✨Shanghai Michelin Xiao Long Baosss
If you’re a fan on DinTaiFung’s Xiao Long Bao, or Pork Dumplings (or Paradise Dynasty, like me), then when visiting #Shanghai you’re not going to miss trying out their versions - mostly 🦀 Crab Roe/Meat Soup Dumplings!
#michelinguide pointed us to Wu You Xian along Mao Ming Nan Lu that specialises and became famous for their crab soup XLB. Walking into it on a Saturday afternoon, there was no queue and plenty of empty seats. We did not get the Crab Roe/Sperm version for fear of it being too creamy so we went for just the crab meat ones.
Skin was on the thicker side, but soup tasted premium. The crab meat was definitely fresh and had almost no hint of it being ‘seafoody’. Many locals also come to the shop for their mini pork dumplings in soup and I not-so-secretly find that more homely. They definitely get the crab meat from hairy crabs as we saw the employees scraping the meat out in the shop.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Feeling not too satisfied, we went on to Nan Jing Dong Lu for Lai Lai Xiao Long Bao. A much more crowded shop with modern service and ambience. Here, they sell pork xlb, which we ordered. Pork was soft, soup was hearty and on a slightly sweet side but not too overpowering. I think this shop does xlb better because the dumpling skin was smoother and thinner ✌🏼
Rating :⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
You will see many shops selling crab meat xlb in Shanghai, I don’t particularly think that you got to try the Michelin ones, but if you do, Lai Lai XLB is the place to go, ok? 😀
When diving deeper into Shanghai’s Xiao Long Bao offerings, it’s interesting to explore not only the popular Michelin-listed spots but also some hidden local gems that offer authentic tastes. For example, many street noodle stalls and smaller dumpling shops serve hand-stuffed dumplings with delicate skins and a variety of fillings that can surprise your palate. Vegetable fillings in xiaolongbao are also becoming more popular; five-vegetable filling dumplings offer a lighter alternative that balances the richness of pork or crab meat varieties. Many restaurants on Nanjing Dong Lu and surrounding areas incorporate seasonal vegetables, which add freshness and complexity. Cold soybean dishes often accompany Xiao Long Bao in Shanghai eateries, providing a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory soup dumplings. Some restaurants in the Michelin Guide even add unique touches like house-made chili oil or freshly grated ginger to complement the xiaolongbao flavors. For those curious about Lai Lai’s full menu, it extends beyond pork xlb to include a variety of snacks and dumplings that maintain that perfect balance of thin skins and hearty, flavorful filling. Visiting several locations can give you a better sense of how each chef or restaurant puts its own spin on the classic Xiao Long Bao. If you’re a passionate foodie looking to experience authentic and creative takes on Shanghai Xiao Long Bao, consider checking out places beyond the Michelin stars. Engaging with local foodies and exploring food streets can uncover some memorable, budget-friendly options that reflect Shanghai’s rich culinary culture.
