Dongbei Ren, or Northeastern Folk, centers around the corn breads and the meat and potatoes fare of China's extreme Northeast.
This down home, no-frills Manchurian eatery serves up what may be Shanghai's closest simulacrum of western comfort food in a garish, multi-colored setting with plenty of revolutionary kitsch.
The waitstaff, who frequently break out into song (they speak in Northeastern accents and sing a tune if you order the fish) are helpful and there are English menus available. The Harbin beer they serve here is also one of the best brews available in China.
A trip to Dongbei Ren is best in large groups, allowing you to try several dumplings, a couple of stews, and specialties like their fresh tofu (luo kang dofu) served in a bamboo basket with a rich soy and garlic sauce.
Our favorite dishes are:
- Sweet and sour crispy pork (gu bao rou) which is thin slices of tenderloin battered and fried crisp with a tangy sauce, slices of ginger and coriander,
- Small fried balls of minced venison
- A stew of pork and pickled cabbage that is reminiscent of pork and sauerkraut, and
- Di san xian - browned potatoes stir-fried with green peppers and eggplant.
Their lamb dumplings, and the tomato and egg are also superb.
Cheap, cheerful and delicious, Dongbei Ren is a must for simple Chinese food that will leave you satisfyingly full.