The Dumpling Chronicles: Shanghai vs Shanghai

On a rainy Tuesday evening in late 2004, as I waited on the steps of Flinders Street station for my friend Shirin to arrive, I contemplated where we could go for dinner. As students on a budget, dressed in school uniform and not wanting to dine at a food court, our options seemed limited. As it turned out, my worrying was for nothing, as Shirin turned up with the suggestion that we go to Shanghai Dumpling House. Being a fan of both Chinese food and low prices, I didn't hesitate and soon found myself sitting in a booth in the sparsely decorated restaurant (see figure 1).

 Figure 1. Shanghai Dumpling House keeps it real. The decor hasn't changed in at least five years. And I'm OK with that.

Two full stomachs and a hefty $12.00 bill later, we were hooked! Dumplings were the new Viva Juice. Dinner? Let's go to Shanghai! Lunch? Mm, Shanghai. Where should we celebrate our engagement? Shanghai! I spread the word and took everybody there. This continued until, well, last Thursday actually. But I'm sorry to say that it may be my last visit there for a while.

Since it was 6.45pm on a weeknight, we were fortunate not to have to wait too long for a table.  The food came quickly and was hot. The Chinese broccoli with oyster sauce was blissful, but the other dishes were lacking. The service was whatever, but we are used to that. At $62.50 for six people (incl. $5 corkage for b.y.o. wine and $1 per beer) the meal was fine. It's just that I've had better.

Figure 2. Chinese broccoli w oyster sauce. Not its best shot.

You see, on my return to Melbourne six weeks ago, I learned of a wonderful new place. A dumpling heaven, if you will - Shanghai Village. Actually, heaven might be a little strong, since as far as I can tell, the menu is exactly the same as at Shanghai Dumpling House and the atmosphere no more comfortable (except this new place has hot pink walls, if you're into that). But of three things, I will enthuse:

1. The food is tastier and fresher
2. The waiting time for tables is far shorter
3. ... I thought I had a third point, but I've forgotten and really, those two are enough.

I'm not one to hastily write off any place that has been so good to me for so long. And I'm sure I will return to Shanghai Dumpling House one day. But for now, I will walk the extra two blocks to Shanghai Village and take pleasure in the quality.

Check them out for yourself:
Shanghai Dumpling House

25 Tattersalls Lane, City
(between Lt Bourke and Lonsdale Streets)
Open every day
Go for: the Chinese broccoli w oyster sauce; to do something 'very Melbourne'

Shanghai Village

112 Lt Bourke St, City

Probably also open every day
Go for: the vegetarian dumplings; a better meal