Dining at the Prestigious Shanghai Fraternity Association 上海總會: A Culinary Journey through Exquisite Shanghainese Delights
I recently had the privilege of visiting the esteemed Shanghai Fraternity Association 上海總會 , nestled in the heart of Central, Hong Kong.
Upon entering, one is immediately struck by the refined and elegant ambiance, perfectly setting the stage for the remarkable culinary journey that was to unfold. The menu, a symphony of Shanghainese specialties, tempted my palate with its promises of bold flavors and innovative presentations.
One of the dishes was the Braised Beef Brisket and Tendon (牛腩牛筋). The rich, umami-laden broth was a true delight.
The Crispy Tofu Squares (豆瓣酥) were a revelation, with a delicate outer layer that gave way to a soft, creamy interior infused with a robust soybean aroma. The presentation was equally captivating, resembling a delicate sponge cake.
Another highlight was the Smoked Tender Chicken (煙燻軟雞), which boasted a seductive smoky flavor that permeated the exceptionally tender and juicy meat. The balance of the smokiness and the natural sweetness of the chicken was nothing short of masterful.
The Dragon Whisker Hairtail Fish (龍鬚桂魚) was a true work of art. The delicate fish fillets, expertly sliced into thin strands, were stir-fried to perfection, retaining their pristine freshness and delicate texture. The dish was a testament to the kitchen's skilled craftsmanship.
The Dongpo Pork (東坡肉), a Shanghainese classic, did not disappoint. The perfect balance of succulent fat and lean meat, coupled with the rich, caramelized sauce, created a flavor profile that was both comforting and indulgent.
Complementing the savory dishes, the Sweet Green Beans (清炒甜豆), with their vibrant green hue and delightful crunch, provided a refreshing contrast, while the Fried Eight Treasure Rice (油煎紅米八寶飯) offered a satisfying and subtly sweet conclusion to the meal.
Throughout the dining experience, the impeccable service and attention to detail from the staff were equally impressive, ensuring a seamless and...
Read moreShanghai Fraternity Association Hong Kong Limited is a hidden gem for members-only dining, serving some of the best authentic Shanghainese cuisine in town. If you're lucky enough to snag an invite, you're in for a treat! They’ve mastered the classics—think ma lan tou [馬蘭頭] with its perfect balance of freshness, melt-in-your-mouth lion's head [獅子頭], juicy xiaolongbao [小籠包], smoky, flavorful fish [熏魚], and the ever-indulgent red braised pork belly [紅燒肉]. Oh, and don’t miss the show-stopping song shu gui yu [松鼠桂魚], as much a feast for the eyes as the palate.
What sets this place apart? It's not just the food (though it's top-notch) but the overall vibe. The service is warm and genuine—no surprise since it's a members-only spot, so they really go above and beyond to make you feel at home. The atmosphere feels exclusive, yet welcoming, making it perfect for both business lunches and special dinners alike.
Nestled right in the heart of Central, Hong Kong's buzzing CBD, the location is as prime as it gets. And for the quality and experience, the prices are surprisingly reasonable. So, if you ever get a chance to visit, don’t hesitate—your taste buds will...
Read moreThe old staple Shanghai restaurant. It has gone through a recent interior decoration and so looks updated, in a somewhat swanky Hong Kong way. And out goes Mr. Ting, the very helpful maitre D. Oh well. The food is very reliable, under the directions of Mr. Chairman Lee. He is in his 90s but the old boy does not let up on standards. Eel steamed in a wine sauce is my favorite, but it is advisable to book ahead. This is the first restaurant to serve fresh green peas with diced bacon, but this dish is now widely adopted in most other Shanghainese restaurants. The staff is very knowledgeable about their food. This is great. Many Hong Kong Chinese restaurants are so mean they would not even let their staff taste their cooking, so how are they expected to make any recommendations to diners? Here it is different, to the extent that we seldom order but ask the staff to come up with what is nice...
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