Xiaolongbao, literally "little basket bun" originated in the town of Nanxiang in the suburbs of Shanghai. The buns are traditionally steamed in bamboo baskets, hence the name. The small buns are served with a sweet and spicy shredded ginger sauce that diners can dip the Xiaolongbao into. The buns are covered with a thin covering which is made of unraised dough, which gives the skin a smooth and translucent appearance. Unlike other stuffed buns, or Baozi, found throughout China, Xiaolongbao have more filling than .

There are two famous Xiaolongbao shops in Shanghai. One is Nanxiang Mantou located in the YU Garden Shopping Street, and the other is Guqiyuan Snacks, near the Yanan crossing of Tibet Road.

dough. The buns are traditionally filled with broth and meat, but other fillings are available. The buns are extremely delicious, and it is said that the more you eat, the more you want.