NASTY! My sister and I witness a cook come out of the restroom and noticed that we both didn't hear the sink run. I sure hope that he walked into the kitchen to wash his hands. After we witnessed this event our delicious-looking food was brought to us and lo and behold...HAIR in our vermicelli. I haven't been back since. A guy that I work with just came back from lunch there with a buddy and he said that we went to a Vietnamese place and his buddy found 3 hairs and he found 1 in his food. This was a good reminder to me to yelp about my experience. Looks to me like things haven't changed over the last 3 years. Good to know I'm not the only one who experienced this.
(1)
Nicole B.
Shanghai has an extensive menu, with loads of choices for vegetarians and meat-eaters. I love their food, especially the noodle bowls! The atmosphere is a little lacking, but the prices and food make up for it. My husband & I eat there about once a month and we keep coming back!
(4)
Shawn M.
Big fan of Shanghai Cafe! It's become one of my favorite places when I'm in Salt Lake City. The Vegetarian General Tao's Chicken is delicious and the service was fast! I mean super fast! I mean in probably took less than ten minutes for me to be seated, order and get my food!
(5)
Mike O.
Delicious vegetarian chicken!!! The service is curt, but the food comes super fast :-) My only complaint is that the water has the plastic taste of squirt gun water ... be sure to order a soda or a beer, because the water sucks :-(
(4)
Austin M.
We recently moved down the street and grabbed some take out from there. Although we didn't dine in, the staff was very friendly, the food was prepared quickly, and the prices were reasonable($20 for two of us). The food was great, and there was plenty of it. I give it 5 stars because it tasted a lot fresher and a lot less greasy than most chinese places I've been to, and their prices are also reasonable for what you get.
(5)
Helen J.
I love going to shanghai! The service isn't over the top friendly but prompt and to the point. Food is always delicious and comes out fast. I like the atmosphere of this place, its nice not to have a server lingering over your table and asking you the questions they are trained to ask. The vegetarian options are delicious!
(4)
Emmy P.
Went here on a Sunday. It was somewhat busy but not what I would consider crazy. We waited about 20 min to be seated, after which we sat and waited another 20 or so minutes before one of our party had to go ask if someone could come and take our order. The younger girl that came to take our order looked like she was about to start crying or have a panic attack. After placing our order, and waiting another 30 min, we had to get up and remind them that we had ordered drinks, and that they had forgotten one of our appetizers. Another 15 min went by and finally asked if maybe we should just leave as they were clearly understaffed and it didn't seem as if we would ever get our order. They assured us it would only be a few minutes, and sure enough, 10 min later we got one plate of food and a bowl of rice. My husband took the first scoop of rice out of the bowl, and right on top of the rice was a mysterious, large plastic tip of some sort, that looked similar to a syringe cover. We called the waiter over agian, he had no idea what it was, but took it from us and hurried off. We finally ate our food, which was fine, but the enjoyment of eating was overshadowed by the fact that we had to wait an hour and 40 minutes to get half cold food with mysterious garbage in it. The only redeeming thing about the night was that we all got a good laugh (and a good story to tell) about how ridiculously bad the whole experience was, and they gave us 10% off.
(1)
Paul P.
Hate-Love, but mostly LOVE!. I first started eating here about 8 years ago because of having lunch with a vegetarian friend and I always seemed to order one of two things on the menu I hated. But after trying other things and asking the friendly staff for help and to fix it my way (less carbs and fats) all of a sudden I developed a great love affair. If a week goes by and I don't visit Shanghai I do really miss the place. The staff are really friendly, once you get to know them, and they are very helpful. The price I feel is a bargain. For lunch try the curry chicken vermicelli salad (hint ask for less noodles and more veggies) and for $6.95 you will have a healthy lunch that tastes good too! I totally would recommend Shanghai - expect clean and efficient - this is not the Grand America - but you will get a great meal for less than fast food. The menu is varied and the staff is helpful.
(4)
Russell M.
Shanghai Cafe is one of my favorite places to eat. I love all the vegetarian dishes like the Mu Shu w/ Veg Chicken and Vermicelli Noodle Salad w/ Curry Veg Chicken. The food is delicious and the prices are a bargain. The service can sometimes seem unfriendly, but that is a) just part of the experience b) not really true. Once you get them to let their defenses down, they are really nice people.
(5)
Erika C.
This is my favorite restaurant in SLC- and I always stick to the same menu Vegetarian Spring Rolls (the peanut sauce is to DIE for) Vegetarian Spicy Vermicelli Noodle Soup Vegetarian Curry Vermicelli Noodle Salad. I've had their pad thai there also, which is good- very different from your Thai pad thai- but still good. I've heard the seafood isn't great.
(5)
Jackie B.
I've only been here a few times, but I've loved it every time! I usually come with a few of my friends. Everything I've had is delicious. I can't wait to return.
(5)
Connie C.
I adore Shanghai Cafe, it truly is the best Vietnamese in SLC, and maybe the only. The Vermicilli noodle bowl is my favorite. My husband didn't love the Chinese dish he ordered, but if you go to a Vietnamese restaurant keep in mind you should order Vietnamese dishes. The menu is overwhelming, but everything can be made vegetarian. The prices are so low, but food is always fresh and tasty!
(5)
Kris M.
I've been coming here over 10 yrs. now and I've never been disappointed. Best asian, vegetarian or otherwise. Be sure to get the veg spring rolls! Excellent food and friendly staff. Very inexpensive, too.
(5)
Jr. J.
I frequent this place the most in Salt Lake, mostly because of their cheap/reasonable pricing. The serving sizes are good, and the food tastes good too. I'm glad they offer brown rice with no extra charge. I wish they would just totally eliminate MSG from their cooking ingredients though. Their servers tell me they don't really add much of it onto the actual dishes, but they use "a little bit" of it for certain sauces and other food items that's already pre-cooked. This gives me and my family occasional headaches, depending on how much of it we consume, so we tend to avoid Chinese places (like Little World) that heavily use MSG. Shanghai Cafe should just avoid it since they're trying to promote healthier eating "for [a] longer life," and MSG is classified as a neurotoxin (regardless of how 'safe' the FDA labels it and other toxic substances that they have recalled their safety approvals after recognizing their harmful effects later on).
(4)
Reina B.
I just tried Shanghai Cafe for the first time with my mother and I have to say, I was so disappointed. We came for dinner and ordered the egg rolls, potstickers, sweet and sour chicken and Hong Kong beef. Nothing was very good. The sweet and sour chicken was mediocre, the Hong Kong beef was terrible and came with broccoli that tasted awful, the egg rolls were very greasy and the filling was disgusting, the potstickers tasted like they had just been frozen. I ended up taking one cautious bite of each item before resolving to eat white rice for dinner. Unfortunately the terrible food was just the beginning. I haven't had service that poor at a restaurant in years... If ever. The server was rude and short with us the whole time and kept rolling his eyes. He never made eye contact or refilled our drinks, wouldn't answer direct questions about the menu and he seriously walked away from us, mid-sentence probably 4 times. We aren't long-winded! We were just in the middle of placing our order. I would look down at my menu and say "may I please have the--" look up and he would be gone. Who does that?? We sat and chatted for a little while and the staff glared at us the whole time, as if they were mad we weren't leaving fast enough (at least 75% of the restaurant was empty and they were nowhere near closing time). Needless to say, we will not be coming back to this restaurant.
(1)
Brian B.
The food here is exceptional. The BBQ Pork in my vermicelli salad was among the best I've had, even counting the month I spent in Hong Kong and Beijing. It is tender and succulent with a jaw-dropping smokiness that continues to unfold long after it's eagerly swallowed down. Beyond the BBQ pork, the ingredients in the dishes we tried were fresh and lively, with each dish well-balanced in flavor, texture and temperature. The spring rolls have a great crunch while still maintaining a flakey lightness. Service is spotty, but earnest. You may have to flag down your waiter for example, but when they're at your table they are knowledgeable, helpful, and will quickly follow-through. Your food will come out quickly and it will be piping hot or to the correct temp. My only complaint is a piece of plastic bag I found in my salad; almost a deal-breaker for most restaurants but something I will happily overlook once given the superb food.
(4)
Michelle S.
This is one of my favorite places to eat, ever. It's not fancy, but the food sure makes it divine! They offer both vegetarian and meat dishes with the veggie meat being one made in house, the best tasting one I've encountered! I've been eating here for more than 15 years and I've always had great service and love the family who owns and runs it. It's always nice being greeted with care upon arrival. The timely service is nice, especially when you're famished, it's always quick service and the food is always hot and fresh! The spring rolls are great for those avoiding fried foods, otherwise, the veggie eggrolls and cream cheese wontons are to die for! They have an extensive menu, something for everyone. Mostly, they offer Chinese and Vietnamese dishes, however, they also have curry dishes and soup pots among an array of other choices. If you're tired and need some energy, don't miss out on their Vietnamese iced coffee, it'll be sure to kick your butt in gear!
(5)
Vida A.
Update time! This place is genuinely filthy! The booths, the condiment bottles, booster seat and high chairs. Disgusting!!! High chairs are all busted and don't have any working fasteners to keep your little one in. If you dare put your child in the filth that haven't been wiped down once. I have been here enough that the servers should acknowledge you but they never smile at you and our server sat on his phone before i went over and asked him for a drink refill. The older man literally didn't even respond to my "excuse me excuse me" 2 feet away. Really? This place uses MSG because right after I ate the Thai green curry I got one those headaches. People sensitive to MSG know what I am talking about, its awful! For how filthy the place is I wonder what the kitchen looks like. The lady owner sits in the first booth doing accounting or something should budget some money for a scrub down before the health department finds her in violation. It's funny how she is always decked out in her diamonds and Jade jewelry and wants to steal my Louis but doesn't have pride of ownership. Stay away people, I warned you. With so many other places doing vegi meat, why go here??
(1)
Katlyn R.
I ordered the Vegetarian lemon chicken and tofu.... It was great! The portion is large enough to be able to have leftovers for lunch the next day. The food also came fast! It was barely a ten minute wait, if that. However, I will never sit down to eat in that restaurant ever again. I'll only order to-go. The restaurant was filthy. There were spots of dried food, probably flicked there from people slurping their soup noodles, covering the blinds and window, and back glass panel of our booth. The highchair that was brought out for my daughter was disgusting. It was completely sticky, and the straps were stiff from old food. Even the plastic thingy they brought the check in was covered in crumbs and sticky spots. No thank you!
(3)
Scott W.
For sure one of my favorite places to eat. The food is incredible, and so fast it's almost waiting at the table for you as you walk in.
(5)
Melissa H.
Shanghai cafe has the best fake chicken EVER! Prices are really good. Our favorite is the vermicelli noodle salad with the spring roll... Deliciousness! Food always comes out speedy fast. Service is good, although curt. Portions are also fairly big! Last time I was there I ventured out of my regular vermicelli noodle salad and ordered a Vietnamese curry. Very flavorful! Kids loved the fake chicken, and we're not even vegetarian! Highly recommended!
(4)
Abby M.
Cream cheese wontons are a little on the sweet side- not expecting that. The General Tsao's chicken was really good but lacked the spice we come to expect with this dish and we ordered the chicken chow mein which we weren't too crazy about. We were served by a highschool/college aged male and an older male server. The older server was a let down; smoking outside, disappearing for long stretches of time, and on his cell phone when he was around. The young server on the other hand was a delight. He was attentive and when he made a mistake of forgetting to add the egg rolls we ordered, he asked us if we still wanted them. We declined to save him the trouble but after we paid our bill he came out with egg rolls, free of charge. We will definitely be coming back.
(4)
Stephanie J.
I have found out recently that I am a fan of the Americanized Chinese cuisine. Shanghai has the standard fare of Chinese food that we Americans crave and rave about. But they do have some additional options that some do not. 3 pages of their menu are dedicated to vegetarian dishes. They looked mighty tasty too! Then there are 2 pages dedicated to the standard beef, pork, and chicken dishes. The final pages have Thai and Vietnamese options. Food review in a moment, first let's address the parking and ambiance situation. The parking sucks. Plain and simple. Just sucks. They share the lot with everyone else in the strip mall. There are 3 Salt Lake County justice/court facilities within this complex. The parking just is awful, at least during the day. At night it could be a different story. The inside of the restaurant was kept clean but there is certainly nothing spectacular to shout about with the decor. The food here is good. It really is. It is flavorful, temperature appropriate, and comes out relatively quick. For the lunch hour we were in and out, including travel back to the office, in an hour. I tried a Thai dish, my friend the sesame chicken. We shared the bowl of rice. The food was plenty to fill up on with enough left over for lunch the next day. The price really is reasonable too. I enjoyed it enough that I would go back, I did not enjoy it enough that it will be my one and only Chinese joint in the valley.
