Bao Mochi is a quirky Japanese restaurant on the corner of the busy Liteiny St. Once you step inside away from the dirty, grey, severe street outside you will be transported to a sparkling world of colour and Japanese-themed delights. 

The stylish modern interior is awash with brightly coloured replica bao buns adorning the walls. Plants seem to be hanging from nowhere out of holes in the wall which provides a light, airy feel (particularly as the backroom has no windows). 

As the name suggests, the main stars of the menu are the airy bao buns which are offered with either sweet or savoury fillings – I chose spicy prawns but you could opt for miso-orange or even bubblegum. This is accompanied by offerings of Asian soups (Tom Yam and Ramen), wok and noodle dishes. 

If the food makes you thirsty, the drinks menu offers some character beers from Punk Brew (Elvis Juice is a good balance to Asian spice), a good selection of wine, or even some genuine Japanese sake, if you are in the mood. 

This restaurant is a popular spot with the hip local crowd who go on to visit the host of bars nearby.