A Local’s Guide to Authentic Cuisine
12 Must-Try Foods in Shanghai
Shanghai is a food lover’s paradise, where you can dive into an endless variety of dishes that reflect both its rich local culinary traditions and international flair. Whether you’re craving traditional street food or gourmet delicacies, here’s a guide to the must-try eats that will leave your taste buds tingling.
Xiaolongbao (小笼包) – Soup Dumplings
Xiaolongbao is the undisputed king of Shanghai street food. These delicate steamed dumplings are filled with juicy pork or crab and packed with a burst of flavorful broth inside thin, tender skin. To eat them like a pro, nibble the top, sip the rich broth, and then savor the rest. You’ll find Xiaolongbao everywhere, from street vendors to high-end restaurants, but a classic spot is Nanxiang Mantou Dian in Yu Garden. For an extra treat, try the Crab Roe Xiaolongbao (蟹黄小笼包), where creamy crab roe adds a decadent twist that seafood lovers won’t want to miss!
Shengjianbao (生煎包) – Pan-Fried Soup Dumplings
While Xiaolongbao may be the most famous, Shengjianbao is another local dumpling you can’t miss. These pan-fried pork buns are crispy on the bottom, fluffy on top, and filled with a hot, savory soup inside. Typically served with a sprinkling of sesame seeds and green onions, they’re a hearty snack or even a full meal. The crispy-soft texture combo makes it a perfect street food treat to grab on the go.
Pork Ribs with Rice Cakes
(排骨年糕)
One of Shanghai’s most beloved dishes is Pork Ribs with Rice Cakes. The tender ribs are typically braised in a savory, slightly sweet sauce, and the soft, chewy rice cakes soak up all the delicious flavors. This comforting dish is a perfect balance of savory and sweet, and you’ll find it in casual eateries and street stalls across the city.
Scallion Oil Noodles
(葱油拌面)
Growing up, I loved starting my day with Scallion Oil Noodles. Made with just a few simple ingredients—thin wheat noodles, scallion oil, and soy sauce—this dish delivers surprising depth of flavor. The crispy fried scallions are the star of the show, infusing the noodles with a savory aroma that’s hard to resist. It’s a comforting, no-frills meal you’ll find in cozy noodle joints across the city.
Crab Roe Noodles
(蟹黄面)
Crab Roe Noodles are a luxurious treat that takes noodle dishes to the next level. This dish features tender noodles generously coated in a rich, velvety crab roe sauce. The sauce is made from the creamy, flavorful roe of crabs, which brings a deep, oceanic taste that’s both indulgent and satisfying. The dish is often garnished with delicate crab meat and fresh herbs, adding layers of texture and taste. Whether you’re indulging in a fancy seafood restaurant or a popular noodle spot in Shanghai, Crab Roe Noodles give you a taste of local elegance that’s hard to forget.
Eight Treasures Rice
(八宝饭)
Eight Treasures Rice is a classic dessert made with glutinous rice, dried fruits, nuts, and sweet red bean paste. Each “treasure” represents a different ingredient, and the rice is steamed to a soft, sticky consistency. The dish is often served during festive occasions but is widely available in traditional restaurants. Its combination of chewy, sweet, and fruity flavors is a unique end to a Shanghai meal.
Hairy Crab (大闸蟹) – A Seasonal Delicacy
Come autumn, it’s all about the Hairy Crab in Shanghai. These freshwater crabs are known for their sweet, delicate meat and rich, buttery roe. Locals enjoy them steamed and served with a simple vinegar and ginger dipping sauce. The crab season typically peaks from October to November, making it a must-try if you’re in town during these months. Eating Hairy Crab can get a bit messy—it may take some practice to crack them open like a local, but it’s worth every bite!
Red Braised Pork
(红烧肉)
Another dish Shanghai is famous for is Hongshao Rou, or red-braised pork. This dish features succulent cubes of pork belly braised in a soy sauce and sugar mixture until they’re melt-in-your-mouth tender. The sauce is rich and sticky, and the pork has just the right amount of fat to give it a luscious, satisfying bite. It’s often served with steamed rice to soak up the sauce and is a staple on family dinner tables as well as in local restaurants.
Shanghai Radish Fritters
(油墩子)
After school, I used to head straight for the sidewalk vendors to grab a piping hot Radish Fritter. Imagine tempura, but the Shanghai way—these deep-fried radish fritters are golden, crispy, and packed with flavor. Biting into one brings back memories of that perfectly crunchy exterior and soft, savory middle. It’s the kind of street snack that transports me back to childhood with every bite.
Butterfly Pastry
(蝴蝶酥)
Butterfly Pastry is the kind of snack that instantly puts a smile on your face. Shaped like a butterfly and made from layers of flaky, buttery puff pastry, this treat is crispy, light, and just sweet enough. Perfect for munching while you explore the city or with a coffee at a local café, they’re a light, satisfying treat that feels like a hug in pastry form.
Rice Flour Cake
(条头糕)
If you’re in the mood for something soft, chewy, and a little sweet, Rice Flour Cake is the perfect choice. This steamed rice cake has a delicate texture that makes it incredibly comforting, often topped with red bean or infused with the floral notes of osmanthus. It’s a nostalgic treat that brings comfort in every bite, perfect for a midday snack or dessert.
Scallion pancakes
(葱油饼)
Craving something savory with a crispy edge? Scallion pancakes are the ultimate comfort street food in Shanghai. These golden, flaky pancakes are packed with fragrant scallions and have just the right amount of crunch. Whether you grab one on the go or sit down for a quick snack, these pancakes are a Shanghai staple you won’t want to miss.
Explore the World Through Shanghai’s Diverse Food Scene
Shanghai’s local dishes are just the beginning! As a global city, Shanghai offers a world of flavors beyond its famous dumplings and noodles. Whether you’re craving spicy Sichuan hotpot, fresh sushi, or comforting Italian pasta, you’ll find it all here. The city’s food scene is a playground for food lovers, with endless options from every corner of the globe. So bring your appetite and get ready to eat your way through Shanghai!
Hotpot
Try authentic Chongqing hotpot, where you can dip a variety of meats, seafood, and veggies into a spicy, numbing broth. The communal dining experience is perfect for groups of friends or family.
Japanese Ramen
For a bowl of comfort, visit one of Shanghai’s top ramen spots, where you can slurp up rich broth and perfectly chewy noodles.
Western Cuisine
Craving pizza or pasta? Shanghai’s international dining scene has you covered, offering everything from high-end Italian, French, and American-style restaurants to familiar fast-food chains, all scattered across the city.
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