Shell, alias Xie Lu or "Steel Staff Shell," is a master dim sum and pastry chef from *Chūka Ichiban!*, famed for culinary competitions where he engraves yellow stars on his steel staff to mark victories. His appearance features short light brown hair slicked back with loose strands, a relatively large forehead, thick dark brown eyebrows, and a distinctive outfit: a red scarf, thick blue jacket with a yellow sleeveless vest section, fingerless gloves, baggy pants, and red boots.

Cheerful and competitive, Shell challenges skilled chefs openly yet accepts defeat with humility, treating losses as opportunities for growth. He judges others by actions over affiliations, exemplified by marrying Mira despite her initial ties to the antagonistic Cooking Underworld. His journey ignites upon tasting Liu Mao Xing's egg dish—after criticizing oil-free stir-fried vegetables—leading to an immediate cook-off challenge. Defeat prompts Shell to engrave a black star on his staff, vowing to replace it with yellow in a rematch.

Shell allies with Mao Xing, joining the quest for the Legendary Cooking Utensils. During this mission, he encounters Lache, creator of the Seven Star Knives, confirming duplicate sets exist. His steel staff serves as both an unconventional cooking tool and a weapon, showcasing combat prowess against foes like the Underground Cooking Society and cementing his "Chef of Iron" epithet.

Evolving from a nomadic rival to a collaborative team member, Shell initially dismisses Shirou over a subpar meal but integrates fully, participating in pivotal missions like infiltrating the Forbidden City. There, he prioritizes collective goals alongside Mao Xing and Leon, crafting healthy dishes for the emperor. His bond with Mira culminates in marriage after he saves her from a cliff fall, reflecting his openhearted nature.

Trivia notes: Stars on his staff vary—26 in the 2019 anime, 27 in the 1997 version and manga. The character draws inspiration from Pan Dingxin, a Qing Dynasty historical figure.