Shanghai’s Legendary Dishes: What to Eat Like a Local

Shanghai is a city where tradition and modernity collide, and nowhere is this more evident than in its food scene. From sizzling street food to time-honored banquet dishes, the city offers a culinary adventure that reflects its rich history and cosmopolitan flair. If you want to eat like a true Shanghainese, here’s your ultimate guide to the must-try dishes and where to find them.

The Classics: Iconic Shanghainese Dishes

Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings)

No trip to Shanghai is complete without biting into a steaming xiaolongbao. These delicate soup dumplings are filled with pork (or sometimes crab) and a savory broth that bursts with flavor. The trick is to take a small bite first, sip the soup, then enjoy the rest.

Where to Try:
- Jia Jia Tang Bao (Huangpu District) – Known for its affordable yet high-quality dumplings.
- Din Tai Fung (Multiple Locations) – A global chain, but their xiaolongbao remains a crowd-pleaser.

Shengjianbao (Pan-Fried Pork Buns)

Unlike xiaolongbao, shengjianbao are thicker, pan-fried buns with a crispy bottom and juicy pork filling. They’re a breakfast staple, often enjoyed with a side of vinegar.

Where to Try:
- Yang’s Fry-Dumpling (Nanjing Road) – Famous for its crispy, flavorful buns.
- Da Hu Chun (Multiple Locations) – A local favorite since the 1930s.

Hongshao Rou (Braised Pork Belly)

This slow-cooked dish features tender pork belly glazed in a sweet and savory soy-based sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest, often served with steamed rice.

Where to Try:
- Old Jesse (Xuhui District) – A legendary spot for authentic Shanghainese home-style cooking.
- Fu 1088 (Jing’an District) – Upscale dining with a refined take on the dish.

Street Food Gems

Congyoubing (Scallion Pancakes)

Crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside, these scallion-infused pancakes are a beloved snack. Vendors often serve them fresh off the griddle.

Where to Try:
- A Da Congyoubing (Huangpu District) – A tiny stall with a cult following.
- Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street – Plenty of vendors offer this quick bite.

Chuanr (Skewers)

Though originally from Xinjiang, chuanr (lamb skewers) have become a Shanghai street food staple. They’re seasoned with cumin and chili for a smoky, spicy kick.

Where to Try:
- Yunnan Road Night Market – A hotspot for skewers and other late-night bites.
- Tianzifang – This artsy district has hidden skewer stalls worth discovering.

Modern Twists & Fusion Favorites

Crab Roe Noodles

A luxurious take on noodles, this dish features thick noodles tossed in rich crab roe sauce. It’s indulgent and deeply satisfying.

Where to Try:
- Hai Jin Zi (Huangpu District) – Specializes in crab-based dishes.
- Shanghai Uncle (Multiple Locations) – Offers a refined version of this classic.

Truffle xiaolongbao

For a modern twist, some restaurants now serve xiaolongbao infused with truffle oil, adding an earthy depth to the traditional flavor.

Where to Try:
- Crystal Jade (Xintiandi) – Known for its upscale dim sum.
- Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet – If you’re feeling extravagant, this avant-garde dining experience includes truffle dumplings.

Sweet Endings

Tangyuan (Glutinous Rice Balls)

These chewy dumplings are filled with black sesame or red bean paste and served in a sweet syrup. They’re a must-try during festivals but available year-round.

Where to Try:
- Nanjing Tangtuan (Nanjing Road) – Specializes in tangyuan with various fillings.
- Qiaojiashan (Old Town) – A historic dessert shop.

Egg Tarts

Influenced by Portuguese cuisine, Shanghai’s egg tarts feature flaky pastry and a creamy custard center.

Where to Try:
- Kee Club (Former French Concession) – High-end version with a silky texture.
- Lillian Bakery (Multiple Locations) – A local chain with consistently good tarts.

Where to Eat: Neighborhood Guide

The Bund & Nanjing Road

For a mix of high-end dining and street food, this area is perfect. Try M on the Bund for Western-Shanghai fusion or hit the side alleys for shengjianbao.

Tianzifang & Xintiandi

These trendy spots blend traditional flavors with modern aesthetics. Lost Heaven offers Yunnan-inspired dishes, while Xintiandi’s cafes serve creative desserts.

Old Town (Yu Garden)

The heart of old Shanghai, this area is packed with snack stalls. Don’t miss Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant, one of the oldest xiaolongbao spots in the city.

Former French Concession

A hub for cafes and bistros, this neighborhood also hides some of the best Shanghainese eateries. Fu 1039 serves elevated classics in a historic villa.

Tips for Eating Like a Local

• Go Early: Many famous spots sell out by midday.
• Embrace the Chaos: Some of the best food is found in cramped, noisy eateries.
• Learn a Few Phrases: "Zhège" (this one) and "Yí gè" (one) will help at street stalls.
• Follow the Crowds: If a place has a long line, it’s usually worth the wait.

Shanghai’s food scene is as dynamic as the city itself. Whether you’re slurping soup dumplings at dawn or savoring braised pork under neon lights, every bite tells a story.