Visiting the Bund in Shanghai to marvel at the Oriental Pearl Tower but not sure where to eat? Look no further! Shanghai is home to a wealth of time-honored restaurants, known as “Laozihao” (老字号), which have stood the test of time and represent the rich heritage of the city’s culinary culture. These historic eateries offer everything from local Shanghainese cuisine to iconic snacks and desserts. Let’s explore 25 must-visit Laozihao restaurants near the Bund.
1. Dexingguan (德兴馆) – Established 1878: Known as the birthplace of authentic Shanghainese cuisine, Dexingguan is one of the city’s culinary icons. This is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience true local flavors.
2. Lao Zhenghe (老正和) – Established 1933: A classic Shanghai-style restaurant, Lao Zhenghe has been serving its signature dishes for 88 years. Its longevity is a testament to its enduring popularity and the quality of its food.
3. Shanghai Old Restaurant (上海老饭店) – Established 1875: This restaurant features some of Shanghai’s intangible cultural heritage dishes. While the food can sometimes be hit or miss, the experience of dining in a historic setting is worth it.
4. Yanyunlou (燕云楼) – Established 1928: Once an upscale restaurant that ordinary families couldn’t afford, Yanyunlou is now a well-known name for its distinctive dishes. The restaurant’s charm is best experienced during the evening.
5. Lao Zhengxing (老正兴) – Established 1862: Lao Zhengxing has been awarded a Michelin star for seven consecutive years, a rare feat for a Shanghainese restaurant. It’s a must-try for food enthusiasts looking for top-quality local cuisine.
6. Dafu Gui (大富贵) – Established 1881: This restaurant is divided into a dining area and a snack bar, where you’ll find many elderly Shanghai locals. Its authentic dishes, like pork ribs with rice cakes, are highly recommended.
7. Wang Bao He Restaurant (王宝和酒家) – Established 1744: Famed for its crab dishes, Wang Bao He is a local favorite. Nicknamed the “Crab King,” it’s the go-to spot for a memorable seafood meal paired with traditional Chinese rice wine.
8. Yuxingji (裕兴记) – Pre-Qing Dynasty: Originally from Suzhou, Yuxingji opened its Shanghai branch in 2018. The restaurant is known for its handmade noodles, which have earned it a top spot in the city’s culinary scene.
9. Zhuangshi Longxing (庄氏隆兴) – Established 1930: This humble noodle shop, run by the Zhuang family, is famous among locals as the “Noodle King.” It’s a great stop for a simple yet delicious bowl of noodles.
10. Chunfeng Songyuelou (春风松月楼) – Established 1910: Famed for its vegetarian “crab” dishes, Chunfeng Songyuelou serves dishes that are both flavorful and healthy. The vegetarian crab powder is a must-try.
11. Dahuchun (大壶春) – Established 1932: If you’re in Shanghai, you can’t leave without trying Shengjian (pan-fried buns). Dahuchun offers some of the city’s best, surpassing even the famous Xiaoyang Shengjian.
12. Fengyu (丰裕餐饮) – Established 1933: Renowned for its delicious Shengjian buns, Fengyu has been a local favorite for decades. It’s known for its unique flavors and crispy, juicy buns.
13. Shao Wansheng (邵万生) – Established 1852: Shao Wansheng specializes in preserved delicacies, and their “pickled” mooncakes are particularly famous. The strong aroma is unforgettable.
14. Taikang Food (泰康食品) – Established 1914:This shop is best known for its fresh meat mooncakes and qingtuan (sweet green rice balls). They sell