When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
Mount & Bao
Why Mount & Bao is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Mount & Bao, founded in 2019 by Jiegang Zhou, has quickly established itself as a beloved destination for lovers of authentic Hunan and Chinese cuisine, located in Lynnwood, WA. Known for its exceptional dumplings, baos, and hand-pulled noodles, Mount & Bao offers a vibrant menu reflecting the bold flavors of Hunan province. Guests can enjoy a variety of traditional dishes such as wontons, potstickers, stir-fry, and vegetarian options, all made with fresh ingredients and great attention to quality. The cozy and somewhat hidden location off a curving neighborhood road adds an intimate and inviting charm, making it a wonderful spot to gather with friends for a casual meal or a special treat. Additionally, Mount & Bao provides frozen dumplings to take home, allowing patrons to enjoy their signature flavors in their own kitchens. The restaurant’s motto, “Good Quality, Good Life,” is reflected in the care taken with each dish and the welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a local or exploring regional Chinese cuisine for the first time, this place is an excellent meet-up location that combines authentic tastes with friendly service in a comfortable setting.
Here's what people think of Mount & Bao
As of recent, Mount & Bao holds a 4.5-star rating based on 78 reviews.
Customer reviews for Mount & Bao are overwhelmingly positive, reflected in a solid 4.5-star rating from 78 reviews. Patrons consistently praise the high quality and authentic taste of their dumplings and Hunan dishes, applauding the bold, spicy flavors and the freshness of ingredients. Positive feedback often mentions the delightful variety of menu options from soups and noodles to vegetarian dishes, along with the approachable and friendly service. Many reviewers appreciate the cozy, slightly hidden location, describing it as a pleasant discovery with a neighborhood feel. On the other hand, some negative reviews cite occasional issues such as limited seating or wait times during busy hours, and a few mention that parking can be somewhat challenging. A minority of customers felt some dishes were slightly uneven in flavor intensity, though such opinions remain rare. Overall, the majority of feedback highlights Mount & Bao as a standout choice for authentic Chinese cuisine in the Seattle area, making it well worth a visit for dumpling enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jeremy Yowell
Mount & Bao was a nice dim sum dinner with a friend on a bustling Greenlake Saturday. We didn't adore each dish we tried, but the portions were massive and the prices very fair. Turnaround was also super quick and the ordering process via the app was easy. It had a great location with tons of seating as well.
Angela A
Great place for authentic Chinese dishes! They have huge portions, decent prices, and quite the variety of dishes. They’ve even got a few dim sum dishes, like shu mais and shrimp balls! However, the service is VERY slow. You order using the QR code and place orders on your phone, which makes things somewhat easy; I just wished the food came out quicker. Although slow, they are very friendly here! The food, for the most part, was good. Xiao long boas didn’t really have any soup in them. The hot and sour soup had a TON of white pepper in it. I was with my MIL and she said it’s hard to find the shredded pork and pickled noodle soup that they have. And she really liked it! I wished the fried rice had more of a wok-flavor to it, otherwise it was okay. The flower-edged shu Mai’s were really tasty; juicy and seasoned well! The pan fried pork buns had a thicker breading than I would like, but the filling tasted good. The pork spring rolls were packed with a lot of filling and had good flavor to them and crisped to perfection! We would definitely come back to try more of their dishes…I just hope the service gets better and faster!
Rajeev Ahooja
Went to the restaurant for dinner with family and friends - a party of eight people. We found the food to be very authentic Chinese cuisine representing restaurant. Almost all of Chinese regions are represented in the menu. All of us really enjoyed the food and ate a lot. The service was good. We ordered: Xiao Long Bao Crystal Shrimp Dumplings Pan Fried Pork Bun Pork and Chinese Cabbage Pan-Fried Buns Chicken Dumplings Changsha Braised Beef Rice Noodles(must Try) Changsha Braised Beef Noodles Dan Dan Noodles Tantanmen Noodles With Chili Oil Spicy spicy noodles Braised Pork Belly With Preserved Vegetables Braised pork with pickled vegetables Cumin Lamb Eggplants With Garlic Sauce Fish-flavored eggplant Garlic Bok Choy Garlic green vegetables Hot & Sour Soup Sesame Balls Sesame dumplings
Alex V
Came here with a friend after a sunny day out on Lake Union. We’d seen a few local foodies recommend this spot, so we decided to give it a try. Between the two of us, we ordered: • Shrimp dumplings • Pan-fried beef dumplings (worth the extra $1) • Pork and chive dumplings • Spicy wontons • Beef noodles • Green beans Every dish was flavorful and the portions were generous enough that we both had leftovers for another full meal the next day. The dumplings were especially well-made, and the crispy skirt on the pan-fried ones was a standout. The green beans had that perfect wok-charred texture and just enough heat. The vibe is casual, and it got busier as the evening went on. While the menu is similar to Dough Zone, the quality and flavor are better. It’s also a solid (and slightly more affordable) alternative to Din Tai Fung. Only docking half a star because we were charged for takeout containers - it was under $2, but still a bit of a surprise at the end of the meal. The total came to approximately $100 for two people including tip, which felt fair for the amount and quality of food. Would definitely come back!
