Bao Today

Bao Today (包今天), an irreverent homographic pun on China's most famous judicial officer during the Song Dynasty does not dish out justice of any kind, rather it attends to folks in need of a dim sum fix courtesy of the traditional savoury Chinese buns, dumplings and rolls meticulously kneaded and steamed/fried in the kitchen. First established in 2005, Bao Today presently reaches out to hungry patrons in two centrally located cafés (a third at Hotel Rendezvous closed down last year). Its menu also features a variety of noodle and porridge items which cater to those desiring a more filling affair.

What knocked our socks off:

The pan-fried carrot cake strips served piping hot were crispy on the exterior, and plump full of radish goodness on the inside. We couldn't stop at a single plate, you probably can't either. The ding ding noodles provided the perfect excuse for one to slurp away - the exceedingly springy strands were tossed in a chili-based sauce with plenty of shrimp bits thrown in, these being complemented by a braised egg and chunk of luncheon meat. An XO version of the dish can also be ordered at its 313@Somerset outlet.

Pan-Fried Carrot Cake Strips ($4 for 5 pieces)

Ding Ding Noodles ($4.80)

What didn't work out:

We shall say it straight: the sliced fish congee SUCKED. Tasted absolutely bland, not to mention it was also lacking in the provision of both fish slices and condiments - just a mere thin melted film of yellow goo (presumably some cracker of sorts) surfaced upon sifting through the porridge. The red milk tea portrayed in an ultra slender flask was a visually appealing concoction, however it wasn't the least bit sensational in the flavour department .

Sliced Fish Congee ($6.80)

Red Milk Tea ($3.80)

Other items sampled but turned out to be non-events:

Glutinous Rice In Lotus Leaf ($3.00)

Note: Prices subject to change without prior notice. Kindly clarify with restaurant before visiting or ordering.


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Score: 5.8/10

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Editor's Note: Two other outlets subsequently opened; all four, though, have since shuttered.

Locations

313@Somerset Marina Square NEX HDB Hub
313 Orchard Road, 6 Raffles Boulevard, 23 Serangoon Central, 498 Lorong 6 Toa Payoh,
#01-25B #02-234/235/236 #03-17 #01-17
Singapore 238895 Singapore 039594 Singapore 556083 Singapore 310490