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Shanghai Time
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Shanghai Time
8.0
A Shanghai-leaning dumpling stop that’s strongest when you order like a street-snack specialist: pan-fried soup dumplings first, then one noodle or cold plate to round it out. The room is casual and the menu stays comfort-forward, making it an easy Garment District fallback that still feels specific.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pan-fried soup dumplings (shengjian bao), Xiao long bao, Savory pork mooncake
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Shengjian-forward Shanghai comfort food in a quick Midtown format.
Who should go: Dumpling hunters and small groups splitting bites.
When to visit: Mid-afternoon or early dinner to avoid waits.
What to order: Shengjian bao, xiao long bao, one noodle dish.
Insider tip: Order the pan-fried dumplings first—eat them immediately.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is very limited in the Garment District; nearby paid garages are the most realistic option, especially after 5pm.
Dress code: Casual and practical—jeans, sneakers, and workwear all fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate—lively during peak times but still workable for conversation.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes during peak dinner hours, shorter if arriving early.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait or a brief 5–10 minute queue.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetable dumplings, noodles, and a few cold dishes are available.
Vegan options: Limited—some vegetable-based dumplings or sides, but confirm ingredients.
Gluten-free options: Limited—rice-based dishes may work, but most dumplings and noodles contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual first dates than romantic ones—the food is excellent but hands-on, and the room is more practical than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are the norm. Go mid-afternoon or earlier in the evening for the smoothest seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for school-age kids—dumplings and noodles are crowd-pleasers, though there are no special kid amenities.
Best For
Better for: Pan-fried soup dumplings and Shanghai-style comfort dishes in a faster, less formal setting than traditional dim sum halls.
Skip if: You want a full cart-style dim sum experience or a quieter, sit-down Cantonese meal.
Shanghai Time
8.1
A Garment District Shanghainese stop built for high-satisfaction staples: soup dumplings, noodle soups, and shareable plates that come out with minimal fuss. Treat it as a quick, warm, carb-forward reset—order a dumpling plus a noodle and you’re covered.
Must-Try Dishes:
Soup dumplings (xiao long bao), Beef noodle soup, Scallion pancake
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Shanghainese comfort food that’s easy to order fast.
Who should go: Dumpling fans who want a warm, quick meal
When to visit: Weekday lunch before the peak rush
What to order: Soup dumplings, beef noodle soup, scallion pancake
Insider tip: Order dumplings first, then choose noodles while they steam.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No valet; street parking is limited and competitive. Nearby paid garages are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Casual and practical—jeans, sneakers, and workday attire all fit comfortably.
Noise level: Moderate—busy during peak hours but still workable for conversation.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes during peak dinner hours without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before noon; short wait possible during the 12–1pm rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetable dumplings, noodle dishes, and several veggie sides.
Vegan options: Limited—some vegetable-forward dishes can work with modifications, but not a dedicated focus.
Gluten-free options: Limited—rice-based dishes may work, but dumplings and noodles are wheat-based; cross-contact likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you value comfort over romance. It’s casual, warm, and low-pressure, but not intimate or polished.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Generally yes, especially on weekdays. Off-peak timing makes walk-ins easy; peak dinner hours may involve a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who like noodles and dumplings. The menu is approachable, but there’s no kids-specific setup.
Best For
Better for: Quick, satisfying Shanghainese staples when you want dumplings and noodles without a long sit-down commitment.
Skip if: You’re looking for a polished dining room, a date-night atmosphere, or highly customizable dietary options.