by Buster the bruncher
Shoppers, workers, visitors and Northbridge locals have been tantalised by the dishes offered by Old Shanghai for 34 years.
This family-owned hawkers’ market especially hits the spot for our large Asian communities.
In addition, our nation’s maturing tastes and widespread world travel have elevated Asian food on our palates.
Authentic dishes from Thailand, China, Singapore, Malaysia, Ceylon and Korea in one Perth place is a credit to them. Especially when two hungry people can eat handsomely for under $45.
Old Shanghai seeks to provide a street food experience, inspired by the bustling food markets of south-east Asia.
That would take some challenges in the indoor hall but the stall-holders certainly rise to the occasion with the food and service.
The food is authentic and properly-priced with admirable pacy, service – a bruncher’s delight. And no loud music!
The pace begins to pick-up around 11am, an ideal time to beat lunch crowds and attack the city and Northbridge stores.
Alternatively, worn-out, early morning shoppers can take the weight off their feet and enjoy a light, exotic feed before heading home.
After a long market perusal, Brunch buddy, Professor Ken, plucked buns from Hong Kong Dim Sum. Sesame bun with coconut was a sweet surprise while the mixed veg bun was more familiar, a Chinese culinary classic.
The two dishes, plus a bottle of water, was just $17.76.
From The Proper Indian we opted for large veg samosas ($4.50 each), a delightfully mysterious onion bhaji ($3), three mandatory crunchy poppadums (50¢ each) and two flavoursome chicken drumsticks ($4 each). That totals just $21.50.
Budget-watchers could easily trim this order and rein-in the bill to under $40 for two. Or halve it again for a snack. Seriously.
We doodled over the choices, including noodles, fried rice, satay, bulgogi beef set and Thai mango sticky rice. Next time…
Sacrilege but for the not-so-adventurous, there’s an extensive burger bar with vast selections – enough to fulfil any visiting American’s desires. Or any Aussie kids in tow.
4 Spoons
Old Shanghai, 123 James Street, Northbridge.
Phone 9227 8633.
Open 7 days from 10am
