Tou Zao

Name: Tou Zao
Address: Shop 211, East Wing, Shanghai Centre, 1376 West Nanjing Road, Jingan, Shanghai, China Mainland, Shanghai, China Mainland, CN
Telephone: +8619121337327
Price range: ¥¥¥¥

Shanghai, China Mainland

⭐1 Star

The Experience

From Michelin Guide

Unlike the typical bustling Chinese joint, Tou Zao offers the serenity and intimate service of a sushiya. But the single prix-fixe menu, featuring hot entrées and dim sum, is unmistakably Cantonese. The sautéed lobster with scallion trio has addictive aromas and springy flesh. Spring rolls and Cantonese puff pastries are made tableside, baked à la minute and served piping hot. Deft control of heat and remarkable wok hei are the hallmarks of the food here.

Unique Things

From Visitor Experiences

Serene Ambiance and Intimate Service Inspired by a Sushiya
Tou Zao stands out by offering a calm and intimate dining experience reminiscent of a Japanese sushiya, which contrasts with the typically bustling atmosphere of Chinese restaurants. This serene setting enhances the focus on the culinary experience.
Single Prix-Fixe Menu Featuring Hot Entrées and Dim Sum Made Tableside
The restaurant serves a unique single prix-fixe menu that is unmistakably Cantonese, including hot entrées and dim sum. Notably, spring rolls and Cantonese puff pastries are freshly made tableside and served piping hot, showcasing deft control of heat and remarkable wok hei (the distinctive smoky flavor from stir-frying).
Creative Wine Pairing and Signature Dishes with Distinctive Techniques
Tou Zao offers creative wine pairing options that complement its Cantonese dishes. Signature items like sautéed lobster with scallion trio have addictive aromas and springy flesh, while classic dishes such as beef in oyster sauce are prepared with innovative techniques involving marinating, deep-frying, and grilling.

Ingredient Stars

From Visitor Experiences

The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant Tou Zao in Shanghai are:

Lobster: Featured prominently in the sautéed lobster with scallion trio dish, lobster is prized for its springy flesh and addictive aroma, showcasing the restaurant's deft control of heat and wok hei.
Scallions (Green Onions): Used in the scallion trio accompanying the lobster, scallions add fresh, aromatic layers that complement the rich seafood flavors.
Dim Sum Ingredients: Various fresh ingredients are used in the dim sum and Cantonese puff pastries, which are made tableside to order and served piping hot, emphasizing freshness and craftsmanship.

These ingredients reflect Tou Zao's focus on Cantonese cuisine with a refined, intimate dining experience reminiscent of a sushiya, highlighting precise cooking techniques and aromatic, fresh flavors.