Shanghai Food Tour: A Guide to Seasonal Specialties

Shanghai is a city that thrives on its culinary diversity, blending traditional flavors with modern innovation. A food tour here isn’t just about eating—it’s about experiencing the rhythm of the seasons. From spring’s delicate bamboo shoots to winter’s hearty stews, each season brings its own must-try dishes. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will help you navigate Shanghai’s seasonal specialties like a local.

Spring: Fresh and Vibrant Flavors

As the city shakes off winter’s chill, Shanghai’s spring cuisine celebrates renewal with light, fresh ingredients. Markets burst with seasonal produce, and restaurants update their menus to highlight the best of the season.

Must-Try Spring Dishes

1. Chun Juan (Spring Rolls)
   Crispy on the outside and stuffed with tender bamboo shoots, mushrooms, and pork, these fried rolls are a staple during Qingming Festival. Pair them with a light vinegar dip for balance.

2. Qingtuan (Green Rice Balls)
   These sticky, sweet dumplings get their vibrant color from mugwort juice and are filled with red bean paste. They’re a symbolic treat for the season.

3. Stir-Fried Bamboo Shoots
   Tender and slightly sweet, bamboo shoots are a spring delicacy. Try them simply stir-fried with soy sauce or in a savory soup.

Where to Eat

• Nanjing Road’s seasonal pop-ups: Look for vendors selling fresh qingtuan.
• Old Jesse (天平路店): A legendary spot for Shanghainese classics, including spring rolls.

Summer: Cooling and Refreshing Bites

Shanghai summers are hot and humid, so the cuisine shifts toward cooling, hydrating dishes. Expect lots of chilled noodles, soups, and desserts to beat the heat.

Must-Try Summer Dishes

1. Liangmian (Cold Noodles)
   Wheat noodles tossed in a sesame-peanut sauce with shredded cucumber and carrots. A street food favorite.

2. Drunken Chicken
   Poached chicken marinated in Shaoxing wine—served cold with a fragrant, slightly boozy kick.

3. Shaved Ice with Sweet Toppings
   From mango to red bean, this Taiwanese-inspired dessert is everywhere in summer.

Where to Eat

• Xiaoyang Shengjian (小杨生煎): Beyond soup dumplings, their summer noodle specials are a hit.
• Hai Di Lao Hot Pot: Yes, even hot pot chains offer summer-friendly cold dishes.

Autumn: Rich and Earthy Comforts

Autumn is Shanghai’s most indulgent season, with crab feasts, mooncakes, and slow-braised meats taking center stage.

Must-Try Autumn Dishes

1. Hairy Crab (Da Zha Xie)
   A luxury reserved for fall, these crabs are prized for their roe. Steam them and dip the meat in ginger-vinegar sauce.

2. Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou)
   Glossy, caramelized, and melt-in-your-mouth—this is Shanghainese comfort food at its finest.

3. Mooncakes
   During Mid-Autumn Festival, bakeries overflow with these pastries. Try the savory "xian rou" (meat-filled) version for a local twist.

Where to Eat

• Lost Heaven (The Bund): Their Yunnan-inspired crab dishes are a creative take on the classic.
• Wang Bao He (九江路): A historic spot for hairy crab banquets.

Winter: Hearty and Warming Delights

When temperatures drop, Shanghainese food turns hearty and aromatic. Think hot pots, soups, and sticky-sweet treats.

Must-Try Winter Dishes

1. Hot Pot
   Customize your broth (spicy or herbal) and dunk everything from thinly sliced lamb to tofu skins.

2. Lion’s Head Meatballs
   Oversized pork meatballs simmered in a clay pot with cabbage—a winter staple.

3. Tangyuan (Sweet Rice Balls)
   Served in ginger syrup, these glutinous dumplings symbolize reunion during Dongzhi Festival.

Where to Eat

• Da Dong Roast Duck: Their winter hot pot set menus are legendary.
• Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant: Warm up with xiaolongbao and hot soy milk.

Pro Tips for Your Food Tour

• Follow the Festivals: Time your visit around Qingming, Mid-Autumn, or Chinese New Year for seasonal exclusives.
• Street Food Safely: Stick to busy vendors with high turnover for the freshest bites.
• Learn Key Phrases: "Zhège shì shénme?" ("What is this?") will earn you smiles at local stalls.

Shanghai’s food scene is a year-round adventure—so come hungry, and let the seasons guide your palate.