Shanghai Renjia Review: Sheng Jian Bao And Shallot Pork Chop Noodles At A Neighbourhood Restaurant

Be it dumplings, xiao long bao, or lamian, I love it all. And while one of my favourite restaurants is Din Tai Fung, it is impossible for me to go there regularly, as I don’t have loads of cash to burn.

Thankfully, I found Shanghai Renjia , an affordable family-run restaurant in Ang Mo Kio specialising in fresh house-made Shanghai food. Sheng Jian Bao At Ang Mo Kio Food at Shanghai Renjia Sheng jian bao are less commonly found in Singapore compared to other Chinese buns, which explains my excitement when I saw Pan-Fried Buns ($6 for four) on the menu.

After some research on what it was – it’s like a xiao long bao, but pan-fried – I just knew I had to get it. When it was set on the table, it was not as picture-perfect as I anticipated it to be. My ears were pleased to hear the crackling sound from the crispy bottom as I tore the bun open to reveal moist pork stuffings.

The steamed top part of the bun absorbed the juices from the pork, while the crispy bottom added a contrasting crunch. More commonly known as “ mei cai kou rou bao ”, Shanghai Renjia’s Braised Pork Buns ($2.50 for one, minimum two pieces) is a moreish dish that should not be missed.

Served deconstructed, the perfectly dome-shaped buns are to be filled up with meat and preserved vegetable. The house-made bao were soft and fluffy, while the pork belly was fatty and tender, packing a whole lot of taste. The last dish served was their highly raved about Pork Chop Noodles ($6) .

Aside from being let down by the portion of braised meat, I have to say this is one good bowl of noodles. Coated in shallot-infused oil and braised-meat gravy, the tantalising noodles carried a scrumptious nuttiness that was complemented with a deep sweetness from the pork gravy .

As a whole, the dish was a good combination of sweet and savoury nuances, with deep intense flavours that had me slurping up the noodles with gusto. Do note that they serve a pitcher of tea and wet towels upon your arrival, which will cost $3.60 , even if you don’t request for it.

Just a 10-minute bus ride away from Ang Mo Kio MRT Station , it is easy to miss this unassuming store if you don’t pay attention! The verdict Being the budget diner that I am, Shanghai Renjia truly stole my heart with their affordable house-made food. There is no doubt that I would be back to try their xiao long bao, which is also highly raved by many.

If you’re looking for more interesting dumpling creations, pop by Master Wang Ramen for cheese xiao long bao and scallop xiao long bao! Address: 151 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 5, #01-3046, Singapore 560151 Opening hours: Tue-Sun 11am to 3pm, 6.30pm to 10pm Tel: 6368 6927 Website Shanghai Renjia is not a halal restaurant.