Shanghai Kelly's in San Francisco's Polk Gulch neighborhood is a popular spot known for its delicious and authentic Chinese-American cuisine. This article will provide a comprehensive look at their menu, exploring popular dishes, customer reviews, and what makes this restaurant a neighborhood favorite. We’ll delve into why Shanghai Kelly's consistently receives positive feedback and examine what sets it apart from other Chinese restaurants in the area. This in-depth review will help you determine if Shanghai Kelly's is the perfect spot for your next meal.
Shanghai Kelly's Menu: A Culinary Journey Through Chinese-American Classics
Shanghai Kelly's menu is a delightful blend of traditional Chinese dishes with an American twist, catering to a wide range of palates. The menu is organized clearly, making it easy to navigate and choose your favorites.
Appetizers: Starting Your Shanghai Kelly's Experience
The appetizer section offers a diverse selection, ranging from classic spring rolls to more adventurous options. Many reviewers rave about the pot stickers, praising their juicy filling and crispy exterior. The sesame chicken is another popular starter, known for its tender texture and rich, savory sauce. For those who prefer something lighter, the egg rolls are a reliable choice, always prepared fresh. Many customers enjoy starting with the soup dumplings, expertly crafted to achieve the perfect balance of flavorful broth and tender dough.
Entrees: The Heart of the Shanghai Kelly's Experience
The entrees are the true stars of the Shanghai Kelly's menu. Popular choices consistently mentioned in reviews include:
- Sweet and Sour Chicken: A classic done right. The chicken is tender and the sauce is perfectly balanced – sweet, tangy, and slightly sour.
- Kung Pao Chicken: This dish is praised for its generous portion of flavorful chicken and crunchy peanuts. The heat level is customizable, catering to those who prefer mild or spicy versions.
- Moo Shu Pork: Another popular choice, with reviewers often mentioning the generous portion size and delicious pancakes.
- Chow Mein: Shanghai Kelly's chow mein is frequently praised for its fresh vegetables and well-cooked noodles. Many customers opt for the shrimp version.
- Orange Chicken: A staple in many Chinese-American restaurants, but Shanghai Kelly's version consistently receives positive feedback for its crispy exterior and sweet, tangy sauce.
Sides and Drinks: Completing the Meal
Shanghai Kelly's also offers a variety of sides, such as fried rice, steamed rice, and lo mein, complementing the entrees perfectly. Their drink selection includes a range of sodas, juices, and Asian teas. Many customers enjoy the authentic Chinese teas to perfectly round out their meal.
Shanghai Kelly's Reviews: What Customers Are Saying
Online reviews for Shanghai Kelly's are overwhelmingly positive, consistently highlighting the restaurant's:
- Authentic Flavors: Many reviewers praise the authentic taste of the dishes, suggesting the restaurant uses fresh ingredients and traditional recipes.
- Generous Portions: Customers consistently mention the generous portion sizes, making the meals great value for the price.
- Friendly Service: The staff is often praised for their friendly and efficient service, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
- Cleanliness: Many reviewers appreciate the cleanliness of the restaurant, a significant factor in overall dining experience.
However, some negative reviews exist, predominantly relating to:
- Wait Times: During peak hours, wait times can be significant. It's recommended to call ahead or visit during off-peak times.
- Ambiance: The ambiance is described as fairly casual; those seeking a more upscale dining experience might find it lacking.
While negative reviews are present, they are considerably outnumbered by the positive ones, indicating a generally high level of customer satisfaction.
Case Study: Comparing Shanghai Kelly's to Competitors
To highlight Shanghai Kelly's success, let's compare it to two other popular Chinese restaurants in the Polk Gulch area (hypothetical examples for illustrative purposes). Let's assume "Restaurant A" focuses on a more upscale, modern take on Chinese cuisine, while "Restaurant B" offers a more traditional, less expensive menu. A comparison could reveal that Shanghai Kelly's occupies a desirable middle ground; offering quality, authentic dishes with generous portions at a reasonable price point, making it highly appealing to a broader audience.
| Restaurant | Price Point | Ambiance | Portion Size | Authenticity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai Kelly's | Moderate | Casual | Generous | High |
| Restaurant A | High | Upscale | Moderate | Moderate |
| Restaurant B | Low | Basic | Small | Moderate |
Conclusion: Is Shanghai Kelly's Worth a Visit?
Based on extensive reviews and menu analysis, Shanghai Kelly's in Polk Gulch, San Francisco is a highly recommended destination for those seeking delicious and authentic Chinese-American cuisine. The positive reviews consistently praise the food quality, generous portions, friendly service, and overall value. While wait times can be an issue during peak hours, the overall positive experience makes it a worthwhile choice. So, next time you're in Polk Gulch, consider Shanghai Kelly's – you won't be disappointed.
