A Taste of Shanghai Food: Discovering the City's Culinary Treasures

As an Indonesian travel enthusiast, I've always believed that the best way to explore a city is through its food. 

Shanghai, with its mesmerizing blend of old-world charm and modern flair, is a culinary playground that promises unforgettable flavors and experiences. 

Imagine wandering through lively markets, where the aroma of freshly steamed dumplings fills the air, or savoring the sizzling delights of street-side stir-fries. 

In this guide, I'll take you on a delicious journey through Shanghai's must-try dishes and hidden culinary gems. From iconic xiaolongbao to lesser-known local favorites, each bite tells a story of tradition and innovation. 

So, loosen your belt and get ready to dive into the heart of Shanghai's food scene—it's a feast you won't want to miss!

1️⃣ A Delightful Encounter with Shanghai's Xiaolongbao

Wandering through the bustling streets of Shanghai, I stumbled upon a quaint eatery tucked away in the heart of the city. As I entered, the aroma of freshly steamed dumplings enveloped me, promising an unforgettable culinary experience. When the bamboo steamer arrived at my table, I was greeted by delicate, translucent dumplings, each one a perfect little pouch of promise. As I took my first bite, the thin skin gave way to an explosion of rich, savory broth and tender pork filling that danced on my taste buds. The combination of flavors and textures was nothing short of exquisite, leaving me eager for the next bite. This was more than a meal; it was a moment to savor.

📖 About Xiaolongbao

Xiaolongbao, or soup dumplings, are a beloved staple in Shanghai’s culinary scene. These dumplings are iconic for their unique preparation, where a gelatinous broth is encased within the dough and melts into a delicious soup when steamed. Originating from the Jiangnan region, they are a testament to the artistry and precision of Chinese cuisine.

🍴 Best Place to Try It

💡 Pro Tips

• Gently lift the xiaolongbao with a spoon to avoid breaking the skin.
• Add a splash of black vinegar and ginger for an authentic taste.
• Let the dumpling cool slightly before biting to enjoy the broth fully.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit

Perfect for adventurous foodies and those who appreciate intricate culinary craftsmanship. 

2️⃣ A Crispy Encounter with Shanghai's Shengjianbao

As I meandered through the vibrant streets of Shanghai, the sizzling sound of a nearby food stall caught my attention. Drawn by the enticing aroma, I found myself in front of a small, bustling shop known for its shengjianbao. When the plate arrived, I was greeted by golden-brown buns, their crispy bottoms glistening with a hint of oil. With my first bite, the crispy exterior gave way to a juicy, flavorful pork filling, accompanied by a burst of savory broth. The contrast between the crunchy crust and the tender interior was nothing short of delightful. Enjoying this street-side treat amidst the lively atmosphere of Shanghai made the experience truly memorable.

📖 About Shengjianbao

Shengjianbao, or pan-fried soup buns, are a popular breakfast item in Shanghai. Known for their crispy bottoms and juicy centers, these buns are a testament to the city's love for combining textures and flavors. Originating in the early 1900s, they have become a quintessential part of Shanghai’s street food culture.

🍴 Best Place to Try It

💡 Pro Tips

• Eat them hot for the best experience, but be cautious of the hot broth inside.
• Pair with a side of soy sauce and vinegar for an extra kick.
• Enjoy them as a quick breakfast or a satisfying snack any time of the day.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit

Ideal for those who love a mix of textures and flavors, and perfect for anyone looking to experience authentic Shanghai street food. Great for both solo travelers and families looking for a quick, delicious bite.

3️⃣ A Luxurious Taste of Shanghai's Hairy Crab

During my autumn visit to Shanghai, I found myself at a renowned riverside restaurant, eagerly anticipating the famed hairy crab. As the dish arrived, the vibrant orange shells glistened under the soft lighting, each crab a masterpiece of nature. Cracking open the shell, I was met with the rich, creamy roe, a delicacy that Shanghai is celebrated for. The sweet, tender meat paired perfectly with the tangy vinegar dipping sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that was both indulgent and satisfying. Enjoying this seasonal delicacy while overlooking the serene waters of the Yangtze River made the experience truly unforgettable.

📖 About Hairy Crab

Hairy crab, or Chinese mitten crab, is a seasonal delicacy in Shanghai, typically enjoyed in the autumn months. Known for its succulent meat and rich roe, it is a prized dish that showcases the region's culinary finesse. The crabs are harvested from the freshwater lakes around Shanghai, making them a local treasure.

