TLDR
An old-school UES classic serving up perfectly crisp, made-to-order crab rangoon and nostalgic American-Chinese comfort food.
Reddit Sentiment for SHANGHAI CHINESE RESTAURANT(based on 10 Reddit opinions)
Details
This beloved Upper East Side institution is a go-to spot for those seeking classic American-Chinese comfort food, characterized by its old-school ambiance and unique features like an intercom system [2]. Patrons frequently recommend visiting in person to enjoy their signature dishes, which are fried to order for maximum crispiness [1][9]. While delivery is available, diners suggest that the in-person experience is superior, especially given the established delivery minimums [3][10].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on American-Chinese staples, with the crab rangoon serving as the standout favorite; these are noted for being triangle-shaped, doughy, and fried fresh upon request [4][8][9]. Other notable items include cheese wontons, which feature a distinctively chewy yet crispy skin, and classic egg rolls [1][7].
Highlights / Recommended
"The crab rangoon is consistently recommended for its crispy, made-to-order quality [4][9], and the egg rolls are another frequently praised appetizer [1]."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •crab rangoon(4)
Customer Sentiment
Customers generally view the restaurant as a reliable and charming spot for authentic American-Chinese takeout, often praising the quality of their made-to-order fried items [2][9]. While opinions on the pricing of specific appetizers like crab rangoon vary, the overall sentiment remains positive regarding the freshness and classic atmosphere [6][8].
Caveats
The restaurant has a $25 minimum for delivery, and patrons report that delivery times can be inconsistent, making in-person pickup the preferred method for many [3]. Additionally, some diners have questioned whether the premium price point for certain appetizers, such as the crab rangoon, provides sufficient value [5].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About SHANGHAI CHINESE RESTAURANT
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Would You Support A Law To Make Ghost Kitchens
"Recommends this spot as a favorite greasy American Chinese restaurant that is fast enough for in-person ordering."
PositiveFrom post: Doing Some Crab Rangoon Research Where Can I Find
"This commenter suggests Shanghai on the UES for crab rangoon, highlighting that they are fried to order and have a desirable crispy texture rather than being soggy."
PositiveFrom post: Doughy Dumplings Where To Find
"This user mentioned Shanghai on the Upper East Side for its triangle doughy crab rangoon, which is served with a bright red sauce."
PositiveFrom post: Where Can I Find New England Massachusettsstyle
"The cheese wontons at Shanghai on 70th/2nd are noted as having a chewier yet crispy skin, similar to some spots visited in Boston."
PositiveFrom post: Best Crab Rangoons And Fried Pickles
"This user responded that the crab rangoons at Shanghai are worth the price, comparing them favorably to Maryland crab season."
PositiveFrom post: Best Crab Rangoons And Fried Pickles
"This user asked if the crab rangoons at Shanghai justify the $30 price tag."
NeutralFrom post: Best Crab Rangoons And Fried Pickles
"This user recommended Shanghai for a "low end version" of crab rangoons, noting they fry to order and are best picked up in person."
PositiveFrom post: Restaurants That Do Their Own Delivery
"Shanghai at 72 and 2nd has a $25 minimum for delivery, and delivery times can vary significantly. The commenter also notes it's fun to go in person for takeout."
NeutralFrom post: Cheap Eats In Uesmidtown
"Shanghai is mentioned as a place with cheap options, particularly geared towards takeout, located on 2nd and 73rd."
PositiveFrom post: Recs For Old School Chinese American Spots
"This user recommended Shanghai on 2nd Ave, noting its old-school ambiance with an intercom system. They highlighted that egg rolls and rangoons are fried to order and mentioned it's cash only for small orders, often busy with construction workers at lunch."
Positive