Ba'Nk Bao

What is Ba'Nk Bao? Anchoring a vibrant stretch of Spadina Avenue along the border of Chinatown and Kensington Market, Ba'Nk Bao is a compact fast-casual counter launched by restaurateur Josie Nguyen alongside partners Harry Ngo and Long Nguyen. The sleek, minimalist space focuses on handmade steamed gua bao and crusty banh mi, pairing bright modern lighting with high-top stool seating and quick-turnaround dine-in counters.

Ba'Nk Bao Menu & What to Order Every bun is made fresh in-house daily, yielding a pillowy base for fillings like the standout 5 Spice Bao loaded with slow-braised pork belly, garlic mayo, and pickled daikon. The BB Fried Chicken Bao and the Vina Chicken Bao—tossed in a citrusy secret glaze inspired by Vietnamese nước chấm—bring irresistible crunch and punchy acidity. Vegans can turn to the crispy tofu bao, while sides like duck poutine and drinks like iced Vietnamese lime tea or peach green tea round out the feast.

Know Before You Go This is a casual walk-in joint with no reservations, making it a reliable bet for a speedy solo meal or takeout, though the counter gets packed during peak lunch and dinner hours. Take the 510 Spadina streetcar directly to the shop's doorstep, as street parking along Spadina Avenue is tightly restricted. The kitchen serves daily starting at 11:00 a.m. (11:30 a.m. on Sundays) until 9:00 p.m. or later on weekends.