🍴 Best Place to Try It

💡 Pro Tips

• Hairy crab is best enjoyed in the autumn, from September to November.
• Pair with a warm cup of ginger tea to balance the richness of the crab.
• Be prepared to get hands-on—cracking the shells is part of the fun!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit

Perfect for seafood enthusiasts and those looking to indulge in a luxurious dining experience. A must-try for anyone visiting Shanghai during the crab season.

4️⃣ A Savory Delight: Red Braised Pork

In a cozy corner of a traditional Shanghai eatery, I was served a steaming bowl of red braised pork. The dish, known locally as "hong shao rou," featured succulent pork belly cubes glistening in a rich, caramelized sauce. With my first bite, the tender meat melted in my mouth, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The soy sauce, sugar, and aromatic spices combined to create a comforting and deeply satisfying experience. Paired with a bowl of steamed rice, the red braised pork was a heartwarming reminder of home-cooked meals and familial gatherings.

📖 About Red Braised Pork

Red braised pork is a classic dish in Chinese cuisine, particularly beloved in Shanghai. It is characterized by its glossy, reddish-brown sauce and tender, flavorful pork. The dish is typically slow-cooked to allow the meat to absorb the rich flavors of soy sauce, sugar, and spices, resulting in a deliciously savory and slightly sweet taste.

🍴 Best Place to Try It

💡 Pro Tips

• Enjoy it with a side of steamed rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Look for a version that includes a balance of lean and fatty pork for the best texture.
• Pair with a light vegetable dish to complement the richness of the pork.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit

Ideal for those who appreciate hearty, comforting meals and are eager to explore traditional Chinese flavors. Great for both solo diners and families looking to share a delicious, communal dish.

5️⃣ A Taste of Tradition: Drunken Chicken

In the bustling heart of Shanghai, I found myself at a quaint restaurant known for its authentic Chinese dishes. Among them was the renowned drunken chicken, served chilled in a delicate pool of aromatic Shaoxing wine. The tender chicken pieces were infused with the wine's fragrant notes, offering a subtle yet distinct flavor profile. Each bite was a refreshing contrast to the richer dishes I had tasted, with the wine imparting a slightly sweet and floral essence that lingered pleasantly on the palate. This dish was a testament to the elegance of simplicity in Chinese cuisine.

📖 About Drunken Chicken

Drunken chicken is a traditional Chinese dish that involves marinating cooked chicken in Shaoxing wine, a type of Chinese rice wine. The dish is typically served cold, making it a popular choice for a refreshing appetizer. The wine not only tenderizes the chicken but also imparts a unique flavor that is both aromatic and slightly sweet.

🍴 Best Place to Try It

💡 Pro Tips

• Best enjoyed as an appetizer or a light main course.
• Pair with a crisp white wine or a light beer to complement the flavors.
• Look for versions that use high-quality Shaoxing wine for the best taste.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit

Perfect for those who enjoy light, flavorful dishes and are interested in experiencing traditional Chinese culinary techniques. Ideal for diners looking for a refreshing start to their meal or a unique dish to share with friends.

6️⃣ Sizzling Skewers at Wujiang Road Night Market

As I strolled through the vibrant Wujiang Road Night Market in Shanghai, the air was filled with the enticing aroma of sizzling meats and spices. The lively chatter of vendors and the hum of excited patrons created an electric atmosphere. Among the bustling stalls, one caught my eye with its colorful array of skewers, each expertly grilled over open flames.

The vendor skillfully turned the skewers, ensuring each piece was perfectly cooked. I couldn't resist the allure of the spicy lamb skewers, their smoky, peppery scent promising a burst of flavor. With my first bite, the tender meat delivered a delightful kick of heat, balanced by a hint of cumin and garlic. It was a sensory delight that perfectly captured the essence of Shanghai's street food scene.

📖 About Wujiang Road Night Market

Wujiang Road Night Market is a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike, known for its diverse array of street food offerings. The market has a reputation for serving some of the best skewers in the city, with vendors often using traditional grilling techniques passed down through generations.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit

Best for adventurous foodies, late-night snackers, and anyone eager to experience the vibrant energy of Shanghai's street food culture.

7️⃣ Crayfish Craze at Shouning Road

Walking down Shouning Road in Shanghai, the air buzzed with the lively sounds of laughter and clinking glasses, a testament to the street's reputation as a late-night dining haven. The tantalizing aroma of garlic and chili wafted through the air, drawing me toward a bustling stall famed for its spicy crayfish. The vendor, with swift and practiced hands, tossed the vibrant red crayfish in a sizzling wok, infusing them with a rich blend of spices.

As I cracked open the shell, the succulent meat inside was infused with bold flavors, each bite delivering a satisfying mix of heat and savory goodness. It was a messy, finger-licking affair that perfectly encapsulated the joy of street food dining.

