When asking yourself about something to do near me in Sunnyvale with a group of friends or family, consider
Xiaoman Riceburrito
Why Xiaoman Riceburrito is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Xiaoman Riceburrito, located at 573 E El Camino Real in Sunnyvale, CA, is a standout destination for those seeking an authentic Taiwanese breakfast and brunch experience. Specializing in Taiwanese rice burritos and fresh soy milk, this cozy eatery offers a unique fusion of traditional flavors and modern culinary techniques. The restaurant’s intimate setting makes it ideal for small gatherings or solo visits, complemented by convenient takeout options and thoughtful outdoor seating. Highlights include their signature original rice burrito, which blends perfectly cooked rice with savory fillings, and the crunchy variant with added spices for an extra kick. Patrons also love the purple rice option that provides a pleasantly chewy texture different from typical white rice. Xiaoman’s soy milk is particularly praised for its authentic Taiwanese flavor, making it a perfect accompaniment to the rice burritos. While prices are a bit higher than average, customers consistently find value in the quality, taste, and authenticity of the dishes. The attention to detail and dedication to preserving Taiwanese culinary traditions, led by founder Mina Hsieh, have made Xiaoman Riceburrito a beloved spot in the Bay Area for breakfast aficionados and food explorers alike.
Here's what people think of Xiaoman Riceburrito
As of recent, Xiaoman Riceburrito holds a 4.3-star rating based on 184 reviews.
User reviews of Xiaoman Riceburrito reflect a generally positive consensus, with an overall rating of 4.3 based on 184 reviews. Many customers applaud the restaurant for its authentic Taiwanese flavors, especially highlighting the rice burritos and soy milk as standout items that evoke a genuine taste of Taiwan. Positive reviews frequently mention the freshness of ingredients, balanced seasoning, and the warm, inviting atmosphere that makes the dining experience enjoyable. Reviewers appreciate the attentive and prompt service, despite the casual, self-service style of the establishment. The compact space and limited seating are noted, but many find the option of takeout and outdoor seating convenient for their needs. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to the higher price point relative to portion sizes, and a few customers express disappointment over the lack of Wi-Fi, alcohol options, or suitability for larger groups. Some also mention that wait times can be longer during peak hours. Despite these critiques, the overall sentiment remains positive, with many reviewers recommending Xiaoman Riceburrito for anyone craving authentic Taiwanese breakfast staples. The combination of traditional recipes, quality ingredients, and a unique niche in the local food scene solidifies its reputation as a culinary gem within the Sunnyvale community.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kokushou Rin
Wow, this was worse than I was expecting, and I was braced for it to be bad. Expensive, tiny portions, and open for very few hours a day - and those were its best features! Nothing like my dad used to make, the rice balls are now premade, so there isn't a long wait anymore. But this means they are lukewarm at best (and I went pretty early so don't tell me I was there too late). They are even smaller than I thought based on other photos with people's hands (maybe they just had baby hands). They are disgustingly sweet. Like I had 2 bites and got sweeted out. No dessert for me tonight. :( The yiao tieu inside are rock hard like they're a month old and stolen out the trash behind 99 Ranch. It cut the roof of my mouth after just the first bite. The rice isn't sticky enough and is the wrong texture. The dau jeung - 30% sweet, apparently - isn't the worst I've had. But low sugar Vitasoy is better and cheaper. And the unfriendly sign about paying for the decorative display if you break anything on it is unnecessarily confrontational. If you're that worried about it, put it in a glass case. Or don't have it at all. There's nowhere to sit and wait; put a bench there and stop worrying about your precious wooden eggs.
Chia Chang
This is an incredibly authentic Taiwanese breakfast. It tastes just like the flavors from the corner shop near my home in Taiwan🥺🥺🥺 I highly recommend the Spicy Original Purple Burrito with Soy Milk Black Tea, such an awesome combo. The pork floss takes me right back to my childhood, adding just the right touch of saltiness. The combination of sauerkraut, pickled radish, and shortbread fritter creates a perfect crunch, while the braised egg is the cherry on top. Everything comes together so harmoniously. This is exactly the kind of meal I crave whenever I’m feeling homesick. It’s on a more expensive side though as the portion isn’t as big as it was:(
Ke Z
Delicious, loved the purple rice original! No seat inside, take out only. But this is easy to eat anyway.
Jane Lee
Important note: order online and just pick up. It’s a lot faster than ordering in-store, otherwise you’ll be waiting for 20-30mins on the weekend! We’ve had this rice burritos a couple of times! My favorite is still purple rice burrito set with soy milk! They don’t overpack the rice, it’s a good ratio of rice to meat floss, preserved vegetables, egg, you tiao. Pardon the image, tried to show the ingredients and how each burrito is packed. We always grab one when I’m in Sunnyvale!
Qitian Lin
No joke I eat a screw in the burrito… I can understand if there is any bug, hair or even little stone inside and I won’t be that mad. But bro, how the f there is a SCREW inside??? I don’t understand ❓❓❓
How to reach Xiaoman Riceburrito
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Why Xiaoman Riceburrito may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Xiaoman Riceburrito with your friends? Because this unique Sunnyvale eatery offers an exceptional blend of Taiwanese flavors in a casual, intimate setting that sparks conversation and culinary delight. Xiaoman Riceburrito specializes in Taiwanese breakfast and brunch, featuring their signature rice burritos filled with traditional ingredients like pork floss, marinated eggs, and crunchy Chinese donuts. The distinct textures and authentic taste provide an experience that stands out from typical brunch spots. Whether you’re a fan of Taiwanese cuisine or simply want to try something new, this spot’s cozy atmosphere fosters a relaxed environment perfect for small groups to connect over flavorful, thoughtfully prepared dishes. Though geared primarily towards takeout, Xiaoman's availability of outdoor seating allows friends and family to gather comfortably while enjoying fresh, warm meals. Their soy milk, reminiscent of Taiwan’s own, complements the food perfectly, adding to the cultural immersion. With praise for quality and authenticity, Xiaoman Riceburrito is ideal for those looking to combine great food with meaningful social time in a quiet place away from the usual hustle.
