TLDR
Legendary Flushing hole-in-the-wall famous for its No. 6 chili oil wontons. A must-visit, no-frills destination for high-quality, authentic Chinese dumplings at a great price.
Details
A staple of the Flushing food scene, this modest eatery is celebrated for its iconic No. 6 dish of pork wontons swimming in roasted chili oil [1], [2]. While the menu is simple and the setting minimal, it has earned a spot on the New York Times' list of best restaurants [3]. Despite debates over its status as the absolute best in the city, many consider it a must-visit destination for authentic and affordable Chinese bites [4], [5].
Food Overview
The restaurant specializes in Northern Chinese-style dumplings and wontons, specifically the No. 6, which features a dozen pork wontons bathed in a signature roasted chili oil and topped with pickled vegetables [1], [2]. Customers also recommend the Dan Dan noodles, which some prefer over the wontons, and the spicy frog soup [9], [10]. While widely loved, some users note the filling can occasionally feel structurally lacking without the accompaniment of the flavorful sauce [11].
Highlights / Recommended
"The 'No. 6' pork wontons in roasted chili oil are the undeniable signature dish, highly acclaimed for their addictive flavor [1], [2], [12]. Other noteworthy mentions include the Dan Dan noodles and spicy frog soup [9], [10]."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •dumplings(2)
- •wontons(2)
- •wontons with hot sauce (no. 6)(2)
Customer Sentiment
Overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with diners frequently praising the consistent flavor and value of their signature dishes [5], [6]. While a few critics find the filling occasionally bland or prefer other neighborhood alternatives, most agree it remains a reliable and delicious staple [7], [8].
Caveats
The location is a tiny, cash-only spot with minimal decor and no traditional indoor dining [1], [12]. Some diners have noted inconsistencies, such as reports of being shorted a wonton in their order or finding the filling flavor profile to be too subtle [11], [13].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About WHITE BEAR
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Fuzhou Fried Oyster Fritter Cake For 3 From Old
"The user asks for cross-streets and the restaurant is mentioned as a landmark location in Flushing for identifying the nearby oyster cart."
NeutralFrom post: What Are Your Favorite Holes In The Wall
"Suggested as a place to visit in Flushing."
PositiveFrom post: Anyone Want To Share Their Favorite Dan Dan
"The commenter prefers their Dan Dan noodles over their famous wontons in chili oil."
PositiveFrom post: Staying In Flushing Establishments With Stories
"This commenter recommended 'White Bear,' describing it as a one-dish place specializing in #6 wontons in chili oil. They noted it's cash only, small, and has minimal decor. They also mentioned that the Golden Mall basement food court, where White Bear is located, is where Xi'an Famous Foods began."
PositiveFrom post: Recent Eats Gao Xiao Pa Mo Market White Bear
"The commenter expressed strong positive sentiment towards White Bear, stating that their food 'fucking slaps'."
Positive