(3)
Laura B.
A vegetarian dream. In fact, I LOVED their fake chicken long before I was a vegetarian. They have a lot of meat items also. That fake chicken is seriously crack though!
(5)
Crystal J.
Pon pon vegetarian chicken is sooo good. Food was cooked fast and it was hot when I picked it up. The portions are huge and I wish there were two of me to eat all of it. Thanks folks! I heart veggie friendly restaurants!
(5)
Nigel L.
I came here forever ago and remember it being a lot worse than it is. I also don't think this review is a fair assessment of the restaurant as I only got take out and one item from the place. Food quality was about a 3-3.5. Noodles and the "stir fry" the noodles came with were seperate, kind of annoying that I had to mix them up myself. The sauce was flavorful. The portions were good. The reason I bumped them up to a 4 is because the fake chicken actually tasted really similar to real chicken and I love that they offer veggie options. Rating could be lowered if I were to eat in, especially given that the restaurant smelled like a bowling alley from the 90s. Interested to try other options on the menu/see what the Shanghai Cafe experience is all about. If anything, it's a Chinese restaurant on State Street that's been around forever WITHOUT 71 health code violations (hint hint wink wink)
(4)
Joshua S.
We ordered the vietnamese veg curry, and an assorted seafood dish in a taco salad shell (was supposed to be some type of Vietnamese crepe). The only good thing I can say about this restaurant, based on one visit, is the server and owner were nice. So that's how I'm going to leave it.
(2)
Garrett N.
my wife her mother, and I were out shopping today and got hungry. I always go for Asian food if given the option. We were right around the corner from Shanghai, so that's where we went. I have eaten here many times usually mid afternoon. I come here because I have a few vegetarian friends and Shanghai meets their needs as well as mine. Today we had sweet and sour pork, almond chicken and Hong Kong style beef. Everything was absolutely delicious. As always. The decor is ok, I think it was probably beautiful twenty years ago. Now the place just looks dingy. The service here seems to always be lacking. The staff is knowledgeable. The food comes out quickly. My glass never went empty. I just don't ever feel satisfied with the service, I guess they just don't seem to care. That being said I still continue to eat there. Overall, we had a great meal as always and paid just over thirty bucks. This place is great for vegetarians and meat eaters alike.
(4)
David S.
Love their Hot and Spicy Vermicilli Vegetarian Pho. I am not a vegetarian but the two varieties of tofu in this soup is amazing. I love the special broth that they use, I've tried Pho all over the country and haven't found a broth even close to this.
(4)
Guy D.
Inexpensive, fast, consistently good, and open late! Great vegetarian/vegan food :)
(5)
Camille L.
It's not very clean and the service is always terrible. That being said, I've been going back for years because the food is amazing and reasonably priced. The food always comes out to the table quickly, but then, more times than not, we never see our server again!! Drinks never get refilled. But, we keep going back because the vegetarian sweet and sour chicken is delicious ! Also cream cheese wontons and the vegetarian spring rolls with peanut sauce are amazing! So if you want your food fast and to be left alone (totally and completely) this is the place for you!
(3)
Jo S.
The extensive menu is sure to please everyone in your crowd, especially the vegans. My favorite dish is the noodle salad with egg roll. I get cravings for it! I pass about three other Vietnamese restaurants to get to Shanghai. The service is always easy to get along with, but could be more attentive. Food is hot, fresh and flavorful. Good prices. This place has been around for ages, I'm happy to have Shanghai in my repertoire of favorite restaurants.
(4)
Amber S.
This place would be so much better if their service was better. Our server tends to be the same guy, always cranky, seems like he doesnt enjoy his job or the people he is interacting with. He comes off very rude. It makes for an awkward, un-wanted, feeling. But the food is so yummy! I love vegetarian Chinese food and this place is no exception, everything is so good! I really enjoy their vegetarian house Pho as well.
(3)
Koko K.
This place is impeccable. The service was amazing. The staff was the friendliest we have ever experienced and it definitely made an impact. The prices are amazing for the quality and quantity of the food. My new number one favorite place for vegetarian food and also my new number one recommendation. This will definitely be my favorite place in salt lake for affordable vegetarian food.
(5)
Lori H.
I've been coming here since I moved to Utah in 1998 and have always enjoyed my food and have had no bad experiences. Today I came for lunch and got the lemon chicken. It was delicious! Not too lemony and the chicken was perfect. Good sized portion for lunch too and I brought some home. Service is good although our server could have cracked a smile a few times. Will be back.
(4)
Kavya S.
Going by the recommendation of do many other reviewers, tried lemongrass with fake chicken. Loved the flavors and the spices. Our waiter was very impatient though and had this unruly attitude. Strange!. But I can totally ignore that service part and will definitely go there again.
(4)
Emily B.
I've been back here three times since my first review. I know, three times since 7/17, how much do I love this place right? This place is addicting! I just can't get enough of the fake sesame chicken. Anyhow, the service has improved. I don't know if that guy got canned or what but I haven't seen him since. They aren't the most outwardly friendly gents but they take your order and before you blink, it's on your table. I guess though, even if the service was still shitty, look how many times I've gone back?
(4)
Kassi M.
It saddens me to do so, because I love this place so much and I crave it. But the last two times I've been there, my vegan menu items have had meat in them. I ordered the vegetarian pho and found chunks of pork fat in it. They told me it was the vegan chicken but trust me, I know what bacon smells like and I know the texture of gristle and that was definitely fat. Last night I got the vegan schezwan and today, while eating my leftovers, I find a chunk of chicken. It's really disturbing to find that after you've already eaten half of your meal. So sad to say it but I don't think I'll be coming back to Shanghai any time soon.
(1)
Anthony S.
They make really good fake chicken dishes that are addicting to say the least. I love so many things on the menu which is unusual for me. The take out is also very fast.
(5)
Maxfield W.
Oh my god. This was the worst dining experience I've had in forever. The server was a total prick -- passing out too many plates to us in both directions and laughing about it. He forgot one persons entree - Tried to blame it on another table who ordered the same entree. The egg rolls are fried disgusting pieces of garbage. The server got us refills two drinks at a time. He told us to slow down when we gave more than two of our refill orders at once. How hard is it to remember two Pepsis, one dew and a water? I ate 10 bites of my combo 160... How fucking gross.
(1)
Matthew Z.
Not sure if I reviewed this place before but Shanghai deserves 6 stars. It's vintage style vegetarian Chinese food, and their dishes- chow mein, sweet and sour chicken, and moo shoo pancakes, are straight up 1950's nostalgia. The ambience is perfect, and the family that runs this restaurant are really great people! The food is reasonably priced, but I think takeout costs extra. Basically just eat in the restaurant, it seems to cost the same as takeout, even after you tip for service. I've been here for Chinese New Year's and it was AWESOME! Highly recommend that as well if you get the chance.
(5)
Gabie J.
Shanghai Cafe is my jam!!! It's my go to anytime. Vermicelli BBQ chicken salad. Shrimp and pork spring rolls. Worbar plate. I could keep going, but I'll stop. This family owned restaurant has been there as long as I can remember and hopefully it stays forever. They are great for you veggies who don't eat meat. They'll give you something better than leafy greens to eat. The food comes out FAST. Service is a little strange but the more you go in, the more the warm up to you and become more friendly. Oh. Don't order the fried rice... That's just my opinion.
(5)
Jen H.
I love Shanghai Cafe! They have tons of Vegan options! The food is certainly not the best you've ever had but it is really good and very cheap! Service is great and food comes out fast! Overall this is a great place to eat.
(4)
Adam E.
It was good, but not as good as we were led to believe. Definitely not Chinese. It had more vietnamese items on the menu than Chinese. The vegetarian tofu meal was really bland. The service was super slow, and they seldom checked to see how we were doing. We'd ordered two dishes and wondered if they'd remembered that we'd ordered the second one, which we were happy about, because the dishes were bigger than we'd planned. After we'd finished and were about to leave, they finally brought out the second, which we ended up having to throw away because we were just passing through town and had nowhere to keep it.
(2)
Elizabeth M.
Vegetables are fresh and delicious. I like to get the Vermicelli noodle salad with egg rolls and pork. Very refreshing! The servers can be dry but once you get to know them you start to love them and their quirks.
(5)
K P.
Shanghai is my go-to take out restaurant since they always have dishes ready in ten minutes and they are delicious. My favorite dishes are the red curry with vegetarian chicken and the pho with vegetarian chicken. They have a wide variety of choices for meat eaters and non meat eaters.
(5)
Leon L.
This was take out we got curry beef and pork over rice. The food was just unbelievably delicious. Also, when we were waiting in line they offered us water. I loved the food and service. You should go there if you pass by Salt Lake City!!!!
(5)
Portia M.
Well I was taken here on a date. The service was excellent and the food was pretty good American Chinese. There was a woman running the dining room who was attentive and knowledgeable. We had Mongolian Beef, Sesame Chicken and Fried Vietnamese Eggrolls - which were delicious. Also Chinese beer and green tea. Great value, decent quality, fabulous service.
(3)
Aubz M.
As a recent vegetarian (in the last six months) I have found it exceedingly difficult to find any vegetarian friendly Chinese and Vietnamese food. Aside from noodles and vegetables, most places come up extremely short. However, Shanghai Cafe has a HUGE vegetarian menu and the absolute BEST vegetarian chicken I've had. I didn't even order it! I'm skeptical of all fake meat and usually skip it for foods I can easily identify. I opted for the tempura combo with veggie potstickers and hot and sour soup. My sister (having been here a few times) got the orange vegetarian chicken and the vegetarian lettuce wraps. Oh. My. God. This "chicken" was so good I think I ate more off her dish than my own! I'm also not a tofu person (I know, such a picky vegetarian, sue me) but the spiced tofu in those wraps was delish!! My tempura veggies were yummy, the veggie potstickers were just good, and the hot and sour soup left something more to be desired, it wasn't good. Though I've found numerous Utah restaurants have a very hard time making good hot and sour soup. I'll stop talking now, but will say, try this place out!
(5)
Amber S.
Very good food. The vegetarian chicken is amazing. Very inexpensive and fast. The service is curt, however. Don't expect much there.
(5)
Kimo W.
Dishes were healthy, flavorful, and filling. Service was friendly and prompt. The restaurant itself was clean. I can't wait to go back with my family. We had Won ton soup, spring rolls, pon pon chicken, fried rice, and other things that I forget. Everything was great.
(4)
Brit J.
I love Shanghai! I always order vegetarian, even though I eat meat. The LEMON GRASS VEG. CHICKEN! SPICY VERMICELLI NOODLE SOUP!? C'mon! Also, you gotta get those fried egg-rolls. People complain that the service isn't good, however, I think the attitude needs to change. Go to enjoy the food, fast service, and also how fast your food comes out. No one that works at Shanghai is ever disrespectful or rude. I am always greeted with a smile. I will continue to satisfy my cravings for yummy, quick, not expensive food at Shanghai.
(4)
Jenni R.
HOW have I not been here in the 16 years that I've been vegetarian???!!!! My sweet boyfriend has been telling me I've needed to go, but I always find it hard to veer from tried-and-true vegetarian places. We went last Sunday, and ..... OH. MY. GOD. I have not had Chinese food THIS good since before I went vegetarian. I might be a little biased, because i am specifically talking about breaded fake chicken, but it totally almost brought me to tears. it was so satisfying (did I mention I'm also pregnant? That might have something to do with the tears). I would choose Shanghai over my beloved Long Life Vegi House any time (and i love Long Life!). The sauces are smoother and much less sticky, the fake meats are softer and not as chewy, and the tastes are multi-layered. They seriously know what they are doing here. Definite massive 5-stars. I've tried the General Tao's Vegetarian Chicken (so far my fav) and the Sesame Vegetarian Chicken. Both were absolutely to die for, but i prefer the flavor and vegetable variety in the General Tao's (it's only mildly spicy, so don't expect anything close to a Thai experience). My boyfriend got the real-animal-meat Mongolian Beef, and really liked it, but said he prefers my above two choices more. He also recently tried the Pork Chops (can't remember the exact name) and said it was sooo delicious, but again, preferred my veggie options! Oh - and if you're in the mood for something fried, DEFINITELY try the Vegetarian Egg Roll. Not only is the appetizer huge, but it's super amazing.
(5)
Sue S.
