Taiwanese-style steamed bao buns are all over London these days, but Yum Bun were the very first specialists on the block to kickstart the trend here in the UK.
Starting out at a little market stall in Hackney nearly ten years ago, their meticulous focus on creating the most delicious buns using fresh ingredients means they now operate out of multiple outlets throughout London and have an army of die-hard fans.
Yum Bun don’t claim to be “authentic” in the Taiwanese sense: you could say it’s American fast food with an Asian twist – although that’s maybe doing it a slight disservice. I can never decide between the classic pork bun (slow roast pork, cucumber, spring onions and hoisin) or the crispy Japanese chicken bun with this addictive mayo sauce. The best strategy is just to get them both.
Veggies and vegans are also well catered for here; even as a full-on meat lover, I’ll happily order the crispy tofu bun with black bean mayo and garlic choi sum – it never fails to satisfy. Look out for the great value bento box sets at lunchtime, and at certain locations, Yumplings: their own version of classic dim sum. There may well be a queue but don’t be put off – it moves fast and it's there for a reason. Everything is made fresh to order.
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