Page 14 - AHATA

a8 local
Tuesday 22 OcTOber 2024

The Story of the Bao:

A Journey Through Time Now Available at Poke Ono, Aruba

was first described as a steamed, filled bun. shiitake mushrooms, lettuce, spicy Kewpie
According to legend, the bao was invented mayonnaise, and crispy onions.
by the military strategist Zhuge Liang to feed • Sweet and Sour Shrimp Bao: Fried shrimp,
his soldiers. Originally enjoyed during breakfast served with sweet and sour sauce, bell pep-
or festive occasions like Chinese New Year, its pers, pineapple, lettuce, and spicy Kewpie
simplicity and adaptability have allowed the mayonnaise.
bao to evolve, becoming a symbol of modern • “KFC” Bao: Korean fried chicken with Asian
street food in many countries around the world. coleslaw, lettuce, and garlic Kewpie may-
In Asia, bao comes in various forms and names, onnaise.
such as Gua Bao in Taiwan, which refers to a • Asian BBQ Pork Shao Pao: Steamed bun
specific type of bao filled with a variety of ingre- stuffed with a sweet Asian BBQ pork filling.
dients. Over time, the bao has crossed borders, • Teriyaki Burger Bao: Grilled 8 oz beef patty
evolving with international influences and gain- topped with cheddar cheese, teriyaki sauce,
ing popularity in global cuisine, thanks in part lettuce, spicy Kewpie mayonnaise in a baked
to chefs like David Chang, who introduced it to Bao, served with Asian French fries.
Western markets through innovative versions that
blend traditional and modern flavors. Global and Local Popularity
The popularity of the bao continues to rise. From
The Bao at Poke Ono food festivals in major cities to fine dining res-
At Poke Ono, the bao has earned a special taurants, the bao has captured the imagination
place on the menu, standing out for its soft and of chefs and diners alike. Poke Ono has em-
fluffy texture, achieved by steaming the dough. braced this global trend, offering visitors to Aruba
Aruba, September 16 – From ancient China to The restaurant, known for its Asian and Hawaiian a unique culinary experience that combines
the bustling streets of major cities worldwide, the fusion, has crafted a selection of baos that offer traditional Asian flavors with modern, fresh twists.
bao has traveled far. Now, residents and visitors a burst of flavors, combining fresh, creative in-
in Aruba can savor this iconic Asian steamed gredients that reflect both tradition and culinary About Poke Ono
bun at Poke Ono, a restaurant located in Azure innovation. Some of the standout baos on the Located in Aruba, Poke Ono is a restaurant spe-
or Marketplace. Specializing in Asian and Ha- menu include: cializing in Asian and Hawaiian cuisine. With a
waiian cuisine, Poke Ono has introduced bao • “Herbivore”: Korean fried cauliflower, served fresh and inviting atmosphere, the restaurant
to its menu, showcasing its versatility and rich with Asian coleslaw, spicy vegi-naise, lettuce, offers a variety of dishes that emphasize creativ-
cultural heritage. and avocado. ity, freshness, and a deep respect for culinary
• Hoisin Pork Bao: Hoisin glazed pork with cu- traditions. From poke bowls, sishis to innovative
Origins and Evolution of the Bao cumber, peanut dressing, chicharron, and baos, Poke Ono invites diners to embark on a
The bao, also known as baozi, traces its roots lettuce. gastronomic journey that celebrates the best
back to the Song Dynasty in China, where it • Galbi Bao: Korean BBQ beef with kimchi, of Asian and Hawaiian fusion cuisine.q

Aruba’s most family-friendly beaches

(Oranjestad)—One of the biggest modate your stay, like a parking lot, ther down the hotel areas. Though it
concerns that parents have when sun tent rentals, chairs, bathrooms Eagle Beach/Palm Beach in the may not be a very sandy beach, it is
travelling with their children is a and a snack bar right at the far left hotel area relatively quiet and tranquil. This is a
guarantee of their safety and healthy of the beach. Yet another highly popular beach great place for family to lay down a
enjoyment. Therefore, we thought site, Eagle Beach and Palm Beach is big blanket and have a little picnic.
it would be a great help to travel- Mangel Halto in Pos Chiquito where most of our visitors go to tan, This is also one of the best places
ling parents to list off some the most Mangel Halto is situated in the back swim or play in the white sand. Be- to snorkel, as this area is filled with
family-friendly beaches around the streets of the Pos Chiquito city. cause they are near the low-rise and little fish and corals, even close to
island. Though there are several stairs on high-rise hotel areas, these beaches the shore.
the sides of the beach cliff leading are the most accessible for visitors
Baby Beach in San Nicolas you down, the best spot for fami- on foot. These beaches also offer Palm Island
Baby Beach is one Aruba’s most lies to hang out is across the bridge, many palapas free to use, but you Ok, this one is technically not a
popular and visited beaches, and passed the mangrove trees near can also rent chairs and tents. Much beach, but a must-visit attraction for
for good reason: This sandy and the entrance sign. Here, there are like Baby Beach, these sites are one family fun. This small water park oasis
quiet lagoon is a great place for small and big palapas, perfect for of the best beaches for your children is located further down the Mangel
parents to sit back and relax while big and small families to set up their to play and build sand castles. Halto Beach and is reachable by
their children play in the shallow belongings. In this area, the shore is boat. This water park offers 6 hours
shores of the beach. Beside the re- also shallow, falling right around your Boca Catalina in Malmok of fun activities, food, drinks, and a
laxing atmosphere, there are also knee before slowly getting deeper: Boca Catalina is a small bay beach chance to see pink flamingoes up
several services that may accom- perfect for kids to safely play. near the Malmok beach area fur- close! q