October and November are the prime MITTEN CRAB feasting times for Shanghai Crab aficionado.
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LAILAI SNACK DUMPLING
Does not sound like a MICHELLIN kind of rec, but it is. Deservedly so.
Only two locations. We hit up their second location right before their mid-day break and only had to queue a mere 15 minutes.
Very friendly efficient service in a well greased organized system. Order and pay before seating.
We ordered 3 steaming baskets of fresh crimped XLB (Xiao Long Bao):
- XIE FEN - Crab Roe and Crab Meat
- Crab and Pork
- Shitake and Pork
Crab and Shrimp WonTon
Stars of the show were simple NOODLES. A complementary vehicle for the SPECIAL CRAB sauces that create a luxurious and unctuous eating experience.
- Coral - Crab Butter, Crab Roe and Crab Meat. A Trifecta of Crab Goodness
- Shrimp and Crab Butter and Crab Meat
- Shrimp and Crab Butter
The Crab Butter infused the 3 dishes with a sumptuous buttery flavor and velvety texture. An indulgence, for sure.
Fried Pork chop
A single tender, juicy, well-seasoned cutlet with crispy crust and a bit of bone.
Actual translated Chinese name: Qiao Ai Lai Xiao Long
We had passed a few Mitten Crab shops during our walkabouts. Nice to hit these fleeting delicacies at their peak.
