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Have you ever tasted the iconic dishes of Shanghai? Discover the unique flavors of Shanghai and immerse yourself in the culinary culture of one of China's most luxurious cities.
Situated at the mouth of the Huangpu River and south of the Yangtze River, Shanghai draws culinary influences from neighboring regions like Hangzhou and Zhejiang, creating dishes that are both distinctive and rich in regional flavors.
When visiting the glamorous city of Shanghai, food lovers get a chance to experience the ancient culture and indulge in local dishes. From the sweet, rich Xiao Long Bao to aromatic bowls of scallion oil noodles, each dish represents a unique aspect of this vibrant city.
Join Mytour to explore these Shanghai specialties and prepare for an unforgettable culinary journey!
1. Soup Dumplings - Xiao Long Bao - In Shanghai
If you're a food lover, you've probably heard of Xiao Long Bao – the legendary soup dumplings of Shanghai. These dumplings have a delicate, silky wrapper, carefully crafted to hold a savory meat filling and steaming hot broth that bursts with flavor with every bite.
Originally from Suzhou, a suburb of Shanghai, Xiao Long Bao is traditionally served in a bamboo steamer. For the best experience, dip the dumplings into a ginger-infused vinegar sauce to enhance the flavor and cool down the heat. Then, gently bite into the dumpling to sip the hot broth before enjoying the whole dumpling.
When in Shanghai, don't miss Jia Jia Tang Bao on Huanghe Road to taste authentic Xiao Long Bao starting at just 20 RMB. Or visit Din Tai Fung, the restaurant chain that has helped make this dish a global culinary icon.
2. Sheng Jian Bao - A Delicious Shanghai Breakfast Dish
There's nothing more satisfying for breakfast in Shanghai than the golden, crispy Sheng Jian Bao, which is irresistible from the moment you set eyes on it. Originating from Suzhou, these pan-fried buns offer a completely different flavor experience.
The frying process is quite special: the buns are tightly packed into a large pan, where the bottom is fried to a crisp golden brown, then water is added to steam the top. The result is a crunchy bottom and tender, sweet meat filling, topped with a sprinkle of green onions and sesame seeds, creating an enjoyable bite from start to finish.
Here's a local favorite for fried baozi: Xiao Yang Sheng Jian on Nanjing Road. Prices range from 60 to 100 yuan per portion, guaranteeing a hearty, satisfying breakfast that will kickstart your day.
3. Guo Tie – A Delicious Fried Dumpling Snack in Shanghai
Guo Tie, also known as "potstickers" in English, are a crispy fried version of the Jiaozi dumplings, shaped similarly to wontons. This popular street food in Shanghai features a thin dough wrapped around a filling of minced pork, spring onions, cabbage, seasoned with ginger, Shaoxing wine, and sesame oil.
Vendors arrange the dumplings in a large round pan, frying hundreds at once, filling the street with a tantalizing aroma. Diners typically enjoy them fresh, savoring the crispy, rich flavor of each dumpling. Alternatively, you can pair your Guo Tie with beef soup for a lighter taste. When in Shanghai, don't miss out on trying Guo Tie at Peng Yuan Guo Tie, with prices ranging from 20 to 30 yuan per serving, offering great value for such a delicious treat.
4. Cold Eel Noodles with Ginger Sauce – A Unique Shanghai Delight
Cold eel noodles, or Shansi Leng Mian, is a must-try specialty for any visitor to Shanghai. The dish is served in two separate parts: cold noodles and hot eel. The noodles are thin, slightly flattened, and chewy, topped with a light vinegar layer underneath and a rich sesame sauce on top. The eel is stir-fried in soy sauce and ginger, giving it a deep, sweet flavor.
Tourists can either mix the ingredients together or enjoy each part separately, depending on their preference. The cold, chewy noodles blend perfectly with the rich, fatty eel, creating a unique texture that is particularly appealing to discerning food lovers. In Shanghai, Lao Difang, a small eatery famous for its eel noodles, is a must-visit. It operates from 11 AM to 2 PM, and the dish costs around 40 - 50 CNY. Be sure to arrive early as seating is quite limited.
5. Shanghai-Style Scallion Oil Noodles
Shanghai is renowned for its variety of famous noodle dishes, one of which is the scallion oil noodles (Cong You Ban Mian). The hand-pulled noodles are quickly boiled and then cooled to room temperature, before being tossed in a fragrant scallion oil, soy sauce, and brown sugar, creating a shiny coating on each strand of noodle.
The highlight of the dish is the crispy, golden caramelized scallions that serve as a topping. Simply mix the noodles thoroughly and enjoy the savory-sweet taste of soy sauce, the rich oil flavor, and the aromatic scallions. If desired, a touch of black vinegar can be added to introduce a mild sourness, balancing the overall taste.
A popular spot for the locals to enjoy these noodles is the Shanghainese restaurant Jianguo, or sometimes upscale restaurants serve this dish at the end of a meal, priced at around 30 - 40 CNY.
