Mee Sum Pastry?
Mee Sum Pastry’s quick service and shareable food items make it well-suited for small to medium-sized groups looking for a casual, informal gathering spot. With many items designed for individual portions but also perfect for sharing, it’s easy for groups of friends or family to order a variety of dishes and snack together without feeling rushed. While not a formal dining establishment with private seating, the eateries around Pike Place Market and nearby public seating areas provide ample space to accommodate groups of 4 to 10 comfortably. This setup is especially attractive for occasions like brunch meetups, casual lunches, or afternoon snack breaks during shopping or sightseeing adventures. The affordability of the menu also makes Mee Sum Pastry attractive for regular meetups or spontaneous visits without the stress of high bills. Birthday celebrations, reunion gatherings, or relaxed weekend hangouts all find a home here thanks to the blend of delicious food, lively environment, and flexible dining options. For larger groups, ordering in advance or staggering pickup times can streamline the experience while still enjoying the market’s communal vibe.
How does the atmosphere at Mee Sum Pastry encourage socializing and fun?
The atmosphere at Mee Sum Pastry is vibrant, informal, and infused with the energy of Pike Place Market—a place known worldwide for its lively crowd and cultural richness. Since Mee Sum operates primarily from a walk-up window with quick service, guests are encouraged to engage casually while they wait, watch the kitchen action, or discuss their food choices. This interactive style contributes to a relaxed, friendly vibe that’s conducive to easy conversation among friends. The bright market environment, the fragrant aroma of fresh pastries, and the constant flow of visitors create an exciting sensory experience that heightens the enjoyment of the meetup. The informal seating in nearby picnic tables or benches where guests often gather to eat creates natural opportunities for mingling with other market-goers, turning your meetup into a potentially broader social experience. Moreover, the variety of food and drinks available invites playful mixing and matching, encouraging groups to share insights and preferences, which builds connection and fun. This dynamic, unpretentious atmosphere makes Mee Sum Pastry more than just a food stop—it’s a social catalyst.
What practical considerations should groups keep in mind when planning a meetup at Mee Sum Pastry?
When planning a meetup at Mee Sum Pastry, there are a few practical points groups should consider to ensure a smooth and pleasant experience. First, given the popularity of the location and the compact size of the shop’s ordering window, lines can form, especially during peak hours like late mornings or early afternoons on weekends. Arriving slightly early or choosing less busy times can help avoid long waits. The pricing, while reasonable for the convenience and quality, might be slightly higher than some other dim sum spots, so budgeting accordingly is advisable. Since seating at Mee Sum itself is limited or non-traditional (mostly nearby market seating), groups should be ready for a semi-casual dining setup and perhaps plan to explore the market while enjoying their food. Weather can influence your comfort since much of the surrounding seating is outdoors—Seattle’s climate means being prepared for rain or cooler temperatures might be wise. Lastly, paying attention to dietary preferences or restrictions within the group ahead of time is helpful, as Mee Sum’s menu is primarily focused on traditional Asian pastries and may have limited vegetarian or allergen-free options, although many items are freshly made with quality ingredients.
How can Mee Sum Pastry complement other activities in Pike Place Market or Seattle?
Mee Sum Pastry serves as an excellent culinary starting point or refreshing midway stop when planning a day of exploration in Pike Place Market or greater Seattle. After grabbing flavorful pastries and tea, groups can wander through the market’s famous fish-throwing vendors, watch street performers, or browse handcrafted goods offered by local artisans, enriching the overall experience. The location also puts you within easy walking distance of iconic Seattle landmarks such as the Gum Wall, the original Starbucks, and Waterfront Park, offering multiple options for further social activities after your meal. For friends or family interested in cultural immersion, visiting akwataas (local Native American crafts), floral stands, or specialty food shops allows a multi-sensory, engaging day’s itinerary. The light, snackable nature of Mee Sum’s offerings means you have the energy to keep exploring without feeling weighed down, contributing to a high-energy, social day out. Moreover, the casual setting of Mee Sum encourages spontaneous meetups or impromptu plans, giving groups the freedom to customize their gathering with a unique blend of food, sightseeing, and social interaction.
Why do reviews support Mee Sum Pastry as an excellent spot for group meetups?
Mee Sum Pastry enjoys high praise from a wide range of customers, reflected in its strong 4.4-star rating from over a thousand reviewers, underscoring its consistent quality and popularity. Patrons frequently highlight the freshness and tastiness of the baked goods, particularly the BBQ pork hum bao and shumai, which are often cited as reasons to return. The convenient market location and the affordability relative to quality are other common points of appreciation. Reviewers also mention the fast, friendly service, which is crucial when visiting with friends on a busy day. Although some reviews note that prices can be a bit higher than comparable Chinatown eateries, most agree the experience and atmosphere justify the cost. The lively crowd and the ease of sharing small plates make this a top recommendation for casual gatherings, as guests appreciate the communal aspect that dim sum culture brings to group dining. Overall, the positive reviews support Mee Sum Pastry as a dependable and enjoyable choice for memorable group meetups.