Just down the street from the Chinatown branch of the popular Chiu Quon Bakery—the second location is on Argyle Street—Feida challenges the competition with puffy pork buns, sweet rice buns, mini sesame cookies and egg custard tarts, among others. True sticklers for Chinese baked goods will notice that the flavors here are not as rich as those of their competition, but the dingy back room makes up for that with plenty of character—and you won't hear many complaints about the 75-cent prices.

On the weekends, a group of old Chinese men sits hunched over a giant circular table drinking coffee and eating pastries. Fluorescent lights shine down, creating a hazy atmosphere inside. A place to gather with old friends, Feida has more of a community feel going than its neighbors. Those who are in a hurry can just order at the front and go, but everyone is welcome to sit and relax. A giant display case helps visitors decide what they want; though the descriptions don’t always make sense, whatever you order will come quickly and with a smile. A true Chinatown haunt, Feida is a must-visit on a trip to Chinatown. Plus, the satisfaction of spending under $2 for two giant buns—I recommend the pork bun for lunch and the sweet bean bun for dessert—makes the hassle of finding parking worth it.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Alicia Eler