It’s been almost two months since we last gave Shenzhen a proper visit. Life got in the way but in the past few weeks, the buzz surrounding the soft opening of Shenzhen Bay MixC Phase Two (深圳灣萬象城二期) in Nanshan district reached a tipping point — and curiosity got the best of us.
With all the chatter about its upscale offerings, we figured it’d be the perfect excuse to get re-acquainted with the city. Much like Phase One, Phase Two leans heavily into luxury retail and refined dining experiences, and while some shops were still under construction, the mix of indoor and outdoor promenades made it a pleasant space to stroll through — clean lines, open air, and that unmistakable new-mall energy.
By the time we wrapped up our walk, it was close to 11:00am just in time for an early lunch. And where better to indulge than at our go-to dim sum spot: Tao Tao Ju (陶陶居).
Founded in 1880, Tao Tao Ju is a name that carries serious weight in the world of Cantonese cuisine. With over 40 branches across China now, their Premium (or 'Zhenpin' 臻品) series is a more elevated version of the brand, featuring premium seafood and a more refined dining setup.
Before we even stepped inside, we were greeted by a wall of fish tanks, showcasing the day’s live seafood. A not-so-subtle reminder that freshness is the name of the game here.
This branch nestled inside the new MixC spans two full floors and can seat over 100 guests comfortably.
Signature Hong Kong style milk tea (招牌港式奶茶) (¥22) – Of course, we kicked things off with a bottle each of their famously silky milk tea. No sharing here — it’s too good for that. 😆😆
Steamed minced scallop and sea urchin dumpling in chicken stock (雞湯玉帶金魚餃) (¥39) – A new dim sum that wasn't available when I last visited TTJ at One Avenue. The dumpling was delicately packed with shrimp, scallop and sea urchin, resting in a light chicken broth. Not bad, although the sea urchin was more of a cameo than a star.
Tao Tao Ju jumbo prawn dumpling (陶陶居大蝦餃) (¥36) – A classic. Each dumpling packed with not one, not two, but three whole prawns. Juicy, bouncy, and everything you want from a proper har gow (unless you want it in bite size).
Barbecued pork "snowballs" (叉燒雪花球) (¥30) – Another new item on the menu.
Arguably one of the most pleasant surprises. Inside the chewy glutinous rice skin flavored with kale, you’ll find char siu and mushrooms, finished with a savory-sweet sauce. Comforting and inventive.
Steamed hairy crab (大閘蟹 三両) (¥68) – Yes, it's hairy crab season!
Jelloman wasn’t going to miss out. Though this one came with fewer roes than expected, it was enough to scratch her itch.
Stir-fried choy sum with lard (豬油渣爆炒菜心) (¥43) – Crunchy, fragrant, and the perfect green to cut through the rich proteins.
Pan-fried crispy rice flour rolls (特色脆皮腸粉) (¥36) – Another new item but one that we could definitely do without. The rice rolls were more on the tough side, although the preserved cabbage (梅菜) and pork filling was a nice touch.
It felt good to be back in Shenzhen, re-immersing ourselves in its ever-evolving dining scene. Even though little nugget couldn’t join us this time (two more days of exams left, hang in there, buddy! 😄😄), we’ve already made plans to return next weekend as a full team.
With MixC Phase Two now officially on the radar, there’s no doubt Shenzhen is stepping up its game — again.
Food Rating: 6.9/10
Price: ¥¥¥
Address: Shop B190, Zone B, Level B1 Shenzhen Bay MixC, 3213 Keyuan South Road, Nanshan, Guangzhou, China
深圳市南山区粤海街道海珠社区科苑南路3213号深圳湾万象城B1层B区B190号铺
Closest Metro Station: Houhai (后海)
Tel: +86 (755) 8382-8865
Opening Hours: 9:00am - 9:30pm daily
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