Mary’s Bao and Dumplings takes next step and opens second store at Willows

A popular family restaurant has opened a second location at a Townsville shopping centre, hoping to share it’s authentic dishes with more locals.

On the menu at Mary's Bao and Dumplings, Willows. Picture: Shae Beplate.

A beloved Townsville restaurant has taken the next big step and opened a second location at Willows Shopping Centre, hoping to share it’s authentic dishes with more locals.

Mary’s Bao and Dumplings was opened by Michael Zhang and his wife Mary Ma following the family’s move from NSW to Townsville.

“My wife Mary has a real gift for cooking and making traditional Chinese dishes, and she’s racked up tons of experience at dumpling spots, sushi places and more,” Mr Zhang said.

“Whenever she’d whip up delicious dinners at home, I’d tease her and say ‘why don’t we open a shop so the people in Townsville can taste real, authentic dumplings too?’

“When the timing felt right, we actually made it happen.”

Mary's Bao and Dumplings, Faye, Mary, Miki and Yu at the new Willows store. Picture: Shae Beplate.

Mr Zhang said opening a second store was the obvious next step for the family business, which has gained a positive reputation in Pimlico.

“After our French St shop won over the locals, we wanted to take it a step further and see if our food could shine in a busy shopping centre,” he said.

After months of planning, Mary’s Bao and Dumplings officially opened its second store on Thursday, October 30, featuring all the favourite’s from the family’s first store.

On the menu at Mary's Bao and Dumplings, Willows. Picture: Shae Beplate.

“Our top hits are dumplings and baos - real-deal, authentic northern Chinese flavours,” Mr Zhang said.

“We’ve also got other classic Chinese foods like beef noodle soup, chow mein, sour & spicy dumpling soup, and more, all loved by the locals too.”

Mr Zhang said the store has received overwhelmingly positive feedback since opening at Willows, but said there’s still a long way to go.

“Since opening two weeks ago, we’ve had some customers show real interest in our dumplings, and a bunch of kind folks have given us super positive feedback,” he said.

“We’re learning tons, and it’ll just take a little time for more people to discover, try our food.”

On the menu at Mary's Bao and Dumplings, Willows. Picture: Shae Beplate.

Since opening, Mr Zhang and his wife Mary have turned their attention to some brand new items that locals can expect to see on the menu.

“We’re rolling out a new dish: chow mein, traditional stir-fried noodles,” he said.

“You’ve got two tasty options: chicken chow mein or prawn chow mein, perfect for noodle lovers.

“Plus, our Willows shop will soon be on Uber Eats, so it’s easier for those who can’t make it in to Willows.”

Mr Zhang said Pimlico locals have given the restaurant great reviews, and thanked them for their constant positive feedback.

“We’re truly thankful to our dear customers, their patience, understanding and support for our little family business are what keep us going,” he said.

Originally published as Mary’s Bao and Dumplings takes next step and opens second store at Willows