Shanghai Food Guide: Must-Try Dishes

Shanghai Food Guide: Must-Try Dishes

Shanghai, a bustling metropolis where East meets West, is a culinary paradise waiting to be explored. This Shanghai travel guide will take you on a gastronomic journey through the city's most iconic and delicious dishes. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with our list of must-try Shanghai food!

Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings)

No trip to Shanghai is complete without indulging inxiao long bao, delicate soup dumplings filled with flavorful broth and meat. These bite-sized wonders are a true Shanghai specialty.

• Where to find them:Din Tai Fung, Jia Jia Tang Bao, or street food vendors throughout the city.

• How to eat them:Gently bite a small hole in the dumpling to release the broth, then slurp it up before devouring the rest.

Image: A close-up shot of steaming xiao long bao in a bamboo steamer basket.

Shengjian Bao (Pan-Fried Pork Buns)

Shengjian baoare another Shanghainese dumpling delight. These pan-fried pork buns are crispy on the bottom, fluffy on top, and filled with juicy pork and flavorful broth.

• Where to find them:Yang's Fry-Dumpling, Xiao Yang Sheng Jian, or local breakfast shops.

• How to eat them:Be careful! The broth inside can be very hot. Take a small bite and let the steam escape before enjoying.

Scallion Oil Noodles (Cong You Ban Mian)

A simple yet satisfying dish,cong you ban mianconsists of noodles tossed in fragrant scallion oil. This is a classic Shanghai comfort food.

• Where to find them:Street food stalls, noodle shops, or local restaurants.

• Variations:Some vendors add soy sauce, sesame oil, or chili oil for extra flavor.

Shanghai Hairy Crab (Da閘蟹)

A seasonal delicacy, Shanghai hairy crab is a must-try for seafood lovers. These crabs are prized for their rich, creamy roe.

• When to eat them:Best enjoyed during the autumn months (September-November).

• Where to find them:Seafood restaurants or markets.

• How to eat them:Steamed and served with ginger vinegar.

Red Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou)

Hong shao rouis a rich and flavorful pork dish braised in soy sauce, sugar, and spices. The pork belly becomes incredibly tender and melts in your mouth.

• Where to find them:Most Shanghainese restaurants.

• What to expect:A sweet and savory flavor profile with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Steamed Fish with Scallions and Ginger (Qing Zheng Yu)

A light and healthy option, steamed fish with scallions and ginger is a classic Cantonese dish that is also popular in Shanghai. The fish is cooked to perfection and infused with the delicate flavors of scallions and ginger.

• Where to find them:Cantonese restaurants or seafood restaurants.

• What to expect:A light, flaky fish with a subtle ginger and scallion flavor.

Glutinous Rice Balls (Tang Yuan)

Tang yuanare sweet glutinous rice balls filled with sesame paste, red bean paste, or peanut butter. They are often served in a sweet soup.

• Where to find them:Dessert shops or street food vendors.

• Popular fillings:Black sesame, peanut, or red bean paste.

Image: A bowl of colorful tang yuan in a clear, sweet broth.

Tips for Exploring Shanghai Food

• Be adventurous:Don't be afraid to try new things! Shanghai's culinary scene is full of surprises.

• Learn some basic Mandarin phrases:Knowing how to order food and ask for recommendations will enhance your experience.

• Explore different neighborhoods:Each neighborhood in Shanghai has its own unique culinary offerings.

• Check reviews:Use online resources to find the best restaurants and street food stalls.

Shanghai Food Tour Comparison

This Shanghai travel guide offers just a glimpse into the city's incredible food scene. With its diverse culinary influences and innovative chefs, Shanghai is a food lover's paradise. So, pack your appetite and get ready for an unforgettable culinary adventure!

Whether you're craving savory dumplings, flavorful noodles, or sweet treats, Shanghai has something to satisfy every palate. Use this Shanghai food guide as your starting point and explore the city's hidden culinary gems.

From Michelin-starred restaurants to humble street food stalls, Shanghai offers a wide range of dining experiences. Embrace the local culture, try new dishes, and create lasting memories through food.

Remember to check the latest travel advisories and restaurant opening hours before planning your culinary adventure in Shanghai.

This Shanghai travel guide is designed to help you navigate the city's vibrant food scene and discover the must-try dishes that define Shanghai cuisine.