Shanghai Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Shanghai. Your complete guide to dining in Shanghai.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Shanghai! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Shanghai has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Shanghai's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Shanghai like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Shanghai offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
- Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
- Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
- Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere
Must-Try Restaurants
From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Shanghai.
Mr&Mrs Bund
Highly rated Restaurant in Shanghai with 4.6 stars from 116 reviews.
📍 Wai Tan 18 Hao, 6层18 Zhong Shan Dong Yi Lu, 18, Huang Pu Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200002
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Fellas
Highly rated Restaurant in Shanghai with 4.7 stars from 184 reviews.
📍 China, Shang Hai Shi, Huang Pu Qu, Waitan, Yan An Dong Lu, 7号7楼仟宸大厦 CN 上海市 邮政编码: 200002
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Mercato
Highly rated Restaurant in Shanghai with 4.7 stars from 67 reviews.
📍 China, Shang Hai Shi, Huang Pu Qu, Waitan, 3号外滩三号6层 CN 上海市 黄浦区 中山东一路 3 邮政编码: 200002
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Efes Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Shanghai with 4.7 stars from 422 reviews.
📍 China, Shang Hai Shi, Pu Dong Xin Qu, Yaohan, Shang Cheng Lu, 665号1885文化广场B座 邮政编码: 200120
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Lost Heaven
Highly rated Chinese in Shanghai with 4.5 stars from 222 reviews.
📍 38 Gao You Lu, Xu Hui Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200031
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
Fu He Hui
Highly rated Restaurant in Shanghai with 4.7 stars from 71 reviews.
📍 1037 Yu Yuan Lu, Chang Ning Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200085
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Commune Social
Highly rated Restaurant in Shanghai with 4.5 stars from 57 reviews.
📍 511 Jiang Ning Lu, Jing An Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200041
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Xiejia Courtyard
Highly rated Chinese in Shanghai with 4.8 stars from 152 reviews.
📍 59 Guang Dong Lu, 59, Huang Pu Qu, China, 200002
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
Hakkasan
Highly rated Chinese in Shanghai with 4.4 stars from 221 reviews.
📍 18 Zhong Shan Dong Yi Lu, Waitan, Huang Pu Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200125
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
Lost Heaven Bar
Highly rated Chinese in Shanghai with 4.2 stars from 503 reviews.
📍 17 Yan An Dong Lu, Waitan, Huang Pu Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200002
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
Goodfellas
Highly rated Restaurant in Shanghai with 4.5 stars from 109 reviews.
📍 China, Shang Hai Shi, Huang Pu Qu, Waitan, Yan An Dong Lu, 7号CN 上海市 邮政编码: 200120
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Jia Jia Tang Bao
Highly rated Chinese in Shanghai with 4.3 stars from 1068 reviews.
📍 90 Huang He Lu, People's Square, Huang Pu Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200003
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
Street Food & Food Markets
Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Shanghai.
Hongqiao Pearl Market
Highly rated International in Shanghai with 4.1 stars from 170 reviews.
📍 Hongmei Lu 3721, 长宁区 China, 201103
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Shanghai Yandong Liyang Road Agricultural Trade Non-Staple Food Market
Highly rated International in Shanghai with 4.7 stars from 11 reviews.
📍 373 Li Yang Lu, Hong Kou Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200086
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Bird and Flower Market
Highly rated International in Shanghai with 2.7 stars from 15 reviews.
📍 6F7Q+V3G, Huang Jia Que Lu, 老西门 Huang Pu Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200021
- 🍽️Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
East Street Flea Market
Highly rated International in Shanghai with 4.8 stars from 4 reviews.
📍 160 Dong Jie, Huang Pu Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200086
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Julu Shengxian Market
Highly rated International in Shanghai with 5 stars from 2 reviews.
📍 604 Ju Lu Lu, Jing An Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200041
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Shanghai A.P. Xinyang Fashion & Gifts Market
Highly rated International in Shanghai with 4.1 stars from 415 reviews.
📍 2002 Shi Ji Da Dao, Pu Dong Xin Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 201204
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Mengxi Vegetable Market
Highly rated International in Shanghai with 5 stars from 2 reviews.
📍 6F5G+2JQ, Meng Zi Xi Lu, Lu Wan Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200023
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Yu Garden
Highly rated International in Shanghai with 4.5 stars from 4625 reviews.
