A secret gem in a tree-lined neighborhood
Visionary restaurateur Betty Ng is passionate about trying to revive the humble tree-lined neighborhood into a chic evening destination from her restaurant Ginger Modern Asian Bistro to the recent opening of Dao Jiang Hu Modern Chinese Kitchen, which is just one block away.
Dao Jiang Hu officially opened its door in December after its four-month pop-up trial on Donghu Road. The exotic hand-crafted Chinese lanterns that shed an alluring light hanging on the plane tree signifies its covert location inside a four-story building at the corner of Xingguo and Tai’an roads.
The interior has a contemporary, playful ambience with Chinese retro touches all around.
More than a restaurant, Dao Jiang Hu is a true secret gem that is reminiscent of a retro, funky, warm living home, and Singapore owner Ng would love to welcome like-minded guests to share sweet moments with simple joys and laughter on a daily basis.
The name Dao Jiang Hu is a Shanghainese colloquial term meaning to “mess around or jokingly stir up gossip.”
The strong brand identity is conveyed through the restaurant’s logo, an artistic depiction of two Shanghainese mamas with their hair in curlers, the waitresses in qipao waiting to welcome all into their longtang (alleyway) to “Dao Jiang Hu world.”
The menu features an array of beloved Chinese dishes such as the Beggar’s Chicken from Hangzhou,
The interior has a contemporary, playful ambience with Chinese retro touches all around while a stunning Chinoiserie wallpaper, specially designed in Rome, adorns the wall. The modern Chinese menu is created by Ng, who has been constantly perfecting her culinary techniques and creative ideas over the years. The menu features an array of beloved Chinese dishes such as the classic Dongpo Pork, the Beggar’s Chicken from Hangzhou, the Sichuan specialty Mapo Tofu and local classic Shanghainese scallion oil noodles.
However, Ng always updates the Chinese classic dishes to make it more appealing to both locals and foreigners.
It’s hard to pick my favorite dish at Dao Jiang Hu because every plate has its unique taste with fun presentation.
Each element from the tableware to the flower arrangement, crafted Chinese cocktails are carefully considered as part of the experience and contribute to a well-spent evening there.
Info
Opening hours: 5:30pm-11pm
Tel: 3226-5680
Address: 3/F, 50 Tai’an Rd
Average price: 300 yuan
