Tuesday, January 31, 2017

Paradise Dynasty: Legend of Xiao Long Bao

Xiao Long Bao (Steamed Pork Dumplings) is a type of soup dumpling that originated from Jiangnan, China. I've tried several versions in the past which were all kinda the same until I traveled to Taipei and tried the world-famous Din Tai Fung's Xiao Long Bao. Their signature dumplings consist of juicy meat filling wrapped in melt-in-your-mouth skin made from a minimum 18 exquisite folds. My first DTF experience certainly changed the way I look at Xiao Long Baos and also opened my eyes on how these dumplings must taste like -- nothing more, nothing less.

CS knows I love DTF's Xiao Long Bao so when he saw Paradise Dynasty in S Maison, he immediately pointed it out to me. Paradise Dynasty is a franchise from Singapore and is known for its Rainbow Xiao Long Bao with 8 different and colorful flavors such as Original, Garlic, Ginseng, Foie Gras, Szechuan, Cheese, Crab Roe and Black Truffle. The branch in S Maison is their first in the Philippines and I'm glad I was able to try it in its first month of operation.


Of all the restaurants in S Maison, Paradise Dynasty is one of the few that is consistently busy, most times full with diners, excitedly awaiting for their delicious Shanghainese orders.



What we ordered

Signature Original Xiao Long Bao - Php298.00 (10pcs.)

I have yet to try other flavors of their Xiao Long Bao because whenever we go visit, I always crave for the original ones! After sipping the soup off the plump dimsum, I dip it back in black vinegar and put as much ginger strips as the spoon can fit because I like it sour and hot. On usual days, I can eat about 4 pieces but I think I can finish an entire basket of 10 of these meaty and flavorful treats all to myself. If only the other offerings in the menu are not alluring enough to try.


Stir-fried Shredded Pork in Black Bean Sauce with Chinese Crepes - Php288.00

The sauce was too salty for my taste so after finishing the crepes it came with, the cup of rice on the side is a great balance to downplay its strong flavors. A must-order nonetheless.


La Mian with Vegetable Pork Wanton - Php280.00

I'm not a fan of noodles except if you serve it cold. The servings was big enough for 2 hungry people but if given an option, I'd pass on this and move on to the next page of the menu.



I've been to Paradise Dynasty at least 6 times after my first dining experience and I must say that I love it even more than the last. Aside from the Xiao Long Bao, I look forward to the Sweet and Sour Fish Fillet and Mango Pudding - the best I've ever tasted in Manila!

~o~o~o~

Paradise Dynasty
2/F S Maison (below Conrad Manila)
Seaside Blvd. corner Coral Way
Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City
Metro Manila, Philippines
Tel.: (632) 828-8333

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