Must-Eat Foods in Shanghai: A Culinary Journey

Shanghai, one of China's most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities, offers a dazzling array of culinary delights. From bustling street food stalls to high-end dining establishments, the city’s food scene is a melting pot of flavors, textures, and cultural influences. This article explores the must-eat foods in Shanghai, highlighting iconic dishes and the best places to experience them. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will help you navigate the city’s rich gastronomic landscape.

1. Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings)

Xiaolongbao are perhaps the most famous Shanghai specialty. These delicate dumplings are filled with a savory mixture of pork and a rich, gelatinous broth that turns into soup when steamed. The best xiaolongbao have a thin, translucent skin that reveals the juicy filling inside. A popular place to enjoy these dumplings is Din Tai Fung, a well-known chain with several locations in Shanghai. Here, the dumplings are expertly crafted, and the restaurant's signature dipping sauce of soy sauce, vinegar, and shredded ginger complements the dish perfectly.

2. Shengjianbao (Pan-Fried Pork Buns)

Shengjianbao are another beloved Shanghai street food. These buns are pan-fried to create a crispy, golden bottom, while the top remains soft and fluffy. Filled with seasoned pork and a little bit of broth, shengjianbao are typically served with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped scallions. Yang's Fry-Dumpling is a renowned spot for these buns, and their crispy, juicy offerings are a must-try for anyone visiting Shanghai.

3. Chao Feng (Stir-Fried Rice Cake)

Chao Feng, or stir-fried rice cakes, is a savory dish that showcases the versatility of rice cakes in Chinese cuisine. The rice cakes are stir-fried with a mix of vegetables, meat, and a flavorful sauce. The texture of the rice cakes is chewy, and the dish often features ingredients like mushrooms, bell peppers, and pork. Jesse Restaurant is a local favorite for authentic and delicious chao feng, where the dish is prepared with a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

4. Shanghai-Style Sweet and Sour Ribs

Shanghai-Style Sweet and Sour Ribs are a quintessential part of the city’s culinary repertoire. These ribs are braised until tender and then coated in a glossy, sweet, and tangy sauce. The dish is often garnished with sliced oranges or bell peppers for added color and flavor. Old Jesse is a top choice for this dish, offering perfectly balanced sweet and sour ribs that exemplify Shanghai's unique take on traditional Chinese flavors.

5. Lu Rou Fan (Braised Pork Rice)

Lu Rou Fan is a comforting and hearty dish consisting of braised pork belly served over steamed rice. The pork is slow-cooked in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and spices, resulting in tender, flavorful meat with a rich, savory sauce. Auntie’s House serves a standout version of this dish, with melt-in-your-mouth pork and a savory sauce that pairs perfectly with the rice.

6. Sliced Pork with Garlic Sauce

Sliced Pork with Garlic Sauce is a dish that highlights the bold flavors of Shanghai cuisine. The pork is sliced thinly and cooked in a pungent garlic sauce with vegetables like bell peppers and onions. The dish is typically served with a side of steamed rice. Jade Garden is a popular restaurant where this dish is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, known for its robust garlic flavor and perfectly cooked pork.

7. Scallion Pancakes

Scallion Pancakes are a crispy, savory flatbread made with dough and scallions. The pancakes are pan-fried to achieve a flaky texture and are often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. Café de Coral offers a delightful version of scallion pancakes that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with just the right amount of scallion flavor.

8. Shanghai-Style Noodles

Shanghai-Style Noodles are stir-fried noodles that are often mixed with a variety of ingredients, including vegetables, meat, and sometimes seafood. The noodles are typically cooked in a savory soy sauce-based sauce and garnished with scallions. Noodle Bar serves a delicious version of these noodles, with a perfect blend of flavors and a satisfying texture.

9. Crab Meat Soup

Crab Meat Soup is a luxurious dish that features a rich, flavorful broth made with crab meat and other seafood ingredients. The soup is often served with delicate noodles or rice cakes, and the crab meat adds a sweet, briny taste to the dish. Seafood Palace is renowned for its crab meat soup, which is rich, aromatic, and a true indulgence for seafood lovers.

10. Braised Eel

Braised Eel is a delicacy in Shanghai, where the eel is cooked slowly in a sweet and savory sauce until tender. The dish is often served with rice and garnished with scallions or herbs. Golden Dragon is a top restaurant for braised eel, offering a dish that is flavorful and well-prepared, with tender eel and a rich, savory sauce.

In conclusion, Shanghai's food scene offers an impressive array of flavors and dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. From iconic dumplings to savory braised dishes, the city’s culinary landscape is a testament to its rich cultural heritage and diverse influences. Exploring Shanghai’s food is not just a gastronomic adventure but also a journey through the city's history and traditions.