Savour Shanghai: Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Restaurants in Shanghai, CN

Imagine the clang of sizzling woks, scents of soy and ginger swirling from open kitchens, and the bustling energy of narrow laneways alive with chatter and clinking chopsticks. In Shanghai, the air over cobblestone alleys is thick with the aroma of freshly baked mantou and the irresistible lure of steaming xiaolongbao. From neon-lit supper spots on Huaihai Road to street stalls where locals congregate for late-night noodles, dining here is a multi-sensory feast that lingers in memory long after your meal ends.

Why Dine in Shanghai, CN?

What makes Shanghai’s dining scene so unique is its extraordinary culinary duality: the effortless blend of centuries-old traditions with ultramodern cuisine trends. Here, street vendors whip up steaming Xiao Long Bao under neon lights, while cutting-edge chefs in slick glass restaurants reinvent Chinese classics with molecular gastronomy.

When I first climbed the cathedral tower near the Bund, I overheard locals debating the best noodles in town – a lively hint of the passion Shanghai inspires. The city is a melting pot where you’ll find humble hole-in-the-wall dumpling shops standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Michelin-starred temples of innovation. Seasonal ingredients arrive fresh from the Yangtze Delta, and menus continuously evolve, inviting you to experience a culinary journey that’s as vibrant and ever-changing as Shanghai itself.

Whether you crave authentic Shanghainese recipes traced back generations or want to sample bold international fusions, Shanghai’s food culture is a testament to its status as China’s most cosmopolitan city. The skyline lights up at dusk with bustling night markets and open kitchens, where every bite tells a story. This dynamic environment pushes the boundaries of taste, merging tradition with daring innovation in the best restaurants in Shanghai, CN.

Top 10 Best Restaurants in Shanghai, CN

1. Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet – A multisensory experience where avant-garde cuisine meets immersive technology; expect a theatrical feast with innovative dishes that challenge convention.
2. Jia Jia Tang Bao – Legendary for handmade xiaolongbao, this unpretentious spot captivates with perfectly thin-skinned soup dumplings bursting with rich broth.
3. Fu 1039 – A fine dining retreat blending Shanghainese nostalgia with contemporary sophistication; signature hairy crab dishes shine in an elegant setting.
4. Lost Heaven – Explore Yunnan cuisine’s vibrant flavours in a bamboo-adorned space inspired by ethnic minority cultures; bold spices and fresh herbs delight.
5. Mercato – A stylish Italian trattoria by Jean-Georges Vongerichten, perfect when you crave hand-tossed pizzas with a Shanghai twist and premium local ingredients.
6. Mr & Mrs Bund – An airy and trendy spot offering French classics with local produce; its crème brûlée and steak tartare are must-tries among top restaurants Shanghai, CN.
7. Hai Di Lao Hot Pot – Famous for its attentive service and rich broths, this bustling hotspot guarantees an interactive and spicy communal feast for all ages.
8. Green & Safe – Advocating organic and sustainable ingredients, this café-restaurant serves fresh salads, grilled meats, and vibrant vegetarian options in the French Concession.
9. Xiao Yang Sheng Jian – Known for crispy-bottomed Shengjianbao, this local favourite is a quick stop for those wanting authentic Shanghainese snacks packed with juicy pork.
10. Tea House at Huxinting Teahouse – Nestled by Yu Garden, sip fragrant teas paired with traditional dim sum, soaking in timeless Shanghai charm beneath classic architecture.

Price & Style Grid: Dining at a Glance

As you explore the best restaurants in Shanghai, CN, you'll discover an impressive spectrum: from wallet-friendly street fare to cutting-edge haute cuisine. Whether you're dressing down for Shengjianbao or suiting up for Ultraviolet’s immersive experience, each neighbourhood offers distinct flavours and dining styles that invite you to savour Shanghai’s cultural depth and culinary creativity.

Neighbourhood Flavours

French Concession

The leafy boulevards of the French Concession welcome you with bohemian cafés, elegant bistros, and organic eateries. As dusk falls, locals gather in atmospheric courtyards over artisan coffee or earthy Yunnan dishes. This district is the epitome of relaxed sophistication and one of the best places to find stylish restaurants in Shanghai, CN blending tradition with global influences.

Jing’an

Jing’an pulses with modernity, home to shiny skyscrapers, upscale shopping, and a vibrant nightlife scene. You can hop between chic fusion restaurants and hole-in-the-wall dumpling shops. Jing’an’s energy suits travellers who want to combine urban dining experiences with authentic Shanghainese classics - a true microcosm of the city’s eclectic culinary scene.

