Happy Friday! Today's plan was to embark on a Filipino Restaurant Month adventure, savouring the prix fixe menus at Plato Filipino and Pampanga's Cuisine. We arrived at Plato Filipino first, only to discover (to our disappointment!) that only their New Westminster location was participating. Undeterred, we headed next door to Pampanga's Cuisine, but alas, their Filipino Restaurant Month menu was no longer available after 12:00 p.m.
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| Bola-Bola Siopao from Bao Bakery |
While the evening's original plan fell through, it was a blessing in disguise. Joyce Street, where both restaurants are located, is home to my all-time favourite siopao vendor – Bao Bakery! Their legendary bola-bola siopao is, in my humble opinion, the absolute best in Vancouver.
For those unfamiliar with the wonders of siopao, it's a savoury Filipino baked bun with various fillings. Bao Bakery's version of the bola-bola and asado (pork) fillings instantly transport me back to the streets of Manila. Their fluffy buns and perfectly seasoned fillings evoke a sense of nostalgia similar to the Mini Stop convenience store siopao I enjoyed back in the day.
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| Asado Siopao from Bao Bakery |
While our Filipino Restaurant Month plans didn't quite go as expected, the unexpected detour to Bao Bakery was a delicious silver lining. It satisfied my craving for the best siopao in Vancouver and provided a delightful reminder of the joys of exploring and discovering new culinary gems. So next time you find yourself on Joyce Street, be sure to check out Bao Bakery – your taste buds will thank you!
