Amazing authentic Chinese food with great efficient service with a smile. This is one of our favorite spots. Their soup dumplings and pork buns are great but also try their black sesame ice cream for dessert!Parking: Huge parking lot with easy access
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Steamed Pork Soup Dumpling, Crispy Shredded Beef, Dim Sum
Vaped and Confused
You can always tell how good a restaurant is by how busy it is between 8pm and close! I am VERY picky when it comes to asian food but I had confidence in Ala Shanghai after reading other reviews so I decided to give it a shot for my birthday yesterday!All I can say is, I was NOT let down! Upon arriving, we were lucky enough to get seated fairly quickly, as a table opened up just as we made it to the counter. I can only assume the wonderful, female at the counter was one of the owners because she greeted me like I was walking into her "home". If you own a business, you know exactly what im talking about and if you dont but have supported a business where the owners actively work, then youll also know what feeling im talking about! As we were about to be seated, a gentleman came out to the front and started to engage customers as they were cashing out! He made his presence know with a bright smile and happiness on his face! Seeing the appreciation he had for his "Ala Shanghai Family" just solidified the notion that it was going to be a good visit! I say this because, at that moment, I could only assume he was either the head chef/owner/husband ?The excited started to rise even more, as i began to think about how good the food is going to be, given the admiration and appreciation shown by the owners, towards their loyal supporters (after all, no business makes money without the loyalty and "love" from their supporters!) When we were seated at a nice, clean, well lit table, the "waiter" (i prefer to call him the wonderful gentleman that waited on us) brought us a glass bottle of water and a warm kettle of tea! Glasses with ice and lemon to refill our own cups as needed (i think more places should do this!) The tea was simple, per usual, but delicious nonetheless! Sometimes simplicity is the key to something great! ?For us, no other drinks were needed! We dont drink soda or anything so the water and tea were perfect! We order some of the pork and crab soup dumplings because I have NEVER had them and needed to try them! My other half ordered the sweet ribs with white rice and I ordered the general tso. This is confidence because chicken is such a gamble at restaurants! Its either delicious and cooked properly with quality meat or made for volume over quality, using lesser cuts of meat to lower food cost. But Ala Shanghai is quite the opposite! I ordered my general tsos with sauce on the side and cooked extra crispy! The same goes for the ribs!! The "waiter" brought out a couple plates, some chili oil (upon request) and ginger infused, soy sauce for the dumplings!Ughhhhhhh ??? thats all I can say! I AM SO HAPPY I TRIED THIS PLACE! The soup dumplings were amazing to say the least! The chili oil was by far, some of the best i have had (if not, THE BEST!) TRY THEM!!!! Quality dumpling, quality, flavorful filling, perfect cook, perfect twist on the dumpling and just absolutely beautiful! My only critique is that the bottoms of the dumplings were a bit "weak" so just be gentle picking them up to out on your spoon! Use a small spoon of ginger soy and a small spoon of chili oil! Pop the dumpling to let the soup out and eat it all in one bit to experience the infusion of delicious flavors! The ribs were tender, flavorful and perfectly cooked! The perfect ratio of fat to meat for a rib and the fat was MELT IN YOUR MOUTH fat, not chewy, weird textured fat. The rice was nice and sticky, cooked PERFECTLY! My "picky" ordered general tsos came out and my jaw dropped! The tempura on the chicken was thick and the cook on it was on point! Extra crispy and my mouth couldnt have started watering anymore haha i cut into my first piece and was so ecstatic to see quality white meat, cooked to absolute perfection! The sauce was delicious with the perfect balance of sweetness and heat for the iconic general tsos flavor. For me, i added a spoon full of chili oil to the sauce which made it even better, in my opinion but only suggest for those that enjoy a bit more kick to the general
The best I've ever had. Can't wait to get back. Shanghainese dough was extraordinary. Dim Sum was a taste of heaven.
Eleanor Goldsmith
The take-out crispy duck was full of bones and very dry. A disappointment.
Food: 1
M F
I could eat at this restaurant every day and not get bored. There is such an incredible assortment of dishes and drinks. The service is also outstanding; they are kind and attentive, and happy to have you.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Soup Dumpling
Cesar H Monzon
It's always a great place to eat. Would love to post pictures, but the food is so good it's not on the plate long enough .
