Bǎo Bāo Singapore: Bao Paradise Blending Tradition & Innovation

Singapore’s culinary scene just got a delicious upgrade with the arrival of Bǎo Bāo, a contemporary bao concept launched by Pang Gek Teng, the visionary founder of Surrey Hills Grocer. Located in the heart of ION Orchard (#B4-34), Bǎo Bāo reinvents the beloved traditional bao with a modern twist, making it a must-visit for bao lovers and adventurous foodies alike.

Honouring Heritage with Every Bite

Bǎo Bāo is more than just a bao shop – it is a heartfelt tribute to Singapore’s rich food heritage. Inspired by a retiring local bao master with nearly 50 years of experience, the brand seeks to preserve the craftsmanship of bao-making while appealing to today’s generation.

Each bao is handcrafted daily using a 20-year-old in-house natural yeast starter, ensuring a slow fermentation process of 12 to 14 hours. This meticulous method results in baos that are incredibly soft, fluffy, and deliciously chewy—making every bite a delightful experience.

Redefining Baos for the Modern Palate

Bǎo Bāo introduces a Signature Range designed to surprise and satisfy those who crave unique dessert baos. Three standout creations include:

• Orh Nee Bao (S$1.60): A creamy yam paste filling infused with fragrant shallot oil, offering a nostalgic yet elevated flavour.
• Azuki Red Bean Mochi Bao (S$1.60): A fusion of homemade azuki red bean paste and chewy mochi, capturing the essence of traditional Asian desserts.
• French Chocolate Lava Bao (S$2.00): A decadent treat featuring molten 66% Chocolaterie de l’Opéra chocolate for the ultimate indulgence.

These innovative baos blend the comforting familiarity of traditional flavours with an exciting contemporary twist, making them perfect for both bao purists and dessert lovers alike.

The Classic Bao Collection

For those who crave the comforting, familiar tastes of classic baos, Bǎo Bāo offers a carefully curated selection that stays true to tradition:

• Big Pork Bao (S$2.90): A generously packed bao filled with tender, juicy pork marinated with ginger juice and spring onions.
• Black Pepper Chicken Bao (S$2.90): A bold, flavourful bao with a savoury black pepper marinade for an irresistible kick.
• Braised Pork Belly Bao (S$2.90): Slow-cooked for a full day in dark soy sauce, this bao is the definition of melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
• Roasted Char Siew Bao (S$1.50): Charcoal-roasted pork glazed to perfection, offering a deliciously smoky, caramelised finish.

Alongside these baos, Bǎo Bāo also serves comforting side dishes like Siew Mai (S$1.20/pc), Chicken Glutinous Rice (S$4.80), and Fan Choy (S$4.80), rounding out the ultimate snacking experience.

An Experience Beyond the Bun

Bǎo Bāo is more than just a place to grab a quick bite—it is a full-fledged experience. Designed as a reimagined vintage Singaporean shophouse, the store evokes nostalgia while embracing modernity. A standout feature is its open kitchen, allowing you to witness the bao-making process up close—from kneading the dough to steaming the final masterpiece.

Whether you are craving a bite of nostalgia or eager to try something new, Bǎo Bāo delivers an irresistible combination of tradition and innovation, ensuring that every visit feels like coming home to warm, comforting flavours.

Visit Bǎo Bāo Today

For a taste of artisanal, handcrafted baos that honour Singapore’s rich culinary heritage while embracing modern creativity, head down to Bǎo Bāo at ION Orchard (#B4-34). Open daily from 10am to 10pm, this is your new go-to spot for the softest, fluffiest baos in town.