Opening its doors to the public on Pakington Street, Bao Place Geelong brings something new to the table for the foodies of Geelong.
Embracing the traditional Taiwanese street food style, Gua Bao, celebrated local chef Kyle Wang (of Sumi, previously Vue Grand), has opened a new venue devoted to these fluffy parcels of goodness in Geelong’s centre of cosmopolitan lifestyle and multiculturalism.
Opening back in January, Bao Place Geelong is a stunning modern restaurant, severing traditional and modern style Gua Bao with Asian twists, with everything cooked fresh to order, using premium ingredients.
Taking over 197 Pakington Street, previously occupied by Bob Sang Authentic Korean Restaurant, Bao Place will offer both dine-in and takeaway Asian infusion options, promising to become the go-to place when the craving for bao kicks in, which is about as often as we’re breathing.
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Having already taken the Geelong culinary scene by storm with Asian barbecue restaurant Sumi, one of the most indulgent places to go for a very unique cultural experience, this venture is another avenue for Wang to offer the region something completely new. Renowned for creating flavoursome dishes and merging Asian culture with local produce, Wang’s uses over 14 years of experience in hotels and restaurants alike across Australia and abroad to deliver the best dishes you’ll ever have. Here, his take on the mitt-like fold of fluffy steamed bread is the utmost indulgence we didn’t know we needed until now.
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As for the menu, well it’s a powerhouse of flavour packed hand-made dishes.
You’ll find a vibrant offering of Xiaochi, meaning “little eats” a.k.a. street food, on the menu, including edamame, crispy Tamarind Aussie school prawns, crispy miso lamb ribs, Korean fried cauliflower, Teriyaki cuttlefish and veg dumplings.
Offering steamed buns of all flavours and fillings, the hero is of course the slightly fancier gua bao, a Taiwanese version of the snack that is basically a small steamed burger. You’ll find braised pork belly, panko zucchini, pull lamb, Gochujang chicken, tempura prawn and honey duck, alongside all the delicious extra trimmings, all for just $7-$8 each.
Another intriguing addition is the selection of bao-gers—which are kind of like the lovechild of a burger and the Gua Bao. Flavours here include beef brisket with roquette, fried shallot, cucumber, kimchi and honey mustard; Ling with cos, tartare and cheddar; and chicken with hot sauce, slaw and cheddar.
The best part is these meals are healthy and there are several choices for vegetarians, vegans and the gluten-intolerant (sorry not the bao just yet). Side dishes also include potato fries, sweet potato fries, char siu pork baozi, plus more.
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To drink there’s a wine list, spirits, non-alcoholic options and a number of beers, including a selection from MoonDog Brewing.
With a fit-out of blond timber, luxurious pendant lighting, blue neon, and emerald green banquettes, Bao Place emulates that same desirable minimalist feel that we’ve come to love from Sumi over the past few years.
While takeaway is certainly an option, this is a place made for those who want to settle in and stay awhile.
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Bao Place Geelong is located at 197 Pakington Street, Geelong West. Find out more here. Bookings can be made on 0435 042 239.
