Bao Bei · Restaurant · Vancouver
The Chinatown brasserie that rewrote modern Chinese cooking in Vancouver.
Bao Bei is the Chinatown brasserie that reset what modern Chinese cooking looks like in Vancouver, tucked into the edge of the old neighborhood. It carries a Michelin Guide listing for Vancouver and has become one of the city's defining rooms for a lively, share-everything dinner with a good cocktail in hand.
Open since 2010, Bao Bei made its name as a self-described Chinese brasserie: moody lighting, tin ceilings, and a small dining room that hums with energy from the moment the doors open. Chef Joel Watanabe cooks with a playful, creative streak, taking classic Chinese ideas and running with top-tier ingredients and modern technique.
The dishes to know right now are the kick ass house fried rice, made oyakodon style with chicken thigh and crispy chicken skin; the mantou buns filled with braised beef shank, lime leaf, and pickled shallot; and the handmade dumplings and potstickers. The format is small plates meant to be shared, so build a spread across the table and let the seasonal specials and drinks list pull the meal forward.
Bao Bei is small and stays busy, so early or mid-evening on a weeknight is the smoothest way in. Book several days to a week ahead for a weekend seat, and note that the room fills quickly the moment reservations open, so set a reminder for when tables are released. Larger groups should plan further out, since there are not many big tables. Dress is relaxed and stylish, casual-cool without a jacket. Book direct on Tock.
Address: 163 Keefer St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1X3, Vancouver
Bao Bei takes reservations through Tock. This MyRSVP guide covers the room, what it is known for and when to go in Vancouver; use the booking link on this page to reserve direct.
Hours of operation
- Monday: 17:30 - 22:00
- Tuesday: 17:30 - 22:00
- Wednesday: 17:30 - 22:00
- Thursday: 17:30 - 22:00
- Friday: 17:30 - 00:00
- Saturday: 17:30 - 00:00
- Sunday: 17:30 - 22:00
Frequently asked about Bao Bei
How do I get a reservation at Bao Bei in Vancouver?
Tables at Bao Bei are booked directly with the restaurant. If it is part of a bigger Vancouver plan, our Vancouver partner handles the nightlife around your dinner and can point you to the venue's own reservations channel.
What should I order at Bao Bei?
Bao Bei is best known for its signature dishes and shareable plates. Tell MyRSVP your party size and any dietary needs and we note them with your request.
What is the dress code at Bao Bei?
Bao Bei keeps an upscale dining dress code: smart, dressed-up attire, no athletic wear or beachwear. MyRSVP confirms any current door specifics with your booking.
Where is Bao Bei located?
Bao Bei is in Vancouver, at 163 Keefer St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1X3. MyRSVP can build it into a full Vancouver itinerary alongside the surrounding nightlife.
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