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Pork Soup Dumplings
David Williamson
Everyone at the restaurant was just so nice to me, and the food was outstanding. I came in by myself, and they were busy. I had come the week before and they were unable to seat me, and had a line developing, so I understand how that goes, and I headed back to my hotel. This week, there was one table left, a four top, and they sat me at it, on my own. Not only that, but the very nice lady who welcomed me was happy to seat me, or at least didn't let on that it is usually not a great thing to give a four top to a single diner. I expressed my gratitude as I have really been wanting to try this restaurant for some time.While you can get some of the Americanized Chinese food found around the county at Ala Shanghai - things like General Tso's Chicken, and that kind of thing - what they really specialize in is actual Chinese food, and I was not disappointed.I had Pork Soup Dumplings, Tong-Po Pork, and Chicken with Chestnuts. Now look, that's a lot of food for a single person, but I took up a four top for one person, and I knew I'd eat some of the left overs back at my hotel, or for lunch tomorrow, overall I am glad with my choices.Everything was fresh, delicious, and served with graciousness. Really I had three separate people. I think one of the people is the owner, and then two servers, but anticipated my every need even before I knew what I wanted. They often encouraged me to take my time and enjoy myself, which is kind as I am sure they would love to have four people at the table. I know I keep referencing that, but seriously, in the restaurant industry it's a big deal.I want to go back as soon as I can, and would like to try everything on the menu. I don't really know anyone in this area, but maybe I can find someone to go with me next time, as it is very much a place that is best enjoyed with friends. I couldn't. help but notice the other groups around the restaurant that we all having a lovely time.Again, Ala Shanghai is simply amazing! 100% recommend!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Pork Soup Dumplings, Dim Sum
Jade Manzi
Everything about this place is perfect. We drive from an hour away to eat here.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Jiang Yu
Yesterday's (1/21/2024) experiences at A La Shanghai shocked me so much that I went over all the reviews to see what had been going on with this restaurant that claims to be "authentic Chinese." People had bad experiences complained about bad services, rude staff... but the most serious complaint has been "RACISM" or "reversed RACISM" - the restaurant staff tended to neglect non-white customers, especial those of Asian/Chinese background. Perhaps this should be looked into.. .I summarized customers’ comments about “Our Shanghai” to my friends who can speak Chinese:1) Racial discrimination - especially against Chinese and African customers (reverse discrimination or "self-discrimination"}2) Discrimination against persons with disabilities - refusal to provide accommodation3) Managers and service staff are unqualified and rude to customers4) Forcibly asking for high tips5) The hygienic environment of the restaurant is poor6) Low quality foodOne customer left a message and said, "This kind of restaurant should be opened back in Shanghai" - in fact, any restaurant in Shanghai is much better than them, they can't go anywhere, just forget about closing!****** My review from yesterday:This is the most un-Chinese place I have ever been to - it's rude, shabby, uncultured - I am a Chinese and I am ashamed of it.I just wanted to put in an opinion here about my kids and my family being rudely treatedat about 1 pm today. I looked at other people's reviews and I agree with them that theytarget customers of their own kind to be rude towards. My kids took some candy withthem from the music recital but one very rude waiter, who for the least part needed ahaircut, came over with such an attitude and gesture and told us that no food isallowed - the kids need to throw the candy away. The manager at the front was not much a help either - WE WALKED OUT.Horrible horrible experience. I don't wish anybody else to experience it. Go somewhere else for a good time...
