Looking for real-deal Chinese street food in Monterey, CA? You’re in the right place. Monterey’s food scene is no stranger to global flavors, but when it comes to authentic Chinese street bites, locals and travelers are flocking to one spot—Jack’s Bao.
If you’re hunting for the kind of food that hits fast, tastes bold, and feels like it was made in a bustling Shanghai night market, this checklist is for you. No gimmicks. No fusion fluff. Just Chinese comfort food, street-style.
Why Chinese Street Food Deserves the Hype
Street food in China isn’t just a snack—it’s culture. It’s everyday people gathering around steamers, sipping broths, and biting into bao buns that have been perfected over generations. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or exploring Monterey’s Cannery Row, street-style Chinese eats bring warmth, flavor, and a hit of nostalgia in every bite.
And Jack’s Bao is delivering exactly that—right here in Monterey, CA.
The Ultimate Chinese Street Food Checklist in Monterey
Here’s what every foodie must try when visiting Jack’s Bao. Each of these items is fast, flavorful, and 100% true to its roots.
Steamed Pork Xiao Long Bao (XLB) – $14.69
Xiao Long Bao is the star of Shanghai street food, and Jack’s Bao gets it right. These delicate soup dumplings are handcrafted, filled with seasoned ground pork, and packed with hot, savory broth inside a thin steamed wrapper.
You take one bite, the soup bursts, and the flavor hits hard, rich, meaty, and comforting.
Pro Tip: Grab a side of spiced vinegar or chili sauce for dipping. It balances the richness and adds a hit of heat.
Spicy Ground Pork Noodle Soup – $16.99
This bowl brings the heat and the heartiness. With a base of chewy noodles and bold, savory broth, this street-style noodle soup is loaded with ground pork, chili oil, and aromatic spices.
It’s perfect for foggy Monterey days or when you just want a filling, flavorful meal that wakes up your taste buds.
Steamed Pork Bao (3pc) – $11.69
Not to be confused with the soup-filled Xiao Long Bao, these steamed pork buns are fluffy, thick-skinned, and filled with juicy marinated pork. They’re basically the Chinese equivalent of a comfort sandwich—but way better.
Street food status: High. These are a staple at nearly every corner bao stall in China, and Jack’s Bao nails the pillowy texture and savory center.
Shrimp and Pork Wonton Soup (10pc) – $16.69
Wontons are another cornerstone of Chinese street food culture, and this version is a seafood lover’s dream. Each wonton is stuffed with a perfect mix of shrimp and pork and served in a clean, umami-packed broth.
Good to know: This is a lighter option compared to the noodle soups, but still incredibly satisfying.
Veggie and Pork Wonton Soup (10pc) – $16.69
For those who want a little green in their meal, this bowl combines tender wontons filled with pork and fresh vegetables. It’s the kind of balance you rarely find in street food—a bit indulgent, a bit wholesome.
Pair it with a cold Lychee Lemon Green Tea and you’ve got a winning combo.
Street Drink Essentials: Milk Tea & Iced Teas
What’s Chinese street food without a refreshing drink to go with it?
J-Milk Tea – $4.99
Smooth, classic, and just sweet enough. This boba-style milk tea cuts through the spice and pairs well with everything on the menu.
White Jasmine & Rose Green Tea – $6.69
Fragrant and floral, this iced tea feels almost like dessert. Sip between bites of spicy noodle soup for contrast.
Pineapple Lemongrass Green Tea – $6.69
A citrusy, tropical twist on traditional green tea. Perfect palate cleanser.
Wonton Variety for the Adventurous
You could eat wontons every day and never get bored, especially here. Jack’s Bao offers multiple versions so you can mix and match:
- Mini Shrimp and Pork Wonton Soup (15pc) – $14.69
- Veggie Wontons – $14.99
- Fried Wontons – $14.99
Why they matter: These are the bite-sized, fast-eating stars of Chinese street stalls. In Monterey, they’re just as grab-and-go friendly—and you won’t find any soggy takeout versions here.
Steamed Veggie Bao (3pc) – $11.69
Not all street food has to be heavy. These vegetarian bao buns are light, fresh, and stuffed with seasoned veggies that still deliver major umami.
Even meat-lovers should give these a shot—they’re that satisfying.
Where to Find the Best Chinese Street Food in Monterey, CA
You don’t need to fly to Beijing to get authentic street food flavors. You just need to head to:
Jack’s Bao
751 Cannery Row, STE 121
Monterey, CA 93940
831-215-1703
Open Daily | 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Pickup available in 30 minutes
Order Online Now
Why Foodies Love Jack’s Bao
Aside from a tightly curated menu that sticks to the classics, Jack’s Bao nails three things every street food lover values:
- Speed – Orders are ready fast, without compromising quality.
- Authenticity – No Americanized versions. Just legit flavors.
Atmosphere – Whether you’re dining in or picking up, the vibe is warm, simple, and stress-free.
Final Thoughts
Chinese street food isn’t about five-star service or fancy plating—it’s about flavor, experience, and connection. Jack’s Bao brings that energy to Monterey in a way that’s real, reliable, and ridiculously delicious.
So next time you’re craving something bold and comforting, skip the generic takeout chains. Go where the bao is fresh, the broth is rich, and the flavors speak for themselves.
Chinese Street Food Monterey CA has a name now—Jack’s Bao.
