About
Wicked Bao is where fusion Asian street food and regional favorites unite. This dynamic eatery opened in December 2017, offering a visionary menu to Fernandina Beach. Founded by Taiwanese native Nathalie Wu, it reflects her spirit of resilience and creativity. Additionally, she combines her experience managing venues across Taiwan, Singapore, and at The Ritz-Carlton to her quaint restaurant.
Since opening, this chic eatery has captured the attention of locals and travelers alike. With its visually appealing festive lanterns, bright colors, and delicious fare, guests receive a fresh and energized dining experience.
Such attention to detail has not gone unnoticed. In 2023, the Florida Main Street Awards named Chef Wu Business Owner of the Year for her active role promoting downtown and nourishing the local economy.
Additionally, the eatery's location makes it easy to add a meal to a jam-packed sightseeing itinerary. Whether you dine after a Segway tour at Egan's Creek Greenway or discuss your discoveries visiting Fort Clinch State Park, an Asian meal is never far away.
When your crew craves Asian food, head to Wicked Boa, where the chalkboard menu and perhaps a greeting from Wu make for a memorable meal.
Vibe
Tucked away near the industrial area of the Fernandina Beach Historic District, the shotgun-style restaurant sports superb curb appeal. With its cream-colored façade, vintage shutters, and awning-covered entrance, you can expect a welcoming atmosphere.
At night, twinkling white lights around the street-side palms further add to its allure.
Inside is magical, with a décor that incorporates industrial styles, shabby chic, and Asian overtones. Picture wood floors, a long blackboard menu, industrial-style chairs and fans, with a sprinkling of Asian-inspired lanterns.
The atmosphere is relaxed yet lively, with a sense of shared enjoyment permeating the space. And the seating options will appeal to a wide range of diners. For a laid-back vibe, sit at the bar, while the main dining area is ideal for couples, groups, or families with children.
The back porch offers al fresco dining and its famous "love wall." The setting screams for fun photos and selfies, adding a personalized touch to one's meal.
Altogether, the inviting mix of festive furnishings, casual seating, and Chef Wu's heartwarming smile make Wicked Bao a peaceful setting.
Wicked Bao: Menu & Drinks
While the bao choices are the main attractions, there are other Asian-inspired street foods to peruse.
An example of such diversity is the Crispy Pork Chop Rice, where tender fried pork rests atop vibrant Asian slaw with a sweet chili sauce. The flavors and textures are comforting and flavorful.
Another contender is the Ahi Tuna Poke, which combines fresh, melt-in-your-mouth tuna with crunchy jasmine rice tots. Add the zesty Sriracha aioli and the seaweed salad, and you have the perfect balance of texture and taste.
The Vegan's Delight will appeal to those seeking lighter fare or who are vegetarians. This flavorful dish features sauteed veggies, seared tofu, and jasmine rice.
Now, let's explore the showstopping Taiwanese-inspired baos! These range from Southern-inspired classics to those found on the streets in Thailand. The Bao Trio is where East meets West, featuring braised pork belly, Bulgogi beef, and buttermilk-fried chicken bao. It's a taste tour that rockets you around the world!
Another standout is the Adobo Pulled Pork Bao with Asian slaw and Filipino-style pulled pork. The Fried Grouper is another worthy contender, featuring heaping portions of fish with baby arugula and a roasted-pepper miso sauce. All baos come three to a plate, except the grouper, which is only two bao buns.
Regarding beverages, consider an Asian drink, like the Moonstone Asian Pear sake. With its bright, dry crispness and ripe pear profile, the beverage pairs well with heavier dishes. Wicked Bao also offers a variety of wines and beers, along with non-alcoholic picks like hot green jade tea, Vietnamese coffee, and soft drinks.
Adding Wicked Bao to your Amelia Island itinerary promises mouth-watering cuisine in its chic setting, for a memory-making meal.
Local Tips
- Happy Hour is Tuesday through Thursday from 4:00 to 6 PM.
- Visit on weekday evenings for shorter wait times.
- Snap a photo at the
- Order your meal to-go and enjoy it at your Casago rental.
- Let Wicked Bao cater your special event.
