It's a madhouse on weekends; you're guaranteed a wait. Dine on a weeknight and take advantage of the staff's more relaxed attitude and willingness to give friendly recommendations.
The Scene It's true that most of Joe's customers here aren't from Chinatown, and that Joe's menu offers some mall-friendly, not-so-Chinese creations, such as sesame chicken. Still, customers line up here for a reason: Joe's cuisine is consistently top-notch and otherwise authentic Shanghainese. Prices compare to the bigger restaurants in Chinatown, and the wall of critics' praises grows larger every year.
The Food It's difficult to find anything that isn't outstanding. Drool over the succulent pork shoulder, braised tender and sweet in a smoky, malted sauce (perfect over rice), and melt-in-your-mouth fresh bacon, sliced invitingly over vegetables. Crispy chicken pieces on the bone, marinated in soy sauce and garlic, is like fried chicken gone to flavor heaven. Joe's famous fried flat noodles taste homemade, with perfect body and springiness. Finish with sweet red bean pancakes, oozing with fragrant, delectable red bean paste.