The first noodle shop from much-loved Taiwanese restaurant brand Bao is found in the heart of Shoreditch, taking up residence on the former site of Peruvian restaurant Andina. Interiors follow a similar format to sibling sites, with a stripped back aesthetic and clean, modern lines created using natural, organic materials.
Marking a soft change in direction for the brand, BAO Shoreditch does not solely focus on steamed buns, instead championing steaming bowls of beef noodle soup, which is considered by many to be the national dish of Taiwan.
There are two types of soup available, both featuring wheat noodles that are made fresh on site every day. The first, richer variety is made in the traditional style using beef cheek and short rib as well as spiced beef butter and fermented greens, while the second lighter option uses rump cap, 40 day-aged beef and 400 day-aged white soy. Elsewhere on the menu, you will find a range of dumplings and snacks to try, including fried cheese rolls and a braised pork belly bowl.
Fans of BAO's signature buns need not worry though, as BAO Shoreditch also serves three classic varieties, with fillings including panko shrimp croquette, Iberico pork, and black garlic sauce with shredded cabbage. To round off your meal, there is a short list of puddings which features fried Horlick’s ice cream and a new creation christened BAOBING, which sees flavoured shaved ice topped with fruits and cream.
Guests looking to really make a night of it can head downstairs, where you will find BAO's own karaoke rooms available for hire.
Since first creating the BAO brand, the owners behind the successful restaurants have joined forces with one of London’s most successful parent companies, JKS. JKS is responsible for overseeing popular spots like Lyle’s, Sabor and Gymkhana.