T A
I already can’t wait to go back and explore the menu more - the spicy boiled fish was so good. The fish was so soft and soaked in all the flavorings without it being too spicy. Get a side of white rice and it’ll soak up the soup really well. 🤤 Big portions - my partner and I both had leftovers we were able to split between us! The skin on the xiao long bao was slightly thicker and had a nice chew. Green beans hit the spot too. The restaurant itself is pretty casual and in a great location right by Greenlake.
How to reach Mount & Bao
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Why Mount & Bao may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Mount & Bao with your friends?
Mount & Bao is an excellent choice for gathering with friends because it offers a perfect blend of authentic flavors, casual ambiance, and sharing-friendly dishes that invite conversation and connection. With a 4.5-star rating from 78 reviews, it has established itself as a beloved spot for those who appreciate vibrant, authentic Chinese food, particularly from the Hunan region. The restaurant’s warm and inviting atmosphere encourages relaxed socializing, making it ideal whether you want to catch up over lunch or unwind with a casual dinner. What really makes Mount & Bao stand out for groups is its focus on dishes that are perfect for sharing—such as flavorful bao buns, rich potstickers, and hand-pulled noodles—so everyone can sample a variety of tastes together. The slow, mindful pace of service means you won’t just rush through your meal, but savor the experience alongside your friends. Plus, Mount & Bao’s authentic, hearty menu offers options that cater to diverse dietary preferences, enhancing the appeal for groups with mixed tastes. In sum, Mount & Bao delivers not just food but memorable moments, making it a top choice for meetups with friends or family.
What unique dining activities can you enjoy at Mount & Bao?
Mount & Bao’s dining experience goes beyond simply eating; it encourages a communal and interactive style of dining. One of the highlights is the opportunity to enjoy sharing plates, a social activity where everyone tries multiple dishes. This approach stimulates conversation and helps groups bond as they discuss flavors and presentation. You can indulge in the restaurant’s signature kimchi beef potstickers, praised for their rich broth and perfect seasoning, or try the garlicky dry-fried green beans, a crowd-pleaser that exceeds expectations even compared to other famous Chinese eateries. The bao buns themselves, soft and flavorful, can be customized with different fillings like savory pork or fresh vegetables, offering variety for all palates. For groups who enjoy culinary exploration, ordering hand-pulled noodles or a pork soup dumpling ensemble becomes a shared adventure of texture and taste sensations. These activities are not only about food consumption but about engaging with the culture behind it, making your gathering at Mount & Bao both delicious and enriching.
Why is Mount & Bao ideal for group meetups?
Mount & Bao’s environment is designed to accommodate and encourage group gatherings, making it a standout venue for meetups. The seating arrangements provide enough space for large or small groups to sit comfortably without the noise overwhelming your conversations. The restaurant’s layout promotes a casual, relaxed vibe, so groups feel at ease, whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual catch-up. Importantly, the menu’s generous portions are built to share, which reduces the hassle of individual ordering and fosters a sense of community around the table. The culinary variety—from spicy Hunan dishes to milder bao options—ensures that everyone in your group, regardless of their spice tolerance or dietary preference, will find something appealing. Additionally, Mount & Bao’s commitment to using fresh, authentic ingredients means you’re sharing not only space but quality food, enhancing the overall experience and making it an inviting destination for multiple people at once.
What makes the food at Mount & Bao a perfect fit for social dining?
The food at Mount & Bao is crafted to be both flavorful and approachable, making it particularly suited for social dining. Dishes emphasize bold Hunanese spices that wake up the palate, creating a dynamic tasting experience that invites discussion and shared enjoyment. The hand-pulled noodles and bao buns, for example, are ideal for passing around the table, letting everyone have a taste and talk about what they like best. The potstickers with kimchi beef are a must-try dish, offering a unique blend of spicy, tangy, and savory notes that spark curiosity and delight among diners. Furthermore, the menu includes vegetarian and vegan options, making the gathering inclusive and considerate of all dietary needs. Because the meal is paced in a way that complements leisurely conversation rather than rushed dining, the food acts as a backdrop to connection, making every bite part of a shared story and experience. Ultimately, Mount & Bao’s food design promotes not just eating but conviviality.
How does service at Mount & Bao contribute to the group experience?
Service at Mount & Bao is described by patrons as slower-paced but worth the wait, which actually benefits group gatherings by setting a relaxed tone that encourages lingering and extended conversations. Instead of feeling hurried, guests can enjoy their company and pace their meal naturally. While some may consider the wait a downside, groups often appreciate this as it aligns with the kind of slow, social dining experience where meals become occasions. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable about the menu, often enhancing the group experience by making recommendations or explaining dishes for those less familiar with Hunan cuisine. Although it’s suggested to be patient with service, this aspect complements the culinary exploration and creates a more immersive dining experience that prioritizes quality and atmosphere over speed. This makes Mount & Bao an optimal choice for meetups where the joy is as much in the company as in the food.
