A la Kitchen - Markham

Are you in the mood for some delicious steamed or pan-fried dumplings, hot and sour soup, and green onion pancakes? If you're in the area, why not treat yourself to a tasty meal at this restaurant? It may be a bit pricey, but the flavors are worth it! Let's go and satisfy our cravings!

I arrived at A La Kitchen around 8pm on a Sunday night and found that most of the tables were already occupied.

When you're sick of lining up at Ding Tai Fung or find them just a bit too greasy, try A la Kitchen in the strip mall behind First Markham Place. It is all handmade, fresh and a little bit less greasy than Ding Tai Fung. The line here is much shorter too. Unfortunately there is even less parking so it's best to park back at the First Markham spots and walk over.As usual, restaurants have an extensive menu but really only specialize in a few dishes. Here it is the Shiao Long Bao (Juicy Buns) and Guo Te (pot stickers) as expected in a Shanghainese restaurant. The marinated cold black fungus has the perfect texture and seasoning and their smoked marinated fish is right on point. This place does have a smaller menu than Ding Tai Fung but it does include the regular favourites.Note: this restaurant does not take credit cards. Payment is by cash or debit only.

Service: Not great, but I had seen worst - Wait staffs were kind of ok - had to ask multiple times to get a tea refillPrice: Great and very economicalFood Quality: was just average and place can match thatSize: fairly decent....however, the place was cramped, noisy and not the cleanest in town.... I will stay away all in all since there are many better places than A la.

It is a great place for authentic Shanghai food. Their Bao is very juicy way better than other dim sum place. The pork thigh is super soft as well. Definite good place to suggest for Chinese food.