I am addicted to this place, its not good for my wallet or waste line but its so damn tasty. By far the best "chinese food" I have tried in Utah. Honestly, the service is not the best but your huge portions of chicken fried rice and lettuce wraps will make you forget all about it. You will dream about the egg drop soup for days after your experience. I walk in salivating and leave with a food baby. This is a must try and if you ever need a lunch date count me in, I could never turn down Shanghai!
(5)
Jennifer B.
Had to update my review.... I still love the food. The service can be good, depending on who you get (we got the one male manager today, and he nearly threw our food at us....). However the real reason I'm removing a star? Dead Chicken. I understand there are cultural and religious beliefs. I understand they have an alter as you come into the Cafe. However looking down to see a WHOLE, DEAD, Chicken plucked and looking up at me with dead eyes? *Shudder*. I get it's an offering to the Gods, but having a dead chicken just sitting there belly up,on a plate, on the floor, and it's neck at a unnatural curve so it's one dead eyeball is gawking at you, it leg up in the air and it's wingsflayed out. Was it an offering or was it Jazzercising? It was seriously creepy, and I have to imagine some sort of health code violation.
(3)
Danielle N.
Service was terrible. It was the male owner. He was rude and dismissive, never picked up the plates so our table was crowded with plates we didn't need, and he never even made eye contact with us. When he put my first plate onto the table, he put it *on top of* the silverware and chopsticks. When I asked for a box for to-go he said 'K' then basically threw it at me when he got back. The only thing he could do decently was fill up our water. It wasn't even busy, either. The food was a bit above average for the price, especially considering the speed in which it came out. I give kudos to the cooks. I would not go back because the waiter/owner was not at all what one would expect for a sit-down restaurant. If he doesn't want to serve food, he should either hire more people or turn the place into a fast food restaurant (the food comes out quickly enough). Huge disappointment, because I've heard raves from so many people.
(2)
Minhtu N.
Horrible! The food was so so and the service was intense! Our server didn't smile at all and seemed pretty grumpy the whole time. Food was so plain and over priced. They also add a tip to ur check automatically. I had 2 ppl and they added a tip to my total any way. It's not like I don't tip but when u make it automatic it feels like ur forcing me to tip u when u clearly did not deserve it. In addition all the workers were having a smoke break on my car! They were leaning on it and everything. So I turned on the alarm.....please find ur own smoke break area ...anywhere but my car.
(1)
Emi P.
The waiter tried pressuring my husband into a Pepsi after he said no three times already. Especially irksome as he is a larger man on a diet. Fast food workers are less forceful than this about extras. Our veggie spring rolls were huge chunks of dried out rice noodles with one piece of lettuce each and a bit of mung bean sprouts, and the peanut sauce had a really off taste. My husband got mushu pork, which was strangely already wrapped and tasteless, and caused pretty bad diarrhea. I got the vermicelli salad with bbq pork and shrimp. The pork wasn't horrible, but pretty dry. The dry shrimp didn't taste like shrimp, more like burnt plastic. The lettuce was really wilted and most pieces were half brown- this is a salad, I would have liked it if I could actually eat the salad part of it. The tiny shredded carrot pile had numerous bits of food that shouldn't have been in here, like a morsel of something that looked like ground beef. The sauce was sugary oily water. Do not go here, there are several better cheap Chinese places like Little World.
(1)
Ameilia Q.
I adore this place. I have been going here ever since I moved here three years ago. I love the egg rolls and I adore the vermicelli salad dishes. These are authentic Vietnamese dishes with a lot of food for not a lot of money. I always order the egg roll vermicelli salad and I can never finish it. It is so good that I always want to but it is too much food that I always take it home. This places is great for inexpensive but very good food.
(5)
Lizzie W.
This is a really nice and inexpensive Chinese/Vietnamese restaurant, with a large selection of food that is both, meat eater, vegetarian and even vegan friendly. That's what led us here to begin with. The restaurant/decor itself is what you expect your run of the mill Chinese restaurant, tacky. Food wise- this place was solid. Minus the fact that the chicken lettuce wraps came out in tin foil? I had a what the hell moment, but the chicken more than compensated, although it was a bit on the greasy side. Perhaps, the waiter just misunderstood me. The rest of the food (lemongrass (imitation) chicken, low mein with beef, and cream cheese wantons were all above your average Chinese fare and all had a low price tags. Is this place a Chinese food revolutionary? No. But in terms of reliability, this is a nice little joint. I was satisfied with food and service alike, so returning is not out of the question for me.
(4)
Doug C.
Am I a vegetarian? Hell no. Am I a meatitarian? Hells yes. Nevertheless, I love their fake chicken. This place is perfect not only because I love Chinese food, but my girlfriend is vegetarian and also loves Chinese food. Despite my carnivorous palate, their fake chicken you just have to order. I've tried various dishes but their lemongrass fake chicken is by far the best. Perfect amount of "meat" and vegetables. Their rice is cooked well and their water tastes fine. They also never claimed to be vegan so I don't understand the hate. I called in for take out for Valentine's Day because my girlfriend was busy running for President of the U, and by the time I drove from downtown it was ready. Very fast, efficient, good service overall. Is ther a "mean" waiter? I guess. He's just direct and doesn't kiss ass for tip. If you're used to that then don't go here but he isn't "rude" by any means. He's fast and effective. The two most important qualities of my waiters. Great vegetarian selection, can't beat the price, will visit again soon!
(4)
Vi T.
It's all about the fake meat here. Do I like real meat? Definitely. But I prefer to get their fake meat at Shanghai Cafe. There's just something so delicious about it. I've gotten quite a few of their "chicken" dishes and most are pretty tasty. Most recently I got their pon pon "chicken" which was sweet with a little kick of heat. Not enough heat for me but I like things really spicy. I also got their hot and sour soup. Not my favorite. A little bland. But the cream cheese wontons? Delicious. Egg rolls? Yum. And really, you can't beat their prices. My pon pon "chicken" was a good size and it was only $6. That includes rice of course.
(3)
Abraham T.
As far as vegetarian cuisine goes, this place is pretty much Mt. Olympus, and the vermicelli noodle bowls are like taking an edible, super delicious lightning bolt from Zeus, to the tummy! Yum!
(5)
Eric G.
Tasty food for cheap, can't go wrong! I got pad Thai ($7.50), wife got vegetarian beef bowl. Only thing we didn't like was the veggie beef. Veggie chicken was great. Service was ok friendly wise, but super fast. The main appeal is good food for cheap with vegetarian and gluten free options galore! Will definitely be back.
(5)
Gina H.
We love the vegetarian choices. Especially the @chicken",but the service is so bad. Last Saturday we went and had the worst experience in terms of service that we have ever had there. It wasn't even busy! They forgot our drinks and two entrees. This after waiting fir over half an hour. Watching people that came in after us get their food first and then given two different excuses as to why our food wasn't ready was maddening. Be prepared for terrible service,allow extra time,and maybe you will be fine.
(3)
George L.
The. Worst. Dinner. Ever. Canned mushrooms - really? We had spring rolls, lemongrass chicken and almond beef (all vegetarian) - horrendous and inedible.
(1)
Wes N.
In the past, when I was a vegetarian, I gave this place 4 & 5 star reviews. I'm now vegan and I gotta drop em down. The primary reason is that their faux meats (including the faux chicken) are not vegan because they contain egg. It's also very difficult to communicate with the staff and they don't seem very happy to answer any questions that you may have. In addition, the water they serve here is terrible. I don't know what they do to it, but it has a horrid taste. I've also heard some horror stories about them accidentally throwing meat in vegetarian plates, etc. Bottomline: I recommend that all vegans/vegetarians go elsewhere instead. Check out Long Life Vegi House for vegan Asian cuisine. Their faux meats are vegan and extremely delicious!
(2)
Franz D.
The service at Shanghai Cafe is horrible. You ask the server for something and they forget your request - you ask them again and they forget about you again. The servers are pushy to try to get you to order more than you ordered and it makes for a horrible atmosphere. There are huge plants everywhere in the restaurant that get in the way if you're walking to a table or sitting at a table near the plant.
(1)
Cecilia L.
I have been coming her for over 10 years! I love this place..it serves vegetarian and nonvegetarian Vietnamese dishes. Prices range from $7-$10 for their main dishes. And They have really good fried and spring rolls. I really like the way they do their vegetarian dishes even though I'm not one. They have great vermicelli noodle salads. The place is clean and the service is quick and friendly!
(4)
Kimberly M.
I should just sign over half my pay check to them because it seems like that is how often I eat there. It's a great place to go if you have meat eaters and vegetarians in one crowd. If you get the vegetarian breaded chickens, you will have a hard time telling it apart from real chicken. my husband and i had to thoroughly investigate. lol. Great food- great place.
(5)
Slugger M.
Mmmnnnnnn Shanghai! I have a long history with this wonderful place, I started coming here around '95 or '96 and have probably been here hundreds of times over the years. There's something refreshing about everything always being the same every time you go, guaranteed. Here's the lowdown on the place, much of this has already been said: Is it vegan? No. They've also NEVER advertised themselves as a vegan restaurant. Never in any way shape or form! Are the servers rude? Yes and no, mainly no. You just have to know what you're getting into, especially the culture differences. It's not that they're rude, they're just there to provide a service not make new friends and kiss your ass like people expect in Western culture. On a recent trip to China I found service to be very similar if not worse. The main guy that people are complaining about isn't even rude in my opinion, he's just very direct and to the point hence the always amazingly quick service. He's always nice to my lady and I and even cracks jokes with us occasionally. I know, it's crazy but true. If you want a server to kiss your ass, perhaps TGI Fridays is more up your alley. Does the water taste bad? Hell no! What in the world are you people talking about? I've ordered water here almost exclusively in my 15+ plus years of coming here and never noticed anything strange about the water! All of the vegi chicken options are to die for! Incredibly good without the rubbery texture found at many vegi places. My main go to's here are vegi Chicken Lemmon Grass with red pepper, and plain ol vegi chicken fried rice. In my experience the only thing that compares is a restaurant in Philly called New Harmony, highly recommended by the way. I've brought in many meat eating friends over the years, many of which ended up switching to the vegi meat options after trying them. It's seriously that good! Disclaimer/Side Note for vegans: I'd say I'm probably 80% vegetarian these days with many of my meals being 100% vegan. I'm a sucker for In 'N Out Burger, what can I say nobody's perfect. I appreciate anyone who is vegan and has the will power and discipline to do so, I really do. At the same time I think some of you take it to an unnecessary and annoying point! I don't think it's fair for vegans to give a restaurant a bad review for not having vegan options when they never claimed to cater to vegans in the first place! There are many vegi only people that would love this place but might not ever try it because you gave it a bad review for having egg flaux in their soy meat and they went elsewhere. All because you're vegan, or as one of my friends likes to say "have a self induced eating disorder." No pun intended. Do you see how ridiculous this is? Would it be ok for me to go to a Thai restaurant and give them a bad review because they don't have french fries? Or what if I buy a skateboard from Target and then give a bad review because the employee that helped me didn't know what kind of bearings are in the wheels, or what kind of wood the board is made of! If I did I'd look like a pretty big douche right? Just saying....
(5)
Ines O.
The food is fantastic! For about 2 years I went here every single weekend without fail. I know a lot of people say the staff could be friendlier and more attentive, and I'm sure that's the case sometimes, but they treat me and my best friend very well due to being such long time regulars. The menu has great variety for both vegetarians and meat eaters and I don't know anyone who has complained of their meal tasting bad there before (and I try to drag just about everyone here)! The decor is a bit funky, with some ugly carpeting and vinyl booths that look outdated, so the atmosphere could be better, so 4/5 stars.
(4)
Jan H.
Wow!! This place gets really interesting reviews. Mostly about the water (I didn't notice anything different,) the wait staff being rude (I think it is cultural thing-Asians are not known for huggy, kissy, warm and fuzzy behavior. It isn't meant as disrespect, it's just their style,) vegan issues (I think vegans have a rough road ahead of them, particularly when there are language barriers but ultimately the responsibility is on the vegan,) flavor (my food tasted great,) and decor (some of the best places I have eaten in are hole in the wall type venues.) My Couchsurfing host took me here on the way back to the airport from a fantastic four days in Sundance. While in Sundance I had some great food and I felt like this lunch was a wonderful send off. So, I guess bottom line it might be a hit and miss type of place, but I will definitely return. In addition, as an actress I have spent many a day working in restaurants in my youth and I always thank everyone profusely (bus person, host, waiter, etc.) I smile a lot, and I also take notice if there is only one server, did they suddenly get swamped (which means the kitchen will get overwhelmed,) and other issues of that type. So I know that I am a restaurant's dream customer but I also know what I can expect in terms of service and food, so I think I am a fairly good judge of restaurants. I didn't notice anything being unclean, I was treated with respect, my food came fast, and everything tasted wonderful. Not "over the top" but very good.
