When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Shanghai 21
Why Shanghai 21 is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Shanghai 21 is a vibrant Chinese restaurant located at 21 Mott Street in Downtown Manhattan, New York City. Known for its authentic Shanghainese cuisine, this bustling eatery has become a favorite meeting spot for friends looking to enjoy rich flavors and traditional dishes in a comfortable, inviting atmosphere. With a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients, Shanghai 21 offers a variety of specialties including Shanghai Style Lo Mein with chicken, pork, beef, shrimp, seafood, and vegetarian-friendly options. The restaurant prides itself on delivering dishes quickly without sacrificing quality, making it an excellent choice for both casual lunches and relaxed dinners. Its convenient location in a lively neighborhood also adds to its appeal as a social destination. Whether you want to dine in, take out, or order delivery, Shanghai 21 caters to various preferences while maintaining the authentic taste of Shanghainese cooking. The friendly staff and efficient service further enhance the experience, creating a welcoming environment where friends can gather and savor delightful Asian flavors together.
Here's what people think of Shanghai 21
As of recent, Shanghai 21 holds a 4.4-star rating based on 3323 reviews.
Reviews from patrons of Shanghai 21 consistently highlight the restaurant’s authentic flavors and attentive service, contributing to its strong average rating of 4.4 from over 3,300 reviews. Many customers commend the freshness of the ingredients and the flavorful execution of classic Shanghainese dishes such as various styles of Lo Mein and other regional specialties. Positive reviews often focus on the speedy delivery for takeout orders, making it a convenient option for busy customers, along with the restaurant’s warm and welcoming hospitality which creates a pleasant dining environment. The extensive number of reviews across platforms like Google, Yelp, TripAdvisor, and GrubHub reinforces the restaurant’s reputation as a reliable and well-loved establishment. On the other hand, some negative feedback touches on occasional wait times during peak hours and inconsistency in portion sizes. A few reviewers also note that the restaurant can be quite busy, which sometimes impacts table availability or overall noise levels. Despite these occasional drawbacks, the overall sentiment remains highly favorable, underscoring Shanghai 21’s ability to maintain quality and customer satisfaction at a large scale. In conclusion, Shanghai 21 is celebrated for authentic, delicious Shanghainese cuisine paired with solid service, making it a standout choice for both locals and visitors seeking genuine Chinese fare in New York City.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
ERROR ERROR
very long wait, we waited to be sat and then we also waited a long time at the table to be greeted and have our orders taken food was great tho: we got salt and pepper squid which was the best in my opinion. crab and pork dumplings and just pork dumplings, the crab and pork was obviously better but both were good. and my mom get beef which was super juicy and flavorful.
Bleesy Dy
Ok. Another spot to highlight. The reviews didn’t disappoint. Was looking for a good Chinese spot and this restaurant was having it. Servers were quick and attentive. Food was served fast. The place was not crowded when we arrived but approaching lunch time, the restaurant got packed. Only shows that you are in a good spot.
He Wi
Everything was good, but not five star. Service was profesional, friendly, and quick enough. Quality was good. At least the place was clean and we didn’t have any stomach issue the day after. Food was all alright. We ordered soup dumplings, scallion pancake (that didn’t have much scallion), Shanghai fried rice, and Shanghai lo mien. The fried rice was the best among the four. Other patrons were not loud. So that’s a plus. You also don’t hear all the noise from the kitchen. They also offered cash payment that’s less than the credit card one. So overall, it’s more like 4.3/5.0.
Akshara Tarkas
We planned a Chinatown day while in NYC and on a Tuesday! We didn’t realize most of the places are closed but this wasn’t! The food was phenomenal and loved everything here Food : We got scallion pancakes, super crunchy and yum, Spring rolls (definitely have had better), soup dumplings and spicy wonton. All were yum! Service : Quick and simple! Atmosphere : A very family style restaurant! Loved the homely vibes it has
Jon Cass #11
You know, when you're scrambling for a last-minute birthday dinner in New York, you don't always expect perfection. But Shanghai 21? They squeezed our lively bunch in like seasoned pros, and what followed was a truly hilarious and delicious experience. First off, let's talk about the "non-alcoholic" part. We discovered this little detail upon arrival, which for a birthday dinner, was... an interesting twist! Imagining a sober toast with sparkling water was pretty amusing, but honestly, the food was so outrageously good, we barely noticed the lack of bubbly. And what food it was! We gorged ourselves on the most gorgeous, delicious Chinese food I've had in ages. Every dish was a winner, from the perfectly steamed dumplings to the flavourful noodles. And the best part? The bill didn't make our eyes water – it was all incredibly reasonably priced. So if you're looking for a fantastic, funny, and surprisingly sober culinary adventure in NYC, Shanghai 21 is your spot. Just be prepared for a very clear-headed evening!
