Pang Gek Teng, the visionary behind Surrey Hills Grocer, is redefining Singapore’s bao culture with the launch of Bǎo Bāo (宝包)—a contemporary bao haven nestled in ION Orchard, #B4-34. Inspired by tradition yet infused with modern creativity, Bǎo Bāo offers handcrafted buns that honor heritage while embracing fresh, innovative flavors.
A Tribute to Tradition
Bǎo Bāo’s journey began with the story of a retiring local bao maker with nearly 50 years of experience. Determined to preserve this craft, Gek and her team meticulously perfected their bao-making technique, using a 20-year-old natural yeast starter and a 12 to 14-hour fermentation process. The result? A soft, springy bao with the perfect balance of texture and flavor.
Signature Dessert Baos – Available from February 8, 2025
Bǎo Bāo’s Signature Range reimagines the traditional bao as a dessert delight:
- Orh Nee Bao ($1.60) – A smooth, creamy yam filling with fragrant shallot oil for an elevated local classic.
- Azuki Red Bean Mochi Bao ($1.60) – A harmonious blend of pandan-infused azuki red bean paste and chewy mochi, celebrating the essence of Asian sweets.
- French Chocolate Lava Bao ($2.00) – A molten indulgence featuring 66% cocoa Chocolaterie de l’Opéra chocolate wrapped in a pillowy bao.
More inventive flavors will be unveiled in the coming weeks.
Classic Baos – Now Available
For those craving familiar flavors, Bǎo Bāo’s Classic Range offers time-honored favorites:
- Big Pork Bao ($2.90) – Juicy pork marinated with ginger juice and spring onion, delivering a rich, savory bite.
- Black Pepper Chicken Bao ($2.90) – Tender chicken infused with a bold black pepper sauce for a satisfying kick.
- Braised Pork Belly Bao ($2.90) – Slow-cooked for 24 hours in dark soy sauce, offering melt-in-your-mouth indulgence.
- Roasted Char Siew Bao ($1.50) – Expertly roasted pork with a caramelized finish, enhanced by a deep smoky aroma.
To complement the baos, the menu also features classic dim sum staples like Siew Mai ($1.20/pc), Chicken Glutinous Rice ($4.80), and Fan Choy ($4.80).
An Immersive Culinary Experience
Bǎo Bāo is more than just a bao shop—it’s an experience. Designed to resemble a vintage Singaporean shophouse with modern touches, the store evokes nostalgia while inviting new culinary adventures. Its open kitchen allows customers to watch the bao-making process, offering a sensory connection to the craftsmanship behind each bun.
Bǎo Bāo Charity Sale Event – February 8, 2025
To mark its grand opening, Bǎo Bāo is hosting a Charity Sale Event on February 8, 2025, from 4 – 6 PM, featuring celebrities Ya Hui and Chen Liping as guest store managers. 100% of proceeds from this event will be donated to Arc Children’s Centre, supporting children battling cancer and critical illnesses.
The first 100 customers who purchase any bao will receive a complimentary autographed tote bag, available while stocks last.
Come for the baos, stay for the experience, and make a difference.
Bǎo Bāo is located at ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn, #B4-34, Singapore 238801, and is open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM.
