traditional Shanghai - Chuns

If you're looking for the Shanghai equivalent of a speak easy, eating in a very traditional way, try to book in to Chuns.  It took a fairly spirited discussion to convince the concierge that we really really did want to eat here - it's an extension of a family home, serving what ever is best from the markets to the tiny front room which seats 16 at a pinch.

For 200 RMB, and the fun of trying to work out what we were eating, Chuns is worth the effort.

 First up, finger licking good soy braised duck, potato puree with spring onions, cabbage and horseradish, sauteed shredded vegetables with shitake and fungus in a sweetish sauce, and stewed bean curd with gingko and fungus.

 Crunchy deep fried salty river prawns and then a deep fried whole fish with XO sauce

  And to finish a fantastic chicken soup, oily and delicate and warming with bamboo soups.  Flu begone!

 Our experience was made even more enjoyable thanks to the hospitality of a neighbouring table visiting from San Fran who were back visiting relatives - definitely helped us understand the menu!