Shanghai isn’t just one of China’s most modern cities — it’s a vibrant “foodie city” that offers a dynamic mix of tradition and modernity. From rich and flavorful Shanghainese dishes to crispy street snacks and delightful desserts, this Shanghai food tour will take you through the best shanghai food must eat spots across the city. Whether you’re exploring shanghai Chinese food for the first time or are a returning visitor, there’s always something new to savor.
Everyone has unique tastes, so we’ve compiled a curated list of the best places for shanghai food in Shanghai, including essential dishes, shanghai food price guides, business hours, and locations. This guide also includes insights on where to experience authentic shanghainese food in Shanghai and try traditional shanghainese recipes.
Shanghainese Cuisine (本帮菜)
Known for its use of rich sauces and slightly sweet flavors, shanghainese food emphasizes preserving the original taste of ingredients. Here are some classic and modern options to enjoy authentic flavors and traditional shanghainese recipes:
1. Lao Ji Shi (老吉士)
- 📍 Address: 41 Tianping Road, Xuhui District
- 🕒 Hours: 11:00–14:00, 17:00–21:30
- 💰 Price: $21–28 per person
- 🍽️ Must-Try:
- Braised Pork Belly (红烧肉): Fatty yet tender, it melts in your mouth — a must on any shanghai food tour.
- Drunken Chicken (醉鸡): Marinated in Chinese wine, this cold dish is rich and aromatic.
- 🌟 Why Visit:
- A favorite among celebrities like Jackie Chan.
- Offers sugar adjustments — try saying “shǎo táng” (less sugar).
2. JISHI CONSTELLATION (吉士·星座)
- 📍 Address: 328-2 Huangpi South Road, Xintiandi
- 🕒 Hours: 17:30–22:00
- 💰 Price: $42–56
- 🍽️ Must-Try:
- Crab Roe Tofu: Silky tofu with freshly peeled crab roe — elegant and flavorful.
- Stir-Fried Eel: Rich in sauce with hints of ginger and scallion.
- 🌟 Highlights:
- Perfect fusion of shanghainese food in Shanghai and lounge-style ambiance.
- English menu and English-speaking staff available.
3. Dad’s Kitchen (老爸厨房)
- 📍 Address: 291 Wukang Road, Xuhui District
- 🕒 Hours: 11:00–21:30
- 💰 Price: $11–17
- 🍽️ Must-Try:
- Scallion Oil Noodles: A simple yet iconic shanghai Chinese food item.
- Crispy Fried Shrimp: Crunchy shell with sweet shrimp flavor — classic comfort food in Shanghai.
- 🌟 Highlights:
- Cozy family-style environment.
- Located on Instagram-famous Wukang Road.
4. Shanghai Min (上海小南国)
- 📍 Multiple Locations (e.g., Xintiandi)
- 🕒 Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- 🍽️ Must-Try:
- Sweet & Sour Pork Ribs: A golden representative of shanghai food must eat.
- Stir-Fried River Shrimp: Tender and naturally sweet.
- 💰 Price Estimate: $25–35
- 🌟 Highlights:
- Upscale atmosphere, perfect for business meals.
- English menus and courteous service.
Street Food in Shanghai
Looking for tasty shanghai food at affordable prices? Street food in Shanghai offers a delightful variety with an average shanghai food price under $7, like shanghai noodle houses. Here’s where to go:
1. Yang’s Dumpling (小杨生煎)
- 📍 Address: 97 Huanghe Road, Huangpu District
- 🕒 Hours: 6:30–20:30
- 💰 Price: $2.80–4.20
- 🍽️ Must-Try:
- Pork Shengjian: Pan-fried dumplings with a juicy burst inside.
- Shepherd’s Purse Shengjian: A lighter option perfect for vegetarians.
- 🌟 Highlights:
- A legendary brand in the shanghai food scene.
2. International Hotel Bakery (国际饭店西饼屋)
- 📍 Address: 28 Huanghe Road, Huangpu District
- 🕒 Hours: 8:00–20:00
- 💰 Price: ~$4.50 per bag
- 🍽️ Must-Try:
- Butterfly Cookies (蝴蝶酥): Buttery and flaky, a popular shanghai Chinese food souvenir.
- 🌟 Highlights:
- Great as a gift; shelf life of 3–5 days.
3. Jia Jia Tang Bao (佳家汤包)
- 📍 Address: 90 Huanghe Road, Huangpu District
- 🕒 Hours: 7:30–20:00
- 💰 Price: $4.20–7
- 🍽️ Must-Try:
- Crab Roe Soup Dumplings (蟹粉小笼包): Delicate wrappers filled with rich broth.
- 🌟 Highlights:
- A classic stop on any shanghai food tour.
4. HaLin Noodle (哈灵面馆)
- 📍 Multiple Locations (e.g., Guangxi Road)
- 🕒 Hours: 10:30–20:30
- 💰 Price: $4.90–7
- 🍽️ Must-Try:
- Spicy Bullfrog Noodles (香辣牛蛙面): Unique and addictive.
- Fried Pork Chop (炸猪排): Crispy and flavorful with chili soy sauce.
- 🌟 Highlights:
- Customize your spice level (mild/medium/hot).
Bubble Tea & Desserts
From classic milk tea to creative sweets, this part of the shanghai food experience shouldn’t be missed.
1. Auntea Jenny (阿嬷手作)
- 📍 Address: 245 Madang Road, Xintiandi
- 🕒 Hours: 10:00–22:00
- 💰 Price: $3.50–5
- 🍽️ Must-Try:
- Brown Sugar Taro Milk Tea (黑糖芋泥奶茶): With hand-pounded mochi.
- Osmanthus Jelly with Rice Wine (米酒桂花冻): Light, floral, and refreshing.
- 🌟 Tips:
- Expect long lines on weekends.
2. Holiland (好利来)
- 📍 Various Locations
- 🕒 Hours: 10:00–22:00
- 💰 Price: $4.20–7
- 🍽️ Must-Try:
- Half-Baked Cheese Cake (半熟芝士蛋糕): Creamy and rich.
- Dandelion Air Chocolate (蒲公英空气巧克力): Light and whimsical.
- 🌟 Highlights:
- Great for photos and takeaways.
Tips
- Payment Methods: Most restaurants accept Alipay/WeChat Pay. Carry around $15–30 in cash just in case.
- Beating the Crowd: Visit popular places on weekdays in the morning.
- Useful Phrases:
- “Less sugar” = “shǎo táng (少糖)”
- “No spice” = “bù yào là (不要辣)”
Whether you’re indulging in sweet-and-savory street snacks, diving into a hearty bowl of bullfrog noodles, or savoring signature shanghainese recipes, there’s no better way to experience food in Shanghai. Let this guide be your gateway to discovering the vibrant flavors, variety, and affordability of shanghai food — and enjoy the delicious journey!