(4)
Aimee C.
Egg rolls. In my mouth. Now. (please) I love them. I will put up with the service that has been the same guy for the last ten or so years, with the same weird short attitude and the same way of kind of looking through, rather than at, customers. I just want the egg rolls. The vegetarian "meat" is a better option than actual meat in the entrees. General Tso's "chicken", Sweet and sour "chicken", Cashew "chicken", all winners. And I love the celery. I could go with you and pick out your celery and just eat that, if you want. I mean, that plus the egg rolls. I ordered the (real) chicken lettuce wraps for the first time recently and I feel like I could have just lived forever not knowing they existed. The chicken was just kind of weird and salty, with no real flavor on top of being extremely unappetizing to look at.
(3)
Nicole F.
I am very unhappy with my previous experiences. The first time I went to Shanghai I specifically asked if their "vegetarian chicken" was vegan (no dairy, eggs, etc). And they assured me that it is in fact vegan. After another vegan friend told me he was weary of their knowledge of if their food is vegan, I decided to double check with them. I asked if their vegetarian chicken was vegan and I was told yes. Then I asked if it had any milk, dairy, eggs, etc. The man I spoke with told me he thinks there might be egg whites in it, but he's not sure. So I asked if I could speak with a cook to confirm the ingredients, he told me no the cooks are too busy to speak with me. I have since stopped going there and will never return.
(1)
Andrew P.
I've been going to Shanghai for a very long time, over 15 years or so. They have always served excellent food, quickly and freshly prepared, and loaded in the flavor department. Excellent noodle bowls, good Pho, and amazing Vietnamese egg rolls top my list, but the menu is extensive, and includes many vegetarian options. No, they aren't Vegan, but I don't think they're really trying to be. They do an excellent job of making wonderful food at very reasonable prices.
(5)
Kiesha J.
Not sure what everyone is talking about with the water tasting funny, I've never noticed, and I only order water at restaurants. This is one of the few Vietnamese/Chinese restaurants in town that I will eat with. It's clean, the service is fast (could be plenty more friendly), and the food is good and price perfectly. Dinner entrees are $7.95 and are enough to feed two people, I usually order an entree and an appetizer to share with my date. They have both Chinese and Vietnamese items on their menu, including a decent Pho. A big plus is their extensive vegetarian menu. It's nice going to a restaurant where my vegetarian friends can pick from more than one item and I don't have to get stuck eating tofu.
(3)
Hillary S.
I do not believe that a restaurant should be ranked on the basis of a single experience. I have waited and bartended for eight years, I understand everyone can have a bad day. My first visit at Shanghai Cafe was a pretty good experience, and as a recovering vegetarian I was stoked with the number of veggie options. The vegetarian mu shu was pre-wrapped in pancakes, which was a little weird. The pancakes were a bit off but passable. The prices are good, and it's walking distance from my house. Normally, this would be a four-star review for those points alone. However, my second experience is what drove me to knock a star or two off a decent review. I walked into Shanghai alone and was promptly seated by the wonderful, warm woman who seems to run the place. And said woman became exponentially more courteous when compared to my server, whom upon greeting me said "Do you know what you want?". Nothing more, nothing less. I was taken aback. What the hell did I do? Stammering, I ask for tea. My server, exasperated, walks away from me, rolling his eyes. Upon returning, he sets down the tea; "do you know what you want YET?" glaring at me rather incredulously. Um, no. He dismisses me in a huff and goes to another table. He makes the round back to me again and again says "do you know what you want yet?" voice teeming with disdain. Um, can I have the vegetarian ginger chicken? I wanted to ask what was in ginger chicken, however, I didn't want to aggravate the angry man in charge of my food. Hell, I didn't want to make eye contact with him because I thought he would spit on me. My server grabs the menu and walks away, rolling his eyes, again. A little later he drops the plate at my table, not acknowledging my presence. He then takes residence behind the host stand and proceeds to glare at me, arms folded. I quickly pick out the veggie chicken and carrots from the pile of onions. I then sat, obviously finished with my meal as he cleaned tables around me. I would look at him trying to gain his attention and I was summarily dismissed. I stared at my plate of onions and felt tears welling in my eyes. Finally, the kind wonderful woman came by and sat her hand on my shoulder, stared right into my glassy, tear- filled eyes and asked how everything was. Trying not to blink, I said I was okay. She then handed me the check, which I then paid and left. I should have said something, I wanted to say something but I was so shocked by how I was treated; the only thing I wanted to do was get the hell out.
(2)
chris c.
I certainly appreciate a place that serves vegetarian food, but come ON! This place needs a makeover. I ordered some type of tofu "chik'n" dish that was supposed to have lemongrass. What I received was some tofu and some grease. No lemongrass to be seen, smelled, or tasted. The entire dining section was dirty. Don't these people know how to clean? Also, despite the many cleverly-placed incense burners, the Shanghai Cafe reeked of fish. I know that even sushi restaurants are capable of making sure the customers are not blown over by rotting fish stench, so there is no excuse here. Bleh. I'd rather go to Panda Express for the bland rice and the brown broccoli.
(2)
Amanda H.
Not my favorite place to go. Thursday lunch tradition indicates that we take turns selecting location in rotation. Some of my co-workers really like this place and we've been here a couple of times in the last few months. I can't say as I am too eager to go back. Word to the wise: the Water they serve is GROSS! It comes out looking tall, cold and refreshing, and ends up going down with the metallic aftertaste that could make a horse shudder. yuck. I think it is from their ice machine and not the water itself, which makes me suspect about ordering a soda as well. And this has been true with every occasion that we have been here. Everyone at my table agrees that it is always bad. Looking around the restaurant, everybody's water glasses were full. Major problem here. My co-workers all like the Vermicilli noodle bowl with the egg roll on top. I had this on my first trip and thought it was...ok. The dressing was nice and tangy and the bean sprouts were crisp. However, I didn't care for the texture of the egg roll...it was kind of gritty to me. Today I ventured for the sweet and sour chicken lunch combo. It was fine. The ham fried rice was actually pretty good and I enjoyed it. The sweet and sour chicken was a bit common. No surprises. So while it wasn't a bad choice for lunch and the food was edible, I am left with a metallic water after taste and an MSG headache. Better luck next week. PS Service here is pretty un-friendly, but the food comes out super fast!
(2)
Elizabeth R.
Pros: *Excellent vegetarian menu - I can't tell you how much I missed sesame chicken after I became a vegetarian. There are pages of different items and I've enjoyed all of them. *Quick service with a polite staff *Very reasonable prices Cons *I've eaten there about five times now and one of the times the fried egg rolls were soggy with oil. *You should order takeout because the restaurant smells strongly of nail polish, presumably because of the nail salon next door.
(4)
Christa E.
this is a favorite for me and my family when they are in town visiting. the service is great. they are fast and on top of things and there is plenty of room for groups. last time I was there I got the walnut shrimp and it is by far my favorite item on the menu. their pho is pretty delicious as well, and I love their cream cheese wontons. I'm not a vegetarian and I have never been known to choose "chicken" over chicken. but, it's actually delicious here. they have an amazing vegetarian menu. one of my new years resolutions might be to become a regular here ;)
(3)
Amanda J.
Love all the vegetarian options, great soups.
(5)
Alex G.
I have been eating here for maybe 20 years. It is the place to go for Vietnamese Fried Egg Rolls with nip mum sauce.
(4)
Melissa L.
The environment isn't the best and the staff isn't exactly super nice, but it's some of the best food I've ever had. The food was always perfect and they gave me everything I asked for. I don't live in Salt Lake anymore, but when I go back to visit this will definitely be the first and last place I go to eat.
(5)
Dotty N.
I think 3.5 stars is how I would consistently rate Shanghai Cafe. Ive been to this low-key joint numerous times. The service ranges from a very plastic "is everything alright?" to appalling rudeness- meaning, I haven't finished my order before he walks away. I love the vegetarian meat, not because I don't eat meat, but because they execute it well and I enjoy their preparation. You can't go wrong with a vermicelli noodle salad (BBQ pork and egg-roll is my fav), or an order of Vietnamese egg-rolls, but make your own fresh spring rolls at home.
(3)
Timothy S.
Let me just say that the customer service is excellent at Shanghai Cafe! My girlfriend and I ate here at least four times on our SLC journey. The one night, we showed up at 9:45, just as they were about to close. We had no idea the restaurant closed at 10pm but that was our own fault. Anyway, they had the door locked and waved at us to come inside. We felt terrible, but they were more than welcoming towards us and us even made us fresh spring rolls! We both had the vegetarian sesame chicken with broccoli and rice. Delicious and crispy, the way I like it! The owner and staff assured us not to rush and eat fast and that they would be willing to stay opened a bit later for us. Although they locked the door after we sat down, they really made us feel at home. Exceptional customer service and great food. We left them a large tip for their kindness. It certainly did not go unnoticed and I tell everyone I know in the SLC area to eat at this restaurant. Eat here, but don't go too late is my best advice to you.
(5)
Alexis K.
FASTEST ASIAN TAKE OUT OR SIT IN FOOD YOU'LL GET.... GUARANTEED. I've been going here for about two years now, and not only is their food absolutely delicious, but its made psychotically fast. I always call last minute (whether I'm starving, minutes before they close, driving by) and they are always ready with my food when I arrive. Two days ago I called and ordered two entrees while I was waiting at a red light TWO BLOCKS AWAY, and by the time I arrived it was already waiting for me. I kid you not, they are speedy quick. I've never found any other Asian restaurant that offers great vegetarian dishes that resemble meat so well (my vegan roommate won't even eat their fake chicken because it tastes so real).
(5)
Nurse Kate D.
For me Shanghi is a staple. They are ALWAYS open (it seems) their food is ALWAYS delicious and healthy, their service is ALWAYS fast, you can ALWAYS get brown rice if you want it and their prices are ALWAYS low. They have a lot of vegan and vegetarian dishes and for the vegophiles out there you can order 1$ extra vegetables or 2$ extra vegetables to any dish (not on the menu) and you'll get a scoop or two of extra carrots, broccoli, snow peas etc.. My husband and I eat here once or twice a week as it is close, healthy and so outrageously consistent. As far as the reviews of rude service- we have spent a lot of time at Shanghi and have got to know the staff really well- they are not rude, they are just busy. In truth they are a wonderfully fun group of people if you take the time to get to know them. It is family run and like all families there are different personalities. And c'mon let's be honest would you like to have a big hug or your food on the table fast? The employees are driven by the owner to get food ordered, prepared, served, cleaned up and paid for as quick as possible. Not a lot of time for idle chit-chat. As with some places you have to roll with it for the consistently delicious cheap healthy food.
(4)
mike k.
We come here at least once a month for the same thing- Vietnamese egg roll and chicken curry bun...delicious. But we stopped coming here for a while due to the sh*t attitude of the one owner...He always acts all put out and in a hurry. All they say now is "the usual?" and then walk away so fast, if you wanted a drink, well, forget it! And just try to get a refill on your iced tea...lots of eye rolling and ignoring. Now Randy is the shorter, nicer of the two, but also in too big of a hurry...but at least he smiles. They really need a nice server there. Around the corner, there is a place called ASIA PALACE that is really tasty too and alot friendlier. We also go to the Pho Green Papaya which has excellent friendly service and great pho and delicious food. But I can put up with these buttheads for my monthly fix of bun....huge bowl and the crispy eggrolls are delish!
(3)
Diane W.
People, beware of this place! On December 13, 2012, I got food poisoning after eating the vegetarian versions of Szechuan and General Tao's chicken with brown rice. My companion did not get sick, however, I became violently ill in the middle of the night, approximately 7 hours after dining there. I suffered from classic symptoms of Norwalk Virus. I reported this incident to the Utah Health Department. For the sake of their loyal customers and the limited choices out there for vegetarians, I hope Shanghai cleans up their food handling practices. I for one will never, ever eat there again!
(1)
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Address :145 E 1300 S,Ste 411
Salt Lake City, UT, 84115
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch, Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
The popularity of Chinese food in America can be adjudicated by the appearance of China Town in many major cities in the United State of America. The popular trend of ordering or opting for Chinese take away food isn't unknown in America. Chinese take away food comes to rescue when you're too tired from work or too exhausted to cook. No one can resist the temptation of eating spicy noodles, shrimp, chicken, beef or pork cooked in the sweet and spicy sauce. The cooking method of authentic Chinese food is a lot different compared to what is served in America.
