A Food Lover’s Guide to Shanghai: 15 Dishes You Can’t Skip
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Shanghai is a city where East meets West, tradition blends with modernity, and every meal feels like an adventure. From sizzling street food to elegant banquet dishes, the culinary scene here is as diverse as the city itself. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will take you through 15 must-try dishes that define Shanghai’s food culture.
No trip to Shanghai is complete without biting into a steaming xiaolongbao. These delicate soup dumplings are filled with pork (or crab, if you’re feeling fancy) and a burst of rich broth. Head to Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant or Din Tai Fung for the best versions.
Crispy on the bottom, fluffy on top, and oozing with juicy pork, shengjianbao are a street food staple. Try them at Yang’s Fry-Dumpling—just be careful with that first bite!
A seasonal delicacy (best in autumn), these crabs are prized for their rich roe. Pair them with ginger-infused vinegar for the full experience.
This breakfast favorite is a crispy crepe stuffed with egg, scallions, cilantro, and a crunchy you tiao (fried dough). Find it at any morning street stall.
Influenced by Sichuan cuisine, these skewered meats and veggies are grilled and coated in numbing mala spice. Perfect for late-night snacking.
Flaky, chewy, and packed with scallions, these pancakes are a simple yet addictive street snack.
Thick, chewy noodles stir-fried with pork, spinach, and soy sauce—this is comfort food at its finest.
Slow-cooked in soy sauce and sugar, this melt-in-your-mouth dish is often served over rice.
A minimalist masterpiece: springy noodles tossed in fragrant scallion oil.
Skewered fruits coated in shiny sugar syrup—a nostalgic snack that’s equal parts sweet and tart.
These delicate, slightly sweet cakes are a traditional dessert, often served with tea.
For a luxe twist on the classic, try the truffle-infused dumplings at Ultraviolet.
High-end spots like Fu 1088 elevate the humble pan-fried bun with foie gras.
A savory, pan-fried cake made with shredded radish and rice flour. Often found in dim sum spots.
A lesser-known but unforgettable dish—crispy crab tossed in buttery, garlicky sauce.
Shanghai’s food scene is a journey through flavors, textures, and traditions. Whether you’re slurping soup dumplings or nibbling on candied fruits, every bite tells a story. So grab your chopsticks and dig in—the city’s culinary wonders are waiting.
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Author: Shanghai Travel
Source: Shanghai Travel
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