Hey guys! Are you on the hunt for some seriously delicious Taiwanese food in London? Look no further, because we're diving deep into the world of BAO! This isn't just any restaurant; it's a culinary hotspot that's been making waves with its fluffy, steamed buns and mouth-watering Taiwanese dishes. So, grab your appetite, and let's explore what makes BAO such a must-visit destination in London.

What is BAO?

BAO is a chain of Taiwanese restaurants located in London, United Kingdom. Renowned for its delicious and innovative Taiwanese cuisine, BAO has become a favorite among Londoners and tourists alike. But it's more than just a restaurant; it's an experience, a journey into the heart of Taiwanese flavors with a modern, playful twist. When you step into a BAO restaurant, you're immediately greeted by a vibrant atmosphere, a blend of contemporary design and traditional Taiwanese elements. The ambiance is carefully crafted to be both welcoming and exciting, setting the stage for the culinary adventure that awaits.

The menu at BAO is a carefully curated selection of Taiwanese classics and inventive creations, with the bao buns themselves taking center stage. These fluffy, steamed buns are the restaurant's signature dish, and they come with a variety of fillings, from the classic braised pork to more adventurous options like fried chicken and ice cream. Each bao is a perfect balance of textures and flavors, a testament to the skill and creativity of the chefs. But BAO is not just about the buns. The menu also features a range of other Taiwanese dishes, such as xiao long bao (soup dumplings), beef noodle soup, and various small plates that are perfect for sharing. These dishes are all made with high-quality ingredients and prepared with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor. What sets BAO apart from other restaurants is its commitment to innovation. While they honor the traditions of Taiwanese cuisine, they are not afraid to experiment with new flavors and techniques, constantly pushing the boundaries of what Taiwanese food can be. This innovative spirit is evident in their seasonal menus, which feature new and exciting dishes that showcase the best of what's in season. It's also evident in their creative use of ingredients, blending traditional Taiwanese flavors with modern culinary techniques to create dishes that are both familiar and surprising. The founders of BAO, Erchen Chang, Shing Tat Chung, and Wai Ting Chung, set out to bring the authentic taste of Taiwanese street food to London, and they've done so with incredible success. Their passion for Taiwanese cuisine is evident in every dish, every detail of the restaurant's design, and every interaction with their customers. They have created a space where people can come together to enjoy delicious food, share stories, and experience the vibrant culture of Taiwan.

Must-Try Dishes at BAO

Let's talk about the food – the real reason you're here, right? BAO's menu is packed with amazing dishes, but there are a few standouts that you absolutely have to try. These dishes are the heart and soul of BAO, representing the best of Taiwanese cuisine with a modern twist. When you visit BAO, be sure to start with their signature bao buns. The classic braised pork bao is a must-try, featuring a fluffy, steamed bun filled with tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork belly, pickled mustard greens, and crushed peanuts. The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors is simply irresistible. If you're feeling adventurous, try the fried chicken bao, which is crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor. For dumpling lovers, the xiao long bao (soup dumplings) are a must-order. These delicate dumplings are filled with a rich, flavorful broth and a delicious pork filling. Be careful when you bite into them, as the broth can be hot! But trust us, it's worth the risk. Don't miss the beef noodle soup, a comforting and hearty dish that's perfect for a cold day. The broth is rich and flavorful, the noodles are perfectly cooked, and the beef is tender and succulent. It's a true taste of Taiwan. And for dessert, the Horlicks ice cream bao is a unique and delicious treat. The combination of the warm, fluffy bun and the cold, creamy ice cream is simply divine. The Horlicks flavor adds a nostalgic touch, making it a truly memorable dessert. These dishes are just a small sampling of what BAO has to offer. The menu also features a range of other Taiwanese specialties, such as mapo tofu, dan dan noodles, and various small plates that are perfect for sharing. No matter what you order, you're sure to be impressed by the quality of the ingredients, the attention to detail, and the explosion of flavors.