Generally, Chinese use dark meat small bones and organs to cook dishes but this changes when you are eating American-Chinese fusion food prepared using white boneless meat cooked with broccoli, carrots and onions. Back in China, the food is less spicy and oily as they favor steaming and braising method for cooking the most popular dishes. So, if you have a taste for authentic Chinese food, then try finding a real Chinese restaurant in the city. You can also try the most popular fusion Chinese food like Pecking Duck, Chicken Feet, Hot Pot, Shrimp Dumpling Soup, Mapo Tofu, Wontons, Chop Suey, Egg Rolls and not to forget Fortune Cookies.
There are not many restaurants in America serving authentic Chinese food. A little research on Restaurant Listings directory can help you locate the best Chinese restaurants in the city. Chinese cuisine is continuously evolving, and you can find a variety of dishes categorized as the food for lactose intolerant, gluten intolerant, vegan, vegetarian, and diabetic friendly. So, if you have a group of friends with different taste patterns, save the hassle and visit the nearest Chinese restaurant in your city.
Fae L.
NASTY! My sister and I witness a cook come out of the restroom and noticed that we both didn't hear the sink run. I sure hope that he walked into the kitchen to wash his hands. After we witnessed this event our delicious-looking food was brought to us and lo and behold...HAIR in our vermicelli. I haven't been back since. A guy that I work with just came back from lunch there with a buddy and he said that we went to a Vietnamese place and his buddy found 3 hairs and he found 1 in his food. This was a good reminder to me to yelp about my experience. Looks to me like things haven't changed over the last 3 years. Good to know I'm not the only one who experienced this.
(1)Nicole B.
Shanghai has an extensive menu, with loads of choices for vegetarians and meat-eaters. I love their food, especially the noodle bowls! The atmosphere is a little lacking, but the prices and food make up for it. My husband & I eat there about once a month and we keep coming back!
(4)Shawn M.
Big fan of Shanghai Cafe! It's become one of my favorite places when I'm in Salt Lake City. The Vegetarian General Tao's Chicken is delicious and the service was fast! I mean super fast! I mean in probably took less than ten minutes for me to be seated, order and get my food!
(5)Mike O.
Delicious vegetarian chicken!!! The service is curt, but the food comes super fast :-) My only complaint is that the water has the plastic taste of squirt gun water ... be sure to order a soda or a beer, because the water sucks :-(
(4)Austin M.
We recently moved down the street and grabbed some take out from there. Although we didn't dine in, the staff was very friendly, the food was prepared quickly, and the prices were reasonable($20 for two of us). The food was great, and there was plenty of it. I give it 5 stars because it tasted a lot fresher and a lot less greasy than most chinese places I've been to, and their prices are also reasonable for what you get.
(5)Helen J.
I love going to shanghai! The service isn't over the top friendly but prompt and to the point. Food is always delicious and comes out fast. I like the atmosphere of this place, its nice not to have a server lingering over your table and asking you the questions they are trained to ask. The vegetarian options are delicious!
(4)Emmy P.
Went here on a Sunday. It was somewhat busy but not what I would consider crazy. We waited about 20 min to be seated, after which we sat and waited another 20 or so minutes before one of our party had to go ask if someone could come and take our order. The younger girl that came to take our order looked like she was about to start crying or have a panic attack. After placing our order, and waiting another 30 min, we had to get up and remind them that we had ordered drinks, and that they had forgotten one of our appetizers. Another 15 min went by and finally asked if maybe we should just leave as they were clearly understaffed and it didn't seem as if we would ever get our order. They assured us it would only be a few minutes, and sure enough, 10 min later we got one plate of food and a bowl of rice. My husband took the first scoop of rice out of the bowl, and right on top of the rice was a mysterious, large plastic tip of some sort, that looked similar to a syringe cover. We called the waiter over agian, he had no idea what it was, but took it from us and hurried off. We finally ate our food, which was fine, but the enjoyment of eating was overshadowed by the fact that we had to wait an hour and 40 minutes to get half cold food with mysterious garbage in it. The only redeeming thing about the night was that we all got a good laugh (and a good story to tell) about how ridiculously bad the whole experience was, and they gave us 10% off.
(1)Paul P.
Hate-Love, but mostly LOVE!. I first started eating here about 8 years ago because of having lunch with a vegetarian friend and I always seemed to order one of two things on the menu I hated. But after trying other things and asking the friendly staff for help and to fix it my way (less carbs and fats) all of a sudden I developed a great love affair. If a week goes by and I don't visit Shanghai I do really miss the place. The staff are really friendly, once you get to know them, and they are very helpful. The price I feel is a bargain. For lunch try the curry chicken vermicelli salad (hint ask for less noodles and more veggies) and for $6.95 you will have a healthy lunch that tastes good too! I totally would recommend Shanghai - expect clean and efficient - this is not the Grand America - but you will get a great meal for less than fast food. The menu is varied and the staff is helpful.
(4)Russell M.
Shanghai Cafe is one of my favorite places to eat. I love all the vegetarian dishes like the Mu Shu w/ Veg Chicken and Vermicelli Noodle Salad w/ Curry Veg Chicken. The food is delicious and the prices are a bargain. The service can sometimes seem unfriendly, but that is a) just part of the experience b) not really true. Once you get them to let their defenses down, they are really nice people.
(5)Erika C.
This is my favorite restaurant in SLC- and I always stick to the same menu Vegetarian Spring Rolls (the peanut sauce is to DIE for) Vegetarian Spicy Vermicelli Noodle Soup Vegetarian Curry Vermicelli Noodle Salad. I've had their pad thai there also, which is good- very different from your Thai pad thai- but still good. I've heard the seafood isn't great.
(5)Jackie B.
I've only been here a few times, but I've loved it every time! I usually come with a few of my friends. Everything I've had is delicious. I can't wait to return.
(5)Connie C.
I adore Shanghai Cafe, it truly is the best Vietnamese in SLC, and maybe the only. The Vermicilli noodle bowl is my favorite. My husband didn't love the Chinese dish he ordered, but if you go to a Vietnamese restaurant keep in mind you should order Vietnamese dishes. The menu is overwhelming, but everything can be made vegetarian. The prices are so low, but food is always fresh and tasty!
(5)Kris M.
I've been coming here over 10 yrs. now and I've never been disappointed. Best asian, vegetarian or otherwise. Be sure to get the veg spring rolls! Excellent food and friendly staff. Very inexpensive, too.
(5)Jr. J.
I frequent this place the most in Salt Lake, mostly because of their cheap/reasonable pricing. The serving sizes are good, and the food tastes good too. I'm glad they offer brown rice with no extra charge. I wish they would just totally eliminate MSG from their cooking ingredients though. Their servers tell me they don't really add much of it onto the actual dishes, but they use "a little bit" of it for certain sauces and other food items that's already pre-cooked. This gives me and my family occasional headaches, depending on how much of it we consume, so we tend to avoid Chinese places (like Little World) that heavily use MSG. Shanghai Cafe should just avoid it since they're trying to promote healthier eating "for [a] longer life," and MSG is classified as a neurotoxin (regardless of how 'safe' the FDA labels it and other toxic substances that they have recalled their safety approvals after recognizing their harmful effects later on).
(4)Reina B.
I just tried Shanghai Cafe for the first time with my mother and I have to say, I was so disappointed. We came for dinner and ordered the egg rolls, potstickers, sweet and sour chicken and Hong Kong beef. Nothing was very good. The sweet and sour chicken was mediocre, the Hong Kong beef was terrible and came with broccoli that tasted awful, the egg rolls were very greasy and the filling was disgusting, the potstickers tasted like they had just been frozen. I ended up taking one cautious bite of each item before resolving to eat white rice for dinner. Unfortunately the terrible food was just the beginning. I haven't had service that poor at a restaurant in years... If ever. The server was rude and short with us the whole time and kept rolling his eyes. He never made eye contact or refilled our drinks, wouldn't answer direct questions about the menu and he seriously walked away from us, mid-sentence probably 4 times. We aren't long-winded! We were just in the middle of placing our order. I would look down at my menu and say "may I please have the--" look up and he would be gone. Who does that?? We sat and chatted for a little while and the staff glared at us the whole time, as if they were mad we weren't leaving fast enough (at least 75% of the restaurant was empty and they were nowhere near closing time). Needless to say, we will not be coming back to this restaurant.
(1)Brian B.
The food here is exceptional. The BBQ Pork in my vermicelli salad was among the best I've had, even counting the month I spent in Hong Kong and Beijing. It is tender and succulent with a jaw-dropping smokiness that continues to unfold long after it's eagerly swallowed down. Beyond the BBQ pork, the ingredients in the dishes we tried were fresh and lively, with each dish well-balanced in flavor, texture and temperature. The spring rolls have a great crunch while still maintaining a flakey lightness. Service is spotty, but earnest. You may have to flag down your waiter for example, but when they're at your table they are knowledgeable, helpful, and will quickly follow-through. Your food will come out quickly and it will be piping hot or to the correct temp. My only complaint is a piece of plastic bag I found in my salad; almost a deal-breaker for most restaurants but something I will happily overlook once given the superb food.
(4)Michelle S.
This is one of my favorite places to eat, ever. It's not fancy, but the food sure makes it divine! They offer both vegetarian and meat dishes with the veggie meat being one made in house, the best tasting one I've encountered! I've been eating here for more than 15 years and I've always had great service and love the family who owns and runs it. It's always nice being greeted with care upon arrival. The timely service is nice, especially when you're famished, it's always quick service and the food is always hot and fresh! The spring rolls are great for those avoiding fried foods, otherwise, the veggie eggrolls and cream cheese wontons are to die for! They have an extensive menu, something for everyone. Mostly, they offer Chinese and Vietnamese dishes, however, they also have curry dishes and soup pots among an array of other choices. If you're tired and need some energy, don't miss out on their Vietnamese iced coffee, it'll be sure to kick your butt in gear!
(5)Vida A.
Update time! This place is genuinely filthy! The booths, the condiment bottles, booster seat and high chairs. Disgusting!!! High chairs are all busted and don't have any working fasteners to keep your little one in. If you dare put your child in the filth that haven't been wiped down once. I have been here enough that the servers should acknowledge you but they never smile at you and our server sat on his phone before i went over and asked him for a drink refill. The older man literally didn't even respond to my "excuse me excuse me" 2 feet away. Really? This place uses MSG because right after I ate the Thai green curry I got one those headaches. People sensitive to MSG know what I am talking about, its awful! For how filthy the place is I wonder what the kitchen looks like. The lady owner sits in the first booth doing accounting or something should budget some money for a scrub down before the health department finds her in violation. It's funny how she is always decked out in her diamonds and Jade jewelry and wants to steal my Louis but doesn't have pride of ownership. Stay away people, I warned you. With so many other places doing vegi meat, why go here??
(1)Katlyn R.
I ordered the Vegetarian lemon chicken and tofu.... It was great! The portion is large enough to be able to have leftovers for lunch the next day. The food also came fast! It was barely a ten minute wait, if that. However, I will never sit down to eat in that restaurant ever again. I'll only order to-go. The restaurant was filthy. There were spots of dried food, probably flicked there from people slurping their soup noodles, covering the blinds and window, and back glass panel of our booth. The highchair that was brought out for my daughter was disgusting. It was completely sticky, and the straps were stiff from old food. Even the plastic thingy they brought the check in was covered in crumbs and sticky spots. No thank you!
(3)Scott W.
For sure one of my favorite places to eat. The food is incredible, and so fast it's almost waiting at the table for you as you walk in.
(5)Melissa H.
Shanghai cafe has the best fake chicken EVER! Prices are really good. Our favorite is the vermicelli noodle salad with the spring roll... Deliciousness! Food always comes out speedy fast. Service is good, although curt. Portions are also fairly big! Last time I was there I ventured out of my regular vermicelli noodle salad and ordered a Vietnamese curry. Very flavorful! Kids loved the fake chicken, and we're not even vegetarian! Highly recommended!
(4)Abby M.
Cream cheese wontons are a little on the sweet side- not expecting that. The General Tsao's chicken was really good but lacked the spice we come to expect with this dish and we ordered the chicken chow mein which we weren't too crazy about. We were served by a highschool/college aged male and an older male server. The older server was a let down; smoking outside, disappearing for long stretches of time, and on his cell phone when he was around. The young server on the other hand was a delight. He was attentive and when he made a mistake of forgetting to add the egg rolls we ordered, he asked us if we still wanted them. We declined to save him the trouble but after we paid our bill he came out with egg rolls, free of charge. We will definitely be coming back.
(4)Stephanie J.