How to reach Shanghai 21
None
Website: None
Why Shanghai 21 may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Shanghai 21 with your friends?
If you’re looking for an authentic, flavorful, and lively spot to gather with friends or family, Shanghai 21 in New York City’s Chinatown is a standout choice. With a solid 4.4-star rating based on over 3,300 reviews, this restaurant has earned its reputation for consistently delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere. One of the greatest reasons to rally here is the shared experience of savoring classic Shanghainese dim sum and other specialties in a casual setting that encourages communal dining. The dishes come hot and fresh, often in generous portions perfect for sharing, making it an excellent venue to enjoy a variety of flavors together. Although the interior is straightforward and unpretentious, the bustling energy and efficient service keep the experience engaging and pleasant, enhancing the sense of camaraderie. Whether it's a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner, Shanghai 21’s deep menu and vibrant Chinatown location create the perfect backdrop for making memorable moments with your group while exploring the richness of Chinese cuisine.
What activities does Shanghai 21 offer for group meetups?
Shanghai 21 isn’t just about eating; it’s about sharing and celebrating food with others. The main activity here is enjoying a broad variety of dim sum, especially their renowned soup dumplings (xiao long bao), which are praised for their delicate wrappers, juicy fillings, and flavorful broth. Sharing baskets of dim sum encourages interaction as friends discuss each bite and recommend favorites. On top of dim sum, the menu features other communal dishes such as General Tso’s chicken with adjustable spice levels, pan-fried noodles loaded with tender beef, scallion pancakes, and shrimp dumplings, all of which arrive generously portioned to accommodate group dining. The setting—with booths seating around four people—supports intimate conversations and group gatherings, creating an environment ideal for catching up or celebrating. Even if the space wouldn’t suit very large parties, small to medium-sized groups will find plenty of seats ready to host them comfortably. This makes it a top pick not only for casual meetups but also for laid-back celebrations or occasional get-togethers, where food sharing naturally brings everyone closer.
Why is Shanghai 21 perfect for group dining experiences?
Shanghai 21 shines as a group-friendly venue mainly due to its combination of menu variety, portion sizes, and dining atmosphere. Firstly, the diversity of the menu allows groups to order widely and sample several dishes without limitation, from juicy soup dumplings to crispy scallion pancakes and tender meats with flavorful sauces. The portion sizes are large enough to ensure everyone can taste multiple dishes, reducing the likelihood of leaving hungry and increasing the sense of generosity around the table. Moreover, the restaurant’s efficient and professional service ensures that large orders are handled smoothly without long waits or mix-ups, even during busy periods, such as the typical Chinatown rush. The restaurant’s location in Chinatown also adds to the appeal by situating diners in a vibrant area filled with cultural sights and attractions, enhancing the social outing beyond just the meal. Although the interior is modest, it’s spotlessly clean, and the booths foster a cozy environment—ideal for close-knit groups who want to share stories as they enjoy their food. All these factors combine to make Shanghai 21 an outstanding choice for a group dining experience centered on connection and great food.
What are the signature dishes at Shanghai 21 that groups should try?
