Shanghai is a bustling metropolis known for its blend of old-world charm and modern flair. One of the best ways to experience the city's unique culture is through its food. Shanghai’s street food scene is a delicious representation of its rich culinary heritage, offering everything from savory dumplings to sweet snacks. The city has a number of food streets where locals and tourists alike gather to indulge in mouthwatering delicacies. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to explore the local flavors, Shanghai’s food streets are a must-visit.
Wujiang Road is one of the most famous food streets in Shanghai, known for its lively atmosphere and a wide range of local snacks. Located in the bustling downtown area near Nanjing Road, this food street is a haven for those looking to dive into the authentic tastes of Shanghai.
This street is lined with numerous food stalls and small restaurants offering local favorites. From the famous "xiaolongbao" (steamed dumplings) to fried dumplings, noodles, and grilled skewers, Wujiang Road has something to satisfy every craving. One of the highlights of this street is the "shengjianbao," which are pan-fried dumplings with crispy bottoms and a juicy filling of pork or other meats. The street is also a great place to try Shanghai’s famous "chou doufu" (stinky tofu), a local delicacy that might be an acquired taste but is beloved by many.
If you’re a fan of seafood, Wujiang Road also has a variety of seafood stalls serving dishes like "geoduck" and "crab soup dumplings." The street food vendors here offer high-quality ingredients with delicious flavors, making it a perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culinary scene.
Located in the heart of Shanghai, Yunnan Road is another popular destination for food lovers. This vibrant street is filled with food stalls and small restaurants serving up a variety of traditional and contemporary dishes. One of the best things about Yunnan Road is its diversity, offering a mix of both Shanghai-style snacks and flavors from other regions of China.
The food street is particularly famous for its skewers, often referred to as "chuan chuan" in Chinese. Skewered meats such as lamb, chicken, and beef are grilled and served with a range of seasonings and dipping sauces. If you’re in the mood for something more filling, Yunnan Road also offers dishes like "jiaos" (dumplings), "noodles," and even "hot pots."
A special treat on Yunnan Road is "lu rou fan" (braised pork rice), a popular dish from Taiwan that has become a beloved staple in Shanghai. The street is also home to various bubble tea shops, providing the perfect sweet ending to a savory meal.
Tianzifang is a charming arts and crafts neighborhood in the French Concession area of Shanghai, known for its narrow alleys, unique shops, and vibrant food scene. This street is a blend of traditional and modern Shanghai, with historic buildings housing quirky cafes, boutique shops, and small restaurants serving up some of the best street food in the city.
The food here is a mix of Shanghai-style snacks and international flavors, with local dishes like "chao shou" (dumplings in spicy broth), "huoguo" (hot pot), and "jia chang cai" (home-style dishes) being particularly popular. Tianzifang is also famous for its "xiao long bao," which are steamed dumplings filled with soup and meat, and "gua bao" (steamed buns filled with braised pork), both of which are popular in Shanghai’s street food culture.
For those who enjoy a sweet treat, Tianzifang offers plenty of options, from traditional Chinese pastries to European-style cakes and desserts. It’s the perfect place to wander around while sampling the different foods from a variety of cultures.
If you’ve ever been to Shanghai, you’ve likely heard of "xiaolongbao" — the city’s signature soup dumplings. For the best of these savory treats, head to Nanxiang Steamed Bun Street, located in the historic district of Old Shanghai.
Nanxiang is the birthplace of the famous "xiaolongbao," and the street has become a haven for food lovers looking to taste the real deal. The small shops here specialize in the delicate art of making xiaolongbao, where the dumplings are filled with a savory broth and pork filling that bursts with flavor when you take a bite. Many of the shops offer fresh and hot xiaolongbao, with a long line of locals and tourists waiting to get their hands on these delicious dumplings.
Besides xiaolongbao, Nanxiang Steamed Bun Street also offers other Shanghai street food delicacies, such as "shengjianbao" (pan-fried dumplings), "baozi" (steamed buns), and "cong you bing" (scallion pancakes). This street is a must-visit for any food lover traveling to Shanghai.
Nanjing Road East is one of Shanghai’s busiest shopping streets, but it’s also home to a variety of street food stalls offering some of the city’s best snacks. While the area is primarily known for its high-end shops and department stores, the food scene on Nanjing Road is equally impressive.
Along this bustling road, you’ll find plenty of street food vendors selling popular snacks like "jianbing" (Chinese savory crepes), "chou doufu" (stinky tofu), and "taiyaki" (Japanese fish-shaped pastries filled with sweet red bean paste). The street is also home to numerous dessert shops where you can indulge in sweet treats like "mango pudding," "egg tarts," and "bubble tea."
For those who enjoy the traditional flavors of Shanghai, Nanjing Road East also features a number of eateries serving "shanghai cai" (Shanghai-style cuisine), including braised pork belly and shrimp dumplings.
Hengshan Road is a popular food street located in the Xuhui district of Shanghai, offering a mix of local delicacies and international cuisines. This street has a lively and bustling atmosphere, with cafes, bistros, and food stalls lining the street.
Here, you’ll find many of Shanghai’s famous street foods like "baked sweet potatoes," "xiaolongbao," and "shanghai crab." For those looking for a quick snack, there are plenty of food carts selling everything from fried chicken to dumplings. Hengshan Road is also known for its international food offerings, such as French pastries, Italian pizzas, and Korean barbecue.
One of the unique features of Hengshan Road is its fusion of Chinese and Western cuisines, making it an exciting place for adventurous eaters looking to try something new. It’s also a popular spot for nightlife, with plenty of bars and restaurants serving drinks and light bites until late at night.
Dongtai Road is not only famous for its antique market but also for its street food scene. Located in the Old City area of Shanghai, this market is a great place to explore the city’s rich history and enjoy some of the best local snacks. The area is home to many food stalls selling both traditional Shanghai street food and snacks from other regions of China.
Some of the must-try dishes on Dongtai Road include "chao shou" (spicy dumplings), "guo bao" (fried rice), and "shao kao" (barbecue skewers). For those with a sweet tooth, you can enjoy traditional desserts like "tang yuan" (sweet rice balls) and "zongzi" (sticky rice wrapped in leaves).
While strolling through the antique market, you’ll also encounter various traditional snacks like "baozi" (steamed buns) and "tang hu lu" (candied fruit skewers), making it the perfect spot to grab a quick bite while exploring Shanghai’s history and culture.
Shanghai’s food streets offer a unique and immersive experience, giving visitors the chance to taste the local flavors and indulge in the city’s culinary culture. Whether you’re savoring xiaolongbao on Wujiang Road or enjoying seafood on Yunnan Road, these vibrant food streets are an essential part of your Shanghai experience. So, next time you’re in Shanghai, be sure to explore these food streets and enjoy the diverse and delicious offerings the city has to offer.