Shanghai’s culinary scene is a mesmerizing fusion of tradition and innovation, where centuries-old recipes collide with bold, modern creativity. From sizzling street food to Michelin-starred masterpieces, the city offers unforgettable gastronomic adventures. Here are the must-try gourmet experiences that define Shanghai’s vibrant food culture.
1. Xiaolongbao Feast at Jia Jia Tang Bao
📍 Huangpu District | 💰 ¥30–¥50
- Why It’s Unmissable: These soup dumplings are Shanghainese icons, with delicate skins and rich, pork-and-crab-filled broth.
- Pro Tip: Go early (they sell out by noon) and pair with zhenjiang vinegar and ginger.
- Fun Fact: Each dumpling contains exactly 18 folds—a mark of craftsmanship.
2. Truffle Hairy Crab at Ultraviolet
📍 Huangpu District | 💰 ¥4,000+
- Why It’s Unmissable: Paul Pairet’s 22-course sensory spectacle includes a dish where hairy crab meets black truffle in a golden broth.
- Bonus: The “kitchen table” seats just 10, with immersive projections enhancing each course.
3. Late-Night Shengjianbao at Yang’s Fry-Dumpling
📍 Multiple Locations | 💰 ¥12/6 pieces
- Why It’s Unmissable: Crispy, pan-fried pork buns erupt with scalding soup—best eaten at 2 AM after a night out.
- Local Hack: Add a dash of Shanghai’s fiery chili oil for extra kick.
4. 10-Course Tea Pairing at Fu He Hui
📍 Xuhui District | 💰 ¥1,200–¥2,000
- Why It’s Unmissable: Michelin-starred Buddhist cuisine that turns tofu into “Peking duck” and mushrooms into “abalone.”
- Star Dish: Lotus root “noodles” with morel tea broth.
5. Huangpu River Dinner Cruise
📍 The Bund | 💰 ¥400–¥800
- Why It’s Unmissable: Sip champagne while gliding past Pudong’s neon skyline, feasting on drunken shrimp and steamed river fish.
- Best Boat: Captain Hook’s luxury yacht (private tables on deck).
6. Century Egg & Avocado Toast at Highline
📍 Huaihai Road | 💰 ¥80
- Why It’s Unmissable: A hipster twist on Chinese-Western fusion, where creamy century egg meets smashed avocado.
- Pair With: Their yuzu mimosa for brunch perfection.
7. DIY Hot Pot at Hai Di Lao
📍 Nationwide Chains | 💰 ¥150–¥300
- Why It’s Unmissable: Theatrical service (noodle dancers!) and customizable broths—try the Sichuan mala and tomato soups.
- Free Perks: Manicures while you wait; babysitting for kids.
8. Secret Omakase at Shintaro
📍 Jing’an District | 💰 ¥1,500
- Why It’s Unmissable: A hidden 8-seat counter where Japanese techniques highlight Shanghai’s seafood (like yellowtail with drunken plum).
- Reservation Rule: Message the chef on WeChat 1 month ahead.
9. Sugar-Painted Street Desserts at Yuyuan Bazaar
📍 Yuyuan Garden | 💰 ¥15
- Why It’s Unmissable: Watch artisans craft edible dragons from molten sugar—then snap a pic before devouring.
- Seasonal Alert: Winter brings sticky rice cakes with osmanthus syrup.
10. Baijiu Cocktails at Speak Low
📍 Xuhui District | 💰 ¥100/drink
- Why It’s Unmissable: A speakeasy ranked Asia’s Best Bar, where baijiu (Chinese liquor) gets remixed into lychee martinis.
- How to Enter: Push the “bookcase” in the fake Ocho tool shop.
Pro Tips for Foodie Explorers
- Learn These Phrases:
- “少辣” (shǎo là): “Less spicy.”
- “打包” (dǎ bāo): “To-go box.”
- WeChat Pay is king—few vendors accept cash.
- Dine Like a Local: Breakfast at 4 AM for the freshest you tiao (fried dough sticks).
Final Bite
Shanghai’s gourmet scene is a delicious paradox—equally rooted in lane-house breakfasts and space-age tasting menus. Whether you’re slurping noodles at dawn or savoring truffle-laced crab at midnight, every bite tells a story. Which experience will you try first?