Yesterday's (1/21/2024) experiences at A La Shanghai shocked me so much that I went over all the reviews to see what had been going on with this restaurant that claims to be "authentic Chinese." People had bad experiences complained about bad services, rude staff... but the most serious complaint has been "RACISM" or "reversed RACISM" - the restaurant staff tended to neglect non-white customers, especial those of Asian/Chinese background. Perhaps this should be looked into.. .I summarized customers’ comments about “Our Shanghai” to my friends who can speak Chinese:1) Racial discrimination - especially against Chinese and African customers (reverse discrimination or "self-discrimination"}2) Discrimination against persons with disabilities - refusal to provide accommodation3) Managers and service staff are unqualified and rude to customers4) Forcibly asking for high tips5) The hygienic environment of the restaurant is poor6) Low quality foodOne customer left a message and said, "This kind of restaurant should be opened back in Shanghai" - in fact, any restaurant in Shanghai is much better than them, they can't go anywhere, just forget about closing!****** My review from yesterday:This is the most un-Chinese place I have ever been to - it's rude, shabby, uncultured - I am a Chinese and I am ashamed of it.I just wanted to put in an opinion here about my kids and my family being rudely treatedat about 1 pm today. I looked at other people's reviews and I agree with them that theytarget customers of their own kind to be rude towards. My kids took some candy withthem from the music recital but one very rude waiter, who for the least part needed ahaircut, came over with such an attitude and gesture and told us that no food isallowed - the kids need to throw the candy away. The manager at the front was not much a help either - WE WALKED OUT.Horrible horrible experience. I don't wish anybody else to experience it. Go somewhere else for a good time...
Atmosphere: 1
Service: 1
Frances M.
I just wanted to put in an opinion here about my kids and my family being rudely treated at about 1 pm today. I looked at other people's reviews and I agree with them that they target customers of their own kind to be rude towards. My kids took some candy with them from the music recital but one very rude waiter, who for the least part needed a haircut, came over with such an attitude and gesture and told us that no food is allowed - the kids need to throw the candy away. The manager at the front was not much a help either - WE WALKED OUT. Horrible horrible experience. I don't wish anybody else to experience it. Go somewhere else for a good time...
louis-jack pozner
Nice meal. The menu is extensive & they ll make a special dish to your request.since we see many asian diners therevi ssyvthecfood is authentic & many regulars eat there weekly.Vegetarian options: Asparagas dishes are great..beans alway tasty.Parking: Easy access to lot from main & side streets.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Peking Duck, Sweet and Sour Fish, Soup
Rose Nathoo
A one time visit because we were passing through. I'll say an overall 7/10
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 5
Alaina Cherry
great soup dumplings, crispy beef, and scallion pancakes.Parking: Can get extremely busy so make reservations
Take out was a little dry no sauce on
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 4
Amazing authentic Chinese food with great efficient service with a smile. This is one of our favorite spots. Their soup dumplings and pork buns are great but also try their black sesame ice cream for dessert!Parking: Huge parking lot with easy access
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Steamed Pork Soup Dumpling, Crispy Shredded Beef, Dim Sum
You can always tell how good a restaurant is by how busy it is between 8pm and close! I am VERY picky when it comes to asian food but I had confidence in Ala Shanghai after reading other reviews so I decided to give it a shot for my birthday yesterday!All I can say is, I was NOT let down! Upon arriving, we were lucky enough to get seated fairly quickly, as a table opened up just as we made it to the counter. I can only assume the wonderful, female at the counter was one of the owners because she greeted me like I was walking into her "home". If you own a business, you know exactly what im talking about and if you dont but have supported a business where the owners actively work, then youll also know what feeling im talking about! As we were about to be seated, a gentleman came out to the front and started to engage customers as they were cashing out! He made his presence know with a bright smile and happiness on his face! Seeing the appreciation he had for his "Ala Shanghai Family" just solidified the notion that it was going to be a good visit! I say this because, at that moment, I could only assume he was either the head chef/owner/husband ?The excited started to rise even more, as i began to think about how good the food is going to be, given the admiration and appreciation shown by the owners, towards their loyal supporters (after all, no business makes money without the loyalty and "love" from their supporters!) When we were seated at a nice, clean, well lit table, the "waiter" (i prefer to call him the wonderful gentleman that waited on us) brought us a glass bottle of water and a warm kettle of