Was in Chinatown at………………………………………..Joe’s Shanghai. Chinese cuisine with three locations; Flushing, Queens, Midtown New York and Chinatown.
In a last minute impromptu, this longtime friend and fellow of mine, whose name is Cole (in this post), chose this small Chinatown location.
On approach to the restaurant, I could see by the long line overflowing out the door, that this place was packed! Hungry patrons were anxiously waiting to be seated. I thought to myself, “How in the hell did he find this spot”. However, Cole had us seated in less than 5 minutes, I’m sure this was due to his clout with the owners.
This small spot in Chinatown, rated in a Zagat survey and the New York Times best restaurant guide, Joe’s is famous for their “soup dumpling”, little dumplings served in a bamboo basket. As I observed the crowded tables, full with communal diners (Yes this restaurant is communal), everybody was ordering these soup dumplings served piping hot in bamboo steamers.
Of course I didn’t have those (the soup dumplings), as they are a little pork meatball, surrounded by a meaty broth and wrapped in dough. But that was OK, because Cole had ordered them (the pork dumplings) and that was just the beginning.
First up, were these “Scallion Pancakes” that were off the hook! I’ve never had these before and was slow to dig in with these “chopsticks” sitting in front of me. We had the “sauteed string beans” that were glazed with garlic. I had the home-style bean curd (Tofu) with vegetables. My pal Cole had, a sauteed shrimp dish (and the shrimp were large) and I can’t remember if it was served with vegetables?? I know he had this loaded Chinese rice dish, with everything in it, I mean this rice was packed with ham, eggs, pork, chicken and shrimp. I’m sure I can’t remember because, I was too busy looking at all of these interesting food choices served on large platters. All of “Joe’s Shanghai’s” dishes are served in large portions.
So…….If you’re ever in the city and anywhere near one of their three locations, “Joe’s Shanghai” is the place for authentic chinese cuisine.
Based on the menu, I’d say the cost is reasonable but I didn’t foot the bill so I’m not entirely sure….