I have found out recently that I am a fan of the Americanized Chinese cuisine. Shanghai has the standard fare of Chinese food that we Americans crave and rave about. But they do have some additional options that some do not. 3 pages of their menu are dedicated to vegetarian dishes. They looked mighty tasty too! Then there are 2 pages dedicated to the standard beef, pork, and chicken dishes. The final pages have Thai and Vietnamese options. Food review in a moment, first let's address the parking and ambiance situation. The parking sucks. Plain and simple. Just sucks. They share the lot with everyone else in the strip mall. There are 3 Salt Lake County justice/court facilities within this complex. The parking just is awful, at least during the day. At night it could be a different story. The inside of the restaurant was kept clean but there is certainly nothing spectacular to shout about with the decor. The food here is good. It really is. It is flavorful, temperature appropriate, and comes out relatively quick. For the lunch hour we were in and out, including travel back to the office, in an hour. I tried a Thai dish, my friend the sesame chicken. We shared the bowl of rice. The food was plenty to fill up on with enough left over for lunch the next day. The price really is reasonable too. I enjoyed it enough that I would go back, I did not enjoy it enough that it will be my one and only Chinese joint in the valley.
(3)Laura B.
A vegetarian dream. In fact, I LOVED their fake chicken long before I was a vegetarian. They have a lot of meat items also. That fake chicken is seriously crack though!
(5)Crystal J.
Pon pon vegetarian chicken is sooo good. Food was cooked fast and it was hot when I picked it up. The portions are huge and I wish there were two of me to eat all of it. Thanks folks! I heart veggie friendly restaurants!
(5)Nigel L.
I came here forever ago and remember it being a lot worse than it is. I also don't think this review is a fair assessment of the restaurant as I only got take out and one item from the place. Food quality was about a 3-3.5. Noodles and the "stir fry" the noodles came with were seperate, kind of annoying that I had to mix them up myself. The sauce was flavorful. The portions were good. The reason I bumped them up to a 4 is because the fake chicken actually tasted really similar to real chicken and I love that they offer veggie options. Rating could be lowered if I were to eat in, especially given that the restaurant smelled like a bowling alley from the 90s. Interested to try other options on the menu/see what the Shanghai Cafe experience is all about. If anything, it's a Chinese restaurant on State Street that's been around forever WITHOUT 71 health code violations (hint hint wink wink)
(4)Joshua S.
We ordered the vietnamese veg curry, and an assorted seafood dish in a taco salad shell (was supposed to be some type of Vietnamese crepe). The only good thing I can say about this restaurant, based on one visit, is the server and owner were nice. So that's how I'm going to leave it.
(2)Garrett N.
my wife her mother, and I were out shopping today and got hungry. I always go for Asian food if given the option. We were right around the corner from Shanghai, so that's where we went. I have eaten here many times usually mid afternoon. I come here because I have a few vegetarian friends and Shanghai meets their needs as well as mine. Today we had sweet and sour pork, almond chicken and Hong Kong style beef. Everything was absolutely delicious. As always. The decor is ok, I think it was probably beautiful twenty years ago. Now the place just looks dingy. The service here seems to always be lacking. The staff is knowledgeable. The food comes out quickly. My glass never went empty. I just don't ever feel satisfied with the service, I guess they just don't seem to care. That being said I still continue to eat there. Overall, we had a great meal as always and paid just over thirty bucks. This place is great for vegetarians and meat eaters alike.
(4)David S.
Love their Hot and Spicy Vermicilli Vegetarian Pho. I am not a vegetarian but the two varieties of tofu in this soup is amazing. I love the special broth that they use, I've tried Pho all over the country and haven't found a broth even close to this.
(4)Guy D.
Inexpensive, fast, consistently good, and open late! Great vegetarian/vegan food :)
(5)Camille L.
It's not very clean and the service is always terrible. That being said, I've been going back for years because the food is amazing and reasonably priced. The food always comes out to the table quickly, but then, more times than not, we never see our server again!! Drinks never get refilled. But, we keep going back because the vegetarian sweet and sour chicken is delicious ! Also cream cheese wontons and the vegetarian spring rolls with peanut sauce are amazing! So if you want your food fast and to be left alone (totally and completely) this is the place for you!
(3)Jo S.
The extensive menu is sure to please everyone in your crowd, especially the vegans. My favorite dish is the noodle salad with egg roll. I get cravings for it! I pass about three other Vietnamese restaurants to get to Shanghai. The service is always easy to get along with, but could be more attentive. Food is hot, fresh and flavorful. Good prices. This place has been around for ages, I'm happy to have Shanghai in my repertoire of favorite restaurants.
(4)Amber S.
This place would be so much better if their service was better. Our server tends to be the same guy, always cranky, seems like he doesnt enjoy his job or the people he is interacting with. He comes off very rude. It makes for an awkward, un-wanted, feeling. But the food is so yummy! I love vegetarian Chinese food and this place is no exception, everything is so good! I really enjoy their vegetarian house Pho as well.
(3)Koko K.
This place is impeccable. The service was amazing. The staff was the friendliest we have ever experienced and it definitely made an impact. The prices are amazing for the quality and quantity of the food. My new number one favorite place for vegetarian food and also my new number one recommendation. This will definitely be my favorite place in salt lake for affordable vegetarian food.
(5)Lori H.
I've been coming here since I moved to Utah in 1998 and have always enjoyed my food and have had no bad experiences. Today I came for lunch and got the lemon chicken. It was delicious! Not too lemony and the chicken was perfect. Good sized portion for lunch too and I brought some home. Service is good although our server could have cracked a smile a few times. Will be back.
(4)Kavya S.
Going by the recommendation of do many other reviewers, tried lemongrass with fake chicken. Loved the flavors and the spices. Our waiter was very impatient though and had this unruly attitude. Strange!. But I can totally ignore that service part and will definitely go there again.
(4)Emily B.
I've been back here three times since my first review. I know, three times since 7/17, how much do I love this place right? This place is addicting! I just can't get enough of the fake sesame chicken. Anyhow, the service has improved. I don't know if that guy got canned or what but I haven't seen him since. They aren't the most outwardly friendly gents but they take your order and before you blink, it's on your table. I guess though, even if the service was still shitty, look how many times I've gone back?
(4)Kassi M.
It saddens me to do so, because I love this place so much and I crave it. But the last two times I've been there, my vegan menu items have had meat in them. I ordered the vegetarian pho and found chunks of pork fat in it. They told me it was the vegan chicken but trust me, I know what bacon smells like and I know the texture of gristle and that was definitely fat. Last night I got the vegan schezwan and today, while eating my leftovers, I find a chunk of chicken. It's really disturbing to find that after you've already eaten half of your meal. So sad to say it but I don't think I'll be coming back to Shanghai any time soon.
(1)Anthony S.
They make really good fake chicken dishes that are addicting to say the least. I love so many things on the menu which is unusual for me. The take out is also very fast.
(5)Maxfield W.
Oh my god. This was the worst dining experience I've had in forever. The server was a total prick -- passing out too many plates to us in both directions and laughing about it. He forgot one persons entree - Tried to blame it on another table who ordered the same entree. The egg rolls are fried disgusting pieces of garbage. The server got us refills two drinks at a time. He told us to slow down when we gave more than two of our refill orders at once. How hard is it to remember two Pepsis, one dew and a water? I ate 10 bites of my combo 160... How fucking gross.
(1)Matthew Z.
Not sure if I reviewed this place before but Shanghai deserves 6 stars. It's vintage style vegetarian Chinese food, and their dishes- chow mein, sweet and sour chicken, and moo shoo pancakes, are straight up 1950's nostalgia. The ambience is perfect, and the family that runs this restaurant are really great people! The food is reasonably priced, but I think takeout costs extra. Basically just eat in the restaurant, it seems to cost the same as takeout, even after you tip for service. I've been here for Chinese New Year's and it was AWESOME! Highly recommend that as well if you get the chance.
(5)Gabie J.
Shanghai Cafe is my jam!!! It's my go to anytime. Vermicelli BBQ chicken salad. Shrimp and pork spring rolls. Worbar plate. I could keep going, but I'll stop. This family owned restaurant has been there as long as I can remember and hopefully it stays forever. They are great for you veggies who don't eat meat. They'll give you something better than leafy greens to eat. The food comes out FAST. Service is a little strange but the more you go in, the more the warm up to you and become more friendly. Oh. Don't order the fried rice... That's just my opinion.
(5)Jen H.
I love Shanghai Cafe! They have tons of Vegan options! The food is certainly not the best you've ever had but it is really good and very cheap! Service is great and food comes out fast! Overall this is a great place to eat.
(4)Adam E.
It was good, but not as good as we were led to believe. Definitely not Chinese. It had more vietnamese items on the menu than Chinese. The vegetarian tofu meal was really bland. The service was super slow, and they seldom checked to see how we were doing. We'd ordered two dishes and wondered if they'd remembered that we'd ordered the second one, which we were happy about, because the dishes were bigger than we'd planned. After we'd finished and were about to leave, they finally brought out the second, which we ended up having to throw away because we were just passing through town and had nowhere to keep it.
(2)Elizabeth M.
Vegetables are fresh and delicious. I like to get the Vermicelli noodle salad with egg rolls and pork. Very refreshing! The servers can be dry but once you get to know them you start to love them and their quirks.
(5)K P.
Shanghai is my go-to take out restaurant since they always have dishes ready in ten minutes and they are delicious. My favorite dishes are the red curry with vegetarian chicken and the pho with vegetarian chicken. They have a wide variety of choices for meat eaters and non meat eaters.
(5)Leon L.
This was take out we got curry beef and pork over rice. The food was just unbelievably delicious. Also, when we were waiting in line they offered us water. I loved the food and service. You should go there if you pass by Salt Lake City!!!!
(5)Portia M.
Well I was taken here on a date. The service was excellent and the food was pretty good American Chinese. There was a woman running the dining room who was attentive and knowledgeable. We had Mongolian Beef, Sesame Chicken and Fried Vietnamese Eggrolls - which were delicious. Also Chinese beer and green tea. Great value, decent quality, fabulous service.
(3)Aubz M.
As a recent vegetarian (in the last six months) I have found it exceedingly difficult to find any vegetarian friendly Chinese and Vietnamese food. Aside from noodles and vegetables, most places come up extremely short. However, Shanghai Cafe has a HUGE vegetarian menu and the absolute BEST vegetarian chicken I've had. I didn't even order it! I'm skeptical of all fake meat and usually skip it for foods I can easily identify. I opted for the tempura combo with veggie potstickers and hot and sour soup. My sister (having been here a few times) got the orange vegetarian chicken and the vegetarian lettuce wraps. Oh. My. God. This "chicken" was so good I think I ate more off her dish than my own! I'm also not a tofu person (I know, such a picky vegetarian, sue me) but the spiced tofu in those wraps was delish!! My tempura veggies were yummy, the veggie potstickers were just good, and the hot and sour soup left something more to be desired, it wasn't good. Though I've found numerous Utah restaurants have a very hard time making good hot and sour soup. I'll stop talking now, but will say, try this place out!
(5)Amber S.
Very good food. The vegetarian chicken is amazing. Very inexpensive and fast. The service is curt, however. Don't expect much there.
(5)Kimo W.
Dishes were healthy, flavorful, and filling. Service was friendly and prompt. The restaurant itself was clean. I can't wait to go back with my family. We had Won ton soup, spring rolls, pon pon chicken, fried rice, and other things that I forget. Everything was great.
(4)Brit J.
I love Shanghai! I always order vegetarian, even though I eat meat. The LEMON GRASS VEG. CHICKEN! SPICY VERMICELLI NOODLE SOUP!? C'mon! Also, you gotta get those fried egg-rolls. People complain that the service isn't good, however, I think the attitude needs to change. Go to enjoy the food, fast service, and also how fast your food comes out. No one that works at Shanghai is ever disrespectful or rude. I am always greeted with a smile. I will continue to satisfy my cravings for yummy, quick, not expensive food at Shanghai.
(4)Jenni R.
HOW have I not been here in the 16 years that I've been vegetarian???!!!! My sweet boyfriend has been telling me I've needed to go, but I always find it hard to veer from tried-and-true vegetarian places. We went last Sunday, and ..... OH. MY. GOD. I have not had Chinese food THIS good since before I went vegetarian. I might be a little biased, because i am specifically talking about breaded fake chicken, but it totally almost brought me to tears. it was so satisfying (did I mention I'm also pregnant? That might have something to do with the tears). I would choose Shanghai over my beloved Long Life Vegi House any time (and i love Long Life!). The sauces are smoother and much less sticky, the fake meats are softer and not as chewy, and the tastes are multi-layered. They seriously know what they are doing here. Definite massive 5-stars. I've tried the General Tao's Vegetarian Chicken (so far my fav) and the Sesame Vegetarian Chicken. Both were absolutely to die for, but i prefer the flavor and vegetable variety in the General Tao's (it's only mildly spicy, so don't expect anything close to a Thai experience). My boyfriend got the real-animal-meat Mongolian Beef, and really liked it, but said he prefers my above two choices more. He also recently tried the Pork Chops (can't remember the exact name) and said it was sooo delicious, but again, preferred my veggie options! Oh - and if you're in the mood for something fried, DEFINITELY try the Vegetarian Egg Roll. Not only is the appetizer huge, but it's super amazing.
