iBaoza 爱包子 — Restaurant in Calgary

Really good quality food from this hidden gem that's mostly, if not all made in-house by a quality lady named JianPing who owns the place.

Over-the-top value in their combo where you get two of their house-made (even handmade, I think) steamed buns (choice of beef or pork), their "sauerkraut", which I think is more like a salad - lightly pickled cabbage with wood ear mushrooms, tossed in some oil, marinated hard boiled egg and small bowl of millet porridge.

For FIVE bucks!!!

Also had their Chinese burger, which the bun is their signature hand-prepared steamed bun, lightly pan fried for a slight crisp, aromatic exterior. Inside, it's filled with Chinese spiced braised pork with jalapeños and cilantro. Full of flavor and with the right amount.

I also wanted to try their gyōza/potstickers, but they were sold out.

Sadly, I feel with the amazing quality and value JianPing is providing for every customer that comes through her doors, I feel she may be the one losing out on the business end, financially.

I genuinely wish JianPing and her little "bao" shop all the success it deserves and that it stays for awhile. Not many places like...

Went here based on reviews and the search for something different. Things looked very appetizing but I guess pictures don't say it all.

Seconds thoughts came quickly when preparation my order included the opening and closing of the microwave. Yes, microwave. Yes, it was for my order, being the only customer and the microwave being in plan view. What was being reheated is a mystery, although I suspect it was the meat for the Chinese burger.

Rou Ga Mo (Chinese burger) - was ok. Smelled more flavourful than it really was. Really only one flavour note. Plenty of meat though.

Suan La Fen (Spicy Sour Noodle) - nice flavour. I particularly liked the sour notes and the peanuts added nice little crunch. A little too greasy though.

Bao family pack - wanted to tray all 3 flavors (pork, pork and veg, and beef. It was like having a meatball in a bun. Having had my share of buns they weren't the most exciting bun I have ever had. Lacked flavour.

I was expecting some big, bold flavours but was really...

We got there before their hours of operation, so we waited outside. The lady saw us and quickly welcomed us in. Her service was fantastic, she patiently explained every option on their menu. Additionally, she regularly checked back on us about our thought of the food.

I ordered the Rou Ga Mou with congee; it tasted quite good, but I did find the fillings of the Rou Ga Mou to be a bit bland. As we pay for our orders, we have learned that she has been operating this restaurant for almost two years, and everything on the menu is made in-store.

The interior was quite small, there were only two small tables. They do have free wifi with password posted beside the entrance.

Overall, their fantastic service coupled with an affordable menu definitely...