Meet 'Baocos': The New Taco And Bao Mash-Up In Logan Square

By Kate Shepherd in Food on Aug 18, 2015 5:34PM

via Baocos

Remember the cronut craze? A new fusion food has hit Logan Square—but instead of blending breakfast pastries, it's brings tacos and Asian baos together into a “baoco.”

The aptly named Baocos opened last week right under the tracks of the CTA Blue Line's Western Avenue stop.

The new restaurant splits open pillowy bao to create a sort of taco shell for the baocos (pronounced BOW-kohs). And as if the Mexican-influenced mash-up wasn't enough, the menu offers a selection of fillings inspired by classic American foods, including Philly cheesesteaks, southern barbecue, BLTs and crab cakes.

The “Roasted Belly” baoco, which features roasted pork belly, pickled slaw and hoisin glaze, has been the most popular menu item in the restaurant's first week of business, owner Ervin Emery told DNAinfo. (And if baocos don't sound like your thing, traditional tacos, burritos, salads, hot pots and desserts are also served.)

Emery is the CEO of the chain The Melting Pot, a fondue chain that is popular in the 'burbs, but he told DNAinfo that he decided a convenient location right off a CTA stop in an up-and-coming neighborhood seemed right for his latest venture.

Baocos is located at 1904 N. Western Ave. (773) 360-8085.