Shanghai, a vibrant metropolis teeming with culinary delights, offers a diverse range of food experiences. This guide delves into the heart of Shanghai cuisine, also known as Benbang Cai (本帮菜), offering a comprehensive overview of must-try dishes and where to find them. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a first-time visitor, this culinary tour will equip you to navigate the city’s gastronomic landscape and savor the authentic flavors of Shanghai.
Navigating Shanghai’s Food Scene: Beyond the Tourist Traps
While exploring a new city, the allure of tourist hotspots is undeniable. However, venturing beyond these well-trodden paths often leads to the discovery of truly authentic culinary treasures. In Shanghai, this means steering clear of areas like Yuyuan (豫园), Yunnan Lu (云南路), and Nanjing Lu (南京路), which often cater to tourists with less emphasis on quality. Instead, embrace the local experience by seeking out hidden gems tucked away in less-trafficked neighborhoods.
A Shanghai Food Journey: From Breakfast to Dinner and Beyond
This guide breaks down the Shanghai Food experience into distinct categories, ensuring you have a comprehensive understanding of what to eat and when.
Starting Your Day the Shanghai Way: Breakfast
Begin your day with a quintessential Shanghai breakfast experience by visiting one of the city’s numerous breakfast markets. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and sample local favorites like Sheng Jian Bao (生煎包), pan-fried pork buns, or Xiao Long Bao (小笼包), steamed soup dumplings. For a deeper dive into Shanghai breakfast culture, refer to our dedicated post: Shanghai Breakfast Club, How to Eat like a Local.
Lunchtime Delights: Authentic Shanghai Flavors
Lunch in Shanghai offers a plethora of options, from quick bites to sit-down meals. This guide highlights some must-try dishes for a truly authentic lunchtime experience:
1. Sheng Jian Bao (生煎包): Pan-Fried Pork Buns
These delectable buns, with their chewy texture and crispy bottom, are filled with flavorful pork bone soup. A popular spot to enjoy Sheng Jian Bao is Xiao Yang Sheng Jian (小杨生煎), a chain restaurant with various locations across the city. For a homemade experience, try our recipe!
2. Xiao Long Bao (小笼包): Steamed Shanghai Soup Dumplings
These delicate dumplings, filled with savory ground pork and soup, are a Shanghai staple. Din Tai Fung (鼎泰丰) is a renowned establishment for Xiao Long Bao, offering various fillings to suit different palates. You can also recreate this dish at home with our Shanghai Soup Dumpling Recipe.
3. Xiao Hun Tun (小馄饨): Shanghai Wonton Soup
A beloved comfort food, Shanghai Wonton Soup features delicate wontons in a flavorful broth. 弄堂小馄饨食府 at #714 Wei Hai Road is a highly recommended local favorite. Remember to use thin wonton wrappers for an authentic experience. Our Shanghai wonton soup recipe provides a step-by-step guide for recreating this dish.
4. Shanghai Chao Nian Gao (上海炒年糕): Shanghai Rice Cake Stir-fry
This dish showcases the unique flavor of shepherd’s purse (荠菜), a leafy green popular in Shanghai cuisine. Our Shanghai Rice Cake Stir-fry with Greens recipe captures the essence of this dish.
5. Liang Mian Huang (两面黄): Shanghai-Style Crispy Pan-Fried Noodles
Known for its flavorful saucy topping, this noodle dish is a Shanghai classic. While finding an authentic Liang Mian Huang can be challenging, exploring local recommendations is key.
6. Shanghai La Jiang Mian (上海辣酱面): Shanghai Hot Sauce Noodles
Wei Xiang Zhai (味香斋) at #14 YanDangLu is a hidden gem for authentic Shanghai Hot Sauce Noodles. This unassuming eatery offers a taste of local favorites, including Ma Jiang Mian (麻酱面) and Beef Curry Soup (咖喱牛肉汤). Our recipe for Shanghai La Jiang Mian allows you to bring this flavor home.
