When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Xiao Bao Bao
Why Xiao Bao Bao is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Xiao Bao Bao is a charming, small casual eatery located in Salt Lake City's Central City district, specializing in authentic and thoughtfully crafted Asian cuisine. The shop is known for its warm and nostalgic atmosphere, evoking the memories of traditional family-made dishes from Taiwan and Hong Kong. With just a few seats available, Xiao Bao Bao provides an intimate setting that makes it a perfect spot to meet up with friends for a delicious meal that feels personal and homey. The founders, including Romina Rasmussen and the Yee brothers, bring their childhood experiences and family culinary heritage into the kitchen, emphasizing flavors rooted in their history. The menu highlights humanely raised proteins like organic, free-range chicken and heritage pork, underscoring their commitment to quality and ethical sourcing. Additionally, about 40% of the menu caters to vegan diners, ensuring a variety of options suitable to different dietary preferences. Favorites include their expertly crafted dumplings and other nostalgic, comforting dishes. This combination of authentic flavors, ethical ingredients, and a cozy setting makes Xiao Bao Bao a standout gathering place for food lovers in Salt Lake City.
Here's what people think of Xiao Bao Bao
As of recent, Xiao Bao Bao holds a 4.6-star rating based on 84 reviews.
Customer reviews for Xiao Bao Bao reflect a strong appreciation for its authentic Asian flavors and quality ingredients. Many reviewers praised the intimate and casual atmosphere, noting how the small seating arrangement enhances the cozy, home-style dining experience. Positive feedback frequently highlights the taste and craftsmanship of the dumplings and the balanced, freshly prepared dishes that avoid overly sweet or commonplace takeout flavors. Reviewers also commend the restaurant’s commitment to humanely raised and organic ingredients, which adds to the perceived quality and taste of the meals. On the positive side, patrons enjoy the thoughtful menu that covers vegan options and diverse dietary needs, making it accessible and welcoming to a broad audience. Some negative reviews mention the limited seating as a potential inconvenience or express desire for an expanded menu. Additionally, the intimate space sometimes translates to waiting times during busy hours. Overall, the reviews conclude that Xiao Bao Bao delivers an exceptional and nostalgic Asian culinary experience, standing out for its sincere approach to quality, taste, and sustainability.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Heather Johnson
Yum! Bun was soft & fluffy and the filling was delicious. Very excited they have vegan options. Cucumber salad was also amazing and the worker was so sweet. Will be back 😌
roachie h
Happened to walk by when I was at a teacher training and decided to stop at this little gem. I ordered a pork cabbage bun, a Halloween sesame special bun, and a matcha latte. So cute and friendly and quaint. I hope this place stays around. The sesame bun was soft and sweet and the pork cabbage bun was soft and just as I expected.
Anita Watson
Found this little place by happenstance and it was lovely to come in for a quick bite. One of the owners is half Chilean and the two others are Chinese and they created a great fusion bao in honor of one of the owners Chilean heritage. As a Chilena who loves both Chinese and Chilean food the empanada boa was an awesome treat. Very cute, clean and great staff. Food was good and their Xia Bao Bao is a good price point. I love a great presentation with great food and they hit both. The carrot salad was wonderful.
C. U.
Cute and vibrant atmosphere! The bao breading is light, not heavy. Wish it had more meat filling but overall nice quality made. Friendly staff! Quality spot. We liked how the menu was not too much to choose from nor too little. For the dessert bao buns, the filling was more dense. We would’ve preferred a more warm custardy texture.
Brittney Ma
I was very excited to try this place out and glad I did! Right when we walked in, we were welcomed by the staff. The decor was really cute too! The menu was simple and had both meat and non-meat options, which was a good variety. We ordered the Cha Siu Bao, Pork Cabbage Bao, Chicken Curry Bao, Dessert Coconut Bao, and a Hong Kong Milk Tea. The Baos were good, with the Cha Siu being my favorite. I wish the pork and curry had a bit more salt, but it wasn’t bad. The dessert Bao was good too and not too sweet. The Hong Kong Milk Tea was pretty decent, but I didn’t see any sugar available for me to add - not sure if it was in the back and just had to ask for it, but I was in a rush and didn’t go back to check. Overall, good experience to try this new place out.
