Shanghai’s food scene is a delicious blend of tradition and innovation, where centuries-old recipes meet modern twists. For visitors eager to dive into the city’s culinary soul, Shanghai’s signature dishes offer a tasty introduction to local culture. From delicate soup dumplings to sticky, honey-glazed snacks, these eats reflect the city’s unique blend of flavors—subtle umami, sweet notes, and a hint of street-smart charm. Let’s explore the must-try dishes and hidden gems that make Shanghai’s foodie scene unforgettable.
What are the must-try Shanghainese dishes?
No trip to Shanghai is complete without xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). These bite-sized wonders, filled with pork broth and delicate meat, burst with flavor when slurped from their thin, hand-pleated wrappers. Head to Yuyuan Garden or Old City God Temple for the most iconic versions. Another staple? Shengjian Mantou (pan-fried buns), crispy on the bottom and fluffy inside, often stuffed with pork and scallions. For something heartier, try hongshao rou (red-braised pork)—a meltingly tender dish simmered in soy sauce, sugar, and star anise. Pair it with yang chun mian (spring noodles) for a comforting meal.
Where can I find authentic Shanghainese snacks?
For a deep dive into street food, wander Wujiangang or Chenghuangmiao areas. Here, vendors whip up yougua jianbing (savory crepes with eggs, flour, and green onions) and liangpi (cold rice cakes drizzled with sesame sauce). Don’t miss Nanjing Road, where stalls serve chifeng xiaochi (chicken-shaped cakes) filled with sweet bean paste. Pro tip: Visit Fuyou Lu Food Street after dark for night-time treats like chocolate-filled soong pye (layered pastries) and ningbo tangyuan (sweet glutinous rice balls).
How do I pair food with Shanghai’s landmarks?
Combine sightseeing with snacking! Near The Bund, grab jiaozi (dumplings) at Green Wave Restaurant while gazing at colonial-era buildings. At Xintiandi, a trendy laneway, sip jasmine tea in a rooftop café and nibble hongda zao (dates stuffed with nuts). For a cultural fix, visit Tianzi Fang (artists’ hub) and munch on chen du fu (fermented tofu)—a polarizing snack loved by locals. After exploring Jiushi Garden, stop by Songjiang Zhonghua Lou for silky lizard hill cake (a glutinous rice dessert).
What’s the story behind Shanghai’s cuisine?
Shanghai’s food reflects its history as a trading hub. Hongdao Cai (“Red Cooking”) uses dark soy sauce and sugar, influenced by neighboring Jiangsu province. The city’s mixed-culture heritage shines in dishes like luo bo laoao (braised beef shanks)—a blend of Chinese and Western techniques. Even foreign imports got a local twist: Try feng cai (“crazy herb” salad) at Lao Gong Qing Yi Lou, a nod to Shanghai’s cosmopolitan roots.
Which restaurants should I bookmark?
For a curated experience, here’s a guide to top spots:
| Restaurant | Neighborhood | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Nanxiang Xiaolongbao | Huangpu District | Soup dumplings, pork buns |
| De Xin Gua Jiao | Jing’an | Pan-fried dumplings, cold noodles |
| Ye Shanghai | French Concession | Oil-slicked crab, drunken chicken |
| Lin Sheng Guan | Changning | Red-braised meat, lion’s head |
| Fu 1088 | Julu Road | Elegant hongdao dishes |
Any tips for adventurous eaters?
Shanghai rewards curiosity! At Nanjing West Road Market, sample stinky tofu (fermented beans with chili sauce) or bai qie (preserved radish). For a thrill, order mao er cha (“cat ear” noodles)—thick, chewy strips tossed in soy-sesame sauce. Wash it down with shikumen (sugar-coated barley drink) from a retro shop. Just remember: Some dishes are love-them-or-hate-them, so dive in with an open stomach!
From Michelin-starred dim sum to alleyway snacks, Shanghai’s food tells the story of a city that never stops evolving—or satisfying hunger. Bon appétit, and may your chopsticks be forever full!