6. Shanghai-Style Braised Pork
If you're a fan of Chinese cuisine, you've probably heard of Hong Shao Rou, a classic Shanghai-style braised pork. The pork belly is simmered in soy sauce, rice wine, and a variety of spices, creating a rich, glossy 'cockroach wing' color and a decadent, savory flavor.
Each piece of meat perfectly balances lean and fatty portions, offering a taste that is not greasy but instead, incredibly fragrant. The key to a great braise is cooking it slowly, allowing the sauce to soak into each strand of meat, making it tender and melt-in-your-mouth. In China, Hong Shao Rou is often paired with hot rice, boiled eggs, or leafy greens. For a true Shanghai experience, Jesse Restaurant is the perfect place to try this dish, with a special recipe priced around 270 CNY per person.
7. Eight-Spice Stewed Duck - A Nourishing Shanghai Specialty
Eight-Spice Stewed Duck is a revered traditional delicacy from Shanghai, captivating with its complex flavors and meticulous preparation. The phrase 'eight treasures' in the name symbolizes wealth and luck, with 'eight' representing the eight ingredients stuffed inside the duck. These include bamboo shoots, dried scallops, glutinous rice, minced pork, shiitake mushrooms, various nuts, chestnuts, and duck giblets.
Once stuffed, the duck is crisped to a golden brown and then simmered in a broth made from duck bones, bamboo shoots, and ginger for about 90 minutes, until it becomes tender and infused with flavors. The final dish features a shiny brown skin, soft meat, and a mouthwatering fragrance. If you're ever in Shanghai, be sure to try this dish at Lao Beijing Restaurant or Jade Garden, where a serving will cost around 180-250 CNY. You won't be disappointed!
8. Shanghai-Style Grilled Skewers - Shaokao
The fragrant grilled Shaokao skewers with rich spices have made many food lovers 'addicted' from the very first bite. Besides grilled meat, there are also Shaokao skewers made from seafood and vegetables, all threaded onto bamboo sticks and grilled over hot coals. The characteristic spicy flavor of Shaokao mainly comes from the pepper, chili powder, and cumin.
Notably, visitors also have the chance to try lamb skewers from the Xinjiang region (yangrou chuan). Each piece of lean meat is coated with a rich seasoning blend, interspersed with fat, making the skewers tender, sweet, and rich. Shaokao skewers can easily be found at night markets or in the Changde Lu area. Prices range from 5-15 yuan per skewer, depending on the type, making it a great option for a delicious snack in the bustling streets of Shanghai.
9. Spicy Malatang Hotpot - A Great Dish for Groups in Shanghai
Malatang, also known as 'spicy and numbing hotpot', originally from Sichuan, has become a popular dish in Shanghai, especially during chilly days. The term 'Mala' refers to the combination of Sichuan pepper and red chili, creating a numbing and spicy sensation that is both bold and stimulating.
Despite its intense spiciness that can leave you 'numb', Malatang hotpot continues to attract spice lovers from around the world. Malatang hotpot restaurants allow diners to select from a wide variety of ingredients, including noodles, tofu, meatballs, vegetables, and seafood. In addition to the famous Hai Di Lao hotpot chain, many eateries in central Shanghai offer authentic Malatang, with prices ranging from 20-50 yuan for a pot. Definitely worth trying!
10. Steamed Hairy Crab with Black Vinegar, a Shanghai Specialty
As autumn transitions into winter, Shanghai becomes vibrant with the arrival of the renowned hairy crab (Da Zha Xie), captivating the palates of discerning food lovers. This crab variety is primarily harvested from Lake Yangcheng in Jiangsu Province, an area with an ideal natural environment for crabs to thrive.
The hairy crabs are usually tightly bound with string, placed in wicker baskets, and steamed to perfection. With minimal seasoning, a bit of black vinegar and a few slices of ginger for dipping are enough to bring out their exquisite flavor. Male crabs are known for their plump meat, while the female crabs boast a rich, flavorful roe in vibrant orange. A serving of hairy crab typically costs between 300-400 CNY, and a visit to Xinguang Jiu Jia restaurant is perfect for enjoying this dish with family and friends during the winter season.
11. Spicy, Fragrant Smoked Fish, Shanghai Style
Shanghai-style smoked fish (xūn yú) stands out for its deep, rich flavor and unique preparation method. Though called 'smoked fish,' this dish doesn't go through the traditional smoking process. Instead, chefs typically use fresh carp, marinated in distinctive spices, then deep-fried to a crispy texture, keeping the inside of the fish tender and sweet.
The dish’s highlight is its delicate balance of mild spiciness and aromatic fragrance, which sets it apart from typical fish dishes. It’s a perfect choice for those who enjoy bold, spicy flavors combined with a hint of sweetness, offering a refreshing experience with each bite.
A great spot for a Shanghai dinner is Fu 1039, located on Yuyuan Road, where you can enjoy a serving of smoked fish for approximately 300 CNY.
