The Bund 8 外滩8号

The Bund 8 外滩8号 in San Gabriel is a culinary gem that artfully brings the rich, refined flavors of Shanghainese cuisine to Southern California. Nestled at 218 S San Gabriel Blvd, this restaurant specializes in authentic Shanghai-style dishes and an array of Asian fusion offerings that include Cantonese and broader Chinese classics. For aficionados of Chinese cuisine and those eager to explore, The Bund 8 is a destination delivering both comforting familiarity and bold, intricate tastes.

From the moment you settle in, the ambiance at The Bund 8 invites a relaxed yet vibrant dining experience. This intimate dining room, though cozy in size, emphasizes fresh preparation and attentive service—offering an environment where every dish arrives piping hot and bursting with flavor.

The menu reads like a love letter to Shanghai's culinary heritage, showcasing classics with masterful execution. Dim Sum lovers will delight in dishes such as the famous shanghai steamed pork soup dumplings 8 (上海小笼包8) and the Shanghai style pan fried pork buns 8 (上海生煎包8), each morsel delivering delicate, juicy fillings wrapped in tender, thin skins that practically melt on the tongue. The Steamed Chicken with Ginger & Scallions is a standout—its rich broth deeply fragrant, shimmering with the warmth of ginger and fresh scallions, creating an umami depth that feels both nourishing and decadent.

For meat lovers, the Braised Pork on the Bund offers a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth experience. The pork is slow-braised to tender perfection, drenched in a savory brown sauce that harmonizes sweet, salty, and aromatic notes. The Braised Ham Hock in Brown Sauce (走油蹄膀) similarly satisfies with its rich texture and complex flavors that linger long after the first bite.

Seafood selections stand out with impeccable freshness and vibrant taste. The Fried Shelled Shrimp (清炒虾仁) is crisp and succulent, while the S8 Steamed Tilapia presents a subtle, clean flavor profile enhanced by carefully balanced seasonings. For noodle enthusiasts, the Signature Noodles in Soup and Shanghai Style Fried Noodles provide hearty, soul-soothing options crafted with care and tradition.

The Bund 8’s commitment to authenticity does not go unnoticed by its patrons. Customers consistently highlight the flawless execution of Shanghainese staples. Reviewer Hsin-Yi Kao was particularly moved by the Peanut & Pork Feet Soup, describing the unique nutty richness as deeply comforting and satisfying—an adventurous dish that proved a revelation. Regis Kwong praised the restaurant's ability to teleport diners to Shanghai with dishes like the grilled whole fish in scallion and Shanghainese sauce, while Cat Voy noted the “佛跳墙” (Buddha Jumps Over the Wall) as a flavorful composition filled with anticipated quality ingredients.

Beyond the food, the service at The Bund 8 elevates the overall experience. The staff’s attentiveness is frequently mentioned in reviews—checking in regularly to ensure diners’ needs are met without intrusion, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s an inviting place for both casual lunches and more elaborate family gatherings.

Whether you are discovering Shanghainese cuisine for the first time or revisiting cherished flavors, The Bund 8 外滩8号 offers an engaging, deeply satisfying taste journey. Its carefully curated menu of dim sum, soups, pork delicacies, and seafood dishes captures the essence of Shanghai with a freshness and vibrancy that compels return visits.

For anyone craving authentic Chinese and Shanghainese dining in the heart of San Gabriel, The Bund 8 is a culinary sanctuary well worth exploring—where each dish tells a story and every bite is a taste of tradition.