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Shanghai food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Shanghai.
What to eat in Shanghai
5 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Xiaolongbao (小笼包)
$5–$15
Delicate soup dumplings filled with savory pork and a rich, gelatinous broth. The thin skin and burst of flavor make them an iconic Shanghainese delicacy.
Where to try: Din Tai Fung (multiple locations, known for consistent quality) or Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant in Yu Garden.
Shengjianbao (生煎包)
$3–$8
Pan-fried buns with a crispy, golden-brown bottom, fluffy dough, and a juicy pork filling. They offer a delightful contrast in textures and a savory, satisfying bite.
Where to try: Yangchun Noodles (various locations, often found at street-side stalls) or Cai Feng Lou.
Hong Shao Rou (红烧肉)
$10–$25
Braised pork belly in a sweet and savory soy sauce glaze, often with rock sugar and Shaoxing wine. The melt-in-your-mouth texture and deep umami flavor are unforgettable.
Where to try: Home-style restaurants in the French Concession or traditional eateries like Shanghai Grandma's Home.
Scallion Oil Noodles (葱油拌面)
$2–$6
Simple yet incredibly flavorful noodles tossed with a fragrant oil infused with caramelized scallions. It's a testament to how humble ingredients can create magic.
Where to try: Local noodle shops in Jing'an district or street food vendors.
Hairy Crab (大闸蟹)
$20–$60
A seasonal delicacy (autumn months) famed for its sweet, rich roe and tender meat. Steamed whole and typically served with vinegar and ginger dip.
Where to try: Specialty seafood restaurants during autumn, such as Wuxing Ting or various stalls at local wet markets.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
French Concession
Chic and historic, with tree-lined streets housing a mix of traditional Shanghainese eateries, trendy cafes, and upscale international restaurants.
fine diningboutique cafeshistoric ambiance
Jing'an
Modern and bustling, known for its vibrant street food scene, popular local restaurants, and lively night markets offering a wide array of snacks.
street foodcasual diningnightlife
Yu Garden Area
Traditional and tourist-focused, this area offers a classic Shanghai experience with numerous tea houses and stalls selling local snacks and souvenirs.
traditional snackstea housessightseeing
Former Jewish Ghetto (Hongkou)
Historically rich with a developing food scene, offering authentic local flavors and a glimpse into Shanghai's diverse past.
authentic local foodhistorical explorationhidden gems
Dietary notes
Shanghainese cuisine is generally meat and seafood-heavy, particularly pork and freshwater fish. Vegetarian options can be found, often focusing on tofu and seasonal vegetables, but clear communication is essential. Gluten-free options are challenging due to soy sauce and wheat-based noodles being staples.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping is not customary and may even be seen as odd; service charges are often included.
- •Carry cash for smaller street food vendors, although mobile payment (Alipay/WeChat Pay) is dominant for most transactions.
- •It's polite to try a bit of everything offered to you, especially if you are a guest.
- •When dining at a communal table, wait for elders or the host to start eating before you begin.
- •Slurping noodles is acceptable and can indicate enjoyment of the meal.
Plan the rest of your Shanghai trip
Food guides elsewhere