What activities can you enjoy with your group at Xiaoman Riceburrito? Primarily, the joy lies in sharing unique Taiwanese breakfast dishes such as the famous rice burritos – also known as fan tuans – which are both nutritious and filling. These rice burritos include a delightful combination of chewy purple rice, savory pork floss, crunchy Chinese donut bits, and marinated boiled eggs, offering a burst of flavors and textures in every bite. The menu’s focus is on simple yet authentic tastes that encourage conversation by piquing everyone’s interest in the culinary experience. Ordering is straightforward and fast, often through online kiosks, making it easy for groups to coordinate their meal pickups without hassle. The availability of outdoor seating adds a social dimension where friends or family can gather in fresh air, enhancing the shared experience. While Xiaoman does not facilitate large parties, its intimate environment suits small meetups that prioritize food quality and cultural exploration over noisy group events.
Why is Xiaoman Riceburrito a perfect place for group meetups despite its small size? The answer lies in its welcoming atmosphere and menu that invites sharing and savoring authentic Taiwanese dishes together. Unlike noisy, crowded restaurants, Xiaoman provides a peaceful setting where small groups can relax, connect, and enjoy thoughtfully prepared meals. The variety of rice burritos—with options like classic, crunchy, and purple rice variants—gives everyone something to discuss and enjoy together. The care put into the ingredients and traditional preparation demonstrates a passion for food that guests can appreciate as a collective experience. Furthermore, their fast service and efficient takeout process mean less waiting time and more opportunities for your group to enjoy each other’s company. Even without full waiter service or alcohol, the quality of food and cultural authenticity make it a memorable spot for friends and family wanting a meaningful outing centered around food.
What makes the food at Xiaoman Riceburrito uniquely suitable for group enjoyment? The rice burritos themselves are a culinary journey to Taiwan’s traditional breakfasts, featuring a mix of textures that encourage sharing. For example, the contrast between the ultra-crunchy Chinese donut inside and the soft, chewy rice combined with savory pork floss and egg creates a multifaceted eating experience, perfect for those who enjoy exploring flavors together. The menu also includes a highly praised soy milk that authentically complements the rice burritos and serves as a conversation starter about Taiwanese drinks. This focus on authentic and wholesome ingredients means groups can appreciate the cultural depth of the meal, making it more than just eating but a shared experience. Overall, the food's richness and authenticity become a centerpiece of any gathering at Xiaoman Riceburrito, inviting everyone to bond over new tastes.
How does Xiaoman Riceburrito accommodate group logistics and convenience? Although the restaurant does not cater to large groups inside, it offers takeout and online ordering that make planning group meals seamless and efficient. The ample parking space adds to the convenience for meetups, especially for groups coming in from surrounding areas. Everyone can place orders ahead via kiosk or online menus, ensuring quick pickups and minimal waiting. This setup is particularly advantageous for early brunch meetups, as Xiaoman operates mostly during morning and early afternoon hours. The outdoor seating option is an added benefit during pleasant weather, providing a casual, pleasant environment for groups to gather without needing to book large table reservations. All these factors combine to make Xiaoman Riceburrito a very practical choice for casual group breakfasts or brunches focused on good food and social time.
Why choose Xiaoman Riceburrito over other brunch spots for your next meetup? Because it uniquely blends an intimate neighborhood vibe with an authentic Taiwanese culinary experience that few other places offer. The spot is ideal for those seeking to step outside typical American brunch menus, exposing groups to new and exciting flavors in a friendly and relaxed setting. With strong customer praise emphasizing the freshness, authenticity, and texture of the rice burritos and accompanying soy milk, Xiaoman delivers a memorable taste journey. Moreover, the spot's thoughtful approach to quality ingredients and traditional preparation ensures every group member can find something to enjoy and talk about. Whether it’s a weekend morning with friends or a casual family brunch, Xiaoman Riceburrito makes your meetup feel special and culturally enriching while being easy to organize and access.
What should you know before planning your gathering at Xiaoman Riceburrito? It’s important to note that the venue is not designed for large groups or loud parties. Instead, it caters to small groups and individuals who appreciate a quiet, authentic dining experience. Service is limited to takeout with optional outdoor seating, so it’s best for groups that are comfortable with casual outdoor dining or picking up food to enjoy elsewhere. Also, Xiaoman does not serve alcohol or provide waiter service, making it a more low-key meal setting focused on the food itself rather than extra dining amenities. The operating hours are limited to mornings and early afternoons, so planning your group meetup in alignment with these times is crucial. Despite these minor limitations, the overall quality, authenticity, and ambiance make Xiaoman Riceburrito an excellent choice for food lovers seeking a genuine Taiwanese breakfast experience with friends or family.
In summary, Xiaoman Riceburrito stands out as an excellent venue for small group meetups where the focus is on savoring authentic Taiwanese breakfast and brunch dishes like their celebrated rice burritos and soy milk. The cozy ambiance, quick service, and thoughtful menu design create an inviting environment ideal for friends or families to share a unique cultural experience. While the setting emphasizes quiet and intimacy over large group accommodations, its convenience and food quality ensure every meetup feels special. If your group values new culinary experiences and seeks a peaceful yet flavorful outing, Xiaoman Riceburrito offers an unforgettable spot to rally together.