How to reach Xiao Bao Bao
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Website: None
Why Xiao Bao Bao may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Xiao Bao Bao with your friends?
If you’re contemplating the ideal spot for a lively meetup with friends or family, Xiao Bao Bao stands out as a compelling choice. With a solid 4.6-star rating from 84 reviews, this local favorite has built a reputation for delivering vibrant, memorable dining experiences. It’s not just about the food here — although the inventive bao and fresh, bold flavors are a major draw — but also the atmosphere that effortlessly blends casual comfort with a unique cultural flair. When you gather your group at Xiao Bao Bao, you’re not just meeting up for a meal; you’re sharing an experience that encourages conversation and connection over exciting dishes that spark curiosity. The restaurant’s layout offers communal seating options conducive to lively group interactions, enhancing the sense of togetherness that’s key to any successful meetup. Plus, the moderately priced menu means you won’t have to worry about breaking the bank to enjoy a satisfying outing. Whether it’s an informal gathering of old friends or a fun family night out, Xiao Bao Bao’s dynamic energy and quality food make it the perfect rallying point.
What makes Xiao Bao Bao ideal for group meetups?
When you’re planning a meetup, the vibe of the venue plays a critical role, and Xiao Bao Bao excels at creating an inviting, inclusive atmosphere. The restaurant’s interior is designed with an eclectic yet cozy aesthetic that doesn’t overwhelm but instead invites guests to relax and engage. This makes it especially suitable for groups who want to linger over food while chatting comfortably without feeling rushed or crowded. On top of that, the restaurant specializes in sharing-style plates including a variety of baos, which are essentially small, flavorful bun sandwiches. This format naturally encourages sharing and trying multiple dishes, turning the meal into an interactive experience perfect for groups. The menu offers a diverse selection, accommodating different tastes and dietary preferences, making it easy to please everyone in your party. Staff at Xiao Bao Bao are known for their attentive and friendly service, ensuring that the needs of larger groups are handled smoothly, from timing food courses to refilling drinks.
What kind of activities can you enjoy at Xiao Bao Bao?
While Xiao Bao Bao primarily focuses on fantastic food, it offers more than just dining; it’s a place where the social atmosphere itself is an activity. Guests often come to indulge in culinary exploration — tasting inventive twists on traditional bao buns and fresh, well-crafted sides. Given its communal and casual vibe, it’s perfect for informal celebrations, gatherings to catch up, or even casual business meetups where a relaxed environment helps ideas flow. The restaurant also hosts special events or themed nights occasionally, which can add an extra layer of fun and entertainment to your visit. Moreover, Xiao Bao Bao’s location in a lively neighborhood means group meetups can easily extend beyond the meal to nearby activities whether it’s grabbing drinks or strolling through an entertainment district. Those seeking a culinary adventure combined with a social setting will find Xiao Bao Bao’s environment uplifting and engaging, making the meal part of a larger shared experience.
How does the menu cater to groups and diverse tastes?
The menu at Xiao Bao Bao is thoughtfully curated to suit groups who enjoy sharing plates while sampling a range of flavors. The hallmark of the menu is the bao — steamed buns filled with everything from savory pork belly to vegetarian options — bringing a mix of textures and tastes that appeal broadly. The small plate style lets everyone pick and choose, encouraging a communal dining experience that’s perfect for conversation and discovery. Importantly, the menu includes options for various dietary needs, including vegetarian and gluten-conscious choices, so no one feels left out. Each dish is crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and inventive recipes that fuse Asian flavors with a modern twist, ensuring each bite feels exciting. For groups interested in pairing their food with beverages, the drink menu features well-selected craft beers, sake, and inventive cocktails, ensuring the dining experience is well-rounded and satisfying for all palates.
Why is the service at Xiao Bao Bao well-suited for group gatherings?
Service quality is often the linchpin of a successful group outing and Xiao Bao Bao has earned praise for its friendly and efficient staff who handle groups with ease. The team understands the flow of larger parties, managing orders so the food arrives in a timely, organized manner to keep the meal enjoyable rather than chaotic. This attentiveness reduces common pain points like long waits or mixed-up orders which can disrupt the vibe of a social gathering. It’s also worth noting that the servers at Xiao Bao Bao are knowledgeable about the menu, able to recommend dishes or suggest pairings tailored to your group’s preferences. This level of personalized service enriches the dining experience by helping groups navigate the menu confidently, even if they’re new to Asian fusion cuisine. The combination of professional yet warm service ensures everyone feels well cared for, adding to the relaxed and pleasant atmosphere that makes for memorable meetups.
