You may have noticed something amiss if you’re a regular diner at Alexandra Village Food Centre or just an avid xiao long bao lover. Some diners dropped by the popular Zhang Ji Shanghai La Mian Xiao Long Bao, just to see their shutters drawn down. Fortunately, they’re simply busy with their newest outlet at Alexandra Retail Centre (ARC).

Zhang Ji Shanghai La Mian Xiao Long Bao is a family-run business that has been around for more than a decade. It is run by a husband and wife team, the Zhangs, from Nanjing. The dishes are freshly made on the spot.

Since they’ve started, long queues have become a common sight during operating hours. They’ve even been recognised by Michelin Guide Singapore.
With all their success since Zhang Ji Shanghai La Mian Xiao Long Bao opened, it should come as no shock that they have decided to expand. On 28 Nov last year, they temporarily closed up shop so they could facilitate the opening of their ARC outlet.
As their 2nd branch has upgraded to an eatery, there are some price differences between it and the flagship. Never fear, though, as it’s still fairly wallet-friendly with the majority of their items being under S$10.

You can grab a basket of their Steamed Mini Buns (S$6.80) – the xiao long bao – and a plate of Pork and Leek Dumplings (S$8.80) or Szechuan Spicy Wanton (S$8.80). The latter two are considered must-haves alongside the popular xiao long bao. The former has a delightful hua diao fragrance and the latter is a savoury-spicy treat.
If you drop by Alexandra Village Food Centre and notice their shutter down, ARC isn’t too far away. You can still get your affordable XLB cravings fulfilled.
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Zhang Ji Shanghai La Mian Xiao Long Bao (张记上海拉面小笼包)
460 Alexandra Rd, Alexandra Retail Center, #02-23, Singapore 119963
Zhang Ji Shanghai La Mian Xiao Long Bao (张记上海拉面小笼包)
460 Alexandra Rd, Alexandra Retail Center, #02-23, Singapore 119963