My favorite meal in Shanghai was simple, authentic and at a chain restaurant. Din Tai Fung, a restaurant that started in Taiwan is most famously known for their xiaolongboa, also known as “soup dumplings.”  I have always been a fan of dim sum, but have yet to find a place in the states that I love. When researching where and what to eat in Shanghai, dumplings repeatedly came up. I was on a mission to find the best Shanghai had to offer. To my surprise, our friend traveling with us, who had been to Shanghai multiple times took us here! This actually wasn’t the first time I heard of this chain. Since I live Los Angeles, I had been invited to the Pasadena location once before. Now that I have tried it, I am so glad  we have one close by and I can say I’ve found my soup dumpling place in the states.

Check out what we ordered below:

Juicy Pork Dumplings – These are served steaming hot and fresh! The best and ONLY way to eat these, is so take a bite on the edge, slurp out the soup (beware it’s hot!) and devour the dumpling. These tiny little dumplings are so tasty and addicting.

Shrimp & Pork Shao Mai – these are served and devoured the same way. I typically prefer shrimp dumplings. These are a little heavier than the first dumplings and you will probably get full faster eating these.

Sautéed Spinach with Garlic – they have several green vegetables to choose from as a side order to your meal. They prepared with light seasoning as a perfect balance to the flavorful dumplings.
Dessert

Sweet Taro Buns – I loved the Taro buns for dessert, a mild sweet flavor in served in a soft warm bun.

Red Bean Dumplings – I’ve tried red bean desserts before in traditional Filipino desserts, but if you’re not familiar with the taste, it can be a little strong. I think it’s delicious, but it’s very rich and sweet.
Inside of the Restaurant

In 1993, The New York Times named Din Tai Fung one of the “Top 10 Restaurants” in the world.

Website with full menu and other locations here.