San Diego Reader

peijeantsai Jan. 17, 2009 @ 3:20 p.m.

Shanghai City is one of the best-kept secrets among San Diego's Chinese community (immigrant and American-born), but anyone who enjoys authentic Chinese food served in an inviting Asian-decorated atmosphere (just look at the elaborate ceilings here) should try out this treasure. Greasy, cheap takeout -- this is NOT. Located in a Convoy Street strip mall, the restaurant specializes in Shanghai cuisine, such as "xiao lung bao" (small dragon dumplings), housemade medallion-shaped pork-and-cabbage dumplings filled with soup in every bite. The "guoc tie" (fried potstickers) outshine the competition at the more popular Dumpling Inn. Beyond appetizers, the entrees offer large portions for around $9 to $14. The steamed or dry-braised "longli" fish are unforgettable, as are the hot clay pot stews, which arrive bubbling hot on your table. Get in after 9 p.m. and a special late-night menu offers smaller portions of select dishes for as little as $5.95, an incredible value. Try the tomato-sauce cod slices, or the "si zi tou" (lion's head), vaguely listed as "meatballs in brown sauce." The sauce is fragrant and rich; the meat, tender and slow-cooked. Though their flavorful, quality dishes alone are worth the trip, their service is also much better than most Chinese restaurants. I promise you will return again and again and again.

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