Shanghai Moon 1987 is a culinary gem that has captured the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts around the world. Its menu is a vivid reflection of the rich tapestry of Chinese cuisine, blending traditional flavors with innovative techniques that pay homage to the vibrant culture of Shanghai and the era it represents.
Each dish on the Shanghai Moon 1987 menu tells a story, inviting diners to experience the elegance and complexity of Shanghai’s culinary heritage through carefully crafted recipes that balance boldness and subtlety.
From appetizers that awaken the senses to decadent mains and delicate desserts, the menu showcases an impressive diversity of ingredients and cooking styles. The restaurant’s approach is both authentic and contemporary, embracing the nostalgia of 1987 Shanghai while appealing to modern tastes.
Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur of Chinese food or a newcomer eager to explore, the Shanghai Moon 1987 menu promises an unforgettable dining experience that is as rich in history as it is in flavor.
Appetizers: A Flavorful Prelude
The appetizer section at Shanghai Moon 1987 sets the tone for an exceptional meal. These dishes are designed to awaken the palate with a symphony of textures and tastes that hint at the culinary delights to come.
Each appetizer is crafted with fresh ingredients and traditional seasonings that highlight the unique aspects of Shanghai-style cuisine.
Popular choices include the cold marinated duck tongue and the signature Shanghai-style dumplings. These starters combine intricate preparation methods with bold flavors, offering a perfect balance between richness and freshness.
Many appetizers are ideal for sharing, encouraging a communal dining experience that reflects the convivial spirit of Chinese meals. The menu thoughtfully includes vegetarian options, ensuring there is something for everyone.
Signature Starters
- Shanghai Soup Dumplings (Xiao Long Bao): Delicate dumplings filled with savory broth and tender pork, steamed to perfection.
- Cold Marinated Duck Tongue: A traditional delicacy, seasoned with soy and spices for a slightly tangy bite.
- Scallion Pancakes: Crispy and flaky, these pancakes are infused with fresh scallions and a hint of sesame oil.
- Pickled Vegetables: Assorted seasonal vegetables marinated to create a refreshing palate cleanser.
“The appetizers at Shanghai Moon 1987 are not just starters; they are an invitation to explore the nuanced flavors of Shanghai’s culinary artistry.”
Main Courses: The Heart of Shanghai Cuisine
Main courses at Shanghai Moon 1987 exemplify the region’s love for rich sauces, fresh seafood, and intricate preparations. The dishes are hearty yet refined, characterized by their harmonious blending of sweet, savory, and aromatic elements.
Seafood plays a pivotal role, with offerings like braised fish and stir-fried shrimp showcasing the freshness of ingredients and mastery of cooking techniques. Meanwhile, meat dishes such as the famed Shanghai-style pork belly provide a deep, comforting flavor profile that is both indulgent and satisfying.
The menu also features a variety of noodle and rice dishes, each imbued with distinctive local flavors. Attention to detail is evident in every plate, from the choice of spices to the precise cooking times that preserve texture and taste.
Comparative Flavor Profiles
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Characteristics | Cooking Method |
| Shanghai Braised Pork Belly | Pork belly, soy sauce, sugar, ginger | Sweet, savory, tender | Braising |
| Stir-fried River Shrimp | Fresh river shrimp, garlic, scallions | Light, aromatic, slightly sweet | Stir-frying |
| Steamed Whole Fish | Fresh fish, soy sauce, ginger, cilantro | Delicate, fresh, umami-rich | Steaming |
| Shanghai Fried Noodles | Wheat noodles, pork, soy sauce, vegetables | Savory, hearty, slightly oily | Stir-frying |
Vegetarian and Vegan Delights
Shanghai Moon 1987 recognizes the growing demand for vegetarian and vegan options, offering a thoughtfully curated selection of dishes that do not compromise on flavor or authenticity. These options highlight the versatility of plant-based ingredients within Chinese cuisine.
Vegetarian dishes often feature tofu, mushrooms, and seasonal vegetables, prepared with traditional sauces and aromatic spices. The focus is on creating robust textures and layered flavors that satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Many vegan dishes are crafted to replicate the richness of meat-based meals without sacrificing nutritional value or taste. This careful balance demonstrates the restaurant’s commitment to inclusivity and culinary innovation.
Popular Plant-Based Choices
- Mapo Tofu (Vegan Version): Silken tofu cooked in a spicy bean paste sauce, enhanced with fermented black beans and chili oil.
- Dry-fried Eggplant: Eggplant slices stir-fried with garlic, ginger, and a tangy soy glaze.
- Vegetable Stir-fry with Cashews: Seasonal vegetables tossed with crunchy cashews in a light garlic sauce.
- Lotus Root Salad: Crisp lotus root slices marinated with vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes.
“Vegetarian and vegan dishes at Shanghai Moon 1987 prove that plant-based cuisine can be both authentic and exciting.”
Desserts: Sweet Endings with a Shanghai Twist
Desserts at Shanghai Moon 1987 offer a subtle yet satisfying conclusion to the meal. The menu balances traditional Chinese sweets with innovative creations that incorporate local ingredients and contemporary culinary techniques.
Popular dessert options range from delicate pastries to refreshing fruit-based dishes, often featuring ingredients like red bean, lotus seed, and sesame. These desserts are designed to cleanse the palate and provide a gentle sweetness without overwhelming the senses.
Each dessert is thoughtfully presented, reflecting the same attention to detail and respect for tradition found throughout the menu.
Classic and Contemporary Desserts
- Red Bean Paste Buns: Soft steamed buns filled with sweet red bean paste, a comforting classic.
- Sesame Soup: Warm black sesame soup with a creamy texture and nutty flavor.
- Chilled Osmanthus Jelly: Light, fragrant jelly infused with osmanthus flowers, perfect for summer.
- Sweet Sticky Rice Balls: Glutinous rice balls filled with peanut or sesame paste, served in a warm syrup.
Beverage Selection: Complementing the Cuisine
The beverage menu at Shanghai Moon 1987 is carefully curated to enhance the dining experience. It features a range of traditional Chinese teas alongside modern cocktails and fine wines, each chosen to pair perfectly with the flavors of the food.
Teas like jasmine, oolong, and pu-erh offer aromatic and cleansing qualities that balance the richness of many dishes. The tea service itself is an experience, reflecting centuries-old Chinese tea culture and etiquette.
For those seeking alcoholic options, the cocktail list includes creative interpretations of classic drinks infused with Asian ingredients, while the wine selection emphasizes balance and subtlety to complement the menu’s diverse flavors.
Tea and Spirits Comparison
| Beverage | Flavor Profile | Recommended Food Pairing | Serving Style |
| Jasmine Tea | Floral, light, fragrant | Appetizers, seafood dishes | Hot pot or teapot |
| Oolong Tea | Rich, slightly sweet, toasty | Pork belly, fried noodles | Loose leaf in gaiwan |
| Lychee Martini | Fruity, sweet, crisp | Desserts, light appetizers | Chilled cocktail glass |
| Pu-erh Tea | Earthy, robust, mellow | Rich meats, braised dishes | Steeped in clay pot |
Seasonal Specials and Limited-Time Offerings
Shanghai Moon 1987 embraces seasonality by introducing specials that highlight fresh, local ingredients and traditional festive dishes. These offerings rotate throughout the year, providing customers with unique tastes that celebrate the rhythms of Chinese culinary culture.
Seasonal dishes often showcase rare or highly prized ingredients, prepared with exceptional care. These specials allow the kitchen to experiment and surprise guests with new flavor combinations and presentations.
Patrons are encouraged to inquire about the current seasonal menu, as it reflects the restaurant’s dedication to quality and innovation while maintaining authenticity.
Examples of Seasonal Dishes
- Winter Bamboo Shoot Soup: A nourishing broth featuring tender bamboo shoots harvested in early winter.
- Spring River Crab: Freshly caught river crab served with a ginger and vinegar dipping sauce.
- Autumn Mooncakes: Traditional mooncakes filled with lotus seed paste and salted egg yolk, celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival.
- Summer Sweet Melon Salad: Cooling melon and cucumber salad dressed with a light chili-lime dressing.
“Seasonal menus at Shanghai Moon 1987 are a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to freshness and cultural celebration.”
Dining Experience and Presentation
The dining experience at Shanghai Moon 1987 extends beyond the food itself. The ambiance, service, and presentation all contribute to a memorable visit that honors the elegance and sophistication of Shanghai’s dining traditions.
Tables are set with fine porcelain and traditional chopsticks, creating an inviting atmosphere that balances modern comfort with cultural authenticity. The staff is well-trained to provide attentive yet unobtrusive service, guiding diners through the menu and offering pairing recommendations.
Presentation is meticulous, with dishes arranged to highlight color, texture, and form. This visual appeal enhances the anticipation and enjoyment of each course, reflecting the artistry integral to Shanghai cuisine.
Elements of the Experience
- Elegant tableware: Traditional blue-and-white porcelain and ceramic serving dishes.
- Attentive service: Knowledgeable staff offering detailed explanations of dishes and ingredients.
- Atmospheric decor: Subtle nods to 1980s Shanghai through artwork and lighting.
- Interactive dining: Opportunities for guests to participate in tea ceremonies or dumpling-making demonstrations.
Conclusion
The Shanghai Moon 1987 menu is a masterful celebration of Shanghai’s rich culinary heritage, artfully balancing tradition and innovation. Every dish, from the carefully selected appetizers to the intricate main courses and delicate desserts, offers a journey into the heart of one of China’s most dynamic food cultures.
The menu’s thoughtful inclusion of vegetarian and vegan options, paired with an elegant beverage selection, ensures a comprehensive dining experience that caters to diverse tastes and preferences.
Seasonal specials and the impeccable presentation elevate the meal beyond mere sustenance, transforming it into a cultural experience that resonates with history and artistry. The meticulous attention to detail in both flavor and service invites diners to savor not just food but the stories and traditions embedded within each recipe.
Shanghai Moon 1987 does not merely serve meals; it cultivates lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the nuances of Shanghai cuisine.
Whether you are a devoted fan of Chinese gastronomy or seeking an authentic, immersive dining adventure, the Shanghai Moon 1987 menu offers a compelling invitation to explore and delight in the exquisite tastes and textures that define Shanghai’s culinary landscape.
It is a testament to the enduring allure and evolving creativity of this remarkable cuisine.