7. Shanghai Huang Yu Mian (上海黄鱼面): Shanghai Yellow Croaker Noodle Soup
This dish features yellow croaker (黄鱼), a fish prevalent in the East China Sea, in a flavorful noodle soup. Gourmet Noodle House (家有好面), a fast-food chain often located in shopping malls, offers an affordable and delicious rendition of this dish.
8. Cong You Ban Mian (葱油拌面): Soy Scallion Shanghai Noodles
Xiao Nan Guo (小南国) in the Super Brand Mall offers a highly recommended version of Cong You Ban Mian, with stunning views of the city and the Huangpu River. Our recipe provides a homemade alternative.
Afternoon Indulgences: Shanghai Snacks
The Shanghai food scene extends beyond main meals, encompassing a delightful array of afternoon snacks. Here are some must-try options:
1. Xian Rou Yue Bing (鲜肉月饼): Savory Pork Mooncakes
These savory mooncakes, filled with juicy pork, are an irresistible treat. Be prepared to queue, or try making them at home with our savory mooncake recipe.
2. Xie Ke Huang (蟹壳黄): Yellow Crab Shell
This crispy pastry, coated in sesame seeds, comes with various sweet or savory fillings. Guang Ming Cun (光明邨) on Huai Hai Road is a recommended spot to find this and other Shanghai snacks.
3. Qingtuan (青团): Green Mochi with Red Bean Filling
This seasonal treat, available during spring festivals, features glutinous rice dough colored green with natural vegetation. Guang Ming Cun (光明邨) is a reliable source for this unique snack.
4. You Dun Zi (油墩子): Shanghai Fried Turnip Cake
These deep-fried turnip cakes, often found in Shanghai’s alleyways, are a childhood favorite for many locals. 曹家渡点心店 on Chang Shou Road offers a restaurant version of this street food classic. Our You Dunzi Recipe allows you to recreate this nostalgic snack.
Dinner in Shanghai: A Culinary Exploration
Shanghai dinners are a grand affair, often featuring a multitude of dishes. Ren He Guan (人和馆) on Zhao Jia Bang Road is a highly recommended establishment for an authentic Shanghai dinner experience. Here are some must-try dishes:
1. Zui Ji (醉鸡): Drunken Chicken
This classic dish features poached chicken soaked in a flavorful Chinese wine sauce. Our drunken chicken recipe provides a step-by-step guide for making it at home.
2. Hong Shao Kao Fu (红烧烤麸): Braised Wheat Gluten with Mushrooms
This vegetarian dish, braised in a rich sauce, offers a flavorful and satisfying alternative to meat dishes. Our Hong Shao Kao Fu recipe guides you through the process.
3. Liang Ban Ma Lan Tou (凉拌马兰头): Ma Lan Tou and Spiced Tofu
This unique dish showcases Ma Lan Tou (马兰头), a wild vegetable harvested in spring, tossed with spiced tofu. Our Liang Ban Ma Lan Tou recipe captures the essence of this seasonal delight.
4. You Bao Xia (油爆虾): Shanghai Shrimp Stir Fry
This dish features freshwater shrimp stir-fried to perfection. While the shrimp used in Shanghai might differ slightly from saltwater varieties, the flavor remains exceptional. Our Shanghai Shrimp Stir-fry recipe offers a delicious alternative.
5. Xun Yu/Bao Yu (熏鱼/爆鱼): Shanghai Smoked Fish
Deep-fried twice for a crispy texture and then soaked in a special sauce, Xun Yu is a true Shanghainese delicacy, especially popular during Chinese New Year. Our detailed recipe for Shanghai Smoked Fish guides you through the process of making this dish at home.
6. Hong Shao Rou (红烧肉): Shanghai-style Braised Pork Belly
This iconic dish, a cornerstone of Shanghainese cuisine, needs no introduction. Our highly popular Shanghai-style Braised Pork Belly recipe is a must-try for any food enthusiast.
