My friend came to stay with me after spending two years in India. I wanted to take her out for food. Somewhere local. Interesting. Unique. After filling her up on Britain’s finest pub grub and pies, it was time for something more exciting. That is when multiple memories of friends and family recommending Mr. Bao came to mind.
This small restaurant located on Rye Lane offers a fresh take on Taiwanese food. The interior of the restaurant transports you to Taiwan with its simple wooden tables, inspiring artwork, and warm lighting. The relaxed atmosphere allows you to find comfort from the hustle and bustle of Peckham High Street.
The friendly staff welcome you in for an informal experience that will leave you satisfied while wanting more. Once you’ve got yourself a table, they’ll bring over concise, colourful, paper menus that have a tickbox to select your meal of the night. Time for food and drinks!
We were shown the seasonal special board, which had a smoky whisky cocktail for £8.80. I ordered that while my friend went ahead with a Plum Wine Negroni for £8.40. Safe to say we both loved our cocktails.
With our tummies filled with desire, we moved on to food.
We went for:
1 Fried chicken, smoky miso mayo – £6.30
1 Sticky corn BBQ ribs – £5.80
1 of the specials board: Black bean and pumpkin – £5.90
1 Shitrake mushroom bao – £5.10
1 Crispy tofu bao – £4.90
1 Beef brisket bao – £5.10
1 Bao diddly, Chicken – £5.20
Enjoying our cocktails, we were surprised by the speed at which the food came. And it wasn’t just quick. It tasted fabulous. An array of flavours explodes in our mouths. Varying textures from crunchy chicken to stringy mushrooms make us say “Mmmmmmmm”. Sourcing locally where possible and using fresh ingredients, you’ll leave wishing you could eat there all the time. Truly delicious.
Before the service charge, our meal came to £55.50 making it £27.50 each. For what is basically a starter, main and cocktail I’d say this is fairly reasonable for London.
They make sure to keep their prices affordable, welcoming in anyone from foodies to families to hot dates. The informal and cosy restaurant really is a part of the neighbourhood, greeting anyone who comes through the door with a booking or as a walk-in. The affordable prices combined with an accessible menu make this restaurant a great choice for a meal in Taiwan when you’ve finished your day in Peckham!
Freya Watts
Address: 293-295 Rye Ln, London SE15 4UA