Shanghai Blues

We went here a few years ago and we were impressed by the quality of the food and the service. I thought it would be nice to come here for a family meal. Food is half price, so it seems to be a good deal. My initial impression this time round was not particular was not as positive. The staff weren't rude, but not particularly attentive. I didn't like the fact that we can only have the table for one and a half hours on a Sunday. It wasn't even busy. The food was pretty good, but missed dishes and spilt tea didn't help. They've been open for a while, so I'd expect then to get the basics right. I love the decor and Shanghai Blue promises so much. However, the reality is that it doesn't. There's room for improvement in all areas. Despite all that I've said, I'd still come again, because I've experienced worst.

From our experience of Shanghai Blues, they've definitely smoothed out their service. The maitre d' provided a friendly welcome and the waiting staff were attentive without being overbearing and provided excellent service.

The ambience is also spot on making for an intimate and stylish setting.

The food was close to faultless with presentation to match, and highlights included the pork belly and scallop dim sum. The wine list and the cocktails were also very good and reasonably priced.

If our experience was typical then Shanghai Blues is most definitely worthy of that fifth star.

I think Shanghai Blues serves the best dim-sum in London. I've been several times; usually on Sunday afternoon.
Walking off busy Holborn into a dining room of dark woods, eggshell blue chairs, and subtle lighting is calming and instantly puts you in the mood for a lanquid prandial affair - unlike most China Town offerings.
The service has always been good; efficient and friendly staff who are always happy to explain dishes and make suggestions.
The complimentary palate cleanser of slightly spiced pickled courgette gets the serious business of selecting from the menu off to a mouth watering start.
My favourite dishes:
Shanghai dumplings - little parcels filled with minced pork and stock. The first time I ate these the stock ended up on my shirt front- so be careful when you eat them - let them cool a bit and pop whole into your mouth - ummmmm.

'Tai Chi' dumplings - half black due to oyster juice and half white creating a Yuan-Yang crest effect. Taste as good as they look. Diced roast duck, preserved vegetables, and mushrooms.

Scallops surrounded in a light spinach flavoured dumpling - the vibrant green shines in the dark woods of the dining room.

The wine list is pretty decent with 3 or 4 well matched choices available by the glass.

A selection of teas is available - prepared freshly in the dining room and served in a jade green pot and drank in a warmed small thimble like cup.

At around £50 for two this is excellent value for the quality and location.

Been to SHANGHAI BLUES last Friday! It's really fantastic experience! The dim sum is so beautiful and tasty! Enjoy their food and the live jazz music..... All the staff are nice and friendly! !!!!!!