Shanghai’s culinary landscape is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. From traditional Shanghainese dishes to international cuisine, the city offers an endless array of dining experiences. This guide will help you navigate Shanghai’s food scene and discover the best local flavors.

Traditional Shanghainese Dishes You Must Try

Xiaolongbao (小笼包)

These delicate soup dumplings are Shanghai’s most famous culinary export. The thin skin holds both meat and hot soup, creating an explosion of flavor in every bite.

Best places to try:

  • Din Tai Fung (multiple locations): Consistently excellent quality
  • Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant: Historic establishment in Yu Garden
  • Fu Chun: Local favorite with authentic flavors

Shengjianbao (生煎包)

Pan-fried soup dumplings with a crispy bottom and juicy filling. These are perfect for breakfast or a quick snack.

Top recommendations:

  • Yang’s Fry-Dumpling: Chain with consistently good quality
  • Xiaoyang Shengjian: Local favorite in the French Concession

Hong Shao Rou (红烧肉)

Red-braised pork belly, a classic Shanghainese dish featuring tender pork in a sweet and savory sauce.

Where to find the best:

  • Old Jesse: Traditional Shanghainese restaurant
  • Fu 1088: Upscale version of the classic dish

Street Food and Snacks

Jianbing (煎饼)

Chinese crepes filled with egg, vegetables, and various toppings. Perfect for breakfast on the go.

Best spots:

  • Street vendors near metro stations
  • Jianbing Story: Modern take on the traditional snack

Tanghulu (糖葫芦)

Candied fruit on skewers, a popular winter snack. Hawthorn berries are the traditional choice.

Chuanr (串儿)

Skewered and grilled meats, vegetables, and tofu. Available throughout the city, especially in night markets.

Best Food Districts

Yu Garden Area

The heart of traditional Shanghai cuisine, offering:

  • Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant: Famous xiaolongbao
  • Lao Zhengxing: Traditional Shanghainese dishes
  • Street food stalls: Various local snacks

Tianzifang

Artsy neighborhood with trendy cafes and restaurants:

  • Lost Heaven: Yunnan cuisine in a beautiful setting
  • Kommune: Hip cafe with great coffee and food
  • Various small restaurants: Local and international options

Xintiandi

Upscale dining district featuring:

  • Hakkasan: Modern Cantonese cuisine
  • T8: Fine dining with international flair
  • Various international restaurants: From Italian to Japanese

French Concession

Charming area with diverse dining options:

  • Old Jesse: Traditional Shanghainese
  • Ginger: Southeast Asian fusion
  • Azul: Spanish tapas and paella

Modern Shanghai Cuisine

Fusion Restaurants

Shanghai’s international influence has created exciting fusion cuisine:

  • Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet: Experimental dining experience
  • Mr & Mrs Bund: Modern French with Asian influences
  • Fu He Hui: Vegetarian fine dining

Rooftop Dining

Enjoy spectacular views while dining:

  • Flair Rooftop: At The Ritz-Carlton Pudong
  • Vue Bar: At Hyatt on the Bund
  • Bar Rouge: Trendy rooftop bar with food

Coffee and Tea Culture

Traditional Tea Houses

Experience authentic Chinese tea culture:

  • Yu Yuan Tea House: In the historic Yu Garden
  • Old Shanghai Tea House: Traditional setting with tea ceremonies

Modern Coffee Scene

Shanghai’s coffee culture is booming:

  • Seesaw Coffee: Local chain with excellent quality
  • Manner Coffee: Popular local brand
  • % Arabica: International chain with great locations

Seasonal Specialties

Spring

  • Qingming Festival foods: Green rice balls and seasonal vegetables
  • Fresh bamboo shoots: Used in various dishes

Summer

  • Cold noodles: Refreshing dishes for hot weather
  • Fresh fruits: Local peaches, plums, and melons

Autumn

  • Hairy crab: The most famous seasonal delicacy
  • Osmanthus flowers: Used in desserts and tea

Winter

  • Hot pot: Perfect for cold weather
  • Nian gao: Traditional New Year rice cakes

Food Markets and Shopping

Wet Markets

Experience local food culture:

  • Jing’an Market: Large market with fresh produce and seafood
  • Wujiang Road Market: Historic market in the French Concession

Specialty Food Streets

  • Nanjing Road: Tourist-friendly with many options
  • Huanghe Road: Local food street with authentic flavors

Dining Tips and Etiquette

Reservations

  • Popular restaurants often require reservations
  • Use apps like Dianping or Meituan for booking
  • Some high-end restaurants require advance booking

Tipping

  • Tipping is not expected in China
  • Service charge is usually included in the bill

Language

  • Learn basic food-related Chinese phrases
  • Many restaurants have English menus
  • Pointing and gestures work well

Payment

  • Credit cards accepted at most restaurants
  • Mobile payment (WeChat Pay, Alipay) is very common
  • Carry cash for smaller establishments

Budget-Friendly Options

Student-Friendly Areas

  • Wujiaochang: Near universities with affordable options
  • Hongkou: Local neighborhood with good value

Street Food

  • Night markets: Various locations throughout the city
  • Metro station vendors: Quick and cheap options

Food Tours and Experiences

Guided Food Tours

  • Lost Plate: Popular food tour company
  • Shanghai Foodie: Local food experiences
  • Private guides: Customized food tours

Cooking Classes

  • Shanghai Cooking School: Learn to make local dishes
  • Private cooking experiences: In-home cooking lessons

Health and Dietary Considerations

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

  • Gongdelin: Traditional vegetarian restaurant
  • Fu He Hui: Upscale vegetarian dining
  • Many international restaurants: Offer vegetarian options

Food Safety

  • Stick to busy, popular establishments
  • Avoid raw foods from street vendors
  • Drink bottled water

Final Recommendations

  1. Start with the classics: Try xiaolongbao and shengjianbao first
  2. Explore different districts: Each area has its own food culture
  3. Be adventurous: Don’t be afraid to try new dishes
  4. Ask locals: Get recommendations from residents
  5. Visit during different seasons: Try seasonal specialties

Shanghai’s food scene is constantly evolving, with new restaurants and trends emerging regularly. The best approach is to be open-minded and willing to explore. From humble street food to Michelin-starred restaurants, Shanghai offers culinary experiences for every taste and budget.

Hungry for more? Check out our other posts about specific neighborhoods, hidden food gems, and seasonal dining experiences!