Alhambra welcomes a new xiao long bao and noodles restaurant: Bao Master. Featuring crab meat and kurobuta pork xiao long bao among other unique, handmade delicacies, Bao Master is located in the new mixed-use space near Alhambra Place and the Sprouts parking lot. On December 12, Bao Master opened their doors for the first time, celebrating with a soft opening and inviting the Alhambra community to explore their delightful new space and sample delicious cuisine.
Owner Tony Zhang shared that his focus in opening Bao Master is to bring the umami-rich, home-style flavors of Chinese cuisine to diners. His goal was to create a restaurant that delivers top-quality food while offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere for guests. “I’ve done high-end restaurants before, but with Bao Master, I’m really looking to capture the authentic and comforting flavors of home,” Zhang said. “I love the community here in Alhambra, and my dream is for this restaurant to be a place that brings family and friends together while they’re out and about exploring the downtown area.”
Zhang’s intention is obvious once you step inside. A large bao mascot greets customers at the front, while playful smaller bao mascots line the walls of the restaurant. When he created this unique dining experience, Zhang shared that his greatest challenge was refining and narrowing down the menu. Influenced by the flavors and dining trends popularized by restaurants in the San Gabriel Valley and beyond, including Din Tai Fung, Zhang decided to highlight well-loved favorites, some with a twist. Food artisans handcraft each item on the menu, aiming to deliver the perfect dish.
Since its opening, locals have flocked to Bao Master, making it a popular spot for local shoppers in the area. Along with visitors from the local community and beyond, you can see people enjoying themselves at lunch and dinner, often savoring warm soup dumplings and lively conversation.
Stop by Bao Master to try their limited-time soft opening specials, or visit on January 22 to officially welcome Zhang and his team to the Alhambra community at their grand opening – with free samples!
Bao Master is located at 108 S Monterey St #102, Alhambra, CA 91801. To contact them, call (626) 614-3119.
