New Shanghai

Old World Shanghai charm is given a New World casual twist in this chic space showcasing the glories of Shanghainese street eats. Most people are here for the signature xiao long bao (silky soup dumplings filled with pork or crab), but there's plenty more to tempt on a menu that runs from cold cuts and dim sum to a wide variety of noodles, rice dishes and heartier main courses. Cool down with cold drunken chicken and cucumbers tossed with garlic, or warm up with some spicy shepherd's purse and pork wontons. Braised beef noodle soup makes a great lunch, heady with cinnamon and star anise, while at night, braised pork belly in sweet soy is a hot favourite. Deep-fried prawns in salted egg yolk has an intense richness, but could have benefited from a lighter touch. Service is swift but can lack warmth. If you're looking for something a bit different for dessert, try slow-cooked white fungus with papaya. Also at Ashfield, Bondi Junction, Charlestown & Chatswood