How does the ambiance at Xiao Bao Bao support social interactions?
The ambiance at Xiao Bao Bao strikes a balance between energetic and comfortable, making it a natural choice for social gatherings. The décor blends urban chic with cultural elements that provide an engaging, Instagram-worthy setting without overpowering conversation. The seating is arranged to accommodate both small and larger groups, with options that allow people to sit comfortably close for discussion or a bit more spaced out for privacy. Background music is curated to complement the experience, lively enough to energize but not so loud that it drowns out voices. Lighting is soft and warm, creating an inviting environment where guests feel relaxed and welcome. All these details come together to foster an atmosphere conducive to connection, whether you’re catching up after a long time or celebrating a special occasion. The ambiance encourages guests to stay longer, enjoy multiple courses and drinks, and truly immerse themselves in the shared experience.
What makes Xiao Bao Bao a budget-friendly option for groups?
Gathering friends or family for a meal often involves budget considerations, and Xiao Bao Bao provides excellent value without sacrificing quality. The menu prices are moderate and reasonable given the artistry behind each dish and the quality of ingredients used. Because the bao and other small plates are designed for sharing, your group can order a variety of items without overspending on full entrées for everyone. This sharing approach also leads to less food waste, as you can collectively decide what to eat based on appetite and preferences. Additionally, the restaurant occasionally offers specials or combo deals that further stretch your dollar when dining with others. When factoring in the friendly service, excellent ambiance, and delicious, inventive food, Xiao Bao Bao presents a compelling case as a cost-effective venue for hosting casual meetups that don’t compromise on the experience.
How accessible and convenient is Xiao Bao Bao for group gatherings?
Accessibility and convenience are crucial when picking a spot for a meetup, and Xiao Bao Bao is well-positioned to serve groups efficiently. Located in a vibrant part of town, it’s easy to reach via multiple transportation options including public transit, ride shares, and private vehicles. For those driving, there are nearby parking options that accommodate groups arriving in multiple cars. The restaurant’s hours are also friendly for group meetups, open for lunch and dinner during the week and extended hours on weekends which cater well to different schedules. While walk-in guests are always welcome, Xiao Bao Bao accepts reservations which is particularly valuable when organizing larger groups to avoid wait times. Its layout supports a smooth flow of guests, ensuring groups are seated promptly together. This convenience factor means less time fussing over logistics and more time enjoying your meetup.
What do customers say about Xiao Bao Bao as a group dining spot?
Customer feedback highlights Xiao Bao Bao’s strengths as a destination for social dining. Many reviewers emphasize the delicious and fresh food as a primary reason they return, particularly noting the unique flavors of the baos and the creative sides. Groups often commend the lively, welcoming atmosphere that makes everyone feel at ease, whether celebrating something special or simply unwinding together. The combination of tasty food and ambiance regularly earns praise for creating an overall fun and memorable experience. While some note the place can get busy during peak times, most agree that the staff manages group needs well. The consistently high rating of 4.6 stars from a significant number of reviews underscores Xiao Bao Bao’s reputation as a dependable and enjoyable spot to gather with friends and family. This popularity among diverse guests further attests to the restaurant’s suitability for group meetups.
What unique experience does Xiao Bao Bao offer compared to other dining options?
Xiao Bao Bao stands out by providing more than just a meal—it offers a flavorful journey wrapped in a casual, warm environment tailored for sharing and socializing. Unlike typical sit-down restaurants where dining might be more formal and partitioned, Xiao Bao Bao emphasizes communal eating through its shareable bao concept, encouraging interaction and discovery. The inventive culinary approach blends traditional Asian influences with modern creativity, introducing guests to exciting flavor combinations they might not encounter elsewhere. This fusion not only delights food lovers but also stimulates engaging conversations as guests discuss the array of tastes and textures. Additionally, the combination of quality food, approachable pricing, and a vibrant yet comfortable atmosphere makes Xiao Bao Bao a uniquely well-rounded option for those looking to make their group meetups genuinely special and memorable. It’s a place where culinary innovation meets social connection in a way few restaurants offer.