Bǎo Bāo Brings a Modern Twist to Singapore’s Heritage Baos at ION Orchard

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.