Shanghai can be a gourmet delight or culinary disaster, depending on where you decide to eat. So we reached out to a few Shanghai F&B folks who really have a handle on the scene to Spill the Beans on their favorite spots, from hole-in-the-wall local eats to high-end venues, from late night drunk grub to date night treat yo’ self splurges.
Image courtesy of Logan Brouse
Name: Logan R. Brouse
Hometown: Santa Fe, New Mexico/ San Francisco, CA
Occupation: Owner and Proprietor of Logan’s Punch, Co-owner of Tacolicious, writer of reknown and resident Rapscallion
Where does your love for food stem from?
Living around the world, I’ve gotten to taste some exciting dishes, and I think I fell in love with the experience and magic of dining out. Growing up, my mom wasn’t the best of home cooks, so I fondly remember eating at a lot of restaurants with my family. Maybe that’s why I became such a foodie.
What’s your favorite local eats spot and why?
My favorite local spot is a xiaolongxia place called Fumo near Jing’an that is amazing. It serves year round, and I love their five-spice as well as their special congee.
What’s your favorite high end restaurant and why?
I don’t really have the time to go to many high end restaurants; I’m usually at work. But when I do go out, I enjoy a high end Japanese sushi restaurant on Wuding Lu that I’d rather not name because I can barely afford it as is. It’s Jiro level.
If you had to pick one restaurant in Shanghai that you couldn’t live without, which would it be and why?
Sichuan Citizen and El Bodegon fill the need and cravings I have for food that is fantastic and done right. One is a super touristy trap that made a basil drop (all bartenders want one drink to make their spot famous), and El Bogedon is just my steak for when I’m finally able to relax with my friends and take a night off of work.
Are there any restaurants that closed that you really miss?
I miss Fortune Cookie like the heavens miss the rain.
What gaps do you see in the Shanghai dining scene that you would like to see filled?
Here are three in no particular order: American Chinese food; red sauce New Jersey-style Italian; a legit Jewish deli
What is your favorite dish in Shanghai?
My favorite dish is hot pot from Hai Di Lao – specifically the lean beef and super gut-busting broth.
What advice would you give to budding foodies in Shanghai?
Opening your mind on food is great because it lets you focus on what you like.
For more Logan Brouse foodie adventures, follow him on Instagram @loganrb
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