Bun House Camden is the latest branch of the chain that pays homage to the Dai Pai Dong stalls of Hong Kong. The chain, which started in Chinatown, specialises in Cantonese filled buns, while also offering a range of other small plates, snacks and drinks. Entering the cosy, light and bright space, the first thing you’ll notice is the bamboo steamers piled high, filled with freshly steamed buns and dumplings. Located in the chic and edgy dining and shopping district of Hawley Wharf, Bun House Camden can be enjoyed inside or takeaway and no bookings are required.
Taking centre stage on the menu are, of course, the titular buns. Classic fillings include sticky BBQ pork belly with lardo and sweet potato, curried chicken with lemongrass and coconut milk, cumin lamb with chilli and garlic or beef brisket with chu-hou gravy and black pepper. For vegetarians, you’ll find a mixed mushroom bun, with water chestnuts and kow choi, and there is a traditional custard bun with salted egg yolk, coconut milk and carrot for dessert. Elsewhere from the steamer, you’ll find prawn and bamboo shoot har gau and pork shu mai, as well as hoisin and sesame rolled noodles for an extra carb hit.
To anyone who thinks this offering sounds a little narrow, it doesn’t stop there. Alongside the various buns, dumplings and noodles at Bun House, you’ll find plenty more choice in the form of small plates. These include exciting creations like salted lemon wings, monster munch and fish floss chips, and scorched rice with five spice braised short ribs. Lighter options include steamed silken tofu with pickled bamboo shoots, a bergamot and bean shoot salad and pickled cucumber with long chillis.
Drinks are just as authentic as the food, so while you snack on buns, you can sip on Hong Kong milk tea, cold brew oolong or sour plum ice tea.