The popular Orlando Asian eatery King Bao has announced it will sadly shut its doors at the Winter Park location after a three-year run. Originally opened in December 2021 following the success of its Mills 50 site, the decision not to renew the lease for the Fairbanks Avenue locale means the last day of service will be December 28, as reported by Bungalower.
According to Orlando Weekly, the closure comes amidst a wave of other local favorites ending operations, leaving a discernible void in the community's diverse food scene. King Bao's departure adds them to a list of closures that already includes Hamburger Mary’s, Doshi, Pom Pom’s Teahouse and Sandwicheria, and Farm and Haus this year. Despite the imminent closure, the business aims to still serve up its signature bao at the remaining two locations, one near the University of Central Florida and the other on Mills Avenue.
Famed for its steamed buns stuffed with inventive fillings, King Bao's Winter Park fans must venture to either of the remaining outposts to satisfy their cravings. In an Instagram post cited by Orlando Weekly, the restaurant expressed gratitude to its patrons: "After much thought and consideration, we’ve made the decision not to renew our lease at our Winter Park location," the store announced, "We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you who supported us along the way."
While the closure marks the end of an era for the Winter Park community, it also signals the ongoing challenges that local businesses face in a bustling and ever-changing food market.
