Shanghai Food Guide 2025: What to Eat in Shanghai

Let me tell you—Shanghai is a food lover’s paradise! From the moment I stepped into the city, I was hit with the amazing smells of sizzling street food and mouthwatering dishes. 

Whether it’s the famous xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) or the rich, tender hong shao rou (red-braised pork belly), Shanghai’s food scene has a way of making you fall in love with every bite. 

In this guide, I’ll take you through some of my favorite eats, the must-try spots, and a few pro tips to make your own foodie adventure here as delicious as possible. If you’re planning a trip, get ready to explore what to eat in Shanghai like a local!

1. Xiaolongbao

I still remember the gentle hiss of steam when the bamboo steamer landed on my table. Xiaolongbao looked delicate—paper-thin skins hugging plump little parcels of soup and pork. 

I gingerly picked one up, dipped it in black vinegar with slivers of ginger, and took a careful bite. Boom. The warm, savoury broth burst out, followed by rich, juicy minced pork. It was pure comfort—silky, soupy, and full of umami. I ordered another basket immediately.

📖 About Xiaolongbao

Xiaolongbao are Shanghai’s beloved soup dumplings—steamed buns filled with hot broth and minced meat, originally from the nearby Jiangnan region. They’re a must-try for any first-time visitor.

🍴 Best places to try

Here are the top spots where you can indulge in the best Xiaolongbao in Shanghai:

Jia Jia Tang Bao

This local favorite is perfect for those who want authentic, no-frills Xiaolongbao. The dumplings are freshly made, and the place is always buzzing with locals.

• 📍Location: Huanghe Road, near People’s Square
• 💰Cost: ~¥30 (about S$5.50)

Din Tai Fung

A globally famous chain, Din Tai Fung offers perfectly crafted Xiaolongbao with a slightly modern twist. The ambience is upscale, perfect for a more refined dining experience.

• 📍Location: IFC Mall (Lujiazui) or Xintiandi
• 💰Cost: ~¥80 (about S$15)

💡 Pro tips

• Go early—queues get long, especially at Jia Jia and Nanxiang.
• Dip in vinegar and ginger, and bite carefully to avoid burns.
• Don’t shake the dumpling—it’ll leak!

2. Shengjianbao (Pan-Fried Pork Buns)

I was wandering through a quiet backstreet near Jing’an when I spotted a long queue outside a tiny shop. The smell of sizzling dough, pork, and scallions stopped me in my tracks. I joined the line, ordered a basket of Shengjianbao, and waited, hypnotised by the crackling sound from the giant griddle. 

When the dumplings arrived—golden bottoms, fluffy tops, sprinkled with sesame and chives—I knew I was in for a treat. I bit into one and got that perfect combo: crispy base, juicy pork, and hot broth inside. It was comforting, greasy in the best way, and completely addictive.

📖 About Shengjianbao

Shengjianbao is Shanghai’s other legendary dumpling—pan-fried buns stuffed with pork and a bit of broth, known for their crispy bottoms and soft tops. Locals often have them for breakfast or lunch.

🍴 Best places to try

Here are three places that serve up the best Shengjianbao in town:

Yang's Fried Dumplings (小杨生煎)

Probably the most famous name for Shengjianbao—known for their crispy skin and explosive broth. Expect a queue, but it moves fast.

• 📍Location: Multiple branches; flagship at Huanghe Road, near People’s Square
• 💰Cost: From ¥12 (about S$2.15) for 4 pieces

Da Hu Chun (大壶春)

A time-honoured eatery dating back to 1932. Their Shengjianbao are smaller, more delicate, and less oily—great if you’re after a traditional version.

• 📍Location: Sichuan Middle Road, near East Nanjing Road
• 💰Cost: ~¥20 (about S$3.70)

💡 Pro tips

• Eat carefully—the soup inside is very hot!
• Pair it with soy milk for a classic local breakfast combo.
• Ask for black vinegar—it cuts the oiliness perfectly.

3. Hong Shao Rou (Red-Braised Pork Belly)

The moment the dish landed on the table, I was hit by a wave of sweet, rich aroma—soy sauce, caramelised sugar, and star anise. The pork glistened in a deep red glaze, each chunk wobbling with layers of tender meat and silky fat. 

