The ever changing City of Portsmouth has welcomed a new addition to its food scene. Bao 155 opened Sunday, March 3 by the owners of sister restaurant, Bamee, which is located in Durham. With a downtown location at 155 Congress St, Bao 155 is Portsmouth’s first restaurant that offers bao. Bao is a soft and fluffy dough filled with various fillings that originated from Chinese cuisines. 

Immediately upon entering, I noticed the welcoming mood of the restaurant. The decor is almost all wood, giving it a homey and sociable atmosphere. Filled with plants and soft lighting, Bao 155 is clean and cozy. 

The ordering experience was quick and straightforward, as the restaurant features an over-the-head menu that is easy to read and understand, and you order from one of the smiling workers at the counter. 

Bao 155 offers a variety of options on their menu, including bao sandwiches, steamed stuffed buns, bowls, salads, and finger food. Even better, they are sold at a great price, which ranges from $4-$18. After ordering it is relatively easy to find a seat amongst their two different seating areas with options between stools and benches. 

After a mere fifteen minute wait, I was brought my food, fresh and warm from the kitchen. I decided to order two of their bao sandwiches and a steamed stuffed bun. 

The first one I tried was the sweet chili sesame chicken sandwich. At first bite I was instantly impressed. The sweet, sticky, and crispy chicken paired perfectly with the fresh cucumbers and red onions. And the warm fluffy bun just made the sandwich all the more delicious. 

The next one was the braised pork belly sandwich. Again the mouthwatering bun adds a unique experience to what might be a basic sandwich at other restaurants. This sandwich included pickled red onion, sour pickled mustard green, cilantro, and peanut along with the pork. The flavors pair excellently together with the perfect mix of sweet and sour. In addition, it was warm and saucy making it flavorful and delectable.

Lastly, I couldn’t leave the restaurant without trying the stuffed bao. The large bun looks similar to a dumpling, just with a thicker and cushiony dough. I decided on the BBQ pork filling, and was instantly pleased with my choice. The gooey pork sent a delicious sensation of flavors into my mouth. The pork and onions inside were finely cut, offering a perfect texture to the bun.

My experience at Bao 155 was more than impressive and will definitely be one of my new go to restaurants in downtown Portsmouth. Offering flavorsome food, a new style cuisine, and a cute ambiance, Bao 155 is the perfect new addition to the bustling town of Portsmouth. 

For more information visit their website.