180 Cafe

23 Edinboro St, Boston, MA 02111, United States
+1 617-338-8889
$$$ Cafe
(33 Reviews)
Price Range $1–10

Welcome to 180 Cafe, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Boston's vibrant Chinatown. This cozy cafe offers a delightful fusion of traditional Chinese bakery delights and quick, authentic snacks that perfectly capture the essence of Asian comfort food. Its unassuming location at 23 Edinboro St is home to an array of delectable offerings that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.

Stepping inside 180 Cafe feels like a warm embrace. The inviting aroma of freshly baked goods permeates the air, reminiscent of visiting a beloved relative’s home for breakfast. The café has a casual, laid-back atmosphere that encourages you to linger a little longer, savoring every bite while soaking in the friendly vibe.

When it comes to the menu, you're in for a treat. The selection is diverse and tempting, featuring traditional Chinese baked goods and dim sum options that cater to every palate. Start your day with the light and airy Pineapple Bun, a delightful sweet bread with a sugary crust that’s absolutely irresistible at just US$1.85. For something more savory, don't miss the Roast Pork Bun, with its tender, barbecued pork enveloped in a fluffy steamed bun, perfect for a satisfying lunch.

If you’re a fan of dumplings, be sure to sample the Soup Dumpling With Pork, which bursts with juicy, flavorful broth with each bite, showcasing perfectly seasoned meat wrapped in delicate dough—an absolute must-have at US$15.15. And for a sweet finish, indulge in the Egg Custard, where the creamy custard filling pairs wonderfully with the flaky pastry, priced at US$6.80. Customers rave about the value and quality here, with many noting it’s a spot where you can find great food without breaking the bank.

The charm of 180 Cafe is echoed in the glowing reviews from its diverse clientele. Diana Davenport highlights the affordability of the café compared to prices back in Houston, further emphasizing its appeal for anyone looking for delicious, homemade Asian treats. Cameron affectionately declares it “my fav bakery in Chinatown,” and you’ll understand why after just one bite of their baked goods. Customers like Jeena G appreciate the cozy atmosphere and the generous portions, making it an ideal spot for a casual meet-up or a quick snack after a day of exploring.

So whether you're a local seeking a comforting meal or a visitor eager to dive into Boston's culinary scene, 180 Cafe stands out as a go-to destination. Remember to bring cash, as they operate on a cash-only basis, allowing you to fully experience the charm of this beloved neighborhood spot.

Service options
Takeaway
Dine-in
Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Coffee
Comfort food
Quick bite
Dining options
Breakfast
Lunch
Dessert
Amenities
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Children
Good for kids
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

06:30 AM - 06:00 PM

Tuesday

06:30 AM - 06:00 PM

Wednesday

06:30 AM - 06:00 PM

Thursday

06:30 AM - 06:00 PM

Friday

06:30 AM - 06:00 PM

Saturday

06:30 AM - 06:00 PM

Sunday

06:30 AM - 06:00 PM

33 Reviews
Diana Davenport

15 Aug 2025

Bought crystal shrimp dumplings and few baked goods - pork bun, egg tart, raisin bread, sausage bread. Price is really good compared to prices back home in Houston. Cash only. Will come back here when I come back to Boston.

Cameron

11 Aug 2025

True local spot for actually good prices and food. Bring cash because it’s a $15 min for card, but it’s so worth it! Both a bakery and quick foods, you can get a quick snack or meal with great quality and authenticity, definitely my fav bakery in Chinatown!

Kevin S

26 Jul 2025

It’s not a dim sum place like many other reviews stated. It’s more of a bakery. We were originally going to order more than just 小笼包 but they mentioned to us that the other food was just going to be microwaved so we decided against it. 小笼包tasted decent though

Jeena G

17 Jul 2025

This little cafe is such a cute spot for a quick, affordable bite. The food is not only budget-friendly but also delicious - great value for the price. Shumai was juicy, flavorful, and surprisingly big! They also have a nice selection of baked goods, all fresh and affordable. I was bummed to miss out on the dumplings because they were already sold out by the time I got there. Overall, it was a great experience. Just make sure to arrive early so you don’t miss out on the best stuff!

Jea Kim

27 Jun 2025

My go-to spot for a cozy, early-morning Chinese breakfast fix. For years, I’ve been on the hunt for a solid, reliable Asian breakfast spot in Boston. There are a few Vietnamese places in Dorchester that open early (6am), but they’re just too much of a trek for me. Recently, I caught wind of this place and decided to stop by right at opening to grab a hearty breakfast. Not everything on the menu is available right away—soups and fried dumplings require an extra 30 minutes of prep time. So, I typically stick to the crystal dumplings, shaomai, and fried pork dumpling pastries. One hidden gem? They also serve a pork and vegetable congee that’s not listed on the menu. While the congee is a bit lighter than my usual preference, it’s a steal for the price. My go-to is the pork and salty egg congee, paired with a side of dumplings for the perfect comforting combo. Though the store officially opens at 6:30am, you can often slip in as early as 6am to grab a few items fresh out of the kitchen. While there are a few full-service breakfast spots in Chinatown, like Great Taste, they don’t open until 8am. Just a heads-up—they’re cash-only for smaller orders.

Jason C

01 Jun 2025

Very good selection for Chinese style breads and bakery. They open early in the morning and we were able to get breakfast there for the 3 day stay in Boston. They have a few dim sum plates which are really good. Price is very reasonable, most breads are a lot cheaper than other bakeries around the Chinatown.

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