20.11.2024 | Restaurants

Peking duck and Cantonese delicacies in Tallinn

Text and photos Timo Huttunen

The Peking duck is cut in front of guests.

In the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town, a carefully restored building is home to Shang Shi, a Chinese restaurant that opened its doors in August. Unmarked by any large signs, the venue offers one of Tallinn’s most intriguing fine dining experiences.

The name Shang Shi translates to “royal banquet.” The restaurant, which seats approximately 40 people, is Asian-inspired, modern, but at the same time luxurious. The tables are covered with white tablecloths, Chinese cutlery, and elegant dishes that exude a sense of quality. The international staff, though diverse, all seem highly competent in their roles. The head chef, Chee Hwee Tong, brings a wealth of experience, having previously led a restaurant to a Michelin star.

On a Wednesday evening, the restaurant is almost full. Ricardo, a waiter from Portugal, shares that Shang Shi is extremely popular. “We attract both locals and tourists. The best form of advertising for us has been the compliments from our customers,” he reveals.

The impressive Dim sum dish is colourful and delicious.

The cuisine at Shang Shi can be described as modern Cantonese fusion. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, Cantonese dim sum, and Peking duck, which is carved at a separate table right in front of the guests. For a special touch, customers can also order caviar to accompany the duck. Peking duck must be ordered at least 24 hours in advance, and reservations are recommended.

The dinner experience was thoroughly enjoyable. Service throughout the evening was attentive, friendly, and personalised. The dishes were not only visually appealing but also offered a wide range of flavours. Some were delicate, while others were bolder and more intense. The presentation was particularly impressive, with the dim sum standing out for its vivid colours.

The restaurant also has a cigar room and a wine bar on the ground floor. The wine selection in Shang Shi is indeed large, offering options for all tastes and budgets. The most affordable wines start at around 50 euros per bottle, with the most expensive reaching several thousand euros. Chinese beers are also available.

While Shang Shi is not cheap, it is not excessively expensive either. A three-course dinner with drinks costs approximately 100 euros per person. Upon paying the bill, I was surprised to find that a 10% service charge had been automatically added. The dinner lasted over two hours, but the comfortable chairs and relaxing atmosphere made the extended dining experience pleasant.

Shang Shi, Rataskaevu 5, Tallinn.