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Community Program
MARCH 25, 2026
Dough Zone Inspires the Next Generation Through Bao Buddies School Program
Dough Zone is proud to continue growing not only as a restaurant, but as a committed community partner - bringing people together through food, culture, and shared experiences. Through its Bao Buddies School Program, Dough Zone offers hands-on dumpling-making classes, cultural education, and school fundraising opportunities across Washington and beyond.
Through the program, students are introduced to the art of dumpling-making while learning the traditions behind each dish. From folding their very first dumpling to discovering the simple joy at the bottom of the bowl, each class provides a fun, hands-on experience that connects students to food, culture, and creativity. More than just food, Bao Buddies teaches that dumplings represent tradition, storytelling, and the satisfaction of creating something by hand.
“Bao Buddies Program really reflects what Dough Zone is all about—craftsmanship, culture, and community,” said Nancy Yun, Marketing Manager at Dough Zone USA. “Our team leads each class step by step, helping students learn how to make dumplings while sharing the care, stories, and traditions behind them.”
Dough Zone’s dumpling-making class has already partnered with several local schools, including Martha Lake Elementary School (Lynnwood), Jing Mei Elementary School (Bellevue), Tukwila Elementary School (Tukwila), and Maplewood Heights Elementary School (Renton). As the program continues to grow, Dough Zone looks forward to expanding its partnerships and bringing Bao Buddies to more schools and communities that have supported the brand.
Store Opening
NOVERMBER 19, 2026
Seattle’s Cult Favorite Dumpling Spot Arrives to Berkeley: Opens November 19th
Dough Zone, the beloved dumpling house known for Seattle’s best Xiao Long Bao and modern take on Chinese comfort food, is proud to announce the grand opening of its newest location in Berkeley, California, on Wednesday, November 19, 2025. This marks the brand’s sixth Northern California location and its 29th nationwide, continuing its rapid West Coast expansion.
But for Dough Zone, this opening hits especially close to home. One of the company’s original founders is a proud UC Berkeley alumnus, making this launch a full-circle moment. “Opening a Dough Zone near my alma mater has always been a dream,” said Jason Zhai, co-founder of Dough Zone. “Some of my best memories were made here in Berkeley. To return now with a restaurant that celebrates Chinese comfort food and community feels incredibly special”.
Since first opening in Bellevue, Washington in 2014, Dough Zone has earned a cult following across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Known for its delicious dumplings, signature Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings), and flavorful wontons and potstickers, Dough Zone has been hailed by fans as a “must-visit dumpling destination.” Lines routinely form before doors open, and fans have been known to drive hours for their fix of the brand’s famously delicious dumplings and savory noodle dishes.
Located at 1912 Shattuck Ave, just steps from the UC Berkeley campus, the new 2,682-square-foot restaurant will feature 25 tables, warm modern interiors, and friendly service. Students and locals alike can expect quick, welcoming service, and the same menu that made Dough Zone a household name in Seattle.
“We’re excited to bring a taste of the Pacific Northwest to the Bay Area, and to share our love for dumplings with the next generation of Golden Bears,” said Jason Zhai.