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Shanghai, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Orient," is a vibrant metropolis where culinary traditions meet modern innovation. The city’s food scene is a reflection of its cosmopolitan nature, blending local flavors with influences from across China and the world. Whether you’re a street food enthusiast, a fan of casual dining, or someone seeking fine dining experiences, Shanghai offers something for everyone. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate and enjoy the city’s rich culinary landscape.

1. Types of Cuisine Available in Shanghai

Shanghai’s food scene is diverse, offering a mix of local specialties, regional Chinese cuisines, and international fare. Here’s an overview:

a. Local Cuisine (Shanghainese Cuisine)

Known as Hu Cuisine (沪菜), Shanghainese food emphasizes fresh ingredients, moderate seasoning, and a balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Signature techniques include braising, steaming, and stir-frying.
Dishes often feature soy sauce, sugar, rice wine, and vinegar.

b. Regional Chinese Cuisines

Shanghai is a melting pot of Chinese cuisines, including:
- Sichuan Cuisine: Spicy and numbing dishes like mapo tofu and hotpot.
- Cantonese Cuisine: Dim sum, roasted meats, and seafood.
- Hunan Cuisine: Bold, spicy, and sour flavors.
- Beijing Cuisine: Peking duck and wheat-based dishes.
- Xinjiang Cuisine: Lamb skewers and flatbreads with Middle Eastern influences.

c. International Cuisine

Shanghai’s globalized nature means you’ll find a wide range of international options, including French, Italian, Japanese, Korean, and American cuisines.
The city is also home to Michelin-starred restaurants and trendy fusion eateries.

2. Popular Dishes in Shanghai

a. Must-Try Local Dishes

Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings)
- Steamed dumplings filled with pork or crab meat and a flavorful broth.
- Best enjoyed at iconic spots like Din Tai Fung or Jia Jia Tang Bao.
Shengjianbao (Pan-Fried Pork Buns)
- Crispy on the bottom, soft on top, and filled with juicy pork.
- Found in street food stalls and casual eateries.
Hong Shao Rou (Red-Braised Pork Belly)
- Pork belly slow-cooked in soy sauce, sugar, and rice wine for a rich, caramelized flavor.
Hairy Crab (Seasonal Specialty)
- A delicacy during autumn, served steamed with vinegar and ginger.
Drunken Chicken
- Chicken marinated in Shaoxing wine, served cold as an appetizer.
Scallion Oil Noodles (Cong You Ban Mian)
- Simple yet flavorful noodles tossed in scallion-infused oil and soy sauce.

b. Street Food Favorites

Jianbing (Chinese Crepes): A savory breakfast crepe filled with egg, scallions, and crispy wonton.
Chuan (Skewers): Grilled meat, seafood, and vegetables on skewers, often seasoned with cumin and chili.
Tanghulu: Candied fruit skewers, typically hawthorn berries or strawberries.
Fried Dumplings and Wontons: Found in small street-side stalls.

3. Dining Etiquette in Shanghai

Understanding local dining customs is essential for a smooth and enjoyable experience:

a. Table Manners

Chopsticks: Never stick chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as it resembles incense used in funerals.
Sharing Dishes: Meals are typically served family-style, with shared dishes placed in the center of the table.
Serving Others: It’s polite to serve others before yourself, especially elders or guests.

b. Payment and Tipping

Payment: Mobile payment apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used. Cash and credit cards are also accepted.
Tipping: Tipping is not customary in China, as service charges are often included in the bill.

c. Drinking Culture

Toasting is common during meals, especially with baijiu (a strong Chinese liquor) or beer. Say "ganbei" (干杯) to toast, which means "cheers" or "bottoms up."

4. Street Food Culture

Shanghai’s street food scene is vibrant and offers a glimpse into the city’s culinary soul. Key areas for street food include:

Yuyuan Garden Bazaar: A tourist hotspot with stalls selling xiaolongbao, fried dumplings, and sweet treats.
Wujiang Road: Known for its variety of street food, from skewers to bubble tea.
Shouning Road: Famous for late-night seafood, especially crayfish and grilled oysters.

Tips for Enjoying Street Food:

Look for stalls with long lines, as they’re likely to have fresh and popular food.
Avoid raw or undercooked items if you’re concerned about food safety.
Carry small bills or use mobile payment for convenience.

5. Costs for Different Dining Options

Shanghai caters to all budgets, from affordable street food to luxurious fine dining:

a. Street Food

Average cost: ¥10–¥30 per item.
Example: A serving of xiaolongbao costs around ¥15–¥25.

b. Casual Dining

Average cost: ¥50–¥150 per person.
Example: A meal at a local noodle shop or dumpling house.

c. Fine Dining

Average cost: ¥300–¥1,000+ per person.
Example: Michelin-starred restaurants like Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet or T’ang Court.

6. Notable Neighborhoods for Culinary Offerings

a. The Bund

Known for upscale dining with stunning views of the Huangpu River.
Home to high-end restaurants offering both Chinese and international cuisines.

b. French Concession

A trendy area with a mix of local eateries, cafes, and international restaurants.
Great for brunch spots and fusion cuisine.

c. Old Town (Nanshi)

A hub for traditional Shanghainese food, including xiaolongbao and other local snacks.
Visit the Yuyuan Garden area for authentic flavors.

d. Jing’an District

Offers a mix of casual dining, street food, and fine dining.
Known for its vibrant nightlife and trendy restaurants.

7. Practical Tips for Enjoying the Local Food Scene

Language Barrier: Many local restaurants may not have English menus. Use translation apps or point to pictures on the menu.
Peak Hours: Avoid dining during peak hours (12:00–1:30 PM and 6:00–8:00 PM) to skip long waits.
Reservations: For fine dining, make reservations in advance, especially at popular or Michelin-starred restaurants.
Dietary Restrictions: Inform the staff of any dietary restrictions, but note that vegetarian or vegan options may be limited in traditional eateries.
Seasonal Specialties: Take advantage of seasonal ingredients like hairy crab in autumn or fresh river fish in spring.

8. Local Considerations and Traditions

Seasonal Eating: Shanghainese cuisine emphasizes eating seasonally, so menus may change throughout the year.
Tea Culture: Tea is often served with meals, and tea houses are a great way to experience local traditions.
Festive Foods: During festivals like Chinese New Year, special dishes such as niangao (sticky rice cake) and tangyuan (sweet glutinous rice balls) are enjoyed.

Shanghai’s culinary scene is a feast for the senses, offering a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. By exploring its diverse food offerings, respecting local customs, and venturing into different neighborhoods, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich cultural and social life. Bon appétit—or as the locals say, “慢慢吃” (màn màn chī), meaning “eat slowly and enjoy!”

Shanghai

Cuisine