Shang Hai Fried Xiao Long Bao (Chinatown Complex)

Ordered their pork and leek pan fried dumplings. I lost count of the number of dumplings but probably 8. The dumplings were crispy on one side. The other side was like steam cooked. The dumplings were very juicy inside as well. You can give it a try!

$4 per 3 pieces for original

skip the XLB and just get this.

waiting time can be 40-60 mins

Al dente noodles topped with savoury minced pork and sliced cucumber which offered a refreshing change of flavour.

💯 Verdict: 3.5 / 5

🕒 Opening hours:
Sat - Tue & Thu, 10.30am to 3.30pm & 5.30pm to 8.30pm
Closed on Wed & Fri

Had to get the usual XLBs as well which was served as a set of 6. The dough was thin but a little wet for my liking but it was packed with flavourful filling and broth.

💯 Verdict: 3 / 5

🕒 Opening hours:
Sat - Tue & Thu, 10.30am to 3.30pm & 5.30pm to 8.30pm
Closed on Wed & Fri

Served as a set of 3, choose from original ($4) or prawn ($5) fillings. Expected the buns to be similar to char siew bao but the interior was packed with soup but could’ve had more filling. The exterior was exactly like char siew bao, having a fluffy and airy texture.

💯 Verdict: 4 / 5

🕒 Opening hours:
Sat - Tue & Thu, 10.30am to 3.30pm & 5.30pm to 8.30pm
Closed on Wed & Fri

Do you like fried mantou? Do you like xiao long bao? If your answer is yes to both, then you absolutely must try these fried buns. I loved that the outside of the bun is slightly crisp, and the bottom is pan fried till golden. Better yet - the bun still retains its softness on the inside. I also thought that the sesame seeds on top really added a great fragrance to the pastry. And of course we have the tasty broth that oozes out when you bite through the bao. Overall a very satisfying dish!

We visited on an early evening on Sunday, which was slightly before the peak dinner crowd. I enjoyed the buns very much however the 70 minute wait was a little too long for my liking. I’m happy that I tried it but I don’t think I would wait 70 minutes for buns again. It helps that the store provides you the automatic queue beepers that sound and vibrate whenever the food is ready, so at least we could find some seats to sit down while waiting.