"It would be unwise to dine at Hong Bao Restaurant expecting the serving and prices to be comparable to a Panda Express, for example. i know some do. Hong Bao is not comparable to the corner Chinese take out restaurant. I was finally able to try this restaurant yesterday. There was a line of folks trying to get a table but since I had made a reservation, I was seated immediately. Immediately, I was struck by the impressive architecture and interior design. The seats, the tables, the tea set, the interior decor, all of it felt modern and rich. We ordered the Salt and Pepper Soft Shell crabs, Shanghai Braised Pork Belly and Garlic Snow Pea Leaves. We were amazed to get our order in less than 20 minutes. We have never seen Garlic Snow Peas Leaves on a menu before so of course we tasted that first. It was delicious. It definitely tasted garlicky but the freshness of the snow pea leaves made it delightful. Next we tried the soft shell crab. We love this dish but often, it is overcooked. But not here at Hong Bao. But was perfect. Salty, peppery and crunchy. Finally, the Shanghai braised pork. The menu described it to be served with a tangy sauce but I found the sauce to be more soy-saucy which I liked. The pork was easy to slice even with just the fork. Exactly how braised pork is supposed to. All in all, it was a fantastic meal. Service by Ayu (short for a rather long Balinese name) was splendid. The venue was great and the food was tasty. It was on the pricy side but then again, I was not expecting Panda Express either."
