Shanghai River Restaurant

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Richmond at 7831 Westminster Hwy, Shanghai River Restaurant offers an authentic Shanghainese dining experience that captures the rich culinary heritage of Eastern China with impeccable flavor and warmth. Specializing in Shanghainese, Asian, and broader Chinese cuisine, this gem invites diners to embark on a deeply satisfying journey through carefully prepared classic dishes that balance tradition and freshness in every bite.

From the moment you step into Shanghai River Restaurant, the inviting aroma of expertly spiced broths, fried delicacies, and slowly braised specialties sets the tone for a memorable meal. The dining atmosphere is comfortable and welcoming, making it perfect for family dinners, casual outings, or special occasions where authentic flavors take center stage.

The menu is a treasure trove of Shanghainese highlights, with signature dishes topping the must-try list. The Crab XLB Soup Dumplings are an absolute standout—delicate, paper-thin dumpling skins encase a burst of rich, savory broth paired with succulent crab meat that melts in your mouth. Equally irresistible are the Black Vinegar Ribs with Nuts, lightly breaded and fried ribs finished with a tangy black vinegar sauce that perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors, reminiscent of Cantonese preserved plum ribs but with a distinct Shanghainese twist.

For those craving comforting options, the Hot & Sour Soup and Braised Tien-Tsin Cabbage with Ham showcase comforting, nuanced flavors that evoke the heartiness of home cooking, while the Peking Duck offers a masterfully roasted, tender bird with crispy skin – a luxurious treat for the senses. Signature soups such as the Duck Bone & Bean Curd Soup and Crab Meat & Fish Maw Soup are soulful and rich, designed to warm your palate with their deep, complex tastes.

Vegetable and side dishes also shine here, with plates like the Fried Gai Lan with Ginger Sauce providing vibrant, fresh greens with a punch of zesty ginger heat, and the warming Fried Rice delivering classic comfort with perfectly separated grains and savory notes. You’ll find dim sum offerings like Steamed Pork Dumplings (蟹粉小籠飽) and uniquely satisfying fried dumplings filled with red bean paste that perfectly balance sweetness and texture.

Customers consistently praise Shanghai River Restaurant for its genuinely authentic flavors and exceptional quality. Angie H. raves about the “turnip pastry” as a “MUST-have,” illustrating the restaurant’s ability to create crave-worthy traditional snacks. Jkaw highlights their famed Wuxi-style black vinegar spare ribs as a signature dish that stands above the rest, while Kate K. notes the consistently delicious offerings—whether dining in or taking out—and warmly commends the friendly and attentive staff, a rare find in Richmond's bustling dining landscape. Gabe’s experience underscores the thin-skinned, soup-filled dumplings and highly flavorful dishes that impress locals and visitors alike, often attracting both Hong Kong and Mainland Chinese patrons who appreciate true authenticity.

Whether you are a Shanghainese food aficionado or new to the region’s cuisine, Shanghai River Restaurant serves up an unforgettable mix of savory, sweet, sour, and fragrant elements that testify to the culinary artistry of this celebrated Chinese culinary tradition. Expect vibrant textures, balanced seasoning, and heartfelt service that make each visit feel like a special occasion.

Next time you’re in Richmond and craving a genuinely authentic Shanghainese meal crafted with care and tradition, Shanghai River Restaurant awaits with dishes that delight the senses and invite return visits.