Shi Lin's Authentic Chinese in Circuit Mall, Makati City
This Shi Lin in Circuit Mall, Makati is the third branch I've tried. The first was in Lucky Chinatown circa 2015 (read more). The second in Greenbelt, and so far across these three branches, quality and taste are consistent. You'll be getting your fresh serving of Xiao Long Bao and other comfort Chinese dishes. Let's check out this branch.
Similar to most (if not all) branches of Shi Lin, the interior has this noticeable blend of red in its layout, which according to Chinese beliefs is a color that attracts fortune/luck. Aside from the color, the ornaments, furniture and other fixture all create this authentic feel. You'll not worry too much about queuing up because they have a large seating capacity. Perfect for families craving for some noodles and dimsum.
Specialized Menu
Shi Lin's menu is not as expansive as other contemporaries, but based on my experience, dishes shown are all within the specialty of the restaurant. You'll be finding a couple of dimsum dishes, noodles, rice bowls and other mains.
Stirfry Broccoli (P180) - Very consistent quality and taste among 3 branches I tried. Lightly seasoned, fresh and may go with any dishes.
Crispy Prawn Cake (P215) - Very crunchy yet delicate at the same time. The prawns are very tasty that comes with a sweet and sour sauce.
Beef Stir Fry with Scallion (P375) - Not as tender but tolerable texture. Good thing it's rightly seasoned and savory (not the vetsin type of flavorful, so it's good). If you want to bring out more taste to the beef, you can dip it further into the sauce that settled at the bottom.
Salt and Pepper Squid (P385) - Rightly seasoned, crispy on the outside yet with a tender squid in the core. I personally recommend this!
Noodles with Porkchop (P265) - The noodles has this authentic (albeit salty) broth that blends well with seasoned pork at the center. Each slurp is a good experience since the noodles have this hand-pulled tenderness.
Xiao Long Bao (P285 for 10 pieces) - The pride of Shi Lin, and one of the finest in the Metro. These are bite-sized, and "saucy" when you poke a hole through it.
Like my previous experience in other branches, we all ended up delighted by our dining experience! This is definitely a family favorite when it comes to Chinese cravings.
Shi Lin - Overall Ratings and Summary
Note: Unshaded stars are equivalents of half-stars. The ratings reflect my personal experiences on the times I dine here.
| Ambiance: | ★★★★★ |
| Taste: | ★★★★ |
| Service: | ★★★☆ |
| Price/Value: | ★★★★ |
| Budget: | P300 each for a sharing type of experience for a group of at least four (4) |
Shi Lin is one of the consistent restaurants I know. Each experience I had in 3 different branches left me satisfied with their amazing line-up of comfort Chinese dishes. I personally suggest the Salt and Pepper Squid, Prawn Cakes, Noodles in Peanut Sauce and of course, their Xiao Long Bao. Prices are not as steep, and service is okay. This is definitely a "classic" choice for my family.
Shi Lin
Location: G/F, Circuit Lane, Ayala Malls Circuit, Olympia, Makati City
Service Charge: 10% before VAT
