One of my favorite dim sum is the xiao long bao, a steamed dumpling filled with a delicious broth. And when it comes to the dish, one of my favorite places to get it in Manila is Paradise Dynasty, a restaurant known for their eight-flavored xiao long bao. In one basket, you can get dumplings in original, ginseng, garlic, black truffle, cheese, crab roe, foie gras, and Szechuan flavors.
For a limited time, you can also try a new flavor at Paradise Dynasty: chili crab!
It only makes sense for the restaurant come out with a chili crab flavor since it’s a Singaporean import and the dish is one of the city state’s most iconic. I tried it and was pleasantly surprised that the meat inside is actual crab meat. Like the dish, the xiao long bao offers a strong heat that you’ll like if you love chili crab. I’m not a big fan of spicy food but it’s quite addictive (I made sure to always have a glass of water nearby).
Paradise Dynasty’s chili crab xiao long bao is best paired with its other dishes. Here are some of my favorites:
The Pork Dumpling in Hot Chili Vinaigrette (P168) is perfect for those who like spicy dishes.
The Radish Pastry (P138) is filled with warm, shredded radish wrapped in a crusty pastry. It’s almost like a dessert.
The Lettuce Roll with Homemade Sesame Sauce (P288) is crunchy and it goes really well with the sauce.
The Stir-Fried Shredded Pork in Black Bean Sauce Served with Chinese Crepes (P388) can be an effort to make but it’s worth it!
The Crispy-Fried Crystal Prawns Tossed with Salted Egg Yolk (P588) is still my favorite.
The Stir-Fried French Bean with Minced Pork (P238) is flavorful and a great choice even for those who don’t like vegetables.
The La Mian with Scallion (Dry) (P200) is a dry noodle dish that you can dip in a milky broth simmered in a low fire for 12 hours.
Rice is always a good idea so the Egg Fried Rice (P238) is a Paradise Dynasty staple.
The Kung Pao Chicken (P298) is spicy but the heat is manageable and good!
Another favorite is the Charcoal Custard Lava Bun (P188). It’s gooey, it’s runny, and I love it.
Paradise Dynasty
S Maison
Address: 2/F, S Maison, Conrad Hotel, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City
Telephone: +632 828-8333 / 838-8333
Podium
Address: 2/F, The Podium, 18 ADB Ave, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City
Telephone: 682-3333
SM Aura
Address: 2/F, SM Aura Premier, C5 Road Corner 26th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City
Telephone: 478-7861
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