Shan Quan Tang Guan

Shan Quan Tang Guan
21 Linle Road
Tianhe District
Guangzhou
Guangdong 510610
China

Hidden Find Yields Excellent Authentic Cantonese Cuisine

(Ratings: On a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 = Worst and 10 = Best)
Overall: 8
Ambience & Setting: 8
Food & Beverage: 9
Service: 8
Value for Money: 7
Spent about SGD $30 / CNY $150 per person.

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Located in the small side street called Linle Road, off the main road, and just a 5 minute walk away from The Westin Guangzhou Hotel, Shan Quan Tang Guan is a rather unassuming restaurant from the outside. Besides the big bold lettering of its signboard, there isn't much else to indicate the presence of Shan Quan Tang Guan, and you'll only see it when nearby. But step inside, and you'll be surprised by this hidden find, with its warm and courteous service, tasty and affordable authentic Cantonese dishes, and lively atmosphere.

Ambience at Shan Quan Tang Guan is modern and lively. The upstairs has a rather small layout, but the majority of the restaurant floor space is in the basement, which is rather spacious. The contemporary Chinese decor is offset by faux greenery, and a waterfall koi pond outside. But the enclosed area does mean that conversations and noise carries well within, and the place gets rather loud when crowded.

There are rarely any tourists / foreigners dining at Shan Quan Tang Guan, which is a sign of a true local restaurant. Service at Shan Quan Tang Guan is efficient, but still polite, though the staff do seem to be in a hurry especially during peak periods. But they are knowlegable, and able to make recommendations, as well as offer advice and insight on ingredients, or meal combinations. However, staff at Shan Quan Tang Guan can't converse in English, and you're better off visiting with someone who can speak either Mandarin or Cantonese. It's also helpful that the menu has pictures you can point to, as well as English descriptions of each dish.

Food at Shan Quan Tang Guan is truely local Guangzhou Cantonese Chinese cuisine. Dishes are large, meant for communal dining, and while considered mid-range in price for locals, is still rather affordable. Ingredients are fresh, and most dishes are very tasty. Specialities at Shan Quan Tang Guan include their range of soups, fish, and roast meats.

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The little waterfall and koi pond adds to the overall modern and comfortable ambience, as do the fake plants. Layout is well organised, with groups seated in the larger main area, and couples / families in the partitioned booth area.

It's helpful that the menu includes both Chinese and English descriptions, as well as clear indications of price and pictures. Dishes are tasty and hearty, and the Cantonese fare is authentic.