Shi Lin: Authentic Taiwanese Dishes at Podium

My family went to Podium to support my little sisters for participating in the "Start Here" (see separate entry) art gallery.  My family rarely goes to distant malls like Podium so we were enthusiastic to try out the restaurants in the area.  Among the restaurants that occupied Podium, Shi Lin had the longest line and that enticed us to try it out.

shi lin podium

shi lin podium

Shi Lin offers authentic Taiwainese dishes.  Watching Shi Lin's dimsum-making process assured us that they serve their dimsum fresh.  

shi lin podium
The interiors at Shi Lin is modern minimalist with oriental influence.  Because of their open kitchen, they had to sacrifice some space on the front part which turned out to be a narrow dining area that could only hold a few tables.   However, I find it more appealing to the eyes compared to the back part which is cramp up with tables just to meet the demand.

Food

Steamed Dumplings
xiao long bao
 Xiao Long Bao 10 pcs. (230 php)
Shi Lin's  Xiao Long Bao is one of the best I've ever tried!  It was served hot as it is supposed to be.  The wrapper is thin and smooth just the way I like it.  The soup is flavorful and the meat goes well with the condiments.

xiao long bao
How to enjoy Xiao Long Bao
I've been eating Xiao Long Bao my entire life.  But, it's the first time I saw a guide on how to eat it properly.  I really appreciate the effort on the part of Shi Lin.  I was able to confirm that the way my parents taught me to eat it is right.

mushroom and vegetable dumpling
Mushroom & Vegetable Dumpling (148 php)
The Mushroom & Vegetable Dumpling is good but not as great as the Xiao Long Bao.

shrimp and pork shaomai
 Shrimp & Pork Shaomai (165 php)
The Shrimp & Pork Shaomai is one of the most common dimsum available around the Metro.  But, Shi Lin's version offers the best presentation and the taste is a bit similar to the Xiao Long Bao.

Noodles
noodles with spicy sesame and peanut sauce
Noodles w/ Spicy Sesame & Peanut Sauce (138 php)
I ordered the Noodles w/ Spicy Sesame & Peanut Sauce while my sister ordered the Noodles w/ Sesame & Peanut Sauce.  We both agreed that the spicy one suits this dish more.  The spiciness is a perfect complement to the sesame and peanut sauce that could get too overwhelming when taking more servings of it.  The texture of the noodles is just right.  Overall, it is worth a try because it is something new but I wouldn't order it again.  

noodles with double boiled chicken soup
 Noodle with Double-Boiled Chicken Soup (138 php)
The Noodle with Double-Boiled Chicken Soup is the best noodles we tried that night.  The soup was very tasty.  My sister loved it so much, she requested for extra soup. =)

noodles with braised beef soup
Noodles with Braised Beef Soup (248 php)
Among our orders, we liked the Noodles with Braised Beef Soup least.  It had a soup base that was too sweet that it overpowered the flavor of the beef.  The sweetness also made it difficult to finish.  

Fried Rice
fried rice with chicken chop and egg
 Fried Rice with Chicken Chop & Egg (245 php)
The Fried Rice with Chicken Chop & Egg is a must try!  It's my first time to try Taiwanese style chops and I like it.  I'm now a fan of its light and crispy coating and succulent chicken tenders.  

Tsinoy Foodies Verdict
Shi Lin offers authentic Taiwanese dishes at an affordable price.  There's not much to try on their menu yet.  But, I'd love to come back again for their Chicken Chop and try their desserts perhaps on their Fort branch which is more spacious. 


Tsinoy Foodies Review Rating Shi Lin Podium Menu
Ambiance Steamed Dumplings | Steamed Buns |
Soup | Noodles |
Small Plates | Vegetables and Fried Rice |
Dessert | Beverage |
Taste
Service
Price
=Favorites or Recommended 
Shi Lin Podium
Business Address
3rd Floor Podium Mall
ADB Ave. Ortigas Center
Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila
Business Hours 11am-10pm (mall hours)
Payment Options   Cash
Service Charge 10%
Budget/Person 120-350
Free WiFi No
Contact (02) 477-4108
Other  Facebook Fan Page
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