Timeout Shanghai: Best Places to Eat

Shanghai, the cosmopolitan hub of China, is renowned for its diverse and vibrant culinary scene. From street food stalls to high-end restaurants, the city offers an array of dining experiences that cater to every palate. Whether you're a local or a tourist, finding the best places to eat in Shanghai can be an adventure. In this article, we'll explore some of the top spots that you absolutely shouldn't miss. Get ready to embark on a gastronomic journey through the city that never sleeps.

1. Din Tai Fung

Cuisine: Taiwanese Dumplings
Location: Xintiandi
Ambiance: Casual, Family-friendly
Must-try Dish: Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings)

Din Tai Fung is a globally recognized restaurant chain originating from Taiwan, famous for its meticulously crafted xiaolongbao, or soup dumplings. The thin-skinned dumplings, filled with a flavorful broth and tender meat, are a must-try for anyone visiting Shanghai. Located in the trendy Xintiandi district, the restaurant offers a casual yet elegant dining atmosphere. While it might be a chain, the consistency and quality of food make it a reliable choice for both locals and tourists.

2. Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet

Cuisine: Experimental, French
Location: Secret Location (Pick-up point at Waitanyuan)
Ambiance: Immersive, Multi-sensory
Must-try Dish: 20-course Tasting Menu

Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet is not just a restaurant; it's an experience. This avant-garde dining venue offers a 20-course tasting menu that takes you on a culinary journey through different flavors, textures, and sensations. The dining experience is enhanced by state-of-the-art technology that includes projections, sounds, and scents, all designed to complement the food. With only 10 seats available per night, getting a reservation is challenging, but the experience is worth every effort.

3. Jia Jia Tang Bao

Cuisine: Shanghainese Dumplings
Location: Huangpu District
Ambiance: Casual, Authentic
Must-try Dish: Crab Roe Xiaolongbao

For a taste of authentic Shanghainese cuisine, Jia Jia Tang Bao is the place to be. This humble eatery is famed for its crab roe xiaolongbao, which are some of the best in the city. Unlike the more polished Din Tai Fung, Jia Jia Tang Bao offers a more rustic and local experience. The lines can be long, but the payoff is worth it. The dumplings here are handmade, fresh, and bursting with flavor.

4. Fu He Hui

Cuisine: Vegetarian, Chinese
Location: Changning District
Ambiance: Zen, Tranquil
Must-try Dish: Seasonal Tasting Menu

Fu He Hui is a haven for vegetarian food lovers. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a refined and tranquil dining experience, focusing on seasonal ingredients and traditional Chinese cooking techniques. The dishes are beautifully presented, often resembling works of art. The tasting menu changes with the seasons, ensuring that each visit offers something new and exciting. Whether you're a vegetarian or not, Fu He Hui is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the possibilities of plant-based cuisine.

5. Lost Heaven

Cuisine: Yunnan, Southeast Asian
Location: The Bund
Ambiance: Exotic, Stylish
Must-try Dish: Dai Tribe's Ghost Chicken

Lost Heaven is an iconic restaurant on The Bund that specializes in the flavors of Yunnan Province and Southeast Asia. The interior is richly decorated, with an exotic and stylish ambiance that transports you to another world. The menu is extensive, featuring dishes that are both bold and delicate. The Dai Tribe's Ghost Chicken, a spicy and tangy dish made with herbs and chilies, is a standout. This restaurant is perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner.

6. Yang's Fried Dumplings (Yang's Fry-Dumpling)

Cuisine: Shanghainese, Street Food
Location: Multiple Locations (e.g., People's Square)
Ambiance: Casual, Fast-paced
Must-try Dish: Shengjianbao (Pan-Fried Pork Buns)

Yang's Fried Dumplings is a must-visit for those who want to experience Shanghai's street food culture. The shengjianbao, or pan-fried pork buns, are the star of the show here. These buns are crispy on the outside and filled with juicy pork and broth on the inside. The chain has multiple locations around the city, making it easy to grab a quick bite on the go. The atmosphere is fast-paced and casual, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

7. Mercato

Cuisine: Italian
Location: The Bund
Ambiance: Chic, Contemporary
Must-try Dish: Black Truffle Pizza

Mercato is one of the most popular Italian restaurants in Shanghai, and for a good reason. Located on The Bund, this restaurant offers stunning views of the Huangpu River and the Pudong skyline. The interior is chic and contemporary, with a relaxed yet upscale vibe. The menu features a variety of Italian classics, but the black truffle pizza is a standout. Made with thin, crispy dough and topped with aromatic truffles, this pizza is a must-try.

8. Jesse Restaurant (Jishi)

Cuisine: Shanghainese
Location: French Concession
Ambiance: Old-school, Homey
Must-try Dish: Red-braised Pork

Jesse Restaurant, also known as Jishi, is a beloved institution in Shanghai's French Concession. This old-school restaurant is known for its traditional Shanghainese dishes, with the red-braised pork being a particular favorite. The dish is slow-cooked to perfection, with the meat becoming tender and flavorful. The restaurant's atmosphere is homey and unpretentious, making it a favorite among locals and expats alike. If you want to experience the true flavors of Shanghai, Jesse Restaurant is a must-visit.

9. Hakkasan

Cuisine: Modern Cantonese
Location: The Bund
Ambiance: Elegant, Sophisticated
Must-try Dish: Crispy Duck Salad

Hakkasan is a global chain that offers a modern take on Cantonese cuisine. The Shanghai branch, located on The Bund, combines traditional flavors with contemporary presentation. The crispy duck salad, a signature dish, is a perfect example of this fusion. The ambiance is elegant and sophisticated, with a sleek design and a lively bar scene. Whether you're looking for a stylish night out or a refined dining experience, Hakkasan delivers on both fronts.

10. Barbarossa

Cuisine: Moroccan, Middle Eastern
Location: People's Park
Ambiance: Exotic, Relaxed
Must-try Dish: Lamb Tagine

Barbarossa is a unique dining venue located in People's Park. The restaurant offers Moroccan and Middle Eastern cuisine in an exotic and relaxed setting. The interior is richly decorated with colorful fabrics and lanterns, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The lamb tagine, a slow-cooked stew with tender lamb, vegetables, and spices, is a highlight of the menu. Barbarossa is a great spot for a leisurely meal or an evening drink in the lounge.

Shanghai's food scene is as diverse as the city itself. From Michelin-starred restaurants to local eateries, there's something for everyone. Whether you're in the mood for traditional Shanghainese cuisine, international flavors, or experimental dining experiences, Shanghai has it all. The city's culinary landscape continues to evolve, making it an exciting destination for food lovers from around the world.