The Place
Stephen Chow (周星驰), the iconic Hong Kong actor once dubbed ‘China’s Jim Carrey,’ is the idol of a whole generation of young Chinese people. Little surprise, then, that a new diner, which takes its theme from several of his most famous movies, is enjoying rampant popularity. Although not owned by him, the eatery located in Bauhinia Plaza in Yangpu District is packed day and night.
A Bruce Lee statue (Chow’s long-time idol) greeted us at the door, followed by the interior of a traditional chacanteng (Hong Kong-style diner) with the addition of many ‘Chow-isms’ coming at you from every angle - movie posters of Kungfu Hustle (2004), Journey to the West (2013) and a permanent roster of Chow’s movies being projected onto the walls.
The Food
Many of the dishes are named after memorable items or scenes in Chow’s movies, such as the Sorrowful Rice (黯然销魂饭) for RMB36, which was featured prominently in the 1996 comedy romp God of Cookery. It’s basically a plate of rice with char siu (barbecued pork) served with a secret sauce. In the movie, the dish was so delicious that the judge wept with joy and Chow was crowned the winner of the cooking competition. Luckily, the real life incarnation has a similar effect on us too (minus the tears).
The King of Gambler Dice for RMB6 (赌神泡芙) is a reference to Chow’s iconic action comedy God of Gambler’s (1990) is actually a chocolate flavored puff, while the Tang Bohu Barbecued Chicken Wings (唐伯虎烤鸡翅) for RMB38 are inspired by his Ming Dynasty comedy, Flirting Scholar (1993), where the famous poet has a deep affection for barbecued chicken wings. 2/3
The Vibe
While most Hong Kong-style restaurants aren’t known for having the best service, our fellow diners seemed to be enjoying themselves (due to the novelty factor and Chow’s star power) despite the wait staff’s inattentive attitude. 0.5/1
Value for Money
Similar to Cha Canting and Tsui Wah, the average check comes in at around RMB100 per person or less. Then again, it’s probably safe to say only Chow’s super fans will think it’s worth of a journey out to Yangpu. 1/1
Total Verdict: 3.5/5
Price: RMB80-100 per person
Who’s going: Young locals, movie lovers
Good for: groups, Cantonese food, business lunch, casual dinner
See a listing for Zhou Xing Xing
Read more Shanghai Restaurant Reviews
0 User Comments