Discover the Bold Flavors of Shanghainese and Sichuan Cuisine at Mian & Bao: A Delicious Dining Experience Awaits!

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Chili oil wontons (photos courtesy of Xian & Bao)

It’s no secret that Austin has a mix of opinions on West Coast newcomers. Yet, if you love Asian cuisine like I do, you can’t ignore the culinary benefits these transplants bring. Enter Mian & Bao, a fresh restaurant from a group known for the hit Chengdu Taste in L.A. It’s now serving up delicious Sichuan and Shanghainese dishes right in the Triangle area of Central Austin.

Finding a parking spot at the Triangle can be tricky, especially during busy meal times. If you can, consider carpooling, using Uber, or taking public transit to save some stress. Once you navigate that, you’ll find Mian & Bao a delightful place to be.

The restaurant’s vibe is casual yet stylish. There’s a cozy counter perfect for solo diners, while green tiles and whimsical paper lanterns create a warm atmosphere. The staff is friendly and eager to help with the ordering process.

Speaking of ordering, Mian & Bao uses a QR code system. Each table has a code you can scan to view the menu and place your order on your phone. Some diners might miss traditional table service, but this method is efficient. If you order everything at once, expect a fast-paced meal as dishes arrive when ready. If you prefer to take your time, stagger your orders for a more leisurely experience.

The menu shines with shareable dim sum-style dishes, making it perfect for gatherings. You can wash it down with hot green tea or a refreshing house fruit tea bursting with sweet citrus flavors. Soft drinks and plum juice are also on the menu, but don’t expect alcoholic beverages here.

Mian & Bao strikes a nice balance between Sichuan and Shanghainese cuisine. I have a soft spot for Sichuan dishes, particularly when it comes to spicy flavors. Their marinated cucumbers are a standout — crispy, tangy, and seasoned with garlic and hot pepper, they quickly became my favorite dish. Another gem is the “thousand-year egg,” a unique delicacy served with silken tofu that provides a wonderful contrast in textures and flavors.

Chengdu noodles

The noodle options here won’t disappoint. The Chengdu noodles are cold and delightful, featuring sesame paste and ginger, balanced with crispy cucumber and green onions. I also loved the Dan Dan noodles, which have a springy texture and a savory sauce packed with five-spice aroma. While I craved a bit more heat from the peppercorns, the dish was still very satisfying.

Dumplings are a highlight at Mian & Bao. You can choose between Sichuan-style wontons drenched in chili oil and Shanghainese soup dumplings (xiao long bao). The wontons are tender and flavorful, while the soup dumplings have sturdy wrappers that hold the rich broth without leaking. A flavorful dipping vinegar enhances the experience, making each bite enjoyable.

The bao buns are soft and absorbent, with a deliciously crispy base. While a dipping sauce could have added some extra zing, the textures in the buns were delightful on their own.

Mian & Bao stands out in Austin’s dining scene with its vibrant and authentic dishes. Yes, parking can be a hassle, and some locals might feel uneasy about its L.A. roots. Yet, this restaurant offers something fresh to the food landscape here, and I hope it inspires even more Asian eateries to set up shop in Austin.