📍 四牌楼 Huangpu, Shanghai, China, 200000
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Shanghai.
Huangpu River Cruise
Highly rated International in Shanghai with 4.5 stars from 340 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Shanghai Tower
Highly rated International in Shanghai with 4.6 stars from 2860 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Jia Jia Tang Bao
Highly rated Chinese in Shanghai with 4.3 stars from 1068 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
China Cycle Tours
Highly rated Cafe in Shanghai with 5 stars from 3 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Dongfangmingzhu Pleasure Cruise Boat Wharf
Highly rated International in Shanghai with 4.5 stars from 1214 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
yang's fried dumpling
Highly rated Chinese in Shanghai with 4.4 stars from 359 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Shanghai.
Café del Volcán
Highly rated Cafe in Shanghai with 4.6 stars from 67 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 80 Yong Kang Lu, Xu Hui Qu, China, 200031
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Baker & Spice
Highly rated Cafe in Shanghai with 4.4 stars from 137 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 195 An Fu Lu, Xu Hui Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200020
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Starbucks Reserve Roastery 星巴克臻选上海烘焙工坊
Highly rated Cafe in Shanghai with 4.6 stars from 612 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 China, Shang Hai Shi, Jing An Qu, Nan Jing Xi Lu, 789号Unit 110 & 201 邮政编码: 200000
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Resume Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Shanghai with 4.7 stars from 45 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 692 Han Kou Lu, Huang Pu Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200001
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Mietal Hands Shanghai Branch
Highly rated Cafe in Shanghai with 4.6 stars from 40 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 China, Shang Hai Shi, Huang Pu Qu, 236, 正东方向10米 邮政编码: 200041
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Mai Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Shanghai with 4.8 stars from 17 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 551 Bei Jing Xi Lu, Jing An Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200041
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Press
Highly rated Restaurant in Shanghai with 4.5 stars from 100 reviews.
📍 309 Han Kou Lu, Huang Pu Qu, China, 200086
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
RAC Coffee & Bar
Highly rated Restaurant in Shanghai with 4.5 stars from 79 reviews.
📍 China, Shang Hai Shi, Xu Hui Qu, An Fu Lu, CN : 邮政编码322号 邮政编码: 200085
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Shanghai.
Signature Dish
A must-try Shanghai specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Local Delicacy
This beloved Shanghai dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Traditional Recipe
Experience the authentic taste of Shanghai with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Street Food Favorite
Discover why this Shanghai specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Regional Specialty
This iconic Shanghai creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Seasonal Treat
A Shanghai classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Classic Comfort Food
A must-try Shanghai specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Modern Fusion
This beloved Shanghai dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Artisanal Product
Experience the authentic taste of Shanghai with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Heritage Recipe
Discover why this Shanghai specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Bars & Nightlife
Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Shanghai.
Sober Company
Highly rated Bar in Shanghai with 4.5 stars from 55 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 99 Yan Dang Lu, Huang Pu Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200000
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Speak Low
Highly rated Restaurant in Shanghai with 4.6 stars from 161 reviews.
📍 579 Fu Xing Zhong Lu, Huang Pu Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200041
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Shed
Highly rated Bar in Shanghai with 4.4 stars from 71 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Jing'An, China, 200041
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Refinery Gastro Bar
Highly rated Restaurant in Shanghai with 4.5 stars from 98 reviews.
📍 China, Shang Hai Shi, Huang Pu Qu, CN 上海市 黄浦区 太仓路 181 181弄10~12号01A 邮政编码: 200021
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Shadow & Light
Highly rated Bar in Shanghai with 4.9 stars from 10 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 China, Shang Hai Shi, Huang Pu Qu, 274弄15后门号CN 上海市 黄浦区 泰康路 274 邮政编码: 200031
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Healer
Highly rated Bar in Shanghai with 4.9 stars from 15 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 30 Tian Ping Lu, Xu Hui Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200031
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Essential Tips
- 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
- 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
- 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
- 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
- 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
- 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
- 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
- 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
- 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
- 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Shanghai's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.
Average Price
Dining costs in Shanghai vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Shanghai is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.
For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.
Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.
Most restaurants in Shanghai offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.
Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Shanghai specifically.
Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.
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