Shanghai's version of Peking Duck is a source of local pride. In any case, the quality and crispiness of the skin determines the success of the entire dish. On the richness scale, Shanghai's duck is just shy of a butter sandwich. Small restaurant throughout the city advertise the dish with ducks strung in their windows like lanterns. Snacking is high art here, and the dumpling is the city's masterpiece.
Shanghai kitchens produce familiar pork buns and shu mai, but there are also regional favorites.
Poke the straw into the center and then slurp. Be prepared for a scaldingly hot, rich brew. Too bad Shanghai is such a hot city. This would be perfect food for a Canadian winter.