tea! Glasses with ice and lemon to refill our own cups as needed (i think more places should do this!) The tea was simple, per usual, but delicious nonetheless! Sometimes simplicity is the key to something great! ?For us, no other drinks were needed! We dont drink soda or anything so the water and tea were perfect! We order some of the pork and crab soup dumplings because I have NEVER had them and needed to try them! My other half ordered the sweet ribs with white rice and I ordered the general tso. This is confidence because chicken is such a gamble at restaurants! Its either delicious and cooked properly with quality meat or made for volume over quality, using lesser cuts of meat to lower food cost. But Ala Shanghai is quite the opposite! I ordered my general tsos with sauce on the side and cooked extra crispy! The same goes for the ribs!! The "waiter" brought out a couple plates, some chili oil (upon request) and ginger infused, soy sauce for the dumplings!Ughhhhhhh ??? thats all I can say! I AM SO HAPPY I TRIED THIS PLACE! The soup dumplings were amazing to say the least! The chili oil was by far, some of the best i have had (if not, THE BEST!) TRY THEM!!!! Quality dumpling, quality, flavorful filling, perfect cook, perfect twist on the dumpling and just absolutely beautiful! My only critique is that the bottoms of the dumplings were a bit "weak" so just be gentle picking them up to out on your spoon! Use a small spoon of ginger soy and a small spoon of chili oil! Pop the dumpling to let the soup out and eat it all in one bit to experience the infusion of delicious flavors! The ribs were tender, flavorful and perfectly cooked! The perfect ratio of fat to meat for a rib and the fat was MELT IN YOUR MOUTH fat, not chewy, weird textured fat. The rice was nice and sticky, cooked PERFECTLY! My "picky" ordered general tsos came out and my jaw dropped! The tempura on the chicken was thick and the cook on it was on point! Extra crispy and my mouth couldnt have started watering anymore haha i cut into my first piece and was so ecstatic to see quality white meat, cooked to absolute perfection! The sauce was delicious with the perfect balance of sweetness and heat for the iconic general tsos flavor. For me, i added a spoon full of chili oil to the sauce which made it even better, in my opinion but only suggest for those that enjoy a bit more kick to the general
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Steamed Pork Soup Dumpling, Peking Duck
The best I've ever had. Can't wait to get back. Shanghainese dough was extraordinary. Dim Sum was a taste of heaven.
The take-out crispy duck was full of bones and very dry. A disappointment.
Food: 1
I could eat at this restaurant every day and not get bored. There is such an incredible assortment of dishes and drinks. The service is also outstanding; they are kind and attentive, and happy to have you.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Soup Dumpling
It's always a great place to eat. Would love to post pictures, but the food is so good it's not on the plate long enough .
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Pork Soup Dumplings
Everyone at the restaurant was just so nice to me, and the food was outstanding. I came in by myself, and they were busy. I had come the week before and they were unable to seat me, and had a line developing, so I understand how that goes, and I headed back to my hotel. This week, there was one table left, a four top, and they sat me at it, on my own. Not only that, but the very nice lady who welcomed me was happy to seat me, or at least didn't let on that it is usually not a great thing to give a four top to a single diner. I expressed my gratitude as I have really been wanting to try this restaurant for some time.While you can get some of the Americanized Chinese food found around the county at Ala Shanghai - things like General Tso's Chicken, and that kind of thing - what they really specialize in is actual Chinese food, and I was not disappointed.I had Pork Soup Dumplings, Tong-Po Pork, and Chicken with Chestnuts. Now look, that's a lot of food for a single person, but I took up a four top for one person, and I knew I'd eat some of the left overs back at my hotel, or for lunch tomorrow, overall I am glad with my choices.Everything was fresh, delicious, and served with graciousness. Really I had three separate people. I think one of the people is the owner, and then two servers, but anticipated my every need even before I knew what I wanted. They often encouraged me to take my time and enjoy myself, which is kind as I am sure they would love to have four people at the table. I know I keep referencing that, but seriously, in the restaurant industry it's a big deal.I want to go back as soon as I can, and would like to try everything on the menu. I don't really know anyone in this area, but maybe I can find someone to go with me next time, as it is very much a place that is best enjoyed with friends. I couldn't. help but notice the other groups around the restaurant that we all having a lovely time.Again, Ala Shanghai is simply amazing! 100% recommend!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Pork Soup Dumplings, Dim Sum
