I have been coming here for the last 4 years; and when owner’s Sam and Marsha Zho allowed me to come in to do a full tasting, I was really thrilled. I was taken on a tour by Sam, to see more features that the restaurant has to offer. With rooms that I never saw before that include 2 large size party rooms, a whole other dining area, and a sushi bar. So, no matter what you are trying to accomplish at Rui’s Shanghai Bistro, you will get the service and the attention to detail you will need to have a successful party, meeting, or night out.
This location is a relatively new venture, having a smaller location previously in Redlands. Sam said that they wanted to expand and let people know that it is still family-run and operated. The food is always the best highest quality Chinese cuisine in the area.
The décor is very beautiful which includes Koi Fish flying on the ceiling in the dining room, and many Chinese artifacts. It is a delightful experience for your eyes and your palate.
There is a whole new resurgence in this area with The Arrow train it so easy to get here. Coming in from Los Angeles, Union Station is just a breeze. I did some reviews on The Redlands Public Market, which is close by and across the street from the train. Many new establishments are making their way here because it’s a fun accessible area that has live music and many delectable spots to eat and drink for locals and tourists alike.
Here’s What I tried:
Wine:
Collier Creek Chardonnay, a nice fruity Chardonnay. It went great with any of the seafood dishes ordered.
Kendall Jackson Chardonnay, a rich, buttery, smooth consistency, that is delightful with any of the seafood dishes as well.
Light Cocktails:
Cosmo with Cranberry Juice, lime juice, Triple Sec, and Klir Red Fermented Vodka. A gorgeous color that is thirst quenching. This is just the perfect way to start my glorious tasting.
Mai Tai with Rhumbero fermented Rum, Triple Sec, lime juice, orange juice, almond syrup, and sugar syrup. This drink will make you feel like you are on a deserted tropical island with your loved one. It is super sexy and tantalizing.
Sex on the Beach, with Klir Red fermented Vodka, peach syrup, orange juice, grenadine, and cherry. Each of these ingredients go down very smoothly, it is a wonderful experience.
Lemon Drop with Klir Red fermented Vodka, Triple Sec, lemon juice, and simple syrup. If you are a lemon lover like me, then this cocktail is for you.
Sushi:
A gorgeous sushi combination platter served on a wooden bridge, was presented to me. Sushi Chef Chuan created this dish. I told him to make me whatever was fresh and available. It was beautiful and so delicious. It had Tuna Sashimi, Salmon Sasami, Uni, Sweet Shrimp, and a Special Salmon California Roll.
Soup and Salad:
Hot and Sour Soup, a vegetarian soup with soft tofu, fungus, egg, bamboo shoots, and mushrooms. It was not too spicy: so it really sets you up for the full enjoyment of the rest of your dining experience.
Egg Drop Soup, a vegetarian soup with egg and corn. This is a very delicate soup with great rich flavors, a must have starter.
Cucumber Salad, this salad is nice and light, with great Asian dressing.
Appetizer:
Assorted Appetizer Platter, with beef skewers, fried shrimps, crab rangoon, cream cheese wontons, pot stickers, sliced BBQ pork, vegetable spring roll, and fried wontons. You really get to try all of there appetizers, so enjoy!
Dim Sum:
Shrimp Shumai, it was just what you would want from a shrimp shumai, fresh shrimp with a light wonton outer layer.
Entrees:
Crisp Orange Beef, with lovely small slices of orange peel. This really sets the tone for the flavor profile. It is similar to orange chicken but with beef.
Honey Walnut Shrimp, this is always one of my favorite menu items. This one did not disappoint.
General Tso’s Chicken. The chicken is breaded with a wonderful smoky brown sauce, it hit the spot.
Sauteed Chinese Broccoli, it has tons of garlic, and the broccoli is cooked al dente. This is a great accompaniment and is very healthy.
Chow Mein with Vegetables, with chicken, beef, pork, and shrimp. It has a very nice fragrant flavor that is filled with tender meats and vegetables.
Yang Chow Fried Rice, with beef, chicken, shrimp, egg, and vegetables. I just love the Chinese sausage in this delectable fried rice.
Steamed Whole Fish, the presentation alone will make you come back for more. It has a very lovely nuance with lots of fresh onion and ginger. If you’re looking for a show-stopper then this menu item is for you.
Assorted Hot Pot, a great alternative to a meat dish. It is very flavorful, with lots of tofu and mushrooms, with a thick brown sauce.
Dessert:
Brûlée Cheesecake, with a wonderful crispy top like a crème brûlée with creamy cheesecake perfection.
Blueberry Cheesecake, lots of yummy blueberries and super delicious cheesecake, make for one delectable dessert.
This is just the best of the best Chinese cuisine in this area and beyond. There are so many choices and everything you order here – you will love. I was able to try many menu items, so I really got a great sampling of everything Rui’s Shanghai Bistro has to offer. It is just that good. Russell Huan was my server; and he did a great job! Next time you’re on your way to Palm Springs or on the Arrow train, stop here for lunch or dinner. You will be so glad you did.
Serving some of the finest Chinese & Shanghainese Cuisine in the Inland Empire. Experience dining in a beautifully adorned setting that blends art and comfort seamlessly. Dine-in, Take-out. Delivery Family-owned local business.
Rui’s Shanghai Bistro
https://ruisshanghaibistro.com/
405 West Stuart Avenue
Redlands, CA.
(909) 335-6770
