3.187
10 (Tue) July 2012
Xiao Long Bao
3.5
at Crystal Jade Shanghai Delight
(Hyundai Department Store)
-Apgujeong, Gangnam, Seoul, Republic of Korea-
with DJ
Crystal Jade Korea currently has 4 locations: Crystal Jade Palace in the Grand Intercontinental Hotel, Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao in Myeong-dong, Crystal Jade Kitchen in Paju, and Crystal Jade Shanghai Delight in the Apgujeong Hyundai Department Store.
On my trip to Hong Kong last December, I had xiao long bao for lunch at Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao (see 2.332 Xiao Long Bao).
The xiao long bao at Crystal Jade Shanghai Delight were excellent. Although the skin didn’t seem to provide the same luxurious resiliency that I remembered from Hong Kong, and the pork filling seemed a bit flat in flavor, though either could have been the result of inflated expectations and exaggerated memories, the broth was just as exquisitely rich and savory. DJ was beside himself, both from the fun of the process and the way that it tasted. 9,000 won for 8 dumplings – not too bad, given the quality of the product.
On the other hand, the Beijing Duck Rice Plate was a total waste of time and money and calories and concern. For one thing, the serving of duck was pitifully small. Second, it was more bone than meat. And third, it appeared to have been frozen and rapidly thawed in a microwave, rendering it totally dry and tasteless. 14,000 won. Ridiculous. I should’ve complained, but we were enjoying the xiao long bao so much that I didn’t care.
(See also FOODS)
(See also PLACES)
