Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie Vancouver

Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie: Chinatown's Michelin-Recommended Modern Chinese Restaurant

Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie on Keefer Street is the restaurant that helped spark the revival of Vancouver's Chinatown. Since opening in January 2010 it has served modern, shareable Chinese small plates and inventive cocktails in a stylish room, and it is a Michelin Guide Vancouver Recommended restaurant, including in 2026.

Here's what to know before you go.

About Bao Bei

Bao Bei means "precious" in Mandarin. Founder Tannis Ling, previously a well-known bartender, opened the restaurant to bring back some of the special charm Chinatown once had. The room blends a traditional French brasserie feel with vintage Chinese motifs and playful personal details.

When it opened, Bao Bei was named Canada's second-best new restaurant by enRoute magazine. Its cocktail program has long drawn on ingredients from Chinatown's herbal shops, and it was a finalist for Vancouver Magazine's 2026 Readers' Choice award for Best Chinatown restaurant.

The Menu

How It Works

Bao Bei serves rustic Chinese small plates designed for sharing, refined with modern technique. Order several dishes for the table along with a cocktail.

What to Order

• Shareable Chinese small plates: modern takes on traditional flavours.
• Dumplings and bao: classic formats with a contemporary touch.
• Seasonal dishes: the menu changes with local, sustainable ingredients.
• Signature cocktails: made with Chinese herbal ingredients.

Dietary Needs

Let your server know about dietary needs; the kitchen focuses on local, sustainable ingredients.

Drinks

The bar is a major part of Bao Bei's identity, with inventive cocktails, a thoughtful wine list and beer.

Atmosphere and Dining Experience

The room is stylish, intimate and buzzy, mixing brasserie elegance with vintage Chinese design.

• Best for: date nights, cocktails and exploring Chinatown
• Noise level: lively
• Dress code: casual to smart casual
• Good to know: dinner only; popular on weekends

Location: Chinatown, Vancouver

Bao Bei is at 163 Keefer Street, Vancouver, BC V6A 1X3, in the heart of Chinatown near Main Street. Stadium–Chinatown and Main Street–Science World stations are within walking distance.

Hours of Operation

Bao Bei is open for dinner, typically from the early evening until late. Check current hours before visiting.

Reservations

• Check the restaurant's website for current reservation and walk-in policies.
• Call 604-688-0876 for groups.

Price Range

Bao Bei is mid-range. Small plates make it easy to control the bill, while cocktails add to it.

Awards and Recognition

• Michelin Guide Vancouver: Recommended (including 2026)
• enRoute magazine: second-best new restaurant in Canada (2010)
• Vancouver Magazine Readers' Choice, Best Chinatown: Finalist (2026)

Contact Information

• Address: 163 Keefer St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1X3
• Phone: 604-688-0876
• Website: bao-bei.ca
• Neighbourhood: Chinatown, Vancouver
• Cuisine: Modern Chinese, small plates

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bao Bei in the Michelin Guide?

Yes. It is a Michelin Guide Vancouver Recommended restaurant, including in 2026.

What does Bao Bei mean?

"Precious" in Mandarin.

When did Bao Bei open?

In January 2010.

Where is Bao Bei?

At 163 Keefer Street in Vancouver's Chinatown.

What kind of food does Bao Bei serve?

Modern Chinese small plates for sharing, plus creative cocktails.

Is Bao Bei good for a date?

Yes. Its intimate room and cocktails make it a classic date spot.

Who founded Bao Bei?

Tannis Ling.

Is Bao Bei open for lunch?

No, it focuses on dinner service.