(5)Sue S.
I am addicted to this place, its not good for my wallet or waste line but its so damn tasty. By far the best "chinese food" I have tried in Utah. Honestly, the service is not the best but your huge portions of chicken fried rice and lettuce wraps will make you forget all about it. You will dream about the egg drop soup for days after your experience. I walk in salivating and leave with a food baby. This is a must try and if you ever need a lunch date count me in, I could never turn down Shanghai!
(5)Jennifer B.
Had to update my review.... I still love the food. The service can be good, depending on who you get (we got the one male manager today, and he nearly threw our food at us....). However the real reason I'm removing a star? Dead Chicken. I understand there are cultural and religious beliefs. I understand they have an alter as you come into the Cafe. However looking down to see a WHOLE, DEAD, Chicken plucked and looking up at me with dead eyes? *Shudder*. I get it's an offering to the Gods, but having a dead chicken just sitting there belly up,on a plate, on the floor, and it's neck at a unnatural curve so it's one dead eyeball is gawking at you, it leg up in the air and it's wingsflayed out. Was it an offering or was it Jazzercising? It was seriously creepy, and I have to imagine some sort of health code violation.
(3)Danielle N.
Service was terrible. It was the male owner. He was rude and dismissive, never picked up the plates so our table was crowded with plates we didn't need, and he never even made eye contact with us. When he put my first plate onto the table, he put it *on top of* the silverware and chopsticks. When I asked for a box for to-go he said 'K' then basically threw it at me when he got back. The only thing he could do decently was fill up our water. It wasn't even busy, either. The food was a bit above average for the price, especially considering the speed in which it came out. I give kudos to the cooks. I would not go back because the waiter/owner was not at all what one would expect for a sit-down restaurant. If he doesn't want to serve food, he should either hire more people or turn the place into a fast food restaurant (the food comes out quickly enough). Huge disappointment, because I've heard raves from so many people.
(2)Minhtu N.
Horrible! The food was so so and the service was intense! Our server didn't smile at all and seemed pretty grumpy the whole time. Food was so plain and over priced. They also add a tip to ur check automatically. I had 2 ppl and they added a tip to my total any way. It's not like I don't tip but when u make it automatic it feels like ur forcing me to tip u when u clearly did not deserve it. In addition all the workers were having a smoke break on my car! They were leaning on it and everything. So I turned on the alarm.....please find ur own smoke break area ...anywhere but my car.
(1)Emi P.
The waiter tried pressuring my husband into a Pepsi after he said no three times already. Especially irksome as he is a larger man on a diet. Fast food workers are less forceful than this about extras. Our veggie spring rolls were huge chunks of dried out rice noodles with one piece of lettuce each and a bit of mung bean sprouts, and the peanut sauce had a really off taste. My husband got mushu pork, which was strangely already wrapped and tasteless, and caused pretty bad diarrhea. I got the vermicelli salad with bbq pork and shrimp. The pork wasn't horrible, but pretty dry. The dry shrimp didn't taste like shrimp, more like burnt plastic. The lettuce was really wilted and most pieces were half brown- this is a salad, I would have liked it if I could actually eat the salad part of it. The tiny shredded carrot pile had numerous bits of food that shouldn't have been in here, like a morsel of something that looked like ground beef. The sauce was sugary oily water. Do not go here, there are several better cheap Chinese places like Little World.
(1)Ameilia Q.
I adore this place. I have been going here ever since I moved here three years ago. I love the egg rolls and I adore the vermicelli salad dishes. These are authentic Vietnamese dishes with a lot of food for not a lot of money. I always order the egg roll vermicelli salad and I can never finish it. It is so good that I always want to but it is too much food that I always take it home. This places is great for inexpensive but very good food.
(5)Lizzie W.
This is a really nice and inexpensive Chinese/Vietnamese restaurant, with a large selection of food that is both, meat eater, vegetarian and even vegan friendly. That's what led us here to begin with. The restaurant/decor itself is what you expect your run of the mill Chinese restaurant, tacky. Food wise- this place was solid. Minus the fact that the chicken lettuce wraps came out in tin foil? I had a what the hell moment, but the chicken more than compensated, although it was a bit on the greasy side. Perhaps, the waiter just misunderstood me. The rest of the food (lemongrass (imitation) chicken, low mein with beef, and cream cheese wantons were all above your average Chinese fare and all had a low price tags. Is this place a Chinese food revolutionary? No. But in terms of reliability, this is a nice little joint. I was satisfied with food and service alike, so returning is not out of the question for me.
(4)Doug C.
Am I a vegetarian? Hell no. Am I a meatitarian? Hells yes. Nevertheless, I love their fake chicken. This place is perfect not only because I love Chinese food, but my girlfriend is vegetarian and also loves Chinese food. Despite my carnivorous palate, their fake chicken you just have to order. I've tried various dishes but their lemongrass fake chicken is by far the best. Perfect amount of "meat" and vegetables. Their rice is cooked well and their water tastes fine. They also never claimed to be vegan so I don't understand the hate. I called in for take out for Valentine's Day because my girlfriend was busy running for President of the U, and by the time I drove from downtown it was ready. Very fast, efficient, good service overall. Is ther a "mean" waiter? I guess. He's just direct and doesn't kiss ass for tip. If you're used to that then don't go here but he isn't "rude" by any means. He's fast and effective. The two most important qualities of my waiters. Great vegetarian selection, can't beat the price, will visit again soon!
(4)Vi T.
It's all about the fake meat here. Do I like real meat? Definitely. But I prefer to get their fake meat at Shanghai Cafe. There's just something so delicious about it. I've gotten quite a few of their "chicken" dishes and most are pretty tasty. Most recently I got their pon pon "chicken" which was sweet with a little kick of heat. Not enough heat for me but I like things really spicy. I also got their hot and sour soup. Not my favorite. A little bland. But the cream cheese wontons? Delicious. Egg rolls? Yum. And really, you can't beat their prices. My pon pon "chicken" was a good size and it was only $6. That includes rice of course.
(3)Abraham T.
As far as vegetarian cuisine goes, this place is pretty much Mt. Olympus, and the vermicelli noodle bowls are like taking an edible, super delicious lightning bolt from Zeus, to the tummy! Yum!
(5)Eric G.
Tasty food for cheap, can't go wrong! I got pad Thai ($7.50), wife got vegetarian beef bowl. Only thing we didn't like was the veggie beef. Veggie chicken was great. Service was ok friendly wise, but super fast. The main appeal is good food for cheap with vegetarian and gluten free options galore! Will definitely be back.
(5)Gina H.
We love the vegetarian choices. Especially the @chicken",but the service is so bad. Last Saturday we went and had the worst experience in terms of service that we have ever had there. It wasn't even busy! They forgot our drinks and two entrees. This after waiting fir over half an hour. Watching people that came in after us get their food first and then given two different excuses as to why our food wasn't ready was maddening. Be prepared for terrible service,allow extra time,and maybe you will be fine.
(3)George L.
The. Worst. Dinner. Ever. Canned mushrooms - really? We had spring rolls, lemongrass chicken and almond beef (all vegetarian) - horrendous and inedible.
(1)Wes N.
In the past, when I was a vegetarian, I gave this place 4 & 5 star reviews. I'm now vegan and I gotta drop em down. The primary reason is that their faux meats (including the faux chicken) are not vegan because they contain egg. It's also very difficult to communicate with the staff and they don't seem very happy to answer any questions that you may have. In addition, the water they serve here is terrible. I don't know what they do to it, but it has a horrid taste. I've also heard some horror stories about them accidentally throwing meat in vegetarian plates, etc. Bottomline: I recommend that all vegans/vegetarians go elsewhere instead. Check out Long Life Vegi House for vegan Asian cuisine. Their faux meats are vegan and extremely delicious!
(2)Franz D.
The service at Shanghai Cafe is horrible. You ask the server for something and they forget your request - you ask them again and they forget about you again. The servers are pushy to try to get you to order more than you ordered and it makes for a horrible atmosphere. There are huge plants everywhere in the restaurant that get in the way if you're walking to a table or sitting at a table near the plant.
(1)Cecilia L.
I have been coming her for over 10 years! I love this place..it serves vegetarian and nonvegetarian Vietnamese dishes. Prices range from $7-$10 for their main dishes. And They have really good fried and spring rolls. I really like the way they do their vegetarian dishes even though I'm not one. They have great vermicelli noodle salads. The place is clean and the service is quick and friendly!
(4)Kimberly M.
I should just sign over half my pay check to them because it seems like that is how often I eat there. It's a great place to go if you have meat eaters and vegetarians in one crowd. If you get the vegetarian breaded chickens, you will have a hard time telling it apart from real chicken. my husband and i had to thoroughly investigate. lol. Great food- great place.
(5)Slugger M.
Mmmnnnnnn Shanghai! I have a long history with this wonderful place, I started coming here around '95 or '96 and have probably been here hundreds of times over the years. There's something refreshing about everything always being the same every time you go, guaranteed. Here's the lowdown on the place, much of this has already been said: Is it vegan? No. They've also NEVER advertised themselves as a vegan restaurant. Never in any way shape or form! Are the servers rude? Yes and no, mainly no. You just have to know what you're getting into, especially the culture differences. It's not that they're rude, they're just there to provide a service not make new friends and kiss your ass like people expect in Western culture. On a recent trip to China I found service to be very similar if not worse. The main guy that people are complaining about isn't even rude in my opinion, he's just very direct and to the point hence the always amazingly quick service. He's always nice to my lady and I and even cracks jokes with us occasionally. I know, it's crazy but true. If you want a server to kiss your ass, perhaps TGI Fridays is more up your alley. Does the water taste bad? Hell no! What in the world are you people talking about? I've ordered water here almost exclusively in my 15+ plus years of coming here and never noticed anything strange about the water! All of the vegi chicken options are to die for! Incredibly good without the rubbery texture found at many vegi places. My main go to's here are vegi Chicken Lemmon Grass with red pepper, and plain ol vegi chicken fried rice. In my experience the only thing that compares is a restaurant in Philly called New Harmony, highly recommended by the way. I've brought in many meat eating friends over the years, many of which ended up switching to the vegi meat options after trying them. It's seriously that good! Disclaimer/Side Note for vegans: I'd say I'm probably 80% vegetarian these days with many of my meals being 100% vegan. I'm a sucker for In 'N Out Burger, what can I say nobody's perfect. I appreciate anyone who is vegan and has the will power and discipline to do so, I really do. At the same time I think some of you take it to an unnecessary and annoying point! I don't think it's fair for vegans to give a restaurant a bad review for not having vegan options when they never claimed to cater to vegans in the first place! There are many vegi only people that would love this place but might not ever try it because you gave it a bad review for having egg flaux in their soy meat and they went elsewhere. All because you're vegan, or as one of my friends likes to say "have a self induced eating disorder." No pun intended. Do you see how ridiculous this is? Would it be ok for me to go to a Thai restaurant and give them a bad review because they don't have french fries? Or what if I buy a skateboard from Target and then give a bad review because the employee that helped me didn't know what kind of bearings are in the wheels, or what kind of wood the board is made of! If I did I'd look like a pretty big douche right? Just saying....
(5)Ines O.
The food is fantastic! For about 2 years I went here every single weekend without fail. I know a lot of people say the staff could be friendlier and more attentive, and I'm sure that's the case sometimes, but they treat me and my best friend very well due to being such long time regulars. The menu has great variety for both vegetarians and meat eaters and I don't know anyone who has complained of their meal tasting bad there before (and I try to drag just about everyone here)! The decor is a bit funky, with some ugly carpeting and vinyl booths that look outdated, so the atmosphere could be better, so 4/5 stars.
(4)Jan H.