Yuyuan Bazaar & Old City

Stepping into Yuyuan Bazaar, you find yourself surrounded by heritage architecture and buzzing food stalls. This is the place to dive into traditional snacks like stinky tofu or tanghulu (candied fruit) while exploring ancient lanes. Dining here feels like a tactile revisit to Shanghai’s past.

Pudong

Across the river, Pudong dazzles with futuristic views and high-end dining. Here, international restaurants and contemporary Chinese kitchens coexist with spectacular skyline backdrops - ideal for romantic dinners or business meals with a cosmopolitan twist.

Hidden Culinary Gems

• Bao House – A tiny joint tucked away in the French Concession, serving addictive homemade steamed buns with inventive fillings.
• WanMao Bakery – A charming bakery beloved by locals for its flaky mooncakes and buttery egg tarts in Jing’an.
• Little Catch Seafood – A discreet seafood spot offering fresh Yangtze River delicacies cooked with rustic, earthy flavours.

How to Eat Around Shanghai, CN

Shanghai offers an unparalleled diversity of restaurant types: from informal street stalls where you can sample authentic quick bites to lavish establishments perfect for celebratory dinners. Take the time to explore night markets as some of your best meals might be spontaneous finds by lantern light.

Chinese delivery apps such as Meituan and Ele.me are invaluable when you want restaurant-quality food at home or your hotel – with English-friendly interfaces improving all the time.

Don’t miss visiting local wet markets early in the morning where vibrant produce and fragrant spices are on display; these vibrant hubs offer insights into daily Shanghainese eating habits.

For the best experiences, book reservations ahead for popular spots, especially during festivals or weekends. Some of the must-try restaurants Shanghai, CN fill quickly, and many prefer phone or WeChat booking.

Money-Saving Tips

• Seek out lunch specials at fine dining restaurants; they offer the same quality dishes at reduced prices.
• Arrive early for early-bird menus at popular eateries, often discounted before peak dinner hours.
• Visit local chain restaurants like Hai Di Lao for great value communal dining experiences.
• Explore night markets for affordable and authentic street food with generous portions.
• Use delivery apps’ discount codes when ordering during off-peak hours to save on your favourite meals.

Sample 3-Day Food Itinerary

• Day 1: Breakfast at Fu Chun for baozi; Lunch at Lost Heaven for Yunnan specialties; Dinner at Ultraviolet for a culinary spectacle.
• Day 2: Start with coffee and pastries at Baker & Spice; afternoon street food at Yuyuan Bazaar; savour dinner at Mr & Mrs Bund.
• Day 3: Dim sum at the Tea House at Huxinting; light lunch at Green & Safe; hot pot dinner at Hai Di Lao for a spicy finale.

Eight Dining Mistakes Visitors Make

1. Failing to make reservations at popular restaurants, leading to long waits or missed meals.
2. Sticking only to tourist-heavy areas, missing out on authentic local dining experiences.
3. Ignoring local eating hours; many places close early or have afternoon breaks.
4. Assuming tipping is required - it's generally not expected and can cause confusion.
5. Overlooking street food due to hygiene worries; many vendors are safe and beloved by locals.
6. Ordering only familiar dishes instead of trying Shanghainese specialties like xiaolongbao or hairy crab.
7. Not downloading local delivery apps to access hidden restaurants and save time.
8. Visiting during off-seasons, missing festivals that offer seasonal culinary delights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to make reservations at Shanghai’s best restaurants?

Yes, especially for fine dining and popular spots. Weekend evenings and festivals see heavy demand, so booking in advance is strongly recommended.

Is tipping customary in Shanghai restaurants?

Tipping is not common and generally not expected; excellent service is part of the dining experience without additional gratuities.

Are there vegetarian options at top restaurants in Shanghai?

Many restaurants now include vegetarian and even vegan options. Green & Safe is particularly known for its fresh and organic vegetarian dishes.

What local dishes should I definitely try while in Shanghai?

Don’t miss out on xiaolongbao, Shengjianbao, hairy crab when in season, and classic Shanghainese sweet-and-sour pork.

Your Shanghai Culinary Adventure Awaits

Whether you're hunting for the best restaurants in Shanghai, CN or seeking off-the-beaten-path eats that locals adore, this city invites you to immerse yourself fully. Share your favourite dining spots or subscribe to uncover more hidden gems and curated food itineraries for iconic cities worldwide. Bon appétit and happy exploring!