Tucked away on 72nd Street between Columbus and Amsterdam avenues (158 West 72nd Street), Shanghai Dumplings Fusion blends right in with its surroundings: modern signage and an unassuming exterior. The entrance leads you past the staircase to the Triad Theater, inside a bright and clean space with a red-themed decor.
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Greeted warmly upon arrival, I was seated and handed a menu right away. Before even placing my order, I was also given my choice of a complimentary soda, a small but appreciated gesture that made the experience feel welcoming. My server was attentive without being intrusive, and the manager even checked in midway through my meal, offering a second (and delicious!) complimentary drink I’d never tried before (see below!).
The delicious bayberry-based drink I would highly recommend ordering
The menu is expansive, featuring all the classic Chinese dishes you’d expect, though not everything was available yet. Without hesitation, my server steered me toward their handmade Shanghai Soup Dumplings.
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The dumpling skin wasn’t too thick, which can sometimes be a risk with soup dumplings, and the real highlight was the generosity of the broth, something that’s often lacking in this dish. Here, each dumpling was filled with a flavorful, steaming broth that didn’t disappoint. The dumplings were delivered in a traditional bamboo basket that steamed as I opened it, keeping them nice and hot.
The Shanghai Soup Dumplings
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Wanting to sample a variety, I ordered the mixed soup dumpling plate, which included four of the five kinds: classic, spicy pork, crab, chicken (they did not have the Black Truffle one available yet). The crab soup dumpling was surprisingly delicate yet packed with flavor, the tenderness of the crab meat balancing well with the savory broth. The spicy soup dumpling, on the other hand, leaned saltier than expected, with the spice somewhat overpowering the other flavors. While all were well-executed, the original pork dumpling remained the standout, with the crab being a second option for those who enjoy seafood flavors.
The mixed dumplings basket
I then ordered the spicy wontons, but since those weren’t available yet, the kitchen offered to substitute them as spicy dumplings to accommodate me. While the sauce was flavorful, it also leaned a little on the oily side.
Spicy Dumplings – an order that is listed as and will eventually come as Spicy Wontons
Shanghai Dumplings Fusion is off to a solid start, especially for soup dumpling enthusiasts. While the ambiance could use a boost (music, for starters), the quality of their signature dish makes it worth a visit. I wasn’t able to try the full menu since they’re still in their soft-opening phase, but I’d be curious to return once they have their full selection available.
Shanghai Dumplings Fusion is located at 158 West 72nd Street and is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
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Personally, though I’ve not yet been there, having no music is a big plus!! In almost every restaurant these days, the music is just white noise that prohibits conversation at a normal level. Having no music is a welcome change. I hope they stay that wat.
Ditto! Feel exactly the same.
I came here to say no music sounds wonderful!
Can’t wait to try the food. Hope there is still no music when I get there.
Ditto ditto ditto. Silence is better than the noise that some folks call music these days. Yay for peace and quiet.
A quiet dining experience, I can hear my companions’ voices -heaven