Shahoden (謝朋殿) is a Chinese restaurant of Shanghai and Guangzhou cuisine prepared using ingredients from local areas in Japan. Their concept is Chinese dishes arranged in harmony with Japan’s four seasons. Like other highly regarded Chinese restaurants, they don’t add any chemical seasonings to their dishes.
Tables & Menu
All tables are in booths that are separated and surrounded by glass partitions. This creates a cozy, comfortable atmosphere. The lighting is a bit low and adds to the relaxing, casual ambience. The staff here is very well trained and friendly. The female servers are dressed in Chinese traditional gowns and add a touch of elegance to the surroundings. Soft jazz music plays comfortably in the background.
The menu has some English explanations with photos. Although they have some courses that take you from appetizer all the way through to dessert, I recommend that you order a la carte. Depending on your appetite, the number in your group plus 1-2 extra dishes would be good. For example, if you are in a group of three, order four or five dishes and share them.
My recommendations
Sea urchin & shark fin’s soup (生ウニとフカヒレのスープ)
This has been the most popular item on their menu for more than 40 years. The soup is quite thick and heavy. The mildness and light sweetness of this sea urchin and shark fin combination is delicate and pleasing to the palate.
Grilled prawns and vegetables (芝海老の炒め)
This dish makes maximum use of the original taste of each ingredient. It is simple and delicious.
Sweet and tender simmered pork (トンポウロー)
This dish is just like it sounds! The pork is sweet, tender, because it is simmered very well. The taste of boiled egg and pork mixes nicely, and will bring a smile to your face.
Shahoden has been around for a long time. Fans of the restaurant swear by it and come back time and time again. After my latest visit (I've eaten there a few times myself the last 15 years or so) I felt that the food itself wasn't quite up to their own excellent standards, but still quite good in anyone's book!
