Was This Char Siu Bao Worth Waiting 3 Years to Try?
Mei Lai Wah is a well-known spot in New York City’s Chinatown for char siu bao (Chinese BBQ roast pork buns) — specifically the version topped with the delectable pineapple crust. After seeing a video on social media of the pineapple version, I had been patiently biding my time since 2022 to return to NYC for a taste. This July, the time finally came so I made certain to carve out time to visit.
The verdict?
Pineapple roast pork bun — not for me. While delicious, the sweet texture of the crumbly pineapple topping is best suited in its traditional Bo Lo Bao (pineapple bun). But if you are a sweet and savory lover, perhaps it will be the one for you.
Now, the traditional char siu bao (roast pork bun) was another story! With a golden, crisp, crusty top and filled with perfectly saucy, succulent pork, this was the winning char siu bun of the trip by far (and we tried a few!). Even my Chinese mother - who grew up in New York’s Chinatown and was highly skeptical of how good this bun could possibly be - loved it! Her only wish was for fewer fatty pieces of pork but that must be preference because my sister and I had zero complaints! Thank goodness we bought two, but next time I’ll be doubling the order. We also tried the steamed char siu bao and while it was good, we all agreed the baked char siu bao was unparalleled.
Oh, and the best part? The buns are still only $2.50!
Pro tip: Bring cash and order inside instead of at the kiosks to get the best price (inside is cash only but they do have an ATM).
TL;DR: Mei Lai Wah’s pineapple roast pork buns have gone viral on social media. My opinion? Skip the pineapple one unless you really love sweet vibes. Go straight for the original roast pork bun — definitely worth waiting for and certainly worth buying several at just $2.50 each for these fresh, steaming char siu buns.
The char siu bao on top is from Manna 1 Bakery (served cold, $2.00 USD). The bottom char siu bao is from Mei Lai Wah (served hot & fresh, $2.50 USD). July 2025.