12. Bánh Tẩm Hành Chiên Giòn Kiểu Thượng Hải
Không cần xa hoa, một chiếc bánh hành chiên (Cong You Bing) nhỏ bé cũng đủ khiến bất cứ ai phải quay lại với Thượng Hải thêm nhiều lần nữa. Món bánh có vẻ ngoài vàng rụm hấp dẫn, bên trong là lớp bột mềm xốp, đan xen mùi thơm nồng của hành lá và vị béo ngậy của dầu.
Để làm ra chiếc bánh hành đúng điệu, người đầu bếp nhào bột, thêm hành lá và dầu rồi cuộn tròn, áp chảo trên lửa lớn cho đến khi lớp vỏ ngoài giòn rụm nhưng bên trong vẫn giữ được độ mềm mại. Thực khách có thể tận hưởng bánh hành vào bất cứ thời điểm nào trong ngày, với nước tương pha giấm hoặc thêm chút ớt để tăng thêm phần đậm đà.
Các địa chỉ bán bánh hành chiên Thượng Hải ngon nổi bật bao gồm: Xiao Yang Zhou (644 Fengyang Lu), Tilanqiao (328 Xikang Lu) với mức giá khoảng 7 CNY/chiếc.
13. Bánh Mai Cua Vàng Kiểu Thượng Hải
Đúng như tên gọi, lớp vỏ bánh có màu vàng óng ánh như mai của con cua nướng chín, mang vẻ ngoài giòn tan với hương thơm hấp dẫn của mè rang. Phần nhân của bánh được làm từ bốn nguyên liệu chính là rau dền, dầu hẹ, đường, và bột đậu, tạo nên sự cân bằng giữa vị ngọt thanh nhẹ và vị mặn vừa phải.
Món bánh này có cả hai phiên bản ngọt và mặn, phù hợp với khẩu vị đa dạng của thực khách. Phiên bản ngọt có hương hoa hồng và táo tàu, kết hợp cùng nhân bột đậu đỏ ngọt dịu. Trong khi đó, phiên bản mặn thường được làm từ thịt lợn thái hạt lựu, bột cua, và tôm.
Các tiệm ăn vặt trên phố Chenghuangmiao hay chợ Yuyuan đều có bán bánh mai cua vàng. Giá của mỗi chiếc bánh dao động từ 10 đến 15 tệ, một mức giá hợp lý cho một món ăn nhẹ vào buổi chiều.
14. Bánh Gạo Sườn - Món Ăn Đường Phố Đặc Sản Thượng Hải
Nếu đã đến Thượng Hải, chắc chắn bạn nên thử món bánh gạo sườn – một món ăn đường phố có lịch sử hơn 50 năm của người dân địa phương. Bánh gạo được cắt lát mỏng, dai nhẹ, kết hợp với miếng sườn heo được chiên giòn, tất cả hòa quyện trong nước sốt cay ngọt đậm đà, để lại ấn tượng vị giác khó quên.
Món này có giá trị dinh dưỡng cao, giúp bổ máu và tăng cường sức khỏe. Sườn được tẩm ướp gia vị đặc trưng của Thượng Hải như dầu mè, mắm, gừng, trước khi xào cùng bánh gạo. Món ăn này thường xuất hiện trong các bữa ăn gia đình, đặc biệt vào mỗi dịp tụ họp đông vui.
Ở Thượng Hải có hai nhà hàng nổi danh với món bánh gạo sườn chuẩn vị, đó là Shuguang và Xian De Lai. Một phần ăn có giá khoảng 40-60 tệ, xứng đáng cho trải nghiệm ẩm thực truyền thống của Thượng Hải.
15. Shanghai-Style Tangyuan (Sweet Glutinous Rice Balls)
During the Lantern Festival in China, there’s nothing more meaningful than savoring a bowl of sweet Tangyuan. Shaped into perfect spheres, each Tangyuan represents completeness and happiness in the family.
When eating Tangyuan, the chewy glutinous rice dough delights the senses, complemented by the sweet, melting black sesame filling or the savory peanut flavor. The clear broth has a delicate sweetness, making this dish a warm comfort on chilly days. In Shanghai, locals have even created a savory version with meat, offering a unique twist for the holiday season.
Whether on a regular day or during a festival, you can enjoy a bowl of hot Tangyuan at Shengxing or Dian Shi Zhai, with prices ranging from 15-25 CNY per bowl, capturing the essence of Chinese culinary culture.
Shanghai cuisine is renowned for its diversity and rich flavors, from delicate dim sum to savory street food, all of which enchant food lovers. Every signature dish embodies a unique cultural touch, blending traditional flavors with creative flair.
If you're a fan of Asian cuisine, don't miss out on fascinating blogs from Mytour, such as: 25 Chinese Specialties You Must Try Once in Your Life, 18 Hong Kong Dishes You Must Try Cantonese Cuisine, 15 Dishes in Taipei You Must Try, 15 Taiwanese Specialties You Have to Try, 10 Shanghai Tourist Spots You Can’t Miss, Shanghai 5-Day 4-Night Itinerary Latest, Detailed Shanghai Travel Guide China, How to Apply for a Chinese Tourist Visa Updated 2024.
Start planning your upcoming 'food tour' of Shanghai's famous specialties now!
