Crystal Jade: A Crystal Clear Choice

It has been said many times, by this magazine and others, that eating in malls and food courts in Asia is a vastly preferable experience to what it would be in Europe or the US. The opening of Crystal Jade La Mian and Xiaolongbao at Indigo Mall seems only to reinforce this theory.

Part of a Singapore-based chain that stretches across China and southeast Asia, the Indigo branch of Crystal Jade is only the second they have opened in Beijing. Bemoan its being part of a chain and location in a mall if you will, but for us this only serves to enhance the efficiency of the dining experience. The eponymous Shanghai xiaolongbao (RMB 26/four) arrive worryingly quickly, but all fears are assuaged when the thin skins yield to release a strongly savory soup and tender kernel of minced pork filling. The more adventurous diner may choose to take their xiaolongbao stuffed with foie gras (RMB 28/four) or ginseng chicken (RMB 28/four), the latter sporting an appropriately jade-hued skin.

Complement your carbs with carbs, in the form of hand-pulled noodles. The lamian with beef in sour soup (RMB 48) is refreshingly light, with no trace of the oil slick that troubles many a bowl of noodles, but don’t underestimate the portion size – there is a veritable bale of noodles hidden within its depths.

With slick service, a buzzing atmosphere, and bargain prices, Crystal Jade is a welcome addition to Indigo’s already strong dining options.

Crystal Jade
Daily 11am-9.30pm. L1-25, Indigo, 18 Jiuxianqiao Lu, Chaoyang District (6184 1627)
朝阳区酒仙桥路18号颐提港L1-25

Photos courtesy of Crystal Jade