I picked one up with my chopsticks, and it practically fell apart before I could even bite. The flavour was pure comfort—sweet, savoury, and full of umami, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that made me close my eyes for a second. 

📖 About Hong Shao Rou

Hong Shao Rou is a classic Shanghainese dish made with pork belly braised slowly in soy sauce, sugar, and spices. It’s rich, glossy, and full of depth—comfort food that’s been passed down for generations.

🍴 Best places to try

Here are a few beloved spots that serve incredible Hong Shao Rou:

Jesse Restaurant (吉士酒家)

A no-frills spot known for authentic Shanghainese flavours. Their Hong Shao Rou is legendary—tender, sticky, and perfectly balanced.

• 📍Location: Tianping Road, Xuhui District
• 💰Cost: ~¥68 (about S$12.60)

Yongfoo Elite (雍福会)

For a more refined experience, try this elegant restaurant set in a former consulate—perfect for couples or special occasions.

• 📍Location: Yongfu Road, Former French Concession
• 💰Cost: ~¥168 (about S$31.20)

💡 Pro tips

• Best eaten with a bowl of plain white rice to soak up the sauce.
• Ask for less fatty cuts if you prefer leaner meat.
• Go during lunch for smaller crowds and set menus.

4. Cong You Bing (Scallion Pancakes)

I was wandering through a quiet backstreet in Shanghai when I caught the scent—warm oil, dough, and the sharp green punch of scallions. A small stall had a line of locals, so I joined in and ordered one. 

Fresh off the griddle, the pancake was golden brown, steaming hot, and crackled as I tore it apart. Crispy edges gave way to chewy, savory layers inside, with bits of scallion tucked between each fold. I dipped it in vinegar-chili sauce like the local in front of me, and wow—it was simple, salty, crispy perfection.

📖 About Cong You Bing

Cong You Bing, or scallion pancake, is a beloved street snack in Shanghai. Made from dough (not batter), it’s pan-fried until crispy and packed with chopped spring onions. It’s a go-to comfort bite—flaky, fragrant, and totally satisfying.

🍴 Best places to try

Here are a few top spots to taste this classic snack:

Cong You Bing at Yuyuan Bazaar (豫园小吃)

Popular with tourists and locals alike. A great intro if you're exploring the area.

• 📍Location: Inside Yuyuan Tourist Mart
• 💰Cost: ~¥10 (about S$1.80)

Tilangqiao No.1 Stall (提篮桥葱油饼一号)

A pancake specialist, their version is thicker, oilier, and totally delicious.

• 📍Location: Jingan District
• 💰Cost: ~¥5 (about S$1) per pancake

💡 Pro tips

• Go early—popular stalls sell out fast.
• Ask for an egg inside for extra richness.
• Eat it hot and fresh—texture is everything!

5. Cong You Ban Mian (Scallion Oil Noodles)

I found this humble bowl in a no-frills noodle shop tucked into a quiet lane. As it arrived, I was hit by the deep, toasty aroma of fried scallions mixed with soy sauce. The noodles glistened—springy, chewy, and coated in glossy scallion oil. 

I gave them a quick toss, and the fragrance got even stronger. One bite, and I was hooked. It was simple but rich, with that perfect umami depth that only soy, oil, and crisped scallions can create. Comfort food, Shanghai-style.

📖 About Cong You Ban Mian

Cong You Ban Mian, or scallion oil noodles, is a classic Shanghainese dish known for its simplicity. No fancy toppings—just handmade noodles, soy sauce, sugar, and fragrant scallion oil. It’s often eaten as a quick lunch or late-night supper and loved by locals of all ages.

🍴 Best places to try

Here are some beloved spots to slurp up this dish:

Wei Xiang Zhai (味香斋)

Legendary for their chewy handmade noodles and deeply aromatic scallion oil.

• 📍Location: Shaanxi North Road, Jing’an
• 💰Cost: ~¥15 (about S$2.80)

HUXI LAO NONG TANG MIAN Noodle Shop (沪西老弄堂面馆)

Hu Xi Lao Nong Tang is renowned for its authentic Shanghai-style noodles, offering a variety of traditional toppings that locals cherish.

