The Best New Cheap Eats in Atlanta

Atlanta’s Best Bao

Bao are Asian-style, side-stuffed sandwiches—think pillowy taco shells made of steamed dough and filled with various combinations of meats and (usually pickled) vegetables—and they’re having a moment in Atlanta. Here are the three best spots to try them. —Jennifer Zyman

Photograph by Caroline C. Kilgore

Tea House Formosa
This Taiwanese-style tea shop on Buford Highway is generous with the fillings, serving its bao with fresh tomato slices and butter lettuce in addition to pork belly, crispy chicken, or roasted vegetables. $4.50 each or two for $8, 5302 Buford Highway, 470-349-8105

Photograph by Caroline C. Kilgore

Simply Seoul Kitchen
Hannah Chung won national attention when she started selling her vegan kimchis in 2014. Last September Chung opened her first shop in Ponce City Market, where she sells bao filled with beef bulgogi, spicy pork, or mushrooms—and, of course, tart, funky, homemade kimchi. $4 each, 675 Ponce de Leon Avenue, 404-853-1681

Photograph by Caroline C. Kilgore

Suzy Siu’s Baos
Michael Lo and George Yu, the duo behind Taiyo Ramen in Decatur, opened their bao stall in Krog Street Market in November. Suzy Siu’s menu pulls inspiration from China, Korea, and the South. Fillings range from soy-marinated beef brisket to fried green tomatoes. $4 each, or $9 for two plus a side, 99 Krog Street, 404-996-6504

This article originally appeared in our April 2017 issue.