Menu of Shanghai Street in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Menu Overview

Located in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD at 146/148 Little Bourke Street, Shanghai Street stands out as an authentic Shanghainese gem, offering a compelling menu that expertly balances tradition with vibrant flavors. Known for its no-nonsense approach, this modest eatery champions hearty home-style dishes that evoke the essence of Shanghai’s street food culture.

The crown jewel of their menu unquestionably is the Home-Made Steamed Shanghai Xiaolongbao. These delicate soup dumplings deliver a perfect marriage of thin skin and juicy richness, encapsulating the artistry behind Shanghainese dumpling-making. Paired alongside are the Pan Fried Pork Dumplings, offering a satisfying textural contrast with their crisp bottoms and savory filling, making them indispensable for any dumpling lover’s table.

Signature Shanghainese specialties like the Shanghai-style Marinated Duck and the Shanghai braised pork belly with Chinese steamed bread (红烧肉配荷叶夹) reveal another dimension of the cuisine — deep, umami-infused slow cooking that yields tender meat balanced by the soft, slightly sweet steamed bread. The duck arrives glazed in a thick soy-laden marinade that’s rich without overpowering, while the braised pork belly bursts with layers of fat and lean meat, comforting and unpretentious.

Vegetarian options such as Stir-Fried Green Beans with Pork Mince & Olive Vegetable (榄菜肉末四季豆) and the spicy Fried Bean Curd with Bamboo Shoots demonstrate thoughtful vegetable preparations foundational to Shanghainese culinary tradition. The use of preserved olive vegetables adds a subtle briny depth that elevates the green beans beyond the ordinary stir-fry.

For noodle enthusiasts, dishes like the Dried Noodle with Minced Pork in Soy Bean Sauce (炸酱拌面) and Shanghai Noodles showcase comforting, soul-warming bowls brimming with savory sauces and tender pork. The regional expertise shines through here; noodles are perfectly cooked, sauces balanced, and flavors authentic.

Some customers have noted the Smoked Salmon Fried Rice stands apart with its assertive smoked salmon flavor, which may not pair as seamlessly with the rest of the dishes but offers a unique taste venture. Meanwhile, the Kung Pao Chicken & Peanuts in Chilli Sauce adds a spicy kick that contrasts nicely with other milder mains. However, dishes like the fried “whole” chicken have received mixed feedback, particularly on portion size and flavor sufficiency.

The dining experience at Shanghai Street is fast-paced and efficient, catering to Melbourne’s bustling crowd. Service may not be excessively warm, but it’s functional and timely, keeping the busy dining room turning over. Waiting times are often short, aided by the practical practice of offering menus and order sheets ahead of seating.

Shanghai Street is not about polished ambience or immaculate interiors; rather, it places unequivocal focus on the food’s integrity. The modest furnishings and compact space create a casual, bustling backdrop where the star — authentic Shanghainese cuisine — carries all the weight.

In summary, Shanghai Street’s menu excels in delivering key Shanghainese staples with passion and refinement. It’s a must-visit for those seeking an honest taste of Shanghai’s culinary heart in Melbourne. Whether you’re drawn by the delicate xiaolongbao, the rich braised pork, or the vibrant stir-fries, you’ll find yourself entwined in a satisfying, flavorful culinary journey that rewards repeat visits and adventurous orders alike.