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Charleston-based Xiao Bao brings unique Asian flavors to Optimist Hall

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Xiao Bao, a concept from Charleston favorite Xiao Bao Biscuit, has joined the roster of tenants at Optimist Hall.

Chef Joshua Walker and his wife, Duolan Li, created Xiao Bao Biscuit in 2011 as a way to satisfy their own late-night cravings for the flavors they discovered during their travels across Asia and comfort foods from Li’s childhood.

As a love letter to both his wife and Asian cuisine, Walker serves bold and funky dishes such as okonomiyaki, som tum and pad kra pow, which have earned the restaurant rave reviews, including a spot on Bon Appetit’s “Top 50 Best New Restaurants” in 2013.

The Optimist Hall location represents a continuation of that love story, coupling the original restaurant’s cool, unique vibes with an added focus on Southeast Asian favorites, namely from Vietnam, Thailand and Malaysia.

“This is an exciting next chapter for us, and we can’t wait to share our love for Asian cuisine with Charlotte,” Walker said in a news release.

The Optimist Hall location marks Xiao Bao’s first venture outside of the Charleston area. The stall is next to Boxcar Betty’s and Collier Candy Company.