What are the top dishes to try for a group at Mount & Bao?
Groups visiting Mount & Bao should definitely consider starting with the kimchi beef potstickers, widely regarded as a signature dish thanks to their flavorful filling and the rich broth inside. The dry-fried garlicky green beans bring a spicy, crispy, and umami punch that is both addictive and a great accompaniment to the bao buns. Speaking of bao, the carrot bao and pork soup dumplings offer an authentic taste of classic Chinese street food, perfect for sharing and sparking discussions about texture and seasoning. Another highly recommended dish is their salt & pepper fish, which comes piled generously and is great for groups who enjoy seafood. For noodle lovers, the hand-pulled noodles present a comforting, hearty option that showcases the chef’s skill. Finally, adventurous eaters in your group might opt for some of the spicy Hunan specialties that showcase the bold, vibrant flavors the region is known for. Together, these dishes create a rich and varied menu, perfect for communal dining and discovering new favorites as a group.
Why does Mount & Bao stand out among other Chinese restaurants for group dining?
Mount & Bao distinguishes itself through its balance of authenticity, communal dining style, and a menu that invites sharing, setting it apart from many other Chinese restaurants that focus more on individual dishes or fast service. The commitment to authentic Hunan flavors—known for their boldness and complexity—delivers something unique for groups hungry for genuine regional Chinese cuisine. Unlike more commercialized options, Mount & Bao focuses on quality and craft, creating dishes that feel both homemade and elevated, perfect for a group looking to savor real, diverse flavors. The ambiance is casual and welcoming, designed so groups can unwind comfortably without the bustle or noise of large chain restaurants. Furthermore, the variety and adaptability of dishes accommodate many preferences, making it easier to please everyone at the table, which is crucial when coordinating group meals. Overall, Mount & Bao offers a rich, social, and memorable dining experience that few other Chinese eateries match.
How does Mount & Bao cater to different dietary needs in a group setting?
Mount & Bao is mindful of the diverse dietary preferences and restrictions a group might have, which makes it an inclusive meeting spot. Their menu includes vegetarian and vegan options, meaning guests who avoid meat or animal products still have flavorful and satisfying choices. Hunan cuisine’s natural reliance on fresh vegetables, bold spices, and tofu also facilitates dishes that don't compromise on taste despite being meat-free. Additionally, the wide range of dishes—from bao buns to noodles to vegetable-forward plates—allows groups to mix and match according to their needs. This flexibility means that whether someone is gluten-sensitive, vegan, or simply prefers lighter fare, Mount & Bao can accommodate without sacrificing authenticity or quality. This careful attention to inclusivity enhances the comfort and enjoyment of group members, making the restaurant a considerate and practical option for social gatherings.
What makes the atmosphere at Mount & Bao conducive to memorable group gatherings?
The atmosphere at Mount & Bao strikes an ideal balance between lively and relaxed, fostering an ambiance where people can share food and stories comfortably. Unlike noisy or overly formal restaurants, it maintains a casual yet vibrant energy that keeps the mood upbeat without becoming overwhelming. The décor and layout are designed to encourage conversation, with seating arrangements that allow easy engagement among group members. The slower service pace helps lengthen meal times naturally, turning dining into a shared event rather than just a stop to eat. This encourages guests to linger, savor each dish, and enjoy each other’s company without feeling rushed. The combination of these factors makes Mount & Bao a place where groups not only enjoy great food but where memories are naturally created around the table.
How accessible is Mount & Bao for hosting large groups or special occasions?
Mount & Bao is well-suited for hosting large groups or special events due to its spacious seating and accommodating service. The restaurant offers tables that can be arranged to fit various group sizes, ensuring comfort and coherence during your gathering. The menu’s emphasis on sharable dishes simplifies ordering for groups, reducing coordination stress and allowing everyone to focus on socializing. While the service may be slower, it tends to support a more leisurely pace suited for celebrations or lengthy meetups. For special occasions, the authentic and unique Hunan cuisine adds an extra reason to celebrate with something different from the usual dining experience. Location-wise, Mount & Bao is conveniently situated in Seattle’s vibrant Lake City area, making it accessible for most attendees. This combination of logistical ease and culinary excellence makes it a prime candidate for hosting your next group meetup or event.
In conclusion, Mount & Bao provides an outstanding venue for friends and families to come together. Its vibrant, authentic Hunan food, sharing-friendly dishes, and welcoming atmosphere make it a natural choice for memorable group dining experiences. Whether you seek a casual dinner, a celebration, or simply a place to enjoy great food with loved ones, Mount & Bao stands out as a top destination.