Wow!! This place gets really interesting reviews. Mostly about the water (I didn't notice anything different,) the wait staff being rude (I think it is cultural thing-Asians are not known for huggy, kissy, warm and fuzzy behavior. It isn't meant as disrespect, it's just their style,) vegan issues (I think vegans have a rough road ahead of them, particularly when there are language barriers but ultimately the responsibility is on the vegan,) flavor (my food tasted great,) and decor (some of the best places I have eaten in are hole in the wall type venues.) My Couchsurfing host took me here on the way back to the airport from a fantastic four days in Sundance. While in Sundance I had some great food and I felt like this lunch was a wonderful send off. So, I guess bottom line it might be a hit and miss type of place, but I will definitely return. In addition, as an actress I have spent many a day working in restaurants in my youth and I always thank everyone profusely (bus person, host, waiter, etc.) I smile a lot, and I also take notice if there is only one server, did they suddenly get swamped (which means the kitchen will get overwhelmed,) and other issues of that type. So I know that I am a restaurant's dream customer but I also know what I can expect in terms of service and food, so I think I am a fairly good judge of restaurants. I didn't notice anything being unclean, I was treated with respect, my food came fast, and everything tasted wonderful. Not "over the top" but very good.
(4)Aimee C.
Egg rolls. In my mouth. Now. (please) I love them. I will put up with the service that has been the same guy for the last ten or so years, with the same weird short attitude and the same way of kind of looking through, rather than at, customers. I just want the egg rolls. The vegetarian "meat" is a better option than actual meat in the entrees. General Tso's "chicken", Sweet and sour "chicken", Cashew "chicken", all winners. And I love the celery. I could go with you and pick out your celery and just eat that, if you want. I mean, that plus the egg rolls. I ordered the (real) chicken lettuce wraps for the first time recently and I feel like I could have just lived forever not knowing they existed. The chicken was just kind of weird and salty, with no real flavor on top of being extremely unappetizing to look at.
(3)Nicole F.
I am very unhappy with my previous experiences. The first time I went to Shanghai I specifically asked if their "vegetarian chicken" was vegan (no dairy, eggs, etc). And they assured me that it is in fact vegan. After another vegan friend told me he was weary of their knowledge of if their food is vegan, I decided to double check with them. I asked if their vegetarian chicken was vegan and I was told yes. Then I asked if it had any milk, dairy, eggs, etc. The man I spoke with told me he thinks there might be egg whites in it, but he's not sure. So I asked if I could speak with a cook to confirm the ingredients, he told me no the cooks are too busy to speak with me. I have since stopped going there and will never return.
(1)Andrew P.
I've been going to Shanghai for a very long time, over 15 years or so. They have always served excellent food, quickly and freshly prepared, and loaded in the flavor department. Excellent noodle bowls, good Pho, and amazing Vietnamese egg rolls top my list, but the menu is extensive, and includes many vegetarian options. No, they aren't Vegan, but I don't think they're really trying to be. They do an excellent job of making wonderful food at very reasonable prices.
(5)Kiesha J.
Not sure what everyone is talking about with the water tasting funny, I've never noticed, and I only order water at restaurants. This is one of the few Vietnamese/Chinese restaurants in town that I will eat with. It's clean, the service is fast (could be plenty more friendly), and the food is good and price perfectly. Dinner entrees are $7.95 and are enough to feed two people, I usually order an entree and an appetizer to share with my date. They have both Chinese and Vietnamese items on their menu, including a decent Pho. A big plus is their extensive vegetarian menu. It's nice going to a restaurant where my vegetarian friends can pick from more than one item and I don't have to get stuck eating tofu.
(3)Hillary S.
I do not believe that a restaurant should be ranked on the basis of a single experience. I have waited and bartended for eight years, I understand everyone can have a bad day. My first visit at Shanghai Cafe was a pretty good experience, and as a recovering vegetarian I was stoked with the number of veggie options. The vegetarian mu shu was pre-wrapped in pancakes, which was a little weird. The pancakes were a bit off but passable. The prices are good, and it's walking distance from my house. Normally, this would be a four-star review for those points alone. However, my second experience is what drove me to knock a star or two off a decent review. I walked into Shanghai alone and was promptly seated by the wonderful, warm woman who seems to run the place. And said woman became exponentially more courteous when compared to my server, whom upon greeting me said "Do you know what you want?". Nothing more, nothing less. I was taken aback. What the hell did I do? Stammering, I ask for tea. My server, exasperated, walks away from me, rolling his eyes. Upon returning, he sets down the tea; "do you know what you want YET?" glaring at me rather incredulously. Um, no. He dismisses me in a huff and goes to another table. He makes the round back to me again and again says "do you know what you want yet?" voice teeming with disdain. Um, can I have the vegetarian ginger chicken? I wanted to ask what was in ginger chicken, however, I didn't want to aggravate the angry man in charge of my food. Hell, I didn't want to make eye contact with him because I thought he would spit on me. My server grabs the menu and walks away, rolling his eyes, again. A little later he drops the plate at my table, not acknowledging my presence. He then takes residence behind the host stand and proceeds to glare at me, arms folded. I quickly pick out the veggie chicken and carrots from the pile of onions. I then sat, obviously finished with my meal as he cleaned tables around me. I would look at him trying to gain his attention and I was summarily dismissed. I stared at my plate of onions and felt tears welling in my eyes. Finally, the kind wonderful woman came by and sat her hand on my shoulder, stared right into my glassy, tear- filled eyes and asked how everything was. Trying not to blink, I said I was okay. She then handed me the check, which I then paid and left. I should have said something, I wanted to say something but I was so shocked by how I was treated; the only thing I wanted to do was get the hell out.
(2)chris c.
I certainly appreciate a place that serves vegetarian food, but come ON! This place needs a makeover. I ordered some type of tofu "chik'n" dish that was supposed to have lemongrass. What I received was some tofu and some grease. No lemongrass to be seen, smelled, or tasted. The entire dining section was dirty. Don't these people know how to clean? Also, despite the many cleverly-placed incense burners, the Shanghai Cafe reeked of fish. I know that even sushi restaurants are capable of making sure the customers are not blown over by rotting fish stench, so there is no excuse here. Bleh. I'd rather go to Panda Express for the bland rice and the brown broccoli.
(2)Amanda H.
Not my favorite place to go. Thursday lunch tradition indicates that we take turns selecting location in rotation. Some of my co-workers really like this place and we've been here a couple of times in the last few months. I can't say as I am too eager to go back. Word to the wise: the Water they serve is GROSS! It comes out looking tall, cold and refreshing, and ends up going down with the metallic aftertaste that could make a horse shudder. yuck. I think it is from their ice machine and not the water itself, which makes me suspect about ordering a soda as well. And this has been true with every occasion that we have been here. Everyone at my table agrees that it is always bad. Looking around the restaurant, everybody's water glasses were full. Major problem here. My co-workers all like the Vermicilli noodle bowl with the egg roll on top. I had this on my first trip and thought it was...ok. The dressing was nice and tangy and the bean sprouts were crisp. However, I didn't care for the texture of the egg roll...it was kind of gritty to me. Today I ventured for the sweet and sour chicken lunch combo. It was fine. The ham fried rice was actually pretty good and I enjoyed it. The sweet and sour chicken was a bit common. No surprises. So while it wasn't a bad choice for lunch and the food was edible, I am left with a metallic water after taste and an MSG headache. Better luck next week. PS Service here is pretty un-friendly, but the food comes out super fast!
(2)Elizabeth R.
Pros: *Excellent vegetarian menu - I can't tell you how much I missed sesame chicken after I became a vegetarian. There are pages of different items and I've enjoyed all of them. *Quick service with a polite staff *Very reasonable prices Cons *I've eaten there about five times now and one of the times the fried egg rolls were soggy with oil. *You should order takeout because the restaurant smells strongly of nail polish, presumably because of the nail salon next door.
(4)Christa E.
this is a favorite for me and my family when they are in town visiting. the service is great. they are fast and on top of things and there is plenty of room for groups. last time I was there I got the walnut shrimp and it is by far my favorite item on the menu. their pho is pretty delicious as well, and I love their cream cheese wontons. I'm not a vegetarian and I have never been known to choose "chicken" over chicken. but, it's actually delicious here. they have an amazing vegetarian menu. one of my new years resolutions might be to become a regular here ;)
(3)Amanda J.
Love all the vegetarian options, great soups.
(5)Alex G.
I have been eating here for maybe 20 years. It is the place to go for Vietnamese Fried Egg Rolls with nip mum sauce.
(4)Melissa L.
The environment isn't the best and the staff isn't exactly super nice, but it's some of the best food I've ever had. The food was always perfect and they gave me everything I asked for. I don't live in Salt Lake anymore, but when I go back to visit this will definitely be the first and last place I go to eat.
(5)Dotty N.
I think 3.5 stars is how I would consistently rate Shanghai Cafe. Ive been to this low-key joint numerous times. The service ranges from a very plastic "is everything alright?" to appalling rudeness- meaning, I haven't finished my order before he walks away. I love the vegetarian meat, not because I don't eat meat, but because they execute it well and I enjoy their preparation. You can't go wrong with a vermicelli noodle salad (BBQ pork and egg-roll is my fav), or an order of Vietnamese egg-rolls, but make your own fresh spring rolls at home.
(3)Timothy S.
Let me just say that the customer service is excellent at Shanghai Cafe! My girlfriend and I ate here at least four times on our SLC journey. The one night, we showed up at 9:45, just as they were about to close. We had no idea the restaurant closed at 10pm but that was our own fault. Anyway, they had the door locked and waved at us to come inside. We felt terrible, but they were more than welcoming towards us and us even made us fresh spring rolls! We both had the vegetarian sesame chicken with broccoli and rice. Delicious and crispy, the way I like it! The owner and staff assured us not to rush and eat fast and that they would be willing to stay opened a bit later for us. Although they locked the door after we sat down, they really made us feel at home. Exceptional customer service and great food. We left them a large tip for their kindness. It certainly did not go unnoticed and I tell everyone I know in the SLC area to eat at this restaurant. Eat here, but don't go too late is my best advice to you.
(5)Alexis K.
FASTEST ASIAN TAKE OUT OR SIT IN FOOD YOU'LL GET.... GUARANTEED. I've been going here for about two years now, and not only is their food absolutely delicious, but its made psychotically fast. I always call last minute (whether I'm starving, minutes before they close, driving by) and they are always ready with my food when I arrive. Two days ago I called and ordered two entrees while I was waiting at a red light TWO BLOCKS AWAY, and by the time I arrived it was already waiting for me. I kid you not, they are speedy quick. I've never found any other Asian restaurant that offers great vegetarian dishes that resemble meat so well (my vegan roommate won't even eat their fake chicken because it tastes so real).
(5)Nurse Kate D.
For me Shanghi is a staple. They are ALWAYS open (it seems) their food is ALWAYS delicious and healthy, their service is ALWAYS fast, you can ALWAYS get brown rice if you want it and their prices are ALWAYS low. They have a lot of vegan and vegetarian dishes and for the vegophiles out there you can order 1$ extra vegetables or 2$ extra vegetables to any dish (not on the menu) and you'll get a scoop or two of extra carrots, broccoli, snow peas etc.. My husband and I eat here once or twice a week as it is close, healthy and so outrageously consistent. As far as the reviews of rude service- we have spent a lot of time at Shanghi and have got to know the staff really well- they are not rude, they are just busy. In truth they are a wonderfully fun group of people if you take the time to get to know them. It is family run and like all families there are different personalities. And c'mon let's be honest would you like to have a big hug or your food on the table fast? The employees are driven by the owner to get food ordered, prepared, served, cleaned up and paid for as quick as possible. Not a lot of time for idle chit-chat. As with some places you have to roll with it for the consistently delicious cheap healthy food.
(4)mike k.
We come here at least once a month for the same thing- Vietnamese egg roll and chicken curry bun...delicious. But we stopped coming here for a while due to the sh*t attitude of the one owner...He always acts all put out and in a hurry. All they say now is "the usual?" and then walk away so fast, if you wanted a drink, well, forget it! And just try to get a refill on your iced tea...lots of eye rolling and ignoring. Now Randy is the shorter, nicer of the two, but also in too big of a hurry...but at least he smiles. They really need a nice server there. Around the corner, there is a place called ASIA PALACE that is really tasty too and alot friendlier. We also go to the Pho Green Papaya which has excellent friendly service and great pho and delicious food. But I can put up with these buttheads for my monthly fix of bun....huge bowl and the crispy eggrolls are delish!
(3)Diane W.
People, beware of this place! On December 13, 2012, I got food poisoning after eating the vegetarian versions of Szechuan and General Tao's chicken with brown rice. My companion did not get sick, however, I became violently ill in the middle of the night, approximately 7 hours after dining there. I suffered from classic symptoms of Norwalk Virus. I reported this incident to the Utah Health Department. For the sake of their loyal customers and the limited choices out there for vegetarians, I hope Shanghai cleans up their food handling practices. I for one will never, ever eat there again!
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