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# Wow Bao – Delicious Bao Buns and Asian Fusion Delights in Chicago
Wow Bao, located at 835 N Michigan Ave, Ground Level, Lobby Level, Chicago, is a vibrant restaurant specializing in bao buns and Asian fusion dishes. Established with a vision to bring quick, flavorful, and convenient dining options to the bustling city, Wow Bao has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike. The restaurant is known for its signature steamed buns, which are perfect for a quick bite while shopping or exploring the city. With a focus on community and convenience, Wow Bao has garnered attention for its unique offerings and fast service, making it a go-to destination for those craving a taste of Asian cuisine in a casual setting.

## History
### The story of Wow Bao
Wow Bao was founded with the intention of introducing authentic Asian flavors in a fast-casual format. The concept revolves around providing delicious, freshly steamed bao buns that can be enjoyed on-the-go. The restaurant's commitment to quality and convenience has helped it carve a niche in the competitive food scene of Chicago.

### Milestones and growth
- Established in Chicago, Wow Bao quickly gained popularity for its unique offerings.
- Expanded to various locations, including grocery stores, making its products widely accessible.
- Introduced self-ordering kiosks to enhance customer experience and streamline service.
- Gained recognition for its innovative flavors and quick service, appealing to a diverse clientele.

### Cultural and local influence
Wow Bao has played a significant role in popularizing bao buns in the Chicago area. By offering a fusion of traditional Asian flavors with modern dining convenience, it has introduced many to the joys of bao. The restaurant reflects the city's diverse culinary landscape, catering to both adventurous eaters and those seeking comfort food.

### Continuing the tradition
As Wow Bao continues to grow, it remains committed to its founding vision of providing quality food that is both accessible and delicious. The restaurant regularly updates its menu to include seasonal offerings and innovative flavors, ensuring that it stays relevant in the ever-evolving food scene.

## Community
### Community involvement
Wow Bao actively engages with the local community by participating in food festivals and events that celebrate diverse culinary traditions. The restaurant often collaborates with local businesses and organizations to promote cultural exchange and community spirit.

### Community notion about the place
The community views Wow Bao as a convenient and reliable option for quick meals. Many appreciate the restaurant's commitment to quality and its ability to cater to various dietary preferences. While some reviews highlight inconsistencies in food quality, the overall sentiment is positive, with many patrons enjoying the quick service and unique offerings.

### Events and gatherings
Wow Bao hosts various events throughout the year, including tasting events and promotions that encourage community involvement. These gatherings not only showcase the restaurant's diverse menu but also foster a sense of belonging among patrons, making it a beloved spot in the neighborhood.

## Offerings
### What Wow Bao offers
Wow Bao specializes in a variety of bao buns, rice bowls, and Asian-inspired dishes. The menu is designed to cater to a range of tastes, offering both savory and sweet options. The restaurant's focus on quick service and quality ingredients makes it a popular choice for those on the go.

### Dining and food experience
The dining experience at Wow Bao is casual and efficient. Customers can order from self-service kiosks, allowing for a quick and straightforward process. The menu features a selection of bao buns, including pork, chicken, and vegetarian options, as well as rice bowls and desserts. While some reviews mention inconsistencies in food quality, many patrons enjoy the convenience and flavors offered.

### Events and packages
Wow Bao occasionally offers special promotions and meal packages, particularly during holidays or local events. These packages often include a combination of bao, sides, and drinks, providing a great value for customers looking to try a variety of offerings.

### Facilities and features
- Self-ordering kiosks for quick service
- Casual dining atmosphere
- Takeout options for on-the-go meals
- Variety of bao flavors and Asian-inspired dishes
- Dessert options, including sweet bao

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of Wow Bao highlight a mix of experiences, with some customers praising the convenience and flavors, while others express disappointment in food quality. The restaurant's quick service is consistently noted, making it a popular choice for those seeking a fast meal.

### Compliments and strengths
Many patrons appreciate the unique flavors of the bao and the quick service provided by the self-ordering kiosks. The casual atmosphere allows for a relaxed dining experience, making it a great spot for a quick bite while shopping or exploring the area.

### Contrasts and notable mentions
While the bao buns receive positive feedback, some reviews indicate that other menu items, such as rice bowls, may not meet expectations. Customers have noted inconsistencies in portion sizes and flavor, particularly with certain dishes. However, the overall sentiment remains favorable, especially for the bao.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, Wow Bao offers a convenient and flavorful dining option in Chicago. While there are mixed reviews regarding certain menu items, the restaurant's commitment to quick service and unique bao flavors makes it a noteworthy destination for those looking to enjoy Asian cuisine in a casual setting.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
Wow Bao is situated in the heart of Chicago, specifically at 835 N Michigan Ave, Ground Level, Lobby Level. This prime location places it near popular attractions such as the Water Tower Place and the Magnificent Mile, making it an ideal stop for shoppers and tourists. The vibrant neighborhood is known for its diverse dining options and cultural landmarks, providing visitors with a rich urban experience.

## FAQs
**What are the hours of operation** Wow Bao typically operates from 10 AM to 9 PM daily.  
**Is there parking available nearby** Yes, there are several parking garages in the vicinity.  
**Can I order online** Yes, Wow Bao offers online ordering for pickup.  
**Are there vegetarian options available** Yes, the menu includes vegetarian bao and rice bowls.  
**Is Wow Bao kid-friendly** Yes, the casual dining atmosphere is suitable for families.  

## Visit Wow Bao Today
Experience the unique flavors of Wow Bao, where you can enjoy delicious bao buns and Asian fusion dishes in a casual setting. With a commitment to quality and convenience, Wow Bao has become a beloved spot in Chicago's dining scene. Whether you're shopping in the area or just looking for a quick bite, Wow Bao offers a variety of options that cater to all tastes. Don't miss out on this culinary gem in the heart of the city!