• 📍Location: 1st Floor, World Trade Building, No. 500 Guangdong Road (near Fujian Middle Road Gate)
• 💰Cost: Around ¥30–40 per person (about S$5-7)

💡 Pro tips

• Mix well before eating—the magic’s in the bottom of the bowl.
• Add a tea egg or tofu skin for extra texture.
• Best enjoyed hot and with a cold soy milk on the side.

6. Lion’s Head Meatballs

I stumbled upon this dish at a traditional Jiangnan-style restaurant. When it arrived, I couldn’t believe the size—each meatball was as big as my palm, nestled in a clay pot surrounded by napa cabbage and a light soy-based broth. The aroma was mouthwatering—savory, slightly sweet, and rich with slow-cooked goodness. 

I took a bite and wow—so tender it practically melted in my mouth. The minced pork was soft and juicy, with hints of ginger and Shaoxing wine, balanced by the delicate crunch of the veggies. It tasted like something a Shanghainese grandma would make on a chilly night.

📖 About Lion’s Head Meatballs

Lion’s Head Meatballs (狮子头) are a classic from Huaiyang cuisine, often served in Shanghai homes and restaurants. These oversized pork meatballs get their name from their shape, resembling a lion’s head. They’re slow-cooked until ultra-tender and often served with cabbage or vermicelli.

🍴 Best places to try

If you want to experience these meatballs at their best, here are a few standout spots:

Xiao Nan Guo (小南国)

A modern Shanghainese chain known for upscale comfort food.

• 📍Location: Several branches across Shanghai
• 💰Cost: ~¥88 (about S$16)

Ren He Guan (人和馆)

Ren He Guan is a Michelin one-star restaurant celebrated for its authentic Shanghainese cuisine.

• 📍Location: Zhaojiabang Road
• 💰Cost: Approximately ¥200–250 per person (about S$35-45)

💡 Pro Tips

• Pair it with rice or soup for a full meal.
• Order the braised version for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Perfect for sharing—one meatball can feed two!

7. Sweet & Sour Spare Ribs

I first spotted this glossy plate of ribs at a buzzing local eatery—sticky, caramelized, and glistening under the lights. The smell hit me before the plate did: a perfect mix of vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce that made my mouth water instantly. 

I picked up a rib with my chopsticks and took a bite—the meat was tender, with just the right chew, and coated in a sweet, tangy glaze that danced on my tongue. Every bite had this addictive balance of rich and sharp flavors, and I couldn’t help but lick my fingers after.

📖 About Sweet & Sour Spare Ribs

Known locally as 糖醋小排, this dish is a Shanghai staple and comfort classic. Unlike the Western-style “deep-fried” version, these pork ribs are slow-braised in vinegar and sugar, resulting in a sticky, shiny finish and deeply layered flavors. A must-try in Shanghainese cuisine.

🍴 Best places to try

Here are a few reliable spots where you can taste the real deal:

Old Jesse (老吉士)

Famous for its intense, traditional flavors and homestyle vibes.

• 📍Location: Tianping Road, Xuhui
• 💰Cost: ~¥88 (about S$16)

Lao Shanghai Benbang Cai (老上海本帮菜)

Affordable, local-style place great for trying Shanghainese classics.

• 📍Location: Near Yuyuan Garden, Huangpu
• 💰Cost: ~¥48 (about S$9)

💡 Pro tips

• Eat with plain rice to balance the tanginess.
• Ask for extra sauce—some places offer it!
• Best enjoyed fresh and hot, right when it hits the table.

8. Steamed Hairy Crab

I finally gave in to the seasonal buzz and tried hairy crab during its autumn peak. When the steamer lid was lifted, the sweet, briny aroma hit me first—like the ocean on a calm day. 

The crab was small but rich with bright orange roe and silky, sweet flesh. I followed a local’s advice and dipped the meat in ginger-infused black vinegar—it balanced the richness perfectly.

It took patience to eat, but the reward? Pure crabby bliss. Eating it felt like a ritual, a little messy, very satisfying, and totally worth it.

📖 About Steamed Hairy Crab

This delicacy, prized for its creamy roe and delicate flavor, is only in season from late September to November. Hairy crabs are named for the fuzzy claws, and steaming them preserves their natural sweetness. It's a Shanghainese autumn tradition, almost like mooncakes during Mid-Autumn Festival.

