Barobao is a quaint little Asian-themed restaurant at Hornsgatan 66 in the Sodermalm borough of Stockholm. Its name refers to the Chinese ‘bao,’ a round, steamed, filled bun or large dumpling that serves as a complete meal and which is the venue’s specialty.
The cozy spot surrounds itself in mystery and quirkiness. A visit to its website reveals very little about the space other than to say ‘there are no words’ to describe it. And even its menus contain very little text, instead choosing to transmit its offerings through simple illustrations, and asking patrons to point to what they want.
Barobao serves lunch weekdays from 11:30-14:00 or until they are sold out. The menu includes both meat and vegetarian baos, as well as one that is 50/50, all for 100kr, and a daily bowl of fish or greens, both with egg, for 120kr. All dishes are served with vegetable rice and salad.
Dinner is where things get rather eclectic at Barobao. Diners can choose from baos filled with traditional pork belly or beef, or vegetarian options of celeriac and roasted pumpkin. There are also main dishes, including salmon tataki, steak tartare, baked and fermented cabbage, and scallops. Prices are reasonable, ranging from around 40kr to about 90kr, and beverages include coffee and teas, soft drinks, beer, sake, sparkling drinks, and a variety of cocktails.
Barobao accepts reservations through their website and they also do catering, but they are a walk in venue. So if you’re up for some quirky fun with your meal, stop on by!