The iconic Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant introduces its new culinary brand "Nanxiang Mantou Palace" in Shanghai's Xintiandi commercial area. [Photo/eastday.com]

Shanghai's renowned time-honored brands are embracing innovation to captivate younger consumers, with the iconic Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant making a bold move by launching its new culinary brand, "Nanxiang Mantou Palace", during the Shanghai Shopping Festival.

Located in Shanghai's Xintiandi commercial area, this venture sees the restaurant partnering with global fashion powerhouse Balenciaga in order to celebrate the city's rich cultural heritage and culinary delights.

Under the guidance of You Yumin, the sixth-generation heir of Nanxiang steamed buns or mantou in Chinese, "Nanxiang Mantou Palace" seamlessly blends Shanghai's traditional charm with modern tastes, offering a diverse and contemporary dining experience.

The restaurant is introducing innovative flavors like Iberian ham and Wagyu beef to its xiaolongbao, which literally translates to "small steamer basket buns". Each bun is meticulously crafted with 16 pleats to ensure exceptional presentation. The menu also boasts imaginative dim sum creations such as "Peppery Clam Dumplings" and "Mango Knock Knock", showcasing the culinary inventiveness of the chefs.

A highlight of the collaboration with Balenciaga is the exquisite Balenciaga French black truffle xiaolongbao. These delicate buns, featuring a thin grey wrapper and a refreshing vegetarian filling, are elegantly presented in custom-made bamboo steamers, embodying a harmonious blend of Chinese culinary tradition and French haute couture.

A highlight of the collaboration with Balenciaga is the exquisite Balenciaga French black truffle xiaolongbao. [Photo/eastday.com]

Furthermore, "Nanxiang Mantou Palace" has unveiled a limited edition "Dingsheng Cake" that is adorned with Balenciaga's BB logo. Dingsheng cakes are a popular traditional dissert in the Yangtze River Delta region, because they symbolize auspiciousness and prosperity. Packaged in Balenciaga's signature grey wrapping paper and shopping bags, this traditional delicacy promises a unique and luxurious food experience.

The "Dingsheng Cakes" made at "Nanxiang Mantou Palace" are adorned with the Balenciaga BB logo. [Photo/eastday.com]

Established over a century ago, Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant underwent a comprehensive upgrade in October 2018, enhancing its offerings, services, and ambiance to appeal to a wider range of food enthusiasts. The launch of "Nanxiang Mantou Palace" signifies the brand's unwavering commitment to innovation and culinary excellence.

Source: eastday.com