The most recent addition to the BAO empire, this Bloomberg Arcade location will be providing the food and the tunes, with all the much-loved BAO classics on offer, alongside a few private karaoke rooms. It's been almost a decade since BAO opened the doors to their first location in Soho, and the influence they have had on the London food scene has been undeniable. With five locations across the city, as well as two additional ‘noodle shops’ BAO has shown no signs of slowing down, and if it means it’s easier for us to get our hands on that fried chicken bao, we are not complaining.
The menu will be expanding upon the established hits available at all BAO locations, with a focus on group dining. Large, sharing plates will be on offer as well, listed on a blackboard and crossed out as soon as they have sold out, so you’ll want to get your order in quickly. You and your friends can look forward to tucking into a large, soy-glazed, grilled Taiwanese pork neck, served with pickled garlic and daikon to cut through the rich fattiness of the pork. Other offerings will include a whole grilled fish and a fermented plum sauce-glazed duck breast. Another new addition designed for group dinners are the frosty beer towers you are able to order directly to your table, so you can top up your glass as you please.
At either end of the dining room, you will find a private karaoke space, with room for up to 10 people in the smaller room, and 22 in the larger. Sandwiched in between them, diners in the main dining space will get to experience the infectious energy of karaoke without having to take part themselves. You will want to though, especially once you see massive catalogue of songs to choose from, as well as the exclusive menu offerings. Those partaking in karaoke will be able to order platters of mini bao, cocktails and even fried chicken served with caviar, all delivered directly to your karaoke room. Sounds like the perfect party to us.