🍴 Best places to try

These spots are loved by locals and known for fresh, seasonal crabs:

Cheng Long Hang Crab Palace (成隆行蟹王府)

A true crab institution—expect big crowds during peak season.

• 📍Location: Huangpu District, near Yuyuan Garden
• 💰Cost: ~¥268–488 (about S$50–S$88)

The Bull & Claw (for a Western twist)

Great if you want crab served with wine and a side of style.

• 📍Location: Fenyang Road, French Concession
• 💰Cost: ~¥388 (about S$70)

💡 Pro tips

• Best eaten in late Oct–early Nov when roe is richest.
• Order warm Shaoxing wine on the side—it’s the classic pairing.
• Wear the plastic gloves they provide—it gets messy!

9. Eight Treasure Rice Pudding

I wasn’t expecting to fall in love with dessert after such a savory Shanghainese meal—but then came the Eight Treasure Rice Pudding. 

With my first spoonful, I got a bit of everything: soft glutinous rice, rich red bean paste in the center, and candied fruits and nuts that added bursts of sweetness and crunch. It was comforting and festive all at once—like something your grandma would proudly serve during holidays.

📖 About Eight Treasure Rice Pudding

This traditional dessert is often served during Lunar New Year or family celebrations. It features sticky rice filled with sweet red bean paste and topped with eight "treasures"—usually a mix of dried dates, lotus seeds, walnuts, longan, and other candied fruits. Symbolically, it represents good fortune and togetherness.

🍴 Best places to try

Try it at classic restaurants that specialize in old-school Shanghai cuisine:

Lu Bo Lang (绿波廊)

Elegant spot near Yuyuan, ideal for traditional dishes and scenic vibes.

• 📍Location: Yuyuan Tourist Mart, Huangpu
• 💰Cost: ~¥68 (about S$12.50)

Shanghai Classical Hotel (上海老饭店)

A historic restaurant that nails all the classics, dessert included.

• 📍Location: Fangbang Middle Road, Old Town
• 💰Cost: ~¥60 (about S$11)

💡 Pro tips

• Best shared—this dish is rich and filling!
• Ask if it’s served warm or cold (warm is more fragrant).
• Goes great with Chinese tea after a heavy meal.

10. Drunken Chicken

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I ordered drunken chicken, but the moment it landed on the table—served cold, glistening with a light broth and that subtle boozy aroma—I knew I was in for something different.

The first bite was tender and silky, with the faint warmth of Shaoxing wine rising through the cool, juicy meat. It felt refined but homey, like something made with quiet confidence. I had it at lunch, but honestly? It would be perfect on a summer night with a cold drink.

📖 About Drunken Chicken

Drunken chicken is a cold appetizer made by poaching chicken and marinating it in Shaoxing wine and spices. It’s a staple in Shanghainese cuisine, known for its delicate flavor and smooth texture. Despite being simple, it’s deeply comforting and distinctly local.

🍴 Best places to try

Here are a few must-visit spots for a well-balanced, flavorful version:

Fu 1039 (福1039)

A beautiful setting in a colonial-era villa serving elevated Shanghainese home-style dishes.

• 📍Location: Yuyuan Road, Changning
• 💰Cost: ~¥58 (about S$11)

Xian Qiang Fang (鲜墙房)

Known for traditional flavors and elegant plating.

• 📍Location: Jiujiang Road, near People's Square
• 💰Cost: ~¥58 (about S$11)

💡 Pro tips

• It’s served cold—don’t be surprised!
• Pair it with warm rice or congee to balance the chill.
• Great as a starter before diving into heavier dishes.

🌶️ Eat Your Way Through: Best Shanghai Food Streets

1. Wujiang Road Food Street

As I stepped onto Wujiang Road just after 6 PM, the air was thick with the scent of sizzling oil, sweet soy, and the unmistakable aroma of grilled skewers. Neon signs flickered above a sea of hungry locals and curious tourists, all weaving between stalls and storefronts. 

📖 About Wujiang Road Food Street

Located just off West Nanjing Road in central Shanghai, Wujiang Road is a modern pedestrian food street that blends traditional Shanghainese snacks with contemporary eateries. 