📖 About Shouning Road Crayfish

Shouning Road is renowned for its crayfish stalls, attracting both locals and tourists eager to indulge in this spicy delicacy. The street is particularly famous for its late-night dining scene, where the crayfish are cooked with a unique blend of spices that highlight the bold flavors of Shanghai's culinary tradition.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit

Best for night owls, seafood lovers, and those seeking an authentic taste of Shanghai's vibrant street food culture.

➡️ Wrap with a line like: "Next up? A cozy café that offers a sweet escape from the bustling streets.

8️⃣ Artisanal Allure at Baker & Spice

Stepping into Baker & Spice in Shanghai felt like entering a cozy European bakery, with soft jazz playing in the background and the warm aroma of freshly baked bread enveloping me. The décor was a charming mix of rustic wood and modern accents, attracting a crowd of relaxed brunch-goers and Instagram enthusiasts snapping photos of their beautifully plated pastries. I couldn't resist the allure of their signature almond croissant, its flaky layers giving way to a rich, buttery almond filling that was both indulgent and perfectly balanced. Each bite was a testament to the craftsmanship that Baker & Spice is renowned for.

📖 About Baker & Spice

Baker & Spice is celebrated for its artisanal bread and pastries, offering a fusion of European baking techniques with local ingredients. The café is a favorite among those seeking high-quality, visually stunning treats.

📍 Where to Find It

📍 Location: Anfu Road, near Changshu Road Station

💰 Cost & Crowd Tip

💰 Price: Typical pastry around $4-6, best to visit during weekday mornings for a quieter experience

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit

Best for café-hoppers, pastry aficionados, and those looking for an Instagram-worthy brunch spot.

9️⃣ An Opulent Feast at Fu 1088

Walking into Fu 1088 in Shanghai felt like stepping into a regal mansion, with its elegant décor and intimate, private dining rooms exuding a sense of exclusivity. The staff greeted us with warm smiles and guided us to our table, where the subtle aroma of authentic Shanghainese cuisine filled the air. I ordered their signature dish, braised pork belly, which arrived glistening with a rich, caramelized glaze.

The meat was melt-in-your-mouth tender, each bite infused with layers of flavor that spoke to the meticulous preparation and traditional techniques employed by the chefs. Sharing this dish with you, a fellow food enthusiast, would be an unforgettable culinary experience.

📖 About Fu 1088

Fu 1088 is housed in a beautifully restored villa, offering a unique dining experience that combines history with high-end Shanghainese cuisine. Known for its luxurious setting and impeccable service, the restaurant has been a staple in Shanghai's fine dining scene for years.

📍 Where It’s Located

📍 Location: 1088 Yuyuan Road, near Jiangsu Road Station

🍴 What to Order

🍴 Don’t miss: Braised pork belly and crispy duck

🕒 Reservation Tip

🕒 Reservation recommended? Yes, especially for weekends and dinner

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit

Great for romantic couples, special occasions, and those seeking an upscale dining experience.

🔟A Nostalgic Treat: White Rabbit Candy

While wandering through the bustling streets of Shanghai, I stumbled upon a quaint local shop that carried the iconic White Rabbit Candy. I chose it because it’s a beloved classic that evokes childhood memories for many. Each candy is wrapped in a distinctive white and blue wrapper, with an inner layer of edible rice paper that melts in your mouth. The candy itself is creamy and chewy, with a subtle vanilla flavor that’s both comforting and addictive.

📖 About White Rabbit Candy

White Rabbit Candy has been a favorite in China since the 1950s, often enjoyed during festivals or as a nostalgic treat. Its simple yet delightful taste has made it a staple in Chinese households.

🛒 Where to Buy It

🛒 Where to buy: Local supermarkets, specialty candy stores, and major airports

🎁 Travel Tip

🎁 Travel-friendly? Yes, individually wrapped and easy to pack

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit

Great for travelers seeking a nostalgic, compact gift that’s easy to share.

Embark on Shanghai's Culinary Adventure

Shanghai is a treasure trove for food enthusiasts, offering a delightful mix of traditional and modern flavors. From bustling markets to quaint eateries, the city is a feast for the senses, promising unique culinary experiences at every turn.

Find accommodations that let you savor both the modern pulse and historical richness of Shanghai. With countless options, you're guaranteed a comfortable stay while exploring the city's culinary wonders.

Trip.com is your guide to discovering Shanghai's hidden gems and popular spots, ensuring you don't miss out on any delicious offerings.

Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning for more, Shanghai's food scene is always ready to impress. Pack your bags and prepare for an adventure through one of the world's most dynamic food capitals.