In the heart of the bustling Zion Riverside Food Centre is a humble hawker stall that has been a longstanding hot favourite amongst the office lunch crowd and weekend diners. Ah Wang La Mian Xiao Long Bao Shanghai Fried Dumplings, located at Stall 22, may be tucked away in a food centre, but its dishes are far from ordinary.
The owner of the stall, Ah Wang, hails from China, and he makes the dumplings by hand every morning. Every dish is prepared upon order, ensuring maximum freshness and crispness. During my recent visit, I had the pleasure of trying out three of their standout dishes: Szechuan Spicy Wanton, Pan-Fried Dumplings, and La Mian with Fried Bean Sauce.
Taking my first bite of the Szechuan Spicy Wanton ($6.00), I was immediately impressed. These little pockets of flavour pack a spicy punch that awakens the taste buds. The perfectly cooked and tender wantons come coated in a crimson sauce, with a thin, silky smooth wrapping that gives way to generous fillings of tasty pork and prawn. It comes a set of 10, which will definitely fill you and your meal buddies.
The sauce is a delightful blend of spicy, sweet, sour, and savoury – everything you would want in a Szechuan-style chilli oil dish. The heat, though intense, doesn't overwhelm the palate; instead, it complements the delicate taste of the wantons. Chopped scallions provide a touch of freshness, while scoops of chilli crisps added texture. These were easily some of the best chilli oil wantons I’ve had, and I will definitely be going back for more.
Ah Wang's Pan-Fried Dumplings ($7.50), also known as potstickers or guo tie, are a delightful rendition of a classic Chinese dish. These dumplings boast a beautiful golden-brown crispy bottom that contrasts wonderfully with the tender and juicy filling inside. This dish also comes in sets of 10.
The first bite revealed the satisfying crunch of the pan-fried exterior, followed by the savory explosion of the pork and chive filling. Each dumpling is meticulously crafted, showcasing the Ah Wang’s expertise. The soy-vinegar dipping sauce provided on the side is the perfect accompaniment, balancing the richness of the dumplings with a tangy zing.
Lastly, the La Mian with Fried Bean Sauce, or zha jiang mian, is another traditional dish with hearty, familiar flavours. The dish features freshly pulled, thick, and chewy noodles, drenched in a rich, savoury, and slightly spicy fried bean sauce. Topped with pork mince and chopped scallions, this dish is a comforting bowl of noodle goodness.
The deep earthy taste of the sauce clings to the noodles, along with the tender pork bits, ensuring each mouthful is a burst of flavour. It's a dish that transports you to the bustling streets of Shanghai, where traditional flavours are celebrated with every bite.
What sets Ah Wang La Mian Xiao Long Bao apart is the delectable dishes they serve and the dedication to preserving authentic Chinese flavours. The hawker stall experience adds an extra layer of authenticity, as you savour these culinary creations amidst the lively atmosphere of the food centre.
In conclusion, Ah Wang La Mian Xiao Long Bao Shanghai Fried Dumplings is certainly a hidden gem in Singapore's hawker scene, and it ranks high on my list of top hawker stalls in Singapore serving wanton. Whether you're a local or a tourist looking for an authentic taste of Chinese cuisine in Singapore, Ah Wang's hawker stall at Zion Riverside Food Centre should be high on your list of culinary destinations.
If you’re planning to visit, do note that they are open from 10am - 9pm on Tuesdays to Fridays, and 9am - 9pm on Saturdays & Sundays, with Monday as the rest day.
