A true culinary gem in Milan’s Chinatown, serving up highly authentic Shanghainese classics that keep you coming back for more
Intro
We revisited I Sapori Di Shanghai a few years after it’s opened on a Tuesday raining evening, taste still good, quality like always, atmosphere amazing. Whenever the weather in Milan gets a bit gloomy, there is literally nothing quite like diving into a steaming, flavorful feast to instantly lift your spirits!
Nestled right in the bustling center of Via Paolo Sarpi, this iconic spot has quietly but confidently established itself as the absolute go-to destination for legit, home-style Shanghainese cuisine. If you are tired of the same old standard takeout menus and genuinely want to experience the deep, rich, and slightly sweet flavor profiles of Eastern China, you have officially found your new culinary obsession! It is a pure comfort food paradise that has not lost a single ounce of its original charm over the years.
The vibe
Stepping inside, you are immediately transported away from the chaotic, rain-soaked Milanese streets into a surprisingly elegant and minimalist Asian haven. The decor strikes the absolute perfect balance between modern chic and traditional coziness, radiating an undeniably sophisticated yet totally unpretentious energy. It’s the kind of aesthetic place where you can easily have a low-key romantic date night or gather around a big table with your squad to share a million different dishes!
The lighting is incredibly warm, the service is super efficient, and despite it being a random rainy weekday, the dining room was buzzing with a lively, welcoming crowd of locals and foodies alike. Just a quick pro-tip: this place is insanely popular for a reason, so booking ahead—especially if you plan to visit on weekends—is an absolute must!
The food
Okay, let’s get into the main event, because the menu here is an absolute masterpiece! We went all out and started with the legendary Braised Pork Belly (红烧肉). It was unbelievably tender, glistening in a deeply savory, caramelized sticky sauce that practically melted in our mouths! Next up was the Steamed Egg with Clams (蛤蜊蒸蛋) — a silky, jiggly cloud of pure umami perfection that felt like a warm hug on a cold night.
Of course, we had to get our essential carb fix, so the Scallion Oil Noodles (葱油面) were an absolute no-brainer. They were perfectly chewy and generously coated in that rich, aromatic roasted scallion oil that just hits different! We expertly balanced things out with the Braised Tofu (红烧豆腐), which soaked up all the dark, deeply flavorful soy broth beautifully, making every single bite super satisfying and packed with texture. And to add a little spicy kick to the feast, the Kung Pao Chicken (宫保鸡丁) delivered the ultimate punch of fiery, sweet, and nutty goodness! Every single plate was entirely wiped clean, leaving zero crumbs!
The verdict
Honestly? The hype surrounding this spot is still 100% real! Finding a restaurant that consistently maintains its exceptionally high standards years after opening is pretty rare, but I Sapori Di Shanghai truly delivers on every front. The price-to-quality ratio is totally fantastic, giving you a premium, authentic dining experience without completely emptying your bank account. The ingredients taste incredibly fresh, the classic Shanghainese flavors are remarkably balanced, and you leave feeling perfectly full and beyond happy!
If you are ever craving soul-warming, elite-level Chinese comfort food, this restaurant is a non-negotiable must-visit. It remains one of the absolute crown jewels of Paolo Sarpi!
I Sapori Di Shanghai 弄堂里
📍 Via Paolo Sarpi, 44, Milano
🌐 instagram: isaporidishanghai
Have you been to I Sapori Di Shanghai yet? Let us know your opinion, and do not forget to bookmark chinatownmilano.it for more authentic eats around the city.