The L is a Direct Route to Incredible Shanghainese Noms
This past Friday, I met up with Lisa and Christine (two of my favorite Stern ladies) for dinner in Williamsburg at the ever popular M. Shanghai Bistro & Garden (http://www.newmshanghai.com/). It should be noted that Christine, Michelle, Ilya and I attempted to go here on Chinese New Year and were DENIED. Nothing was going to stop us this time - NOTHING!
When we arrived, we were prompted seated. Naturally, we checked out the cocktail menu first. Is there any other way to start a meal? I ordered a Caipirinha and Christine & Lisa both got a Mojito. The drink was lovely. Lisa and Christine said their cocktails tasted super strong but I didn't feel mine tasted that way. It didn't mean it wasn't strong though!
The Caipirinha - a great way to prevent scurvy
If you come to this Williamsburg treasure, you absolutely must order the Steamed Juicy Pork Buns (SOUP DUMPLINGS!) - you get 6 for $7.50. Each of us got 2 - I could have easily eaten the entire order but I would like to keep my friendships.
Lovely TREASURES
There is an art to eating a soup dumpling - you must bite the top off so the interior can cool off. If you are an amateur and go in for a bite, you will be burned - literally. The inside is piping hot, so be patient you hungry fool! Once the soup cools down, slurp it up and then eat the rest of the dumpling. You're welcome.
For our entrees, we split three items. We got the #55 Sliced Beef with Scallion and Onion in Brown Sauce (Awesome!) [note: that is how it is actually listed on the menu] , #37 Shanghai Style Lo-Mein with shrimp, shredded chicken, pork and spinach in a delicious brown sauce and Kung Pao Tofu with Chinese Broccoli (not on the menu, but Lisa knew of this secret amazing dish).
BEEF
NOODLES
TOFU
This was a great mix of dishes since each was different/unique. I hate when I get Asian food and everything ends up tasting the same - so boring! It is hard to pick a favorite because they were each so different. I'd recommend ordering the same exact thing!
If you have the courage to leave Manhattan, this is a lovely spot to explore in Williamsburg. It is near many cool bars and other places to visit. Embrace Brooklyn people! It is fun and a great value - also many of my favorite people live there!
Cheers,
Liz