When gathering with friends or family at Shanghai 21, certain dishes are a must-have to fully experience the restaurant’s culinary strengths. The signature soup dumplings (xiao long bao) are widely celebrated for their “surprisingly good structural integrity” and juicy, deeply flavorful broth inside thin, delicate wrappers. These dumplings are smaller and more refined than some competitors, making them easy to share and enjoy one by one without losing any broth or flavor. Another must-try is the General Tso’s chicken, which can be customized to be mild or spicy, catering to different palates in a group. It features just the right balance of sweetness and heat with a crispy coating that doesn't get soggy, complementing the chicken’s tenderness. For a crispy, savory side, the scallion pancakes are a great choice; their flaky texture and fragrant onion flavor make them irresistible in a communal dining setting. Other excellent dishes include beef on pan-fried noodles which offers tender slices of meat combined with vibrant Chinese celery and dried bean curd, creating a harmony of tastes and textures. Collectively, these dishes showcase the quality and authenticity Shanghai 21 offers and provide a well-rounded menu for group sharing.
How does the service and atmosphere at Shanghai 21 contribute to group enjoyment?
The service at Shanghai 21 is noted as professional and efficient, which benefits groups who often have more complex orders and higher expectations for speed and coordination. While some reviews mention the service can sometimes be brusque, most acknowledge that the staff manage to maintain professionalism and timely delivery of hot food, critical when sharing multiple dishes. This balance ensures the dining flow remains uninterrupted, keeping the group’s energy high and conversations flowing. The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, with bright green walls adorned by illuminated food photos that highlight the best offerings visually — a fun feature that adds personality without overwhelming diners. The restaurant is typically bustling, filled with locals and visitors eager for authentic Shanghainese fare, which creates a communal and lively environment ideal for group gatherings. The seating arrangement with several booths also supports groups of around four people comfortably, making it easier to interact without competing for space. This mix of reliable service and a warm, energetic setting makes Shanghai 21 a solid, sociable destination for friends and family alike.
What makes Shanghai 21’s location in Chinatown ideal for a meetup?
Shanghai 21’s location in the heart of New York City’s Chinatown provides a unique advantage for meetups. Besides easy accessibility via public transit, the vibrant neighborhood offers a bustling cultural experience that complements dining well. Before or after the meal, groups can explore nearby shops, markets, and street sights, turning a simple meal into a broader outing full of shared experiences. The density of restaurants in the area means Shanghai 21 holds its own by delivering consistent quality and authentic flavors in a competitive, exciting culinary zone. Chinatown’s energy naturally enhances social events, giving guests a dynamic backdrop that sparks conversation and fun. For anyone seeking a meetup spot that combines great food with cultural immersion, Shanghai 21’s perch on Mott Street places it right at the center of action, allowing gatherings to extend past the table into a lively neighborhood adventure.
How does Shanghai 21 compare to other dining options in Chinatown for groups?
While Chinatown is known for many famous eateries, Shanghai 21 distinguishes itself as a reliable go-to spot for quality Shanghainese food that works especially well for groups. Compared to tourist-heavy restaurants, Shanghai 21 tends to be less crowded inside and offers more refined soup dumplings with lighter, less greasy flavors, appealing to those who prefer a more delicate dining experience. Its moderate prices combined with ample portions also make it an excellent value choice for groups looking to enjoy authentic cuisine without overspending. Although the décor is simple and the space may not suit large parties, its booths and seating arrangements accommodate small to medium groups better than many crowded neighbors. Moreover, the consistently positive reviews citing juicy fillings and flavorful dishes suggest that Shanghai 21 is a step above many other local options, particularly for those seeking a cozy, interactive meal. For groups that want authenticity, variety, and a friendly atmosphere, Shanghai 21 is a prime candidate in Chinatown’s competitive dining scene.
What should groups keep in mind when planning a visit to Shanghai 21?
Groups planning to visit Shanghai 21 should consider a few practical points to ensure the best experience. First, the restaurant is popular and often busy, so timing your visit during off-peak hours—such as mid-afternoon on a weekday—can help avoid waits and secure immediate seating. The space is somewhat limited, so very large groups may need to split into smaller parties or arrange reservations if possible. Since many favorites are best enjoyed hot and fresh, ordering dishes simultaneously and coordinating sharing plates will maximize enjoyment. It’s also helpful to anticipate some briskness in service style; being clear and efficient with orders can smooth interactions. Lastly, coming with an appetite and a willingness to share dishes will allow your group to enjoy the diverse menu fully. Keeping these points in mind, gathering at Shanghai 21 can become a hassle-free, fun, and memorable culinary outing for friends and family alike.