I recently had the pleasure of visiting Nanjing and stumbled upon a hidden gem that I can’t wait to share with you all. Let me take you on a delightful culinary journey at Jiangnan Wok, located in the heart of Shangri-la Nanjing. This extraordinary restaurant offers an authentic taste of Jiangnan cuisine and promises an unforgettable dining experience for foodies who are passionate about exploring Chinese food around the world.
Braised Large Yellow Croaker and Handmade Rice Cakes
During my visit, one dish that truly captivated my taste buds was the “Braised Large Yellow Croaker and Handmade Rice Cakes” (年糕烧大黄鱼). As a native of Guangdong, I couldn’t help but be reminded of my childhood when my neighbors from Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai would prepare sugar-glazed yellow croaker. This traditional sweet and sour delicacy has always held a special place in my heart. However, the addition of handmade rice cakes in this dish took it to a whole new level. The soft and chewy texture of the rice cakes absorbed the delectable flavors of the sweet and sour sauce, creating a delightful harmony with the freshness of the yellow croaker. Surprisingly, the rice cakes became the star of the show, proving that they can be just as incredible as the fish itself.
I highly recommend sharing this dish with three or more people to fully appreciate its flavors and create a memorable communal dining experience.
Eggplant with Mature Vinegar
For a refreshing and appetizing starter, I urge you to try the “Eggplant with Mature Vinegar” (古法陈醋紫茄). This unassuming dish surprised me with its burst of flavors. The deep-fried eggplant, coated in mature vinegar and secret sauces, offers a refreshing and tangy delight. The eggplant remains remarkably crispy on the outside while maintaining a light and refreshing interior. It’s a perfect choice to awaken your taste buds and set the stage for the culinary journey that awaits.
Shredded Tofu Soup with Crab Shell Pastry
If you’re in the mood for a comforting soup dish, don’t miss out on the “Shredded Tofu Soup with Crab Shell Pastry” (文思豆腐配蟹壳黄). Having heard about the intricacies of crafting shredded tofu, I was aware of the chef’s exceptional knife skills required to achieve such fine texture.
Shredded Tofu Soup carries a slightly peppery flavor that beautifully complements the richness of the crab shell pastries. t’s worth noting that the crab shell pastry is different from the Fresh Pork Mooncake.
The flaky pastry, filled with dried vegetables and diced pork, add a delightful crunch to the soup and create a symphony of flavors that will leave you longing for more. This dish truly showcases the culinary expertise of Jiangnan cuisine.
Jiangnan Wok Mitten Crab
Last but certainly not least, make sure to indulge in the signature dish of Jiangnan Wok, the “Jiangnan Wok Mitten Crab, soaked in Chinese Wine” (江南灶醉蟹). Being in Nanjing during the crab season, I couldn’t resist the allure of fresh crabs. The mitten crabs, soaked in Chinese wine, exuded a sweet and aromatic essence that enhanced their natural flavors. It’s an indulgence worth savoring, but be mindful not to overindulge as the richness can become overwhelming in large quantities. I recommend enjoying the crab while it’s still hot to fully appreciate its exquisite flavors and textures.
Every dish I ordered at Jiangnan Wok in Shangri-la Nanjing was truly memorable, and their flavors continue to linger in my mind. The restaurant is a culinary haven that impeccably captures the essence of Jiangnan cuisine. I wholeheartedly recommend it as a must-visit establishment for anyone seeking an exceptional dining experience.
Highly Recommend!
Location: 江南灶 中央路329号南京香格里拉1楼（新模范马路口）
Jiangnan Wok Level 1, 329 Zhongyang Road, Gulou District, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province
Reservation please check here.