Everything about this place is perfect. We drive from an hour away to eat here.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Yesterday's (1/21/2024) experiences at A La Shanghai shocked me so much that I went over all the reviews to see what had been going on with this restaurant that claims to be "authentic Chinese." People had bad experiences complained about bad services, rude staff... but the most serious complaint has been "RACISM" or "reversed RACISM" - the restaurant staff tended to neglect non-white customers, especial those of Asian/Chinese background. Perhaps this should be looked into.. .I summarized customers’ comments about “Our Shanghai” to my friends who can speak Chinese:1) Racial discrimination - especially against Chinese and African customers (reverse discrimination or "self-discrimination"}2) Discrimination against persons with disabilities - refusal to provide accommodation3) Managers and service staff are unqualified and rude to customers4) Forcibly asking for high tips5) The hygienic environment of the restaurant is poor6) Low quality foodOne customer left a message and said, "This kind of restaurant should be opened back in Shanghai" - in fact, any restaurant in Shanghai is much better than them, they can't go anywhere, just forget about closing!****** My review from yesterday:This is the most un-Chinese place I have ever been to - it's rude, shabby, uncultured - I am a Chinese and I am ashamed of it.I just wanted to put in an opinion here about my kids and my family being rudely treatedat about 1 pm today. I looked at other people's reviews and I agree with them that theytarget customers of their own kind to be rude towards. My kids took some candy withthem from the music recital but one very rude waiter, who for the least part needed ahaircut, came over with such an attitude and gesture and told us that no food isallowed - the kids need to throw the candy away. The manager at the front was not much a help either - WE WALKED OUT.Horrible horrible experience. I don't wish anybody else to experience it. Go somewhere else for a good time...
Atmosphere: 1
Service: 1
Restaurantji Recommends
Yesterday's (1/21/2024) experiences at A La Shanghai shocked me so much that I went over all the reviews to see what had been going on with this restaurant that claims to be "authentic Chinese." People had bad experiences complained about bad services, rude staff... but the most serious complaint has been "RACISM" or "reversed RACISM" - the restaurant staff tended to neglect non-white customers, especial those of Asian/Chinese background. Perhaps this should be looked into.. .I summarized customers’ comments about “Our Shanghai” to my friends who can speak Chinese:1) Racial discrimination - especially against Chinese and African customers (reverse discrimination or "self-discrimination"}2) Discrimination against persons with disabilities - refusal to provide accommodation3) Managers and service staff are unqualified and rude to customers4) Forcibly asking for high tips5) The hygienic environment of the restaurant is poor6) Low quality foodOne customer left a message and said, "This kind of restaurant should be opened back in Shanghai" - in fact, any restaurant in Shanghai is much better than them, they can't go anywhere, just forget about closing!****** My review from yesterday:This is the most un-Chinese place I have ever been to - it's rude, shabby, uncultured - I am a Chinese and I am ashamed of it.I just wanted to put in an opinion here about my kids and my family being rudely treatedat about 1 pm today. I looked at other people's reviews and I agree with them that theytarget customers of their own kind to be rude towards. My kids took some candy withthem from the music recital but one very rude waiter, who for the least part needed ahaircut, came over with such an attitude and gesture and told us that no food isallowed - the kids need to throw the candy away. The manager at the front was not much a help either - WE WALKED OUT.Horrible horrible experience. I don't wish anybody else to experience it. Go somewhere else for a good time...
Atmosphere: 1
Service: 1
I just wanted to put in an opinion here about my kids and my family being rudely treated at about 1 pm today. I looked at other people's reviews and I agree with them that they target customers of their own kind to be rude towards. My kids took some candy with them from the music recital but one very rude waiter, who for the least part needed a haircut, came over with such an attitude and gesture and told us that no food is allowed - the kids need to throw the candy away. The manager at the front was not much a help either - WE WALKED OUT. Horrible horrible experience. I don't wish anybody else to experience it. Go somewhere else for a good time...
Nice meal. The menu is extensive & they ll make a special dish to your request.since we see many asian diners therevi ssyvthecfood is authentic & many regulars eat there weekly.Vegetarian options: Asparagas dishes are great..beans alway tasty.Parking: Easy access to lot from main & side streets.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Peking Duck, Sweet and Sour Fish, Soup
A one time visit because we were passing through. I'll say an overall 7/10
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 5
great soup dumplings, crispy beef, and scallion pancakes.Parking: Can get extremely busy so make reservations
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Crispy Shredded Beef, Pork Soup Dumplings, Beef Lo Mein, Soup, Soup Dumpling, Orange Beef, Scallion Pancake, General Tsos Chicken