BAO Soho: Taiwanese Culinary Excellence in the Heart of London

Tucked away on Lexington Street in Soho, BAO Soho has established itself as a London culinary institution, earning the prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand for nine consecutive years. This intimate, wood-furnished space specializes in what many consider London's finest Taiwanese steamed buns, alongside an impressive array of inventive small plates.

Signature Dishes

The restaurant's Classic Bao with pork, crushed peanuts, fermented greens, and coriander has achieved cult status among London foodies. Other standout offerings include the Confit Pork Bao with its tender pork belly and the Taiwanese Fried Chicken that reviewers consistently praise for its perfect balance of crispiness and juiciness. More adventurous diners should try the Pig Blood Cake topped with a soy-cured egg yolk or the Trotter Nuggets with burnt chili sauce.

For dessert, the Fried Horlicks Ice Cream Bao offers a delightful sweet finale—malted ice cream sandwiched between fried bao dough.

Dining Experience

The restaurant's minimalist aesthetic creates a focused dining environment where the food takes center stage. While the space is cozy (some might say cramped), the quality of the cuisine more than compensates for the tight quarters.

BAO Soho operates a no-reservation policy for its Soho location, and queues are common—a testament to its enduring popularity. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner throughout the week, with extended hours on weekends.

With its commitment to authentic Taiwanese flavors, innovative preparations, and consistently high-quality execution, BAO Soho continues to be one of London's most distinctive and rewarding dining destinations.