So, you’re heading to Shanghai (or maybe just daydreaming about it), and you’re wondering: what to eat in Shanghai? Trust me, I’ve been there—literally.

I still remember the first time I bit into a steaming hot soup dumpling and almost burned my tongue, but you know what?

Totally worth it. Shanghai is a food paradise where centuries-old traditions meet modern flavors, and the variety will make your head spin—in the best way.

Whether you’re a street-food adventurer or someone who loves sitting down at cozy local restaurants, Shanghai has a table (or street corner) waiting for you. And don’t worry, I’ll guide you through the iconic dishes, hidden gems, and even a few quirky bites that locals adore.

By the end, you’ll have a foodie bucket list that’ll make your trip unforgettable. Ready? Let’s dig in.

Table of Contents

1. Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings)

If there’s one dish that defines Shanghai, it’s the iconic xiaolongbao. These delicate soup dumplings are filled with juicy pork and a burst of savory broth that spills out with every bite. Traditionally steamed in bamboo baskets, they’re enjoyed with black vinegar and slivers of ginger.

From humble street stalls to world-famous eateries like Din Tai Fung, xiaolongbao is a culinary love letter to Shanghai—comforting, refined, and endlessly crave-worthy.

2. Shengjianbao (Pan-Fried Pork Buns)

Golden, crispy bottoms and fluffy tops—that’s the magic of shengjianbao. These pan-fried pork buns are the heartier cousin of xiaolongbao, stuffed with juicy pork and just enough soup to surprise your taste buds. Cooked in large flat pans, they offer a satisfying crunch followed by pillowy softness.

Perfect for breakfast or a quick snack, locals often grab a serving with soy milk on the go. If you want to experience Shanghai mornings like a local, this is the dish to try.

3. Red-Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou)

Shanghai cuisine is famous for its sweet-savory balance, and hong shao rou embodies that perfectly. Pork belly is slow-braised in soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, and aromatics until it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender and glistening like caramelized jewels.

Served with rice or mantou (steamed buns), this dish is indulgent, comforting, and beloved across generations. It’s not just food—it’s a taste of home for many Shanghainese families.

4. Scallion Oil Noodles (Cong You Ban Mian)

Simple yet soul-satisfying, scallion oil noodles are a Shanghai staple. Wheat noodles are tossed with fragrant scallion-infused oil, soy sauce, and sometimes a touch of sugar for balance. The result? A deeply flavorful dish that proves less is more.

Affordable and comforting, it’s often the go-to for locals craving a quick bite. Many travelers are surprised by how addictive these humble noodles can be, making them one of the most memorable tastes of the city.

5. Lion’s Head Meatballs (Shizi Tou)

Don’t be fooled by the name—there’s no lion in this dish! Instead, lion’s head meatballs are giant, tender pork meatballs stewed with bok choy or cabbage in a savory broth. Their “lion’s head” appearance comes from their large, rounded shape surrounded by greens.

Known for their delicate texture and homey flavors, these meatballs are often served at family gatherings and festive dinners. Eating shizi tou feels like being wrapped in a culinary hug.

6. Smoked Fish (Xun Yu)

A Shanghainese cold appetizer that bursts with flavor, smoked fish isn’t actually smoked but deep-fried and then braised in a sweet soy sauce mixture. The result is tender fish with a crispy edge, glazed with layers of umami.

Traditionally enjoyed during Chinese New Year and family feasts, xun yu is the perfect balance of sweet and savory—a true reflection of Shanghai’s culinary character.

7. Beggar’s Chicken (Jiao Hua Ji)

This legendary dish comes with a story: beggars in ancient China wrapped a chicken in lotus leaves and clay, roasting it in the earth to lock in flavor. In Shanghai, beggar’s chicken is baked the same way—sealed to preserve its juicy tenderness and infused with fragrant spices.

Cracking open the hardened clay reveals a heavenly aroma and fall-apart meat. It’s both a meal and a performance, making it a must-try for culinary adventurers.

8. Hairy Crab (Da Zha Xie)

Come autumn, Shanghai celebrates hairy crab season. These freshwater crabs, prized for their creamy orange roe and delicate sweetness, are steamed and served simply with vinegar and ginger. Eating them is an art—you’ll need patience to crack the shells and savor every morsel—but locals consider it a seasonal luxury worth the effort.

If you visit Shanghai between September and November, indulging in hairy crab is practically a rite of passage.

9. Sweet & Sour Spare Ribs (Tang Cu Pai Gu)

Tang cu pai gu is one of Shanghai’s most beloved dishes, perfectly balancing tangy, sweet, and savory flavors. Tender pork ribs are coated in a glossy sauce made of vinegar, sugar, and soy, creating a sticky, finger-licking delight.

Often served as a centerpiece at family meals, it’s comfort food at its finest. Pair it with a bowl of rice, and you’ve got a dish that embodies the essence of Shanghainese cooking.

10. Sticky Rice Dumplings (Zongzi)

Shanghai has its own take on zongzi, the classic sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves. Unlike southern varieties that lean sweeter, Shanghainese zongzi often feature savory fillings like pork belly, mushrooms, and salted egg yolk.

They’re steamed to perfection, releasing an earthy fragrance when unwrapped. Traditionally eaten during the Dragon Boat Festival, these dumplings are enjoyed year-round and make for a hearty snack or meal.

Tips for Eating in Shanghai

Before you rush off to hunt down your first dumpling, here are some quick pointers:

Expect lines: If a place is crowded, it’s usually worth the wait.
Cash or apps: Many local vendors still prefer cash or Alipay/WeChat Pay. Credit cards aren’t always accepted.
Spice levels: While Shanghai food tends to be sweeter than spicy, some street snacks (like chuan’r) can pack a punch.
Timing matters: Some street food stalls open super early for breakfast and sell out fast

Wrapping It All Up: Savoring the Flavors of Shanghai

So, what to eat in Shanghai? Honestly—everything you can get your hands on. From the legendary xiao long bao to crispy sheng jian bao, from sweet tanghulu to steaming hairy crab, this city delivers a culinary rollercoaster that’s both comforting and exciting.

If you’re a foodie, Shanghai is the kind of place that lingers in your memory. And who knows? Maybe you’ll find yourself, like me, standing in line again for soup dumplings, grinning at the thought that you’re about to burn your tongue—but happily doing it anyway.

Next time you’re in the city, bring your appetite, an adventurous spirit, and maybe a friend to share the feast. After all, isn’t that what eating in Shanghai is really about? 😊