Lunch Limelight - Nan Xiang XLB 🥟

Stepping into Nan Xiang Soup Dumplings, especially the bustling East Village location, always feels like an exciting culinary adventure. While their Xiao Long Bao (XLB) are undeniably the star, there's so much more to explore in the world of Shanghainese cuisine, which is often characterized by its balance of sweet and savory flavors, and liberal use of soy sauce, rice wine, and sugar. Let's talk about the XLB first, because that's what most people come for. The steamed crab and pork Xiao Long Bao are a classic for a reason. What makes a truly great XLB? It's a delicate balance: a paper-thin yet resilient wrapper that holds a generous amount of hot, savory broth, and a perfectly seasoned meat filling. The technique of eating them is crucial – pick it up gently with chopsticks, place it on your spoon, bite a small hole to sip the soup, then enjoy the rest with a splash of black vinegar and ginger. While Nan Xiang's filling is undeniably flavorful, I've sometimes found the wrapping a tad thicker than my ideal, which can impact that melt-in-your-mouth experience. Still, the essence of a good soup dumpling is definitely there. Beyond the soup dumplings, the Shanghai Siu Mai offers a delightful contrast. Unlike the Cantonese siu mai you might be familiar with, these are not steamed open-faced dumplings but rather glutinous rice-filled parcels. The ones here, featuring pork, shrimp, mushroom, and glutinous rice, offer a wonderfully sticky and chewy texture. It's a hearty, satisfying bite that's almost a meal in itself. If you love the unique texture of glutinous rice, this is a must-try and a great way to experience a different side of Shanghainese dim sum. When it comes to side dishes, it's easy to overlook them in the excitement of dumplings. However, cold appetizers are a hallmark of Shanghainese dining and often provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richer main dishes. I've had some really solid cold dishes at other Shanghainese spots, so I always recommend exploring that section of the menu. As for the stir-fried Bok Choy with garlic, while it's a simple and healthy option, the original review noted it could use more seasoning. It's a dish that's easily replicated at home, so if you're looking for something truly unique, you might want to prioritize other items. However, sometimes a simple green dish like this is exactly what you need to balance out a rich meal. Nan Xiang's East Village location is a fantastic spot if you're looking for a casual meal that's both authentic and delicious. It's open late, making it perfect for anything from a quick lunch to a late-night craving. The vibe is straightforward and clean, fitting for a place focused on quality food. My tip for visiting? Don't be afraid to try a variety of dishes. While the XLB are paramount, exploring the Shanghai Siu Mai, and perhaps a classic cold dish, will give you a much fuller taste of what authentic Shanghainese cuisine has to offer. And remember, sometimes the simplest dishes, even if they can be made at home, serve as comforting staples that complete the dining experience.