POOCHY SUSHI: Shanghai Bistro Rolls Out New Eats to Raise Funds for Animals

dogs are welcome on patio at Eau Claire restaurant

Natalie Derks

NOW SUSHI ROLL OVER. Two puppers posing on Shanghai Bistro's patio. (Photo via Facebook)
SUSHI ROLL OVER. Two puppers posing on Shanghai Bistro's patio. (Photo via Facebook)

Hot dog! Shanghai Bistro just added on to its menu, and all proceeds from the new dishes go to local animal shelters.

Henry Chan, who owns the restaurant, always volunteered at animal shelters. At one point, he even helped put together a Fido-friendly fundraiser outside the Chippewa Valley called “Sushi for Your Pooch.”

“I’m so busy with work that I can’t volunteer more time,” Chan shares. “So, I thought, ‘Why not try this here?’ ”

Chan credits one of his pups, Gabriel, as his inspiration for the new menu items. Gabe made news a few years back after he was discovered on the road in an extremely malnourished state. Since then, he’s made a full recovery and found a loving home with Chan’s family.

While Chan created the dishes for puppers to enjoy, he pivoted due to a local ordinance preventing restaurants from serving food to dogs. Pups are welcome on Shanghai’s patio, but right now, the doggy-inspired plates are reserved for dog parents.

“I would love to raise more awareness of Gabe and use him as an advocate for adoption,” Chan shares.

While Chan created the dishes for puppers to enjoy, he pivoted due to a local ordinance preventing restaurants from serving food to dogs. Pups are welcome on Shanghai’s patio, but right now, the doggy-inspired plates are reserved for dog parents.

“There aren’t many places you can bring your dog,” Chan says. “We’re the only Asian restaurant with outdoor seating and a patio in town, and probably the only one that’s dog friendly.”

Highlights of the shrimply adorable spread include “The Tummy Scratcher” and “The Dog Bowl.” Proceeds from the doggy-inspired fare go to Eau Claire Humane Association, Dunn County Humane Society, and Buffalo County Humane Association.

Shanghai Bistro is located at 2930 Craig Road. They are open from 11am-8pm Tuesday through Thursday, 11am-9pm on Fridays, and 11:30am-9pm on Saturdays. More information is available on Shanghai’s Facebook page. To learn about Gabriel’s journey, go here.