Mama’s Dough

I’ve had xiao long bao at many locations on the west coast but if there is one place I’ll remember most fondly, it’s Mama Dough. Upon entering the store, you’re immediately greeted by staff and can see them crafting dishes from behind a screen. The atmosphere is comfortable and genuine, no snootiness or pretentiousness usually attributed to their counterparts. I personally ordered the pork xiao long bao, spicy pork xiao long bao, braised beef pancakes, and the boiled beef dumplings. While waiting, I had some delicious green tea while I chatted with some friends and watched the chefs prepare my meal. First came the braised beef pancakes. While greasy, it was packed full of flavor. Well seasoned and complemented by the veggies packed inside. The pork xiao long bao was delicious. Packed with meat and delicious broth. Served at the perfect temperature to immediately eat (although I like it pretty hot). The boiled beef dumplings were slightly bland compared to the rest of the food. But combined with the vinegar and soy sauce, it was nice. The spicy pork xiao long bao was my favorite part of the meal. The heat didn’t detract from the flavor in the slightest, but instead brought about a true umami. I cannot wait to come here again. Do not hesitate to make the trip if you’re in the area, you won’t regret it.

Favorite item: pork soup dumplings, skin was thin and delicate, soup was on the heavier savory side but perfect if you skip the dipping sauce. Pass on: beef pancake wrap, not flakey and thin as other places we've ordered this item from, also low on meat filling (definitely not the same as the menu pictured). All the other dishes were homey and delicious (braised pork belly and cold spicy peanut chicken). 4 stars because each of the main dishes we assumed would be enough to share but it's rather small portions for the price. One person could easily finish that whole braised pork dish alone and still be hungry.