Bao Makers Singapore - Must-Try Chili Crab & Salmon Mentaiko

For nearly a decade, Bao Makers has been quietly revolutionizing Singapore's culinary landscape, transforming the humble Chinese bao into a canvas for local and international flavors. Since opening in 2015, this pioneering concept store has grown from a delivery-only business to multiple beloved locations across the island.

Story Behind the Buns

Bao Makers was established in 2015 with a vision to reimagine traditional flavors and culinary techniques, infusing them with creativity and innovation. The concept was inspired by restaurant owner Su Yi's visit to BAO in London and her childhood memories of traditional kong bak bao. What started as occasional pop-ups at food festivals has evolved into 9 remarkable years as the heart and soul of Singapore's culinary scene.

Locations & Ambience

Jiak Chuan Road (Main Location): Located in a century-old Peranakan house in Chinatown, the restaurant features a beautiful facade of floral tiles that creates the perfect setting for romantic dates and special occasions. With a retro exterior and cool minimalist vibe, Bao Makers is tastefully decorated and conveniently located between Tanjong Pagar and Chinatown MRT Stations.

Far East Square: This location mainly focuses on takeaways, though lucky diners can snag a table outside the store for a "dine-in" experience.

Must-Try Signature Baos

Chili Crab Bao ($5.80++)

The restaurant's signature dish features crab meat chunks mixed with chili crab sauce, sandwiched between a crisply fried mantou. The sauce has just the right amount of tanginess, while the crab meat is cooked well without being too dry. One reviewer noted it's "one of my favorites in the restaurant with sweet and tomato-ist flavor added little spicy touch to make taste bold".

Salmon Mentaiko Bao ($5.80++)

This bold creation features generous lashings of mentaiko sauce slathered on deep-fried salmon and sliced cheese, then sandwiched between a fluffy white bao. The creamy mentaiko sauce pairs well with the crispy salmon, giving plenty of oomph in every bite.

Belly of Pork Bao ($4)

A succulent braised pork belly with fried garlic and lettuce nestled within a fluffy steamed white bun. This dish pays homage to the traditional kong bak bao that inspired the restaurant's creation.

Other Notable Options

• Salted Egg Chicken Bao ($5.80++)

• Chipotle Beef Bao ($4.50) - A breaded beef patty with crisp exterior and tender meat with chipotle mayo

• Veggie Bao ($4.50++) - Fried mixed veggies tucked into a steamed white bun

Beyond Baos: Complete Menu Experience

While both day and night menus feature signature buns, the lunch menu offers Japanese rice bowls for a quick meal. The dinner menu, inspired by tapas restaurants, features sharing dishes such as Sushi Rolls (from $16.80++), Kecap Manis Chicken ($8.80++), and Beef Steak Teppanyaki ($16.80++).

Value for Money

The $12 combo is highly recommended, where diners can choose between three baos, or one bao and a bowl of noodles, both options complete with a side of crispy lotus root chips made with chilli powder for a satisfying kick.

Essential Info

• Average Price: $12-20 per person

• Main Location: 4 Jiak Chuan Road, Singapore (near Keong Saik Road)

• Operating Hours: Monday - Friday: 11am - 3pm (Closed weekends)

• Signature Dish: Chili Crab Bao ($5.80++)

• Best For: Fusion food lovers, casual dining, takeaway

• Services: Catering for events, takeout and delivery available

• Pro Tip: Private events are hosted from time to time, so call ahead!

Final Verdict

Bao Makers has successfully carved out a unique niche in Singapore's competitive food scene by honoring tradition while embracing innovation. As "the first Bao concept store in Singapore to introduce traditional Chinese buns filled with local and international flavours", they've created something truly special.

Whether you're craving a taste of local heritage through their chili crab bao or seeking comfort in their traditional pork belly offerings, Bao Makers delivers a memorable dining experience that justifies their reputation as pioneers of the fusion bao revolution.