Wanna Bao (Take 2)
I couldn’t stop thinking about their scallion pancakes so I made another visit to Wanna Bao — this time in the evening right as they were opening up for business. Since I had multiple dining companions with me, I was able to order and sample more items off their menu.
The pancakes were on point and will be a staple order whenever I dine here. Unlike the previous dining experience, the shrimp soup dumplings arrived within 10 minutes of ordering. They were flavorful, but comparable soup dumplings CAN be found in Bellaire. I do, however, like the option of having authentic tasting dumplings near work.
The Jasmine Tea Smoked Duck was pricey ($24) for the amount served, but unlike other Asian restaurants within the Loop that offer duck on their menu, it was incredibly fresh and tender. Nothing is worse than stale duck that’s been sitting around in the kitchen for who knows how long, so it will be interesting to see if that freshness still holds several months down the line after the novelty of a new restaurant opening wears off.
While not extraordinary, the Salt and Pepper Calamari did have a nice subtle sweet flavor.
The only dish I didn’t care for was the Chinese Pork Belly Burger. The meat was tough (not something I’d expect from Pork Belly) and the flavor combination with the chestnuts was just not something I enjoyed at all.
Overall, I enjoyed my dinner and could easily see this as a quick go to place when I’m in the mood for dumplings but don’t want to drive out to Bellaire.
Note that paying in cash will give the diner an 8% discount.
Attire: Casual
Family Friendly: Yes
Price Range: $$$ ($13-60)
2708 Bagby St
Houston, TX 77006
(832) 623-7265