best-places-to-eat-in-Shanghai

Shanghai’s Best Bites: A Street Food & Restaurant Guide

Shanghai is a culinary paradise, offering everything from Michelin-starred fine dining to mouthwatering street food. Here’s a taste of what awaits you:

Street Food Delights:

  • Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings): These iconic dumplings are a must-try in Shanghai. Find them steaming hot at stalls across the city, especially around Nanxiang Old Street.

    • Recommendation: JiaJia Tang Bao for their juicy and flavorful xiaolongbao.

  • ** Shengjian Mantou (Pan-fried Pork Buns):** Crispy on the outside, soft and savory on the inside. Look for street vendors grilling them fresh.

    • Recommendation: Try the stalls near Yu Garden for a classic experience.

  • Jianbing (Chinese Crepe): Thin, crispy crepe filled with egg, scallions, sauce, and your choice of filling (often meat or tofu). A perfect on-the-go breakfast or snack.

    • Recommendation: Look for vendors near universities or bustling intersections for a fresh Jianbing fix.

  • Tangyuan (Sweet Glutinous Rice Balls): Chewy balls filled with sweet sesame paste, peanut paste, or red bean paste. Perfect for dessert.

    • Recommendation: Find street vendors selling Tangyuan in the evenings, especially during winter.

Restaurant Gems:

  • Din Tai Fung (Soup Dumplings): This internationally renowned chain offers some of the best xiaolongbao in Shanghai. Expect long lines but it’s worth the wait!
    • Location: Multiple locations across Shanghai.
  • Lost Heaven: Experience Yunnan cuisine with its unique flavors and spices. Try dishes like “Crossing the Bridge Noodles” or “Spicy Grilled Fish.”
    • Location: Xintiandi & Jing’an District
  • Jesse Restaurant: This local favorite serves authentic Shanghainese dishes in a cozy setting. Don’t miss their braised pork belly and sweet and sour fish.
    • Location: Near the Bund

Beyond Food:

  • Explore the Night Markets: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Shanghai while indulging in street food delicacies at night markets like Fengjing Ancient Town or Tianzifang.

  • Take a Cooking Class: Learn the art of making xiaolongbao or other Shanghainese specialties with a hands-on cooking class.

Enjoy your culinary adventures in Shanghai!