M Shanghai.
Mmmmmmmm is M.
Some go ga-ga over sweets, but I’m 100% team savory. And delights such as those served at M Shanghai Bistro in Williamsburg, Brooklyn catch my attention.
I will do anything for the soup dumplings, or “juicy pork buns,” as they are properly named. Made in-house by a team of dumpling chefs, they are handcrafted deliciousness.
The same goes for the steamed vegetable dumplings, the shumai, the *awesome* beef with scallions and onions, the crispy chicken with ginger sauce, the scallions and bean sprouts, oh the scallions and bean sproats. And, well, most everything on the menu. There is something for everyone.
It has just the right amount of “American Chinese” food in its to appeal to me, but knowing it is cooked entirely by Chinese chefs guarantees its authenticity in sauce and spice. If I wanted something any more “authentic,” I would head for Chinatown or Queens. The ambiance and decor are adorable, highly favoring red and black with a modern Asian flair, and the friendly staff works as a team, helping each other out to ensure that every guest is well-taken care of.
The owner, May Liu, has been in business for almost ten years, and this the spot recently moved from Havemeyer Street to around the corner at 292 Grand Street. Her friendly, familiar ever-presence in the bistro allows regulars to feel welcome, recognized and appreciated. She has the mostess of any hostess.
Also open nearby in Williamsburg is May’s second baby, the M Noodle Shop on Metropolitan, near the Lorimer L stop or Metropolitan G stop. Featuring a variety of appetizers, noodles, noodle soups and rice dishes, M Noodle is the delectable cousin to the Bistro.
Either M you go with, expect salty goodness and Chinese hospitality. Mmm M good.
