Tong Qihua, a Taizhou-born entrepreneur, has achieved remarkable success with his baozi shop in the United States.

Tom's BaoBao, which opened its doors in Harvard Square, Boston in July 2016, has become a pioneer in introducing baozi, a traditional Chinese delicacy and also known as steamed stuffed buns, to the international market.

Tong's foray into the American market followed his triumph in the domestic arena. Prior to his venture in the US, Tong had already established Ganqishi, a successful chain with over 160 locations in Hangzhou, capital of Zhejiang province.

In a recent interview, Tong revealed the story behind his triumph in the American market. Surprisingly, the majority of their clientele does not consist of Chinese customers. Instead, Tom's BaoBao primarily attracts tourists from various parts of the world, as well as students and teachers from prestigious universities such as

Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

To cater to their Western customers, the shop has even provided disposable forks and knives, allowing for a dining experience similar to eating a steak. The menu boasts an average price of $3, and Tong has disclosed that the baozi filled with Chinese cabbages has been a top seller.

Tong has cleverly introduced baozi varieties tailored specifically to the local palate. Notable examples include baozi filled with teriyaki and Boston lobster, which have gained significant popularity. This adaptation to local preferences has played a pivotal role in the shop's success.