Shanghai Dumpling House - Review - 352-354 Chapel St, Prahan

The Shanghai Dumpling House (352-354 Chapel St, South Yarra VIC 3141) on Chapel St is one of the few Asian restaurants to be found in the area.  This is a kind of competitive advantage opportunity if they prove better than average.  

As you can see, the Shanghai Dumpling House is a relatively attractive Chinese restaurant.  While it is not going to win any style awards it is still comfortably above average compared to virtually all Chinese restaurants.

Nice, bright, modern and a bit stylish

To be fair the Shanghai Dumpling House is a budget restaurant, think Melbourne Chinatown'ish so in this context I think it's pretty good.  In some regards its probably better than some as its decor is bright, clean and retro, think 1920's all in a good way.

Shanghai rice cake with pork

The food itself seems to be tamed Chinese styled fare.  There is a good selection of the expected Chinese staples but also a good sprinkling of dishes that you are not going to see at a Chinese takeaway.  Basically there is something for everyone. Food for the casual diner to the Asian overseas student.

Shanghai spicy minced pork noodles

I do have to admit though that the food does lack a bit of flavour.  Its certainly nice enough, seems fresh and home made and is pleasantly presented.  It just doesn't have an X factor flavour wise.  However, all said and done I would actually go there again so its doing something right.  My comment is within the bounds of the cheap and cheerful category though.

Anyway, for something slightly different for a Chinese restaurant and if you are looking for an inexpensive meal on Chapel St then the Shanghai Dumpling House may fit the bill.

Steamed pork and chive dumplings

Shanghai Dumpling House
Rating - 3.5
Would I go again - Yes
Would I recommend to a friend - No

Telephone: (03) 9824 1118
Address: 352-354 Chapel St, South Yarra VIC 3141
Reviewed By: Howie Be