Nestled in the heart of Carnaby on Lexington Street, BAO Soho offers a charming and intimate dining experience that elevates Taiwanese cuisine to new heights. Famous for their soft, steamed milk buns filled with inventive ingredients, this cozy spot has become a must-visit for food enthusiasts and trend-conscious travelers alike. The wood-furnished interior creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for enjoying flavorful small plates and expertly crafted cocktails.
BAO Soho is celebrated for its excellent fried chicken bao, a standout dish that draws rave reviews for its perfect balance of crispy texture and rich flavor. Vegetarian options like the grilled aubergine surprise diners with bold, delicious tastes, making the menu appealing to all palates. Accompany your meal with unique beverages such as the signature lemonade topped with milk foam, enhancing the dining experience with creative tastes.
Note that the space is quite cozy and popular, which can lead to short waits and a bustling vibe — but this only adds to the intimate charm.
- Authentic Taiwanese bao buns and small plates served in a cozy, wood-accented space.
- Friendly and attentive staff who enhance your dining experience.
- Variety of beverage options including cocktails, beer, and wine
- Convenient takeout, delivery, and curbside pickup services
- Cashless payments accepted with debit, credit, and NFC options
- Do they accept reservations? No, BAO Soho operates on a walk-in basis only.
- Are there vegetarian options? Yes, several dishes are vegetarian-friendly.
- Is the restaurant family-friendly? Yes, but be aware that the space is cozy and can be cramped.
- Do they serve alcohol? Yes, including cocktails, beer, and wine.
- What’s the average price per person? Around £20-£30.
- Is there outdoor seating? No, all seating is indoors.
Visitors to BAO Soho consistently praise its authentic Taiwanese flavors and the warm, attentive service that makes every meal special. While the intimate setting means seating is limited and queues can form, this cozy environment enhances the overall charm. The blend of traditional dishes with inventive twists keeps locals and tourists returning for a unique culinary adventure in the heart of London's Soho.
Nestled in the heart of London's vibrant Soho district at 53 Lexington Street, BAO Soho has emerged as a celebrated destination for lovers of authentic Taiwanese-inspired cuisine. Originally launched in 2015 as a humble street food stall, BAO Soho quickly captured the imagination of food enthusiasts with its exquisite steamed milk buns and inventive dishes that blend tradition with modern flair. In just a year, the brand's popularity soared, leading to the establishment of its permanent venue in Soho in 2016, a move that cemented its reputation as a go-to spot for an intimate and flavorful dining experience.
BAO Soho's menu is a vibrant celebration of Taiwanese street food elevated to a gourmet level, offering an array of distinctive dishes that have become favorites among locals and visitors alike. The standout bao buns, notably the classic and fried chicken versions, are lauded for their authentic flavors and delicate preparation. Complementing these are inventive beverages like the lemonade topped with milk foam, which adds a unique twist to the dining experience. With a focus on quality and innovation, BAO Soho also caters to vegetarian palates, ensuring a diverse and satisfying menu for all guests.
The intimate, wood-furnished interior of BAO Soho creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements its culinary offerings. While the space is notably compact, this cozy setting fosters a warm ambiance that diners appreciate. Guests consistently praise the friendly and attentive staff, who enhance the overall experience with their welcoming service. Despite the limited seating and some minor inconveniences such as the placement of coat hooks, the restaurant remains a highly recommended spot for those seeking authentic Taiwanese flavors in a welcoming Soho environment.
- 2015 Opening - BAO Soho began its journey as a street food stall in the bustling streets of London, introducing authentic Taiwanese flavors to the city's vibrant food scene.
- 2016 Establishment - Following a surge in popularity, BAO Soho transitioned from a street food stall to a permanent restaurant venue, securing its place in Soho as a culinary landmark for Taiwanese-inspired cuisine.
Located at 53 Lexington Street in the vibrant Carnaby neighborhood of London, BAO Soho offers an intimate dining experience specializing in Taiwanese cuisine. Known for its steamed milk buns and inventive dishes, this restaurant has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. With a cozy atmosphere and attentive service, BAO Soho is perfect for those looking to indulge in authentic flavors.
- Authentic Taiwanese cuisine with a focus on quality ingredients.
- Vibrant atmosphere that enhances the dining experience.
- Private karaoke rooms available for a unique dining experience.
- Vegetarian and vegan options are available.
- Attentive and friendly service enhances the overall experience.
- Limited parking options nearby.
- Can be busy during peak hours, leading to longer wait times.
- Advance booking recommended for private karaoke rooms.
BAO Soho is perfect for food lovers seeking a unique dining experience, friends looking for a fun night out, and anyone wanting to celebrate special occasions with delicious food and private karaoke.
- Reservations are recommended, especially during weekends.
- Check for special events or promotions on their website.
- Be prepared for a lively atmosphere, especially during peak hours.
BAO Soho stands out as a delightful destination for those craving authentic Taiwanese flavors in a cozy setting. While the space may be limited, the quality of the food and the attentive service make it a worthwhile visit. Whether you're enjoying a casual meal or celebrating a special occasion, BAO Soho promises a memorable experience.
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Carnaby, London, BAO Soho offers an intimate dining experience that tantalizes with authentic Taiwanese flavors. This cozy spot on Lexington Street is famed for its inventive steamed milk buns and creative eats that transport your taste buds straight to Taiwan.
BAO Soho's menu is a celebration of authentic Taiwanese-inspired cuisine. Their signature steamed bao buns are irresistibly fluffy and filled with mouthwatering options like braised pork, confit pork, and crispy fried chicken, all priced around £5. These buns showcase the perfect balance of texture and flavor that has won over locals and visitors alike.
Small plates (Xiao Chi) offer a delightful variety of appetizers, including pig's blood cake with soy-cured egg, mapo aubergine served on fragrant Chi Shiang rice, and sweet potato chips paired with plum pickle ketchup—all priced at an approachable £5.
For those seeking a more substantial meal, the rice bowls are heartily satisfying. The guinea fowl Chi Shiang rice, crowned with a perfectly confit egg yolk, is a standout dish priced at £12, combining rich, smoky, and savory notes that linger delightfully.
End your meal on a sweet note with their unique desserts, such as the fried bao filled with Horlicks ice cream, a creative twist that combines crispy and creamy textures with nostalgic malt flavor—all for £5. To complement your food, enjoy their curated selection of cocktails, beer, and wine, perfect for an evening out in Soho.
The intimate wood-furnished interior of BAO Soho creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for food enthusiasts and digital nomads looking for a cozy yet stylish place to enjoy authentic Taiwanese cuisine. Though the space is small and can feel tight during peak hours, the friendly and attentive staff ensure a smooth and pleasant dining experience.
- What makes BAO Soho unique is its authentic Taiwanese bao buns that combine traditional flavors with modern twists in a cozy Carnaby setting.
- Is the menu vegetarian friendly ? Yes, BAO Soho offers delicious vegetarian options that highlight fresh flavors and inventive preparations.
- Can I make a reservation ? Yes, BAO Soho accepts reservations, which is recommended given its cozy size and popularity.
BAO Soho offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery options, catering to busy Londoners and visitors alike. They provide curbside pickup for added convenience. Payment methods include contactless NFC, debit, and credit cards, making transactions seamless. While parking is mostly paid nearby, the central Carnaby location is easily accessible via public transport.
