One of the most popular vendors at the Fells Point Farmers Market, Ekiben, has opened a brick-and-mortar location right in Fells Point, and I couldn’t be happier. Last summer, I made it a weekly ritual to stop by the market for one of their incredible rice bowls — now that I can grab their food anytime I want, my lunch game has seriously leveled up.

Ekiben

Ekiben is set up counter-service style: you order at the front, find a seat, and before long your meal arrives. Their small but mighty menu features four protein options, which can be served either on a fluffy steamed bun (bao) or as a rice bowl — both equally delicious choices.

Ekiben Meal

I’ve had The Original as a rice bowl before and loved it, but this time I went for The Original Bun. The pillowy steamed bun came topped with two Thai chicken meatballs, coconut sauce, shredded papaya, garlic, fried shallots, and herbs. Each bite was an explosion of flavor — sweet, savory, spicy, and perfectly balanced.

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The Original Bun

On the side, I ordered the Tempura Broccoli. Normally, broccoli isn’t my go-to vegetable, but this dish completely changed my mind. Tossed with fresh herbs, red onion, and rice vinegar, it was light, crispy, and bursting with flavor. This might actually be the best broccoli I’ve ever had (sorry, Mom!).

Tempura Broccoli

Everything was so good that I had to come back — this time with my foodie friend from The Baltimore Food Journal. On my second visit, I tried the Roasted Broccoli, which has all the same ingredients as the tempura version but without the fry. It was still flavorful, though I preferred the warmth and crunch of the tempura style.

Roasted Broccoli

I also tried their special bun, The Big Moooo — slow-cooked shredded beef brisket with soy mirin gravy, roasted onions, and fried shallots. The beef was tender, juicy, and absolutely packed with flavor. I’m crossing my fingers that it becomes a permanent addition to the menu.

The Big Moooo

Honestly, I couldn’t pick a favorite — every dish I’ve tried at Ekiben has been beyond delicious and packed with bold, creative flavors. If you’re in Fells Point and craving the best steamed buns in Baltimore, head over to Ekiben. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

Ekiben is located at the 1622 Eastern Avenue, in Fells Point.

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