The aroma hits you first a wave of smoky char and fragrant spices. This is Tan Yu Charcoal Grilled Fish in Shanghai.
Tan Yu isn’t just any restaurant. It’s a culinary journey. It’s part of a larger chain spanning over 70 cities. Yet each location offers a unique experience.
The menu boasts a variety of fish. You can choose from Limbo fish Qingjiang fish or Seabass. Qingjiang fish is famously popular often selling out quickly. The Limbo fish however is a tender juicy option. Both are types of catfish. But be warned while grilled the fish may not have the strong charcoal scent some expect.
Tan Yu’s signature dish is the Chongqing Grilled Fish with Beancurd. This dish features ingredients from the Guizhou mountains. These include wrinkled skin peppers spicebush fruit mint herbs and houttuynia root. The result is a flavorful broth often less spicy than it appears. Surrounding the fish you’ll find fried soy beans soy beancurd parsley and dried chilies.
Another popular choice is the Grilled Fish with Green Peppers. This dish provides a different fragrant experience compared to the Chongqing broth. The fish is generously covered in green peppers and peppercorns.
While Tan Yu’s fish dishes are superb their other offerings are more variable. Grilled lamb skewers for instance may be tough. The Chongqing Cold Noodles however are a highly recommended side dish. This simple dish is surprisingly complex delivering tangy spicy and sweet notes in each bite.
Tan Yu Charcoal Grilled Fish in Shanghai offers a unique dining experience. It’s a blend of traditional techniques modern presentation and diverse flavors. Whether you choose the signature Chongqing style or the green pepper option your taste buds are in for a treat. The restaurant’s reputation precedes it. Enjoy your meal.