The Classic: Braised Pork BAO

Ah, the Braised Pork BAO – a true icon. This is where many people's BAO obsession begins, and for good reason. Imagine a pillowy soft, steamed bun, almost cloud-like in its texture. Inside, you'll find a generous helping of slow-braised pork belly, cooked until it's incredibly tender and practically melts in your mouth. But it doesn't stop there! The pork is accompanied by tangy pickled mustard greens, which provide a delightful counterpoint to the richness of the pork, and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts, adding a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor. The combination of sweet, savory, tangy, and crunchy is a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. The braised pork bao is more than just a dish; it's an experience. It's a perfect balance of textures and flavors, a testament to the skill and creativity of the chefs at BAO. It's a dish that you'll remember long after you've finished eating it, and one that you'll crave again and again. It is the perfect example of Taiwanese street food elevated to a new level of culinary excellence, showcasing the best of what BAO has to offer. For first-timers, this is an absolute must-order. It's the dish that put BAO on the map, and it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients combined in perfect harmony. So, go ahead, take a bite and experience the magic for yourself. You won't be disappointed.

Something Different: The Daikon BAO

Looking for a vegetarian option that's just as exciting? The Daikon BAO is your answer! This isn't your average veggie dish; it's a flavor bomb waiting to explode. The Daikon BAO features a fluffy steamed bun filled with pickled daikon, hot sauce, coriander, and peanuts. The pickled daikon provides a tangy and slightly sweet flavor, while the hot sauce adds a kick of heat. The coriander adds a fresh, herbaceous note, and the peanuts provide a satisfying crunch. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible. The Daikon BAO is a perfect example of how BAO takes traditional Taiwanese ingredients and elevates them to a new level of culinary excellence. The daikon, a humble root vegetable, is transformed into a star ingredient, showcasing its versatility and flavor. The dish is also a testament to BAO's commitment to catering to all dietary needs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the BAO experience. The Daikon BAO is not just for vegetarians; it's a dish that anyone can enjoy. It's a light, refreshing, and flavorful option that's perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. It's also a great way to try something new and expand your culinary horizons. So, if you're looking for a vegetarian option that's anything but boring, the Daikon BAO is the perfect choice. It's a dish that will surprise and delight your taste buds, and one that you'll want to order again and again.

Locations and Atmosphere

BAO restaurants can be found in several locations across London, each with its own unique vibe. From the original Soho location to the sleek and modern Fitzrovia branch, there's a BAO to suit every mood. Each location is designed with a minimalist aesthetic, featuring clean lines, bright colors, and playful details. The atmosphere is always buzzing, with a mix of locals and tourists eager to sample the delicious Taiwanese cuisine. The Soho location is the original BAO restaurant, and it's still one of the most popular. It's a small, intimate space with a lively atmosphere. The Fitzrovia location is larger and more modern, with a sleek and sophisticated design. The Borough location is located in the heart of Borough Market, and it's a great place to grab a quick lunch or dinner while exploring the market. And the Shoreditch location is the newest BAO restaurant, and it features a spacious dining room and a vibrant atmosphere. No matter which location you choose, you're sure to have a memorable dining experience. The atmosphere at BAO is always welcoming and inviting, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. They're always happy to answer your questions and help you choose the perfect dishes. So, whether you're a seasoned BAO fan or a first-time visitor, you're sure to feel right at home.

Why BAO is Worth the Hype

So, is BAO worth all the hype? Absolutely! It's not just about the fluffy buns (though they are pretty amazing). It's about the quality of the ingredients, the innovative flavor combinations, and the overall dining experience. BAO has managed to capture the essence of Taiwanese street food and elevate it to a new level of culinary excellence. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in every dish, from the perfectly steamed buns to the flavorful braised pork. The chefs at BAO use only the freshest ingredients, and they take great care to ensure that every dish is cooked to perfection. The innovative flavor combinations are another reason why BAO is so popular. The chefs at BAO are not afraid to experiment with new flavors and techniques, constantly pushing the boundaries of what Taiwanese food can be. This results in dishes that are both familiar and surprising, and that are sure to delight your taste buds. And the overall dining experience at BAO is simply exceptional. The atmosphere is always welcoming and inviting, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. They're always happy to answer your questions and help you choose the perfect dishes. So, whether you're a seasoned BAO fan or a first-time visitor, you're sure to have a memorable dining experience. BAO is more than just a restaurant; it's a culinary destination. It's a place where you can experience the vibrant culture of Taiwan and indulge in some of the most delicious food in London. So, if you're looking for a unique and unforgettable dining experience, BAO is the perfect choice.

Final Thoughts

BAO is more than just a restaurant; it's a culinary experience. If you're in London and craving something unique and delicious, make sure to add BAO to your list. You won't regret it! So, what are you waiting for? Head to BAO and experience the magic for yourself. You won't be disappointed. And don't forget to share your photos and experiences on social media using the hashtag #BAOLondon. We can't wait to see what you think! Happy eating!