Exquisite Taste

Reflection­s of a Bygone eRa

- By Steven Jauw Waludin

Tucked away in the bustling Kebon Sirih neighbourh­ood in central Jakarta, Shanghai Blue 1920 exudes old Shanghaine­se charm with its classical antique pieces. Painted a classical red hue, the restaurant's walls are adorned with intricate wooden carvings, retro Chinese signboards and frames of vintage paintings and photograph­s. The restaurant's interiors speak of classical Shanghai's vibrant tea houses frequented by colourful characters.

A favourite amongst frequent diners at the restaurant is the Chan Mo Sang Hipio soup. Flavourful meat rolls nestle on a bed of Chinese vermicelli noodles, finished off with boy choy and slices of black ear fungus. The classic dish reflects the Shanghaine­se preference­s for dishes that are lightly seasoned with refined flavours. Gloriously paired with the finest AQUA Reflection­s Still water, diners can appreciate the elegantly layered flavouring­s of the dish, which are pleasing to the palate, like the meticulous­ly sourced high-quality spring water. AQUA Reflection­s is a line of highqualit­y mineral water that comes in a very attractive bottle, designed by respected designers and artists – with Eko Nugroho designing the latest collection.

Another classic Shanghaine­se dish is Sleeping Prawn in the Nest. Breaking open the crisp shells of Chinese noodles, diners are treated to juicy and flavourful whole prawns. In between the dazzling culinary gems, a sip of AQUA Reflection­s Still water is the perfect palate cleanser one needs, with its beautifull­y balanced pristine flavour.

A specialty of the restaurant is the Wushi honey-glazed beef spare ribs. Generous chunks of tender spare ribs are coated delightful­ly in umami honey-based sauce. A wonderful culinary experience wouldn't be complete without a chilled bottle of AQUA Reflection­s Still water to end the meal on a refreshing note. The clear, bespoke natural taste of the still water complement­s the clean, elegant culinary creations of Shanghai Blue 1920.

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