7. Tang Cu Pai Gu (糖醋排骨): Shanghai Sweet and Sour Ribs
A staple cold appetizer in Shanghai cuisine, these sweet and sour ribs are a must-order. Our Shanghai Sweet and Sour Ribs recipe provides a detailed guide for preparing this dish.
8. Cao Tou (草头): Sauteed Clover
This seasonal vegetable dish, available in spring, offers a unique and delightful flavor. Our Cao Tou recipe showcases the simplicity and deliciousness of this dish.
9. Song Shu Gui Yu (松鼠桂鱼): Sweet and Sour Mandarin Fish
This visually stunning dish features deep-fried fish in a luscious sweet and sour sauce. Its intricate presentation and delectable taste make it a special occasion favorite. Try our Sweet and Sour Squirrel Fish recipe for a similar experience.
10. Kao Zi Yu/ Feng Wei Yu (烤子鱼/凤尾鱼): Soy-Glazed Phoenix Tail Fish
This dish showcases a type of freshwater fish similar to anchovies, often enjoyed when packed with roe from May to July. Its delicate flavor and simple preparation highlight the freshness of the ingredients.
11. Qing Chao He Xia (清炒河虾): Stir-fried River Shrimp
Known for its delicate sweetness and juicy texture, this dish emphasizes the natural flavors of the river shrimp with minimal added ingredients.
12. Hong Shao Dai Yu (红烧带鱼): Braised Belt Fish
A popular fish in Shanghai, belt fish is often braised for a rich and flavorful dish. While home-cooking methods may vary, the braised version offers a unique taste experience.
13. Qing Zheng Shi Yu (清蒸鲥鱼): Steamed Shad
Considered a decadent delicacy, steamed shad is prized for its delicate umami flavor. The unique practice of enjoying the fish scales adds to the authentic Shanghainese experience.
14. Yan Du Xian (腌笃鲜): Shanghainese Salted Pork Soup with Bamboo Shoots & Tofu
This iconic soup, a true gem of Shanghainese cuisine, features a harmonious blend of flavors from salted pork, bamboo shoots, and tofu. Our Yan Du Xian recipe offers a comprehensive guide for recreating this masterpiece.
15. Da Huang Yu Xiao Hun Tun Tang (大黄鱼小馄饨汤): Yellow Croaker Wonton Soup
This unique soup highlights the versatility of yellow croaker, using it in both the broth and the wonton filling. Rui Fu Yuan (瑞福园) on South Mu Ming Road is renowned for this dish, but reservations are essential.
16. You Bao Shan Hu (油爆鳝糊): Shanghai-Style Eel Stir fry
This polarizing dish features stir-fried eel with bamboo shoots, aged ham, and a flavorful sauce. While its appearance might not appeal to all, it remains a beloved dish among Shanghainese locals.
17. Qing Zheng Da Zha Xie (清蒸大闸蟹): Steamed Hairy Crab
A seasonal delicacy available in September and October, steamed hairy crab is a special occasion dish prized for its delicate flavor and rich crab roe.
18. You Meng Jiao Bai (油焖茭白): Braised Water Bamboo
This seasonal dish, featuring tender water bamboo braised to perfection, is a common sight in Shanghainese homes during springtime.
19. Shanghai Cai Fan (上海菜饭): Shanghai Rice with Salted Pork and Greens
This comforting and savory rice dish, often found towards the end of restaurant menus, is a perfect complement to a Shanghainese feast. Our Shanghai Cai Fan recipe offers a homemade version.
20. Hong Shao Hua Shui (红烧划水): Braised Fish Tails
This traditional dish features braised fish tails, considered the most tender and delicate part of the fish.
This comprehensive guide to Shanghai food provides a starting point for your culinary adventure. Remember to explore local recommendations and embrace the diverse flavors of Benbang cuisine. Enjoy your gastronomic journey through Shanghai!
