Secret Bao — Restaurant in Santa Barbara

Secret Bao in Santa Barbara offers a unique and exciting dining experience with a fusion of Asian flavors that can satisfy a variety of palates. During our visit, we had the opportunity to sample a diverse selection of dishes, including the Kfc and Pork Belly Bao's, dumplings, Wonton Tacos, Garlic Noodles, and Asian-inspired Paella. Here's a review of our experience:

Kfc and Pork Belly Bao's: The Kfc (Korean Fried Chicken) Bao was a delightful surprise, with perfectly crispy and flavorful chicken complemented by soft and pillowy bao buns. The Pork Belly Bao offered a rich and savory contrast, featuring tender pork belly that melted in your mouth. Both were exceptional and showcased the skillful execution of bao creations.

Dumplings: The dumplings were a standout with their delicate wrappers and flavorful fillings. The balance of textures and flavors was spot-on, making them a must-try for dumpling enthusiasts.

Hamachi wonton Tacos: These fusion tacos were a unique addition to the menu, offering a creative twist on traditional tacos. The crispy wonton shells paired well with the fillings, creating an interesting fusion of textures and flavors.

Garlic Noodles: The garlic noodles were aromatic and had a wonderful balance of garlic flavor without being overwhelming. They served as a great side dish to complement the other items on the menu.

Asian-inspired Paella: (secret menu) The Asian-inspired paella was a bold and creative offering, combining traditional paella elements with Asian ingredients and flavors. The dish was visually appealing and showcased the restaurant's commitment to innovation. In addition to the food, the ambiance and service at Secret Bao contribute to a pleasant dining experience. The restaurant's modern and inviting decor, along with attentive and friendly staff, create a welcoming atmosphere. Overall, Secret Bao in Santa Barbara offers a compelling culinary journey with its fusion of Asian flavors. The innovative menu items, such as the Kfc and Pork Belly Bao's and Asian-inspired Paella, showcase the restaurant's creativity and dedication to pushing culinary boundaries. Whether you're looking for traditional favorites or adventurous dishes, Secret Bao is worth a visit for an enjoyable...

The food was great. The service wasn't. When we walked in, we were told it would be a two hour wait for two people. We asked to sit at the bar and were seated immediately. The people that walked in right after us were told that it would only be an hour wait for two. It took about 30 minutes for the server to acknowledge us and we had to get his attention while he was walking by us. After we'd finally ordered, a couple came in after us and sat at the bar next to us. They were attended to quickly. When our food came out it was brought by a kitchen staff who took it to the couple that sat next to us and asked them if they ordered the dish. I immediately told him that it was ours. He looked at me, ignored me and waited for them to answer. I told him it was ours two more times before he gave us part of our order. But he waited on that couple to say if it was there's. They'd ordered some of the same things we did so he gave them the parts of our order that they ordered too, even though they came in some 15 minutes after we'd ordered. We informed the waiter and he said that they ordered them same thing, then came back and acknowledged that the kitchen staff person made a mistake when he realized that the rest of our food never came out. All we got was, "sorry". I couldn't help but notice the difference between how the white people that came in after us were treated and how we were treated. It made it difficult to enjoy the night. It's unfortunate because the food was really good. But we won't...

WOW wow wow! I have been wanting to come here since pre-pandemic and I finally found myself here after a Backpacking Baristas (@backpackingbaristas on IG) excursion at Rattlesnake. I honestly don't know why it has taken me so long to come. What I do know is that I cannot wait to go back!

I came here for lunch with a few friends. We arrived during a perfect window because there wasn't a line and we found outdoor seating. I ordered a few items to try and share: the K.F.C. bao bun, Soy chili dumplings, and the Bibimbap without added protein.

The first to come out was the bao bun and WOW! I don't do well with fried food but they cooked this fried chicken to perfection and I didn't feel sick afterwards! The bao bun itself was delicious -- the best I've had in a long time. Second were the dumplings and oh my goodness, that sauce was to die for. The dumplings were perfectly cooked -- not too soggy, not undercooked. Then came the entree, the bibimbap. It was so fresh, so perfectly cooked and paired, so good!!! Everything was fresh, made to order, and DELICIOUS!

My friends and I cannot stop thinking about everything we ordered. We've been wanting to go back but they've been closed the next two days following our introduction to Secret Bao. Looking forward to tomorrow when...