🍽️ What to Try

• Shengjianbao: Pan-fried pork buns with a juicy, soupy centre.
• Grilled Lamb Skewers: Seasoned with cumin and chilli, a nod to Xinjiang flavours.
• Sweet Glutinous Rice Balls: Filled with black sesame or red bean paste.
• Scallion Pancakes: Crispy and flaky, often enjoyed with a dash of chilli sauce.
• Bubble Tea: Various stalls offer this popular sweet beverage with tapioca pearls.
• Fried Tofu: Crispy on the outside, soft inside, often served with a spicy dip.

2. Chenghuang Temple Food Street

As the evening descended upon Shanghai, I found myself amidst the vibrant buzz of Chenghuang Temple Food Street. Lanterns adorned the eaves of traditional buildings, casting a warm glow over the bustling crowd. 

📖 About Chenghuang Temple Food Street

Located in the heart of Shanghai's Huangpu District, Chenghuang Temple Food Street is a renowned destination for both locals and tourists seeking authentic Shanghainese street food. 

The area is steeped in history, with the City God Temple (Chenghuang Miao) serving as a cultural and spiritual landmark. Over the years, the surrounding streets have transformed into a vibrant food hub, offering a plethora of traditional snacks and dishes that showcase the city's rich culinary traditions.

🍽️ What to Try

• Nanxiang Soup Dumplings: Delicate dumplings filled with savory broth and tender pork, a must-try for any visitor.
• Shengjianbao: Pan-fried buns with a crispy bottom and juicy filling, offering a delightful contrast in textures.
• Crab Shell Pastry: Golden, flaky pastries shaped like crab shells, filled with sweet red bean paste.
• Vegetarian Steamed Buns: Soft buns filled with a medley of seasoned vegetables, providing a lighter option.
• Eight Treasures Rice: Sticky rice topped with a colorful assortment of dried fruits and nuts, symbolizing good fortune
• Sweet Osmanthus Cake: A fragrant and slightly sweet cake made from glutinous rice and osmanthus flowers.​

3. Huanghe Road

As I strolled down Huanghe Road, the neon glow of old-school signs and the aroma of sizzling street food enveloped me. The air buzzed with the chatter of locals and the rhythmic clatter of woks. The bustling atmosphere, combined with the rich flavors, made it clear why this street has been a staple for over three decades.

📖 About Huanghe Road Food Street

Located near People's Square, Huanghe Road Food Street is a renowned destination for both locals and tourists seeking authentic Shanghainese street food. Established in the early 1990s, it was once a gastronomic paradise, home to over 100 restaurants offering high-end fare. Today, it retains its charm, offering a mix of traditional and modern culinary delights.

🍽️ What to Try

• Xiaojinling Salted Duck: Offers tender, aromatic salted duck, a traditional delicacy.
• Xiandelai Chop Rice Cake: Serves savory rice cakes with a variety of toppings.
• Dahuchun Fried Stuffed Bun: Renowned for their juicy, stuffed buns.
• Wufangzhai Zongzi: Specializes in sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves.​
• Shanghai-style Wontons: Thin-skinned wontons in light broth, perfect for a comforting bite.
• Soy Milk & Chinese Pancakes from local breakfast stalls: A popular morning combo among locals.

🍰 Sweet Stops in Shanghai: Cafés & Dessert Gems

1. Pain Chaud

Walking into Pain Chaud was like stepping into a little Parisian nook in the heart of Shanghai. I ordered their signature croissant filled with rich chocolate and a touch of sea salt, which was pure bliss. The flakiness of the croissant gave way to the creamy chocolate center, and the hint of salt brought out its sweetness in the most unexpected way. 

📖 About Pain Chaud

Pain Chaud is a French-inspired bakery with an emphasis on artisanal, locally-sourced ingredients. Known for its perfect pastries and exquisite breads, it offers a taste of Paris in Shanghai, blending classic techniques with a modern twist.

2. PaoPao

Stepping into PAOPAO Bakery & Café felt like entering a pastel dream. Soft jazz played in the background, and the scent of freshly baked pastries filled the air. I opted for the seasonal white chocolate fruit mille-feuille, a delicate tower of flaky pastry layered with fresh mango, strawberry, banana, and a light cream that wasn't overly sweet. Each bite was a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, offering a refreshing twist on a classic dessert.

