Another little spot in Auburn that has been making big waves is The Irritable Bao. This small eatery fills the the downtown sidewalk with a queue every time they open, and for a good reason. With classic flavors such as pork and cabbage to creative fusion flavors like a cheeseburger bao, this restaurant has something for everyone. They serve not only baos, but also rice and chicken boxes, and finger licking street food. I waited in a socially distanced line down the sidewalk, but was inside and ordering within a matter of minutes. I ordered the classic pork and cabbage bao, Nashville hot chicken bun, and bacon, egg, and cheese fried dumplings. The cheeseburger bao and cookie dough egg rolls were sold out unfortunately, but I will definitely be back to try them in the future. The pork and cabbage bao had a steaming fluffy dough surrounding a saucy pork and cabbage filling. It was like biting into the small, pillowy center of bread that springs back with its balanced density. Dipping the bao in the spicy, garlic, soy sauce gives it an extra kick of spice and salt that fills your mouth with umami flavor. The Nashville chicken bun had the same soft dough as the bao but in a classic bun shape and was wrapped around an incredibly tasty and spicy chicken tender that lit up my mouth with loads of flavor. The spiciness is quickly cooled with the coleslaw and pickle, and you are going in for another bite before you know it. It was a touch on the salty side, but not too salty. The bacon, egg and cheese fried dumplings were super crunchy and delicious without being greasy. The filling had a great ratio of bacon, egg, and cheese allowing you to taste each ingredient and not be overwhelmed by any one in particular. The spicy pepper jelly that comes with these fried dumplings gives it a nice kick to intensify your bite. I really enjoyed my time at The Irritable Bao and will be back to try more of their creations. The Image above is of the pork and cabbage boa. Unfortunately, I was unable to take a picture of the bun or the dumplings, but I will add them in the future. I give my meal a Fatty Acid Score of an 8.2 because it was delicious and satisfying but the Nashville bun was just a tad salty for me. The Irritable Bao has special hours and a menu that change daily, so give them a follow on instagram @dumpslikeatruck_irritablebao to stay in the loop. The staff is super friendly and the owner is always there keeping you company while you wait in the queue. Be sure to let him know that its your first time too. Located in downtown Auburn on Magnolia next to Moe’s BBQ this local Auburn eatery needs to always be your radar.
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