Shanghai Cafe

Didn't know what to expect at this place, needed to run an errand in the neighborhood and didn't see many customers but went in anyway.We ordered a few items and I asked to not have any MSG added to my meal which they were able to oblige. Loved the simple dishes of beef & broccoli, and also paper wrapped chicken. Haven't had that in many years. The fried rice with like 11 different ingredients in it wasn't bad at all.Service was attentive and the place was relatively clean. For sure will be back when in the area.

We love this place! The food is delicious, the service is always friendly, and we love eating in when we can and having some tea with our meal because the ambiance is just very warm and homey.Our family's favorite dishes: chef special beef, Mongolian beef, fried shrimp w/ spicy salt, bbq pork fried rice, shrimp with lobster sauce, four seasons vegetables, claypot eggplant and chicken, chicken lo mein (if you're looking for chow mein as in the thick/soft noodles - this is what you're looking for. The chow mein on the menu here is more of a crunchy noodle dish), beef with broccoli, and the xaio long bao. We eat here at least once a month, sometimes more, and it quickly became our go-to Chinese American food place in San Diego once we discovered it. It very clearly has a number of regulars, and it's always nice to be at a place where the (presumably) owner is chatting with people about their recent vacations and how they're doing.

Food was good: came out fast enough (10 minutes) and is great chinese american fare. Service is great: smiles on everyone's faces.Ambiance is classical. You'll feel comfortable. Toilet slightly dimly lit, but not dirty at all.Don't really understand the bad reviews. Been there a few times, always a good time, so go and see the place for yourself.

Great service, great price. Went for the lunch special which was under $12 and it came with an entree, rice, salad, wonton, and an egg roll. Delish!! Highly recommend. We got the hot and spicy chicken and the broccoli beef. The flavor was delicious and the meat was nice and tender. Highly recommend especially for the price. It's a cute and quaint little place next to Vons perfect for great Chinese food.

This was my go-to take out place when I lived in San Diego years ago--it's still there and still great! It's a small space in a nondescript strip mall but it was not busy at all when we were last here (on travel)--I had a pleasant and delicious lunch (chicken with mushrooms, spring rolls). Fast and friendly service and not too expensive. Parking could probably be a hassle but we found a spot right in front. Excellent for take out or a casual dining option.

We have enjoyed Shanghai Café numerous times! We typically get their Shanghai chow mein potstickers, & dumplings.

Prices are high and the food is mid to low. I wouldn't go again. This is the type of spot you want to avoid

I cannot understand the low ratings. Yes, it's a tiny place, best for take out. I grew up in West Covina eating at the Great Wall (Cantonese style) restaurant. My wife is Chinese. We both love this place. It's the closest I have found to the flavors I grew up with. The veggies are crispy, the chicken flavorful and the owner is a sweet lady, never rude and brings the food quickly and efficiently. This is my now my favorite San Diego area Chinese!

Was craving Chinese on my lunch break. Found this. The inside was empty. The lady behind the counter took my order and told me to sit.She didn't ask me if I wanted a drink or water. I had to ask for water. The meal came with an egg roll. I asked if it was meat or veggie. She said beef and said "you don't eat beef? Next time tell me". -_-I would think decent service would offer to just give me a veggie egg roll but guess not the case here.

Shanghai is a very wonderful place to eat!! The staff is so very friendly and not to mention they always have a smile when they greet you. The food is amazing! And the prices are better than most places. I love coming to Shanghai when I'm in La Jolla! And I will always be a loyal customer!