A gem in a remote mall: Weekend brunch at JR Recipe

Crowded with office buildings, the Middle Yang Gao Road (杨高中路) station is not famous for restaurants. JR Recipe, however, is an exception. All the way from the hall of the Lilacs mall, the strong, rich aroma of JR’s coffee captivates passerby. This Western restaurant is a hotspot for the business crowd on weekdays, but during weekends, it offers families and friends a unique spot for a brunch.

Similar to other JR chains in Shanghai, a lavishly designed ceiling—with radiant golden and silver leaves—welcomes customers and gives off an elegant vibe. The consistent orange and white themed furniture help balance out the room’s otherwise extravagant decorations. Each corner of the restaurant is furnished with a distinctive space, from the café-bar by the entrance to the cooking store in one of the corners. Most interestingly, though, on the left-hand side of the restaurant sits a collection of home décor and accessories, where customers can explore around as they wait for their food to arrive.

It is definitely worth the wait. From pancakes to pasta, JR’s brunch menu allows a lot of freedom to choose. Typically, children indulge themselves in either toasts or pancakes while the most popular dish for adults seems to be the OMG The Best Beer Fried Chicken Benedict (78 RMB). The chicken’s tenderness and subtle spice perfectly blend with the delicacy of the poached eggs, offering the customer a bite to remember.

Another signature dish is the Mixed Seafood Tomato Pasta (88 RMB). The homemade tomato sauce, lightly touched with chili pepper, elevates the shrimp and mussels. Best of all, the sweetness of the fettuccini dotted with pieces of soft squid forms an incredibly appealing duo.

Although a bit removed from the city center, JR Recipe offers the right amount of elegance and comfort so customers can spend a considerable amount of time savoring their quality food.

Featured Image – OMG The Best Beer Fried Chicken Benedict Photos courtesy of Jessica Choi