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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
6 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Xiaolongbao (小笼包)
Delicate soup dumplings filled with pork and a rich, savory broth. They are a must-try for their unique texture and burst of flavor when bitten into.
Shengjianbao (生煎包)
Pan-fried buns with a crispy, golden-brown bottom, filled with juicy pork and scallions. The contrast between the soft, steamed top and the crunchy base is delightful.
Hongshao Rou (红烧肉)
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 iconic.
Hairy Crab (大闸蟹)
A seasonal delicacy (autumn), known for its rich, sweet roe and tender meat. Steamed whole and typically served with vinegar and ginger dip.
Scallion Oil Noodles (葱油拌面)
Simple yet incredibly flavorful noodles tossed with fragrant scallion-infused oil and soy sauce. A beloved comfort food.
Smoked Fish (熏鱼)
Thinly sliced, fried fish that is then marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, often with a hint of smokiness. It has a unique firm yet tender texture.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Historic and bustling, with narrow alleyways and traditional architecture.
Chic and leafy, with European-style buildings, boutiques, and a mix of upscale and casual dining.
Modern and cosmopolitan, with a mix of high-end shopping, business districts, and diverse culinary options.
Arts and crafts enclave with labyrinthine alleys filled with small shops, cafes, and eateries.
Dietary notes
Shanghainese cuisine often features pork and seafood, with a preference for sweet and savory flavors. While vegetarian options can be found, especially in Buddhist restaurants or by requesting modifications, many dishes are not inherently vegetarian or vegan. Gluten-free options may be limited due to the common use of soy sauce and wheat-based noodles.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping is not customary in China and can sometimes be seen as confusing or even offensive.
- •Carry cash, especially for smaller street food vendors or markets, though mobile payment apps are widely used by locals.
- •When dining, it's polite to try a bit of everything offered and avoid leaving excessive amounts of food on your plate.
- •Chopstick etiquette is important: do not stick them upright in rice bowls, use them to point, or drum them on bowls.
- •Meals are often communal affairs; wait for elders or hosts to start eating first.
Plan the rest of your Shanghai trip
Food guides elsewhere