Soft, pillowy steamed buns filled with braised char siu pork (also called BBQ pork). The filling is glossy, slightly sweet, and tender. These are what define the Bao Family's identity. Reviewers return specifically for these.
Tips from diners
Get a few. The bun is soft and the filling is properly braised. Eat them hot—they're meant to be warm.
A signature vegetable dish. Eggplant is braised in a rich, slightly sweet soy sauce until it absorbs all the flavor and becomes silky. It's proof that vegetable dishes can be as memorable as meat.
Tips from diners
Don't skip this just because it's eggplant. The braising is done right—the texture is silky, not mushy.
Delicate dumplings made from minced farmhouse pork, steamed until light and tender. The name comes from their size—they're substantial, with clear pork flavor and no filler taste. Often topped with a single pea.
Tips from diners
These are delicate and pork-forward. The fact that they use farmhouse pork shows in the flavor.
The restaurant's signature dish. A half duck (about €30) arrives with crispy, deep mahogany skin, served alongside thin pancakes, scallions, and plum sauce. You assemble your own wraps. The skin is the prize—rendered until it crackles against your teeth.
Tips from diners
The half duck is meant for one person. The skin is properly crisped—that's how you know it's done right.
A humble-looking but satisfying rice bowl. Soft pork braised in soy sauce sits atop fluffy rice, finished with a jammy marinated egg. This is comfort food that feels refined because every component is done well.
Tips from diners
This is underrated value. For €6, you get protein, rice, and egg. The braising smells incredible.
Gros Bao is the big-format restaurant from the Bao Family, situated on Quai de Jemmapes overlooking the Canal Saint-Martin. Everything is homemade. The 350m² space includes a dining room and a balcony with water views. It's casual, fast-moving, no reservations, and unapologetically Chinese.
No reservations accepted. It's first-come, first-served. Arrive before noon or after 2pm for lunch to avoid queues. Dinner lines can stretch during peak hours.
The balcony overlooks the Canal Saint-Martin. Request it when you order—it's the best seats. Especially lovely in good weather.
Staff speak English and are friendly. It's a casual canteen vibe, not formal service. Order at the counter and they'll bring it to your table.
Takeaway and click & collect options available if you want to eat by the canal instead of inside.
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