The city of Shanghai is one of the most iconic cities in China. It is a place where the Eastern world meets with Western culture to create an exciting blend of energetic street life. There are many popular activities that tourists can do while in Shanghai, but some must-sees include the Bund, Yu Garden, Nanjing Road, and Jin Mao Tower, among others. Foodies will not be disappointed because this city has a wide variety of different cuisines, including Shanghainese and other Chinese dishes as well as global foods like pizza or donuts!
Top 10 Best Foods in Shanghai, China
The top ten foods in Shanghai are ranked according to their popularity and their deliciousness.
- Xiao Long Bao: Pork Dumpling
- White Cut Chicken
- Wonton Soup with Shrimps and Pork
- Mala Spicy Hot Pot
- Steamed Pork Dumplings
- Steamed Meat Rolls (Shanghai Style)
- Xiaolongbao: Steamed Pork Dumplings (Shanghai Style)
- Fried Glutinous Rice Balls with Red Bean Paste Filling (Zongzi)
- Fried Oysters (Tianjin Style)
- Sweet Osmanthus Cake
5 Restaurants You Must Visit When In Shanghai
- M on the Bund – M on the Bund is a must-visit restaurant in Shanghai for travelers. The setting is modern with a distinctly European and American vibe. The food is delicious and affordable, with a good wine list to boot.
The restaurant has been opened since 2014 and has been quickly recognized as one of the best restaurants in Shanghai, as well as in China.
- Din Tai Fung – Din Tai Fung is a successful, global chain of Taiwanese restaurants. It was founded in 1986 by Mr. Duan, a retired history professor who wanted to share his love for Taiwanese cuisine with the world.
The restaurant has over 150 locations worldwide, and it is considered one of the most popular restaurants in Shanghai.
- Tongliang Butchery – This restaurant is located in the alley beside Qibao Ancient Town. It has a tradition of over 100 years, and now it is the only one of its kind left in Shanghai. Tongliang Butchery is not only popular because of its special dining experience, but also due to the high quality and taste of meat served there.
Visitors can order either whole or half carcasses of beef or lamb and leave it up to the butchers to do their magic behind closed doors (the restaurant does not allow cameras).
- Songgao Zhongluan Dried Seafood Market – Songgao Zhongluan Dried Seafood Market is a must-visit restaurant when in Shanghai. It offers the best of local and imported products.
The food is so fresh that it’s been steamed or barbecued on the spot. The succulent crab meat, shrimp, and squid are just a few examples of what you can find there.
- Fresh Garden – Fresh Garden is a restaurant in Shanghai with a variety of Chinese and Western dishes. It has a combination of an open-air bar, dining room, and several private rooms for larger parties.
It’s worth mentioning that Fresh Garden offers some of the best food in Shanghai at an affordable price. The food is authentic and fresh, which makes it perfect for family dinners or romantic dates.
Shanghai’s Local Street Food: A Guide for Tourists
Shanghai has many different local street foods that tourists might find surprising.
This guide will introduce you to some of the most popular and well-known Chinese street foods in Shanghai.
The dishes are organized alphabetically according to their names in English, as well as their Chinese names for those who are not as familiar with the English language. The dishes are divided into two sections – snacks and main dishes – so that readers can know what they’re getting when they order them at a roadside stall or restaurant. Readers should note that this list is not exhaustive, but it is a good place to start exploring Shanghai’s local cuisine.
Street food is a part of any city’s culture, no matter how big or small it may be, and Shanghai is certainly no exception to this rule.
Conclusion: The Best of What Shanghai Has to Offer
Shanghai is one of the most visited cities in China. It’s a bustling metropolis with diverse and eclectic history, culture, and architecture. Shanghai offers something for everyone – from the ancient to the modern, there is a way to make your stay unforgettable.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get your passport ready!