Bao & Beyond Officially Opens Augusta, Maine Restaurant

It was not that long ago that, when you ordered a meal from a food truck, you were probably either getting chicken tenders, a burger, or a hot dog.

These days, you can get almost any kind of food imaginable.  Many food trucks, even here in rural Maine, offer a true culinary experience.

They have become the starting point for chefs who want to share their food with the world, but don't have the needed capital to open a brick-and-mortar restaurant.

If people really love their food these food truck superstars are often able to save enough money (or, secure an investor) to open an actual restaurant.

We've seen it happen recently with the very popular Two Maine Guys.  It's happened again.  This time, Bao & Beyond has opened a restaurant.

Bao & Beyond in Augusta, Maine

The Bao & Beyond food truck, and now restaurant, serves bao buns.

What are bao buns?  They are soft, fluffy, and just a little bit sweet.  They’re Chinese steamed buns made from a yeasted dough and usually filled with something savory or sweet.

You might find them stuffed with pork belly, vegetables, or even red bean paste.  They can be a snack, a meal, or a dessert, which is why bao buns have become so popular all over the world.

According to a Facebook post, the new Bao & Beyond restuarant, located at 1 Hichborn Street in Augusta, is now open.

The restaurant serves up several different types of bao buns, including my favorite, the banh mi.

In addition to the bao, Bao & Beyond (here's where the beyond comes in) offers sandwiches, rice bowls, noddle dishes, and gyoza (Japanese fried dumplings).

Check out their menu and get more details from their Facebook page.