I just left Shanghai but when I was there, my goal was to eat my way around Shanghai and I did just that. Armed with a list of the best and coolest places to check out, Goga was on that list and it was simply stellar.
Chef and owner Brad Turley stands in the open kitchen keeping a watchful eye on the preparation of each dish. The menu is simple – with seafood, meat and salads. But the menu belittles the flavor punch of each and every dish I had.
The salad I ordered had candied bacon (a first for me) and it was a small revelation. I’ve watched contestants on Top Chef preparing candied bacon and I’ve always cringed at the thought of something so delicious in all its savory glory turned into something dessert-like. But the candied bacon was crisp and perfect. The amalgamation of flavors – from sweet to savory to musky, made the salad come alive.
The lobster roll had fresh bits of lobster in a tangy and sweet concoction served between soft buns and a side of corn on the cob. I am a huge fan of corn on the cob and the corn treated with salt and black pepper wrapped in butter was one the best corn of the cobs I’ve ever had. It was so good that I ordered plate after plate. So much so that Brad said that I was going to eat up all his corn that night.
The red-snapper carpaccio was served in a plate of soy sauce, olive oil and fresh chili slices. It was stunning and light. The chicken main course had a flavor very reminiscent of the popular satay-and-peanut-sauce found in Singapore, Bali and Malaysia. The chicken was tender and perfectly cooked.
You get a choice to sit inside or outside (actually upstairs) at the patio. I would say to sit inside so you can have a chat with Brad and ask him to tell you what goes into every dish. The atmosphere is warm and hospitable. The kind of environment you get with your favorite local bar. The soundtrack in this fantastic little joint says it all – from surfer rock to Nine Inch Nails remixes to Ingrid Michaelson. It is relaxed and very fun. If you want to be surprised, simply ask Brad to wipe something up for you. You won’t be disappointed. Goga (Shanghai, China).
[Pic courtesy of The Dining Secretary]