226fdae8-667a-44fe-899c-a3323f34e073

First there is no place to sit. They told us there were tables upstairs, which there are, but in another restaurant. The food was subpar. It is heated up garbage. I paid extra for the famous fried rice, worst fried rice i have ever tried to eat. I threw it out and count my $70 i spent on 4 people as a loss. The only edible thing we got were the dessert bao.

aa3748b2-dea6-4ee1-9cb2-a016995635fb

The pork bao is good. The bread is nicely steamed and fluffy. It's too small for over $3. I got the kung pao chicken rice bowl and upgraded to fried rice. Not much meat for $16, and it wasn't very good. The fried rice was just ok. Just come for the bao. Skip the rice bowls.

4c460d93-0379-4c5d-b672-613935a6e8a4

Did not enjoy this food at all. Bao appeared and tasted "old". Filling was mushy and flavorless. As for the Kung Poa, don't even know how to describe the flavor BUT it was not Kung Pao. May have also been that the portion was so minimal that I literally had to search for it. Total cost with tax of $16 I would have expected more than 2 tablespoon of Kung Pao on top of about 2 cups of rice. Only thing positive was the easy ordering from the kiosk. Will not be back.

b47e9fcd-5bfa-40d6-b388-c8db74ec57ba

Yes, this is a chain and you can even find them in groceries store all over the place. But anytime we walk by, I can't resist the urge to order a couple Baos from the kiosk. They just grab them from the bin, and you're on your way, within a few minutes. For the drive home, I ordered a box of 6 for us to enjoy and they were great as always. My only complaint is that a lot of them seemed to be sold out. The staff isn't overly friendly but you don't have much interaction with them if you use the kiosk. Quick, convenient, reasonably priced, and delicious.

87005d0c-4f24-4c8a-bbe0-cebf4477f057

Stop by here because I was stuck in a torrential downpour. I needed a place to grab a quick bite. I tried ordering from the kiosk that did not work, so had to order from the main cashier desk. I got the spicy Mongolian beef bao and the Thai chicken, curry bao. As others have stated, it's definitely not the best bao I've ever had, nor is it very authentic. But it hits the spot when you need something quick the ambience is casual.

c85731f4-0c80-4849-8954-1141162fe899

The quality of the food has gone way bad. Do not eat here. Nothing tasted good here It is not even the same BAO anymore

7b955af5-7fe0-4810-93c7-8aba634d90cd

Tried the whole wheat vegetable bao and as someone who loves bao, I was not a fan of this at all. In my opinion, it was not tasty. The service was fast though! Gave it another try since I've heard good things but was still underwhelmed.

9fd7bcff-643b-4168-96db-43082a892363

Bao may not have been WOW but, it sure hit the spot and was easy to munch on while shopping in water tower. I was familiar with Wow Bao since they are now sold at grocery stores and I was surprised when I walked by a flagship location. Since, I didn't have time on this trip to eat at the actual restaurant I decided some quick baos would have to do. Are these the best bao buns I've tasted? Hardly. However, the flavors are fun and they make a fantastic quick handheld snack. I picked up a two pack for under $7 and went with a more classic Mongolian beef filled bun (spicy pork was sold out) and then got a tad adventurous and got a pizza bao (I had never seen this flavor anywhere before). Between the two the spicy beef was by far tastier. The pizza bao needed some more pizzazz, it had all the right notes to make it pizza but needed more basil, mozzarella and overall robust flavor. All in all, it was just alright. Worth mentioning though that they had several sweet custard baos as well so, if savory isn't your thing don't fret. Next time I will try the cocunut custard one (though that may be in another year).

95d7d4ae-251c-4a3b-9ad1-04c3bb3df58d

I was so happy to see a wow bao the minute we walked into Water Tower Place. Bao buns are always a great grab and go after a long day of walking and shopping. My favorite is the chicken teriyaki! They have a self ordering kiosk as soon as you walk in and the food is ready in no time.

f4160f37-86b7-4b59-9d13-27097baf180f

Let's be realistic Bao is steamed fresh so they take a little bit of time. Be patient it can be between 5-15 minutes before you get your order depending on how busy they are . My review is strictly on the Bao. You order at the kiosk and wait for your order. The guys behind the counter are hard at work rotating the bamboo steamer baskets on a non stop rotation. We ordered the BBQ Pork and the teriyaki chicken. Both were great. Fun little snack to walk around while shopping.

Discover Wow Bao at 835 N Michigan Ave, Chicago—delight in flavorful Asian-inspired dishes in a prime location. Visit now for a memorable dining experience.

Wow Bao Restaurant in Chicago - Best Local Asian Cuisine

Chicago

Wow Bao

Illinois

Discover Wow Bao at 835 N Michigan Ave, Chicago. Enjoy tasty Asian dishes, quick service, and a vibrant atmosphere near Magnificent Mile. Visit today!

Wow Bao in Chicago - Delicious Asian Cuisine & Quick Bites

Learn about Wow Bao at 835 N Michigan Ave, Chicago. Experience authentic Asian flavors, fast service, and a friendly atmosphere near downtown Chicago.

About Wow Bao, Chicago - Authentic Asian Flavors & Fast Service

Opening hours for Wow Bao, Chicago. Find opening hours for Wow Bao, 835 N Michigan Ave, Chicago on 835 N Michigan Ave, Ground Level, Lobby Level.

Wow Bao Menu Overview

Signature Dishes

Beverages and Pairings

Dietary Options

Chef Recommendations

Experience the Menu at Wow Bao

Osteria Del Pastaio

Pollo Campero

The Lobby