📖 About PAOPAO Bakery & Café

PAOPAO is a trendy bakery and café known for its artisanal breads, creative pastries, and modern café offerings. With a focus on natural ingredients and a stylish, minimalist aesthetic, it has quickly become a favorite among Shanghai's dessert enthusiasts.

3. Cha of Yulian

Walking into Cha of Yulian felt like stepping into a cozy tropical oasis. Soft lighting filled the room, casting a warm glow on the wooden tables and chairs, while the air was fragrant with the mix of coconut and tea aromas. I couldn't resist trying their freshly baked egg tarts—the flaky crust paired with a rich, velvety custard filling was simply irresistible. Each bite was a perfect balance of sweetness and smoothness.

📖 About Cha of Yulian

Cha of Yulian blends traditional tea culture with modern desserts, offering unique tea drinks and classic delights like egg tarts. The café has become a local favorite for its creative and delicious offerings.

🛍️ What to Bring Home: Classic Shanghai Snacks & Souvenirs

1. Qingtuan (Green Sticky Rice Balls)

I stumbled upon these beautiful green sticky rice balls (Qingtuan) at a bustling local market in Shanghai. The moment I took a bite, I was hooked! The chewy, slightly sweet rice dough is filled with a smooth red bean paste, giving it a perfect balance of texture and flavor. It’s often packaged in a cute box, making it an ideal gift for anyone back home.

📖 About Qingtuan

A traditional Shanghai treat, Qingtuan is especially popular during the Qingming Festival in spring, but locals enjoy them year-round. Their vibrant green color comes from mugwort leaves, which add a subtle earthy flavor.

🛒 Where to Buy It

Local markets, pastry shops, or the airport duty-free section.

🎁 Travel Tip

Travel-friendly? Yes, these are packed neatly and travel well in their boxes.

2. Shanghai-style Mooncakes

I couldn’t leave Shanghai without grabbing a box of Shanghai-style mooncakes! The first bite was a perfect blend of delicate, sweet fillings encased in a slightly crispy, golden crust. These mooncakes are unique for their savory-sweet balance, with fillings like sweet red bean paste or lotus seed paste, often with a salted egg yolk in the center that adds a savory surprise.

📖 About Shanghai-style Mooncakes

Mooncakes are traditionally enjoyed during the Mid-Autumn Festival, but Shanghai-style mooncakes stand out with their flakier texture compared to other regional varieties. The salted egg yolk is a signature component that makes them special.

🛒 Where to Buy It

Local bakeries, specialty mooncake shops, or airport duty-free stores.

🎁 Travel Tip

Travel-friendly? Yes, these are often packaged in beautiful, sturdy boxes, making them a great gift.

3. Crab Shell Pastries

I stumbled upon these delicious crab shell pastries in a bustling Shanghai bakery, and they were unlike anything I’d ever tried! The golden, crispy crust was shaped like a crab shell, with a slightly sweet and savory filling inside. The rich, creamy filling with a hint of crab flavor made each bite feel indulgent yet light. It’s the perfect balance of savory and delicate.

📖 About Crab Shell Pastries

A local Shanghai delicacy, crab shell pastries (also known as "Xie Ke Li") are typically filled with a savory mixture of crab meat, egg, and other ingredients. They are beloved by locals, especially during special occasions or as a treat with tea.

🛒 Where to Buy It

Specialty bakeries, food markets, or local snack shops.

🎁 Travel Tip

Travel-friendly? Yes, they come in small packages and are sturdy enough for travel.

Discover Shanghai’s Unforgettable Food Journey

After exploring all the delicious dishes and snacks Shanghai has to offer, I can honestly say this city is a food lover’s paradise. Every corner of this city promises something new and exciting for your taste buds. 

If you're craving the best culinary experiences Shanghai has to offer, there's no best time to visit Shanghai. Book your flights to Shanghai and find the perfect Shanghai hotel to enjoy the best of both modern Shanghai and its rich food history. Wondering where to go in Shanghai? Trip.com got you covered!

Ready to explore this foodie haven for yourself? Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Shanghai’s food scene never disappoints. Grab your bags, book your tickets, and get ready for a journey through one of the world’s most exciting food capitals.