Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao now in the Philippines

There was a new buzz in the Chinese community here about some new restaurant that opened recently in Greenhills at V-Mall (formerly VirraMall).  It was quite intriguing, and news broke out that it was having long lines before you could have a seat at the establishment.  Thus, I went to find out what was causing this commotion.
Alas, it was Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao.  Believe me when I say, you have to be early to come here to reserve on weekends as the lines can become very long.  We came at around 5:45 PM, and waited for almost an hour before we got in.  Crystal Jade has branches all over Asia, more prominent in Hong Kong , Singapore and China.  It has build up its name as one of the best restaurants in Asia, garnering numerous awards that has made it a household name in several Asian countries.

 They flew in chefs to maintain quality assureness as they provide in the other Asian countries, here you can see them making their famous Xiao Long Bao, they make them fresh.
and their La Mian (hand-pulled noodles)
It's amazing how fast they can make this... and so perfect!
 First up, appetizer Deep Fried Wanton - P 170 / 6 pcs
crispy wanton and juicy meat inside, perfect with sweet and sour sauce
 Yang Chow fried rice - P 248
I was not happy with this serving as it was very small, they should have an
option for a bigger size.  Nothing out of the ordinary.
 One of the highlights of our dinner... I was expecting this to be great
Steamed Xiao Long Bao - P 158/ 5 pcs.
true to their claims, it was very soupy so you have to use your Chinese
spoon and chopsticks for these, or you will spill the juice.
 It was delicious... I have eaten quite a few local versions of Xiao Long Bao
and I must say this is one of the best I have tasted
 Braised Eggplant with pork - P 288
my dad liked it!! - you know my dad (hard to please)
 Sauteed string beans and minced pork with olives - P 248
It was perfectly done, tastes great, crisp and fresh
 Spicy Beef noodles - P288 
the la mian (hand-pulled noodles) was so good, they were very firm
and just right to the bite, I would definitely order this again.
and for desert Radish Pastry - P 98.00/ 3 pcs.
it was very tasty and hot!!! (newly cooked)

Overall, my experience there was very fulfilling though you must expect since this is still a new establishment, and people are curious, there will be long lines, unless you were the first customer.  I feel that the prices of the food here is a little on the expensive side. Almost all servings are only good for 2, so you have to order additional orders, that is why it can be a little pricey.  So if you want to try the best of Asia without taking a ride to HK, this is the next best thing.  Would I dine here again?  Maybe, if the lines are not long anymore.

**tip: dine in during weekdays, and best is that you can reserve a table for a group of 8 and up from Mon - Thurs, during weekends though you would have to reserve in person. They closed at around 9PM, kinda early for me.  So when they reach a certain no. of waiting guests they won't accept you anymore.

Price Range - P 300 - 500

Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao
Unit 117-121, Virra Mall, Greenhills Shopping Center
Greenhills, San Juan City
(632) 570-6910 / (632) 570-6912

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