Bao'd up Brings Asian Comfort Food to Jarrell

by Charlotte Kovalchuk

A pillowy, steamed bao bun may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of breakfast, but all across Asia, it’s just as beloved and essential as tacos in Mexico or pancakes in America. Traditionally eaten in the morning thanks to their convenience and portability, these fluffy, bun-shaped dumplings are a staple comfort food in countries like China, Japan, and Korea. And now, thanks to the newest Bao’d Up location, this warm comfort food is being served all day, right in the heart of the Jarrell community.

SPICING UP JARRELL’S FOOD SCENE

Co-founded by engineer-turned-restaurateur Alex Wu and his entrepreneur friend Ting Lin, Bao’d Up blends traditional Asian comfort food with a fast-casual, family friendly format. Alex, who moved from China to the United States to study electrical engineering, never expected to end up in the food business. But after partnering up with Ting since 2016, he found himself increasingly drawn to the idea of scaling up a food concept rooted in quality and tradition. Alex and Ting opened the first Bao’d Up in Austin and expanded the restaurant brand to several more locations in the area. Since 2020, they have also used a state-of-the-art production line to make their baos, ensuring the same fresh, high-quality results in every bite, every time.

A search for a dedicated food production facility brought the duo to Jarrell in 2024. Located on Town Center Boulevard just east of City Hall, the space turned out to be the perfect fit—not only as a production kitchen but a restaurant as well. Noticing Jarrell’s food scene was missing a variety of dining options, Alex saw an opportunity to bring something new and healthy to the table. With a kitchen already in place from a previous restaurant owner and the growing need for diverse dining in the area, Alex added a walk-up window and drive-through in mid-June.

“Originally, we just wanted to open a food production facility,” Alex says. “But I saw how many people are here and are coming here. There are a lot of families here, but very limited food options. I didn’t really see Asian cuisine, in particular, being offered within 15 to 20 miles.”

TRADITION WITH A TEXAS TWIST

Bao’d Up’s menu strikes the perfect balance between authentic flavors and local flair, offering a tempting variety of bao buns. Guests can enjoy savory options filled with flavorful meats and fresh vegetables or indulge in sweet, custard-filled buns for dessert.

Visitors can also enjoy traditional Chinese dishes like pork belly bao and soup dumplings alongside Texas-friendly offerings like brisket bao buns. Other favorites include Szechuan fries and a creative twist on tradition: bao tacos. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a refreshing fruit tea, creamy boba milk tea, or customizable buildyour-own tea.

Everything is made fresh daily with high-quality ingredients and no preservatives. “Baos are affordable, self-contained, easy to eat, and kids love them. I have three kids, and they eat baos every day,” Alex says. “Our goal is for Bao’d Up to become a part of families' weekly routines.”

111 Town Center Blvd, Jarrell, TX 76537 | Monday-Sunday, 11am-8pm | baodup.com