Hidden Taizhou Cuisine Restaurant on Shanghai's Nanjing Road - Pin Yao Xuan

Finding a comfortable and upscale restaurant while shopping on Nanjing Road can be challenging. After searching online, I discovered Pin Yao Xuan, located on the 8th floor of the Conrad Hotel. The location is a bit tricky to find, and I had to ask several people for directions. It turns out there’s a direct elevator from the basement of Shimao Plaza (next to the LEGO store). The entrance, adorned with stone blocks and a fireplace, exudes sophistication. Inside, the ambiance resembles a Western-style restaurant, with well-spaced tables that ensure a comfortable dining experience. This restaurant specializes in Taizhou cuisine, which, according to Baidu AI, is a branch of Zhejiang cuisine known for its emphasis on natural flavors and seasonal seafood. The food here is incredibly fresh and delicious. As it was my first visit, I opted for their signature dishes: - Sanmen Crab Baked Rice: The crab meat is sweet and fresh, and the rice absorbs the crab’s essence, making it absolutely delightful. - Taizhou Hand-Torn Salted Tofu: Rich in soybean flavor, this tofu is freshly made by the chef daily—a must-try. - Pan-Fried East China Sea Hairtail: Tender meat with a golden, crispy crust—simply irresistible 🤤🤤. - Sand Garlic Braised Bean Noodles: A representative dish of Taizhou cuisine, these slippery noodles resemble vermicelli and soak up the flavorful broth, making it impossible to stop eating. The prices are quite reasonable, with most dishes ranging from tens to a little over a hundred yuan. However, portions are relatively small, so larger groups might need to order double portions. The staff is attentive and professional, offering helpful suggestions when ordering. If you’re tired of roadside eateries and want a more refined dining experience, this restaurant is worth a try.