From starters to sweets, this place captured me with bold flavors and heartwarming craftsmanship that kept me coming back throughout the year. 

Charming Ambience with Modern Vibes

Stepping into Saigon Sisters, the vibe feels contemporary, welcoming but not overwhelming. The interior is  comfortable, perfect for both date night and casual dinners. The service is attentive without being overbearing, and the staff are happy to guide you through the menu — which, by the way, is a delightful mix of traditional Vietnamese classics and creative modern twists. 

What sets Saigon Sisters apart isn’t just the consistent food, but the easy, welcoming feel that makes you comfortable the moment you walk in. Photo: Sujoy Dhar

The Dumplings That Stole My Heart

Let’s get straight to the stars of the show: the dumplings. Saigon Sisters’ dumplings — available steamed or fried with a choice of chicken, vegetarian, BBQ or jackfruit — were consistently one of my favorite things on the menu.

Each dumpling was impeccably prepared: delicate wrappers encasing juicy, flavorful fillings that burst with savory richness. The chili-bean soy dipping sauce it comes with added a tangy kick that perfectly balanced the tender dumpling meat. Whether I chose the fried option for crunch or the steamed for a silky texture, every bite felt intentional and satisfying. It’s rare to find dumplings at this quality outside dedicated dumpling houses, but here they were — consistent, delicious, and thoroughly addictive.

Bao — Soft, Flavorful, and Seriously Good

Just as impressive were the baos. These open-faced steamed buns are garnished with fresh cilantro, jalapeños, pickled daikon, and carrots — simple components, but assembled with care. 

Pillowy soft bread paired with savory fillings. The interplay of soft bun, tangy pickles, and rich protein added up to a bite that felt both comforting and exciting. In a city bursting with bao offerings, Saigon Sisters’ versions hold their own and have become one of my go-to recommendations for friends visiting Chicago’s Vietnamese food scene.

The baos are showstoppers — soft, fluffy buns filled with savoury toppings, loaded with pickles and herbs that keep every bite fresh and balanced. Photo: Sujoy Dhar

Beyond Dumplings & Bao —  Exploring the Spring Rolls

Of course, there’s more on the menu, and it’s all worth exploring. Saigon Sisters offers a range of Vietnamese favorites — from fresh spring rolls and papaya salad to pho, curries, and banh mi sandwiches.

The banh mi are a revelation in themselves, with variations like sweet spicy fried chicken, classic Vietnamese pork, and BBQ beef all served in perfectly crisp baguettes with fresh pickles and herbs. Each one was vibrant and satisfying — balanced, not overloaded — and a great complement to the dumplings and baos. 

One dish one can keep returning to at Saigon Sisters was their spring rolls—fresh, vibrant and quietly outstanding. Lightly wrapped and generously filled, they struck the perfect balance between crunch and freshness, with herbs that tasted unmistakably alive and proteins that were cleanly seasoned rather than masked by sauce. What elevated them further was the accompanying dip: bright, slightly sweet and tangy, cutting through the richness without overpowering it. 

Spring rolls are light, fresh, and herb-packed, served with a sweet, tangy, dipping sauce that strikes a perfect balance. Photo: Sujoy Dhar

Dessert? Yes, Please.

I always left room for dessert. The fried bao dessert — sweet, cinnamon-kissed and paired with a coffee caramel sauce — was a showstopper. It’s playful and indulgent, a clever riff on traditional dessert that somehow feels just right after a meal of rich dumplings and baos. The banana brown butter cake and mango sticky rice were also standout sweets that struck the perfect note of creamy, sweet fulfillment. 

The fried dessert is comforting, making for a satisfying finish after a meal of rich dumplings and baos. Photo: Sujoy Dhar

Final Thoughts — A Must-Visit Spot

Looking back on all my visits in 2023 and again in the next years, what makes Saigon Sisters remarkable isn’t just its consistent food quality — though that’s excellent — but the way it makes you feel welcome. Each dish, especially the dumplings and baos, is prepared with a clear passion and confidence. Combined with the cozy yet modern atmosphere, it’s become one of my favorite places in Chicago for Vietnamese food.

Photo: Sujoy Dhar

If you love bold flavors, unique textures, and creative takes on traditional dishes, Saigon Sisters should absolutely be on your list next time you’re in the West Loop.