Shanghai, a vibrant metropolis where tradition meets innovation, is a paradise for food lovers. As one of China’s culinary capitals, it offers a tantalizing blend of local Shanghainese flavors, regional Chinese cuisines, and international influences. From steaming street food stalls to upscale dining in historic villas, Shanghai’s food scene is as diverse as its skyline. If you’re a tourist eager to explore the city through your taste buds, this comprehensive guide will introduce you to the must-try dishes and the best places to savor them. Get ready to embark on a gastronomic journey through the heart of Shanghai!

Why Shanghai is a Foodie’s Dream Destination

Shanghai’s culinary landscape reflects its history as a melting pot of cultures. As a major port city, it has absorbed influences from neighboring provinces like Jiangsu and Zhejiang, as well as from international settlers during its colonial past. The result is a unique cuisine known as “Benbang,” which emphasizes fresh ingredients, subtle sweetness, and rich, umami flavors. Whether you’re craving comfort food from a roadside vendor or a refined dining experience, Shanghai has it all. Let’s dive into the must-try dishes and uncover where to find the most authentic and delicious versions of them.

1. Xiaolongbao: Shanghai’s Iconic Soup Dumplings

No trip to Shanghai is complete without tasting xiaolongbao, the city’s most famous dish. These delicate steamed dumplings are filled with a savory mixture of pork (or sometimes crab) and a hot, flavorful broth. The trick is to bite carefully to avoid burning your tongue on the soup inside!

  • What Makes It Special: The thin, translucent wrapper and the burst of broth make xiaolongbao a textural delight. It’s often served with a dipping sauce of black vinegar and ginger.
  • Where to Try It:
  • Din Tai Fung (Multiple locations, including Xintiandi): A globally renowned chain that originated in Taiwan but has mastered Shanghai-style xiaolongbao. Perfect for tourists with consistent quality and English menus.
  • Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant (Yu Garden area): Located near the iconic Yu Garden, this historic spot claims to be the birthplace of xiaolongbao. Expect long lines, but it’s worth the wait for the authentic taste.
  • Pro Tip: Eat them while they’re hot—place the dumpling on a spoon, take a small bite to let the steam escape, and sip the broth before enjoying the rest.

2. Sheng Jian Bao: Crispy Pan-Fried Buns

If xiaolongbao is the delicate star, sheng jian bao is its heartier, crunchier cousin. These pan-fried buns are filled with pork and gelatinized broth, with a crispy golden bottom and a soft, fluffy top. They’re a popular breakfast or snack option among locals.

  • What Makes It Special: The contrast between the crispy base and juicy filling is irresistible. They’re often sprinkled with sesame seeds and scallions for extra flavor.
  • Where to Try It:
  • Yang’s Dumpling (Multiple locations, including Wujiang Road): A local favorite known for its perfectly crispy sheng jian bao. It’s budget-friendly and always bustling with hungry diners.
  • Xiao Yang Sheng Jian (Various street stalls): Another iconic spot with branches across the city. Look for the long queues—it’s a sign of authenticity.
  • Pro Tip: Be cautious of the hot broth inside; let them cool slightly before taking a big bite.

3. Hong Shao Rou: Braised Pork Belly

Hong shao rou, or red-braised pork belly, is a classic Shanghainese dish that showcases the region’s love for slow-cooked, savory-sweet flavors. The pork is braised in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and spices until it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, with a glossy, caramelized glaze.

  • What Makes It Special: The balance of sweet and salty, combined with the rich, fatty texture of the pork, makes this dish a comfort food staple.
  • Where to Try It:
  • Jian Guo 328 (French Concession, 328 Jianguo West Road): A cozy, no-frills restaurant serving authentic homestyle Shanghainese cuisine. Their hong shao rou is a crowd favorite.
  • Old Jesse (Tianping Road): A beloved spot for traditional dishes, known for its flavorful braised pork that pairs perfectly with steamed rice.
  • Pro Tip: Order a side of rice to soak up the delicious sauce—it’s the perfect complement.

4. Drunken Chicken: A Cold Delicacy

Drunken chicken is a cold appetizer made by marinating steamed chicken in Shaoxing wine, a fragrant rice wine from the region. The result is a tender, aromatic dish with a subtle sweetness and a hint of alcohol that enhances the meat’s natural flavors.

  • What Makes It Special: This dish exemplifies Shanghai’s preference for light, refined flavors. It’s often served at the start of a meal to whet the appetite.
  • Where to Try It:
  • Fu 1088 (375 Zhenning Road): Housed in a restored 1930s villa, this upscale restaurant offers a sophisticated take on drunken chicken in an elegant setting.
  • Shanghai Grandmother (Multiple locations, including Jinxian Road): A casual spot with a nostalgic vibe, serving traditional dishes like drunken chicken at reasonable prices.
  • Pro Tip: Pair it with a hot dish to balance the cold temperature of the chicken.

5. Tangyuan: Sweet Glutinous Rice Balls

Tangyuan are sweet glutinous rice balls often filled with black sesame paste, red bean paste, or peanuts, served in a warm, sweet broth. They’re a traditional dessert, especially popular during the Lantern Festival, but you can find them year-round in Shanghai.

  • What Makes It Special: The chewy texture of the rice balls and the comforting warmth of the soup make tangyuan a delightful treat, especially on a chilly day.
  • Where to Try It:
  • Qibao Ancient Town Street Stalls (Qibao, Minhang District): This historic town near central Shanghai is famous for its street food, including freshly made tangyuan.
  • Ningbo Tangyuan Shop (Near Yu Garden): A small shop specializing in this dessert, offering a variety of fillings to choose from.
  • Pro Tip: Try the black sesame filling for a rich, nutty flavor that’s a local favorite.

6. Crab Roe Xiaolongbao: A Seasonal Luxury

For a luxurious twist on the classic xiaolongbao, try crab roe xiaolongbao, available during the hairy crab season (typically late September to November). These dumplings are filled with a mixture of pork and the rich, buttery roe of hairy crabs, a delicacy from nearby Yangcheng Lake.

  • What Makes It Special: The intense, umami flavor of crab roe elevates this dish to a gourmet level, making it a seasonal must-try.
  • Where to Try It:
  • Crystal Jade (Multiple locations, including Xintiandi): A high-end chain known for its premium crab roe xiaolongbao during the season.
  • Lin Long Fang (Near Yu Garden): A traditional spot that specializes in crab-based dishes, offering some of the best crab roe dumplings in the city.
  • Pro Tip: Check availability in advance, as crab roe dishes are highly seasonal and sell out quickly.

7. Cong You Bing: Scallion Oil Pancakes

Cong you bing, or scallion oil pancakes, are a popular street food snack made from flaky, layered dough infused with scallions and pan-fried to crispy perfection. They’re simple yet incredibly satisfying.

  • What Makes It Special: The combination of crispiness and the aromatic flavor of scallions makes this an addictive on-the-go treat.
  • Where to Try It:
  • Wujiang Road Food Street (Near Nanjing West Road): A bustling food street with vendors selling freshly made cong you bing at affordable prices.
  • A Da Cong You Bing (Near People’s Square): A famous stall run by a local vendor known for his perfectly flaky pancakes.
  • Pro Tip: Eat them fresh off the griddle for the best texture—don’t let them sit too long.

8. Lion’s Head Meatballs: A Hearty Classic

Lion’s head meatballs are large, tender pork meatballs braised in a savory soy-based broth, often served with bok choy or cabbage. The name comes from their size and shape, resembling a lion’s head, and they’re a staple of Shanghainese comfort food.

  • What Makes It Special: The meatballs are incredibly juicy, absorbing the rich flavors of the broth during the slow-cooking process.
  • Where to Try It:
  • Mei Long Zhen (Nanjing West Road): A historic restaurant dating back to 1938, known for its authentic Shanghainese dishes like lion’s head meatballs.
  • Jian Guo 328 (French Concession): Another excellent spot for this dish, with a focus on homestyle cooking.
  • Pro Tip: Share this dish with a group—it’s quite filling and best enjoyed family-style.

9. Smoked Fish: A Sweet and Savory Treat

Shanghai-style smoked fish isn’t actually smoked but rather marinated in a sweet-soy glaze and deep-fried to create a crispy exterior with tender, flaky flesh inside. It’s a popular cold appetizer with a unique flavor profile.

  • What Makes It Special: The sweet glaze contrasts beautifully with the savory fish, making it a standout dish in Shanghainese cuisine.
  • Where to Try It:
  • Old Jesse (Tianping Road): Known for its perfectly executed smoked fish with just the right balance of flavors.
  • Shanghai Uncle (Multiple locations): A reliable spot for traditional dishes, including this local favorite.
  • Pro Tip: It’s often served cold, so enjoy it as a starter to cleanse your palate.

10. Street Food Adventures: Exploring Night Markets

Shanghai’s night markets and food streets are a treasure trove for adventurous eaters. From grilled skewers to stinky tofu, these bustling spots offer a taste of local life and flavors you won’t find in restaurants.

  • What to Try: Jianbing (savory crepes), stinky tofu, grilled oysters, and sugar-coated hawthorn skewers.
  • Where to Go:
  • Yunnan Road Food Street (Near the Bund): A lively street with a mix of Shanghainese and regional Chinese street food.
  • Tianzifang Night Market (French Concession): A trendy area with food stalls tucked between art galleries and boutiques.
  • Pro Tip: Bring cash, as many vendors don’t accept cards. Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends.

Practical Tips for Food Lovers in Shanghai

  • Language Barrier: Many smaller eateries may not have English menus. Download a translation app like Google Translate or carry a phrasebook with food terms. Pointing at pictures or dishes on other tables also works!
  • Timing: Avoid peak meal times (12-1 PM for lunch, 6-8 PM for dinner) at popular spots to skip long waits. Street food stalls and night markets are best visited in the evening.
  • Etiquette: Sharing dishes family-style is common in Chinese dining. Don’t be shy to order multiple dishes to try a variety of flavors.
  • Budget: Street food and casual eateries are incredibly affordable (often under 20 CNY per dish), while upscale restaurants can range from 100-300 CNY per person.
  • Dietary Needs: Vegetarian and vegan options are limited in traditional Shanghainese cuisine, but Buddhist temples like Longhua Temple often have excellent vegetarian restaurants.

Conclusion: Savor the Flavors of Shanghai

Shanghai’s food scene is a delicious reflection of its history, culture, and diversity. From the delicate artistry of xiaolongbao to the hearty comfort of hong shao rou, every bite tells a story of this dynamic city. Whether you’re exploring bustling food streets or dining in a historic villa, you’ll find flavors that linger long after your trip ends. So, grab your chopsticks, venture beyond the tourist traps, and let Shanghai’s culinary treasures captivate your palate.

Have you tried any of these dishes, or do you have a favorite food spot in Shanghai to share? Drop your thoughts in the comments below, and happy eating!