1933 - to put that into perspective, it's before WWII, before the invention of computers, and a time when commercial airlines could only carry 10 passengers. Dian Dou De was established in Guangzhou before recently expanding to other cities. The name implies, in Cantonese, "everything is possible": as if capturing the plethora and creativity of their Dimsum dishes. Their chain location in Shanghai serves 100s of different types of dim sum that makes you wish you had more stomach space. The dining experience at Dian Dou De starts off with a traditional custom.
Any dim sum restaurant that doesn't provide or force you to order tea is probably not very authentic. We ordered pu'er tea, which has an earthy and soothing flavor profile. A server will come to your table and prepare the tea tableside. Although probably for theatrical effects, they pour the tea in and out of teacups to cool it down. Tea is crucial in dim sum to wipe away the sweet and often fatty richness of dumplings, braised chicken feet, and other decadent desserts.
Dishes:
Gelatinous Rice Sheets Wrapped Around Crispy shrimp-filling - 43 rmb
With a crispy but thin layer of youtiao (fried dough) wrapped inside with juicy shrimp, you have to try this dish out! The sauces on the side complemented the dish with just the right amount of acidity and spice.
Tripe Stew - 49 rmb
This might be for the more adventorous eaters out there. Beef tripe is a delicacy that has a unique rubbery and chewy texture to it. That might not sound the most appetizing, but with the sweet umami glaze and hours of slow cooking, it is amazing!
Traditional Pork Dumpling, topped with shrimp - 37 rmb
A paper-thin piece of dough serves as a vessel for carrying all of that rich, overflowing, and meaty filling. Something about the shrimp placed on top also adds another bouncy texture and vibrant seafood profile to the dish. Serving the dumplings in small foil cups contributed to the presentation too.
Shrimp Dumplings - 37 rmb
My personal favorite item at Diandoude is their simple yet delicious shrimp dumplings. With a glistening presentation and a fresh shrimp filling, it never dissapoints. The rice paper wrapping is nice and chewy, contrasting the buttery softness of the shrimp inside.
Broccoli Rabe in a ginger dressing - 10 rmb
Everyone's favorite - vegetables! The ginger dressing on top of the broccoli rabe makes the dish. Usually oily and plain at other Chinese restaurant, this item hasn't been one of my favorites. However, the ginger dressing adds a spicy heat that neutralizes any oily aftertastes. The broccoli itself is also seasoned perfectly, and the stems still preserves an absolutely-necessary crunchiness.
Braised Chicken Feet - 37 rmb
While it varies by recipes, a mixture of oyster sauce, black bean sauce, and dark soy sauce makes up the braising liquid of the chicken. feet All of them pack a punch. The skin of the chicken feet also literally falls apart if you take your chopsticks across it. Try it out! When's the next time you'll be able to try chicken feet?
Overview:
As you walk into the restaurant, you really feel as if you were transported back to the early 20th century. A crowded single-file restaurant with antique glass windows and fancy porcelain cutlery - it is an immersive experience. With 100s of different dimsum types, you'll always find what you're looking for whether its dumplings, braised meat, steamed buns, or sweet crispy deserts,. Try Diandoude to experience traditional dim sum in Shanghai!
Address:
No. 1018 ChangNing Road, HangNing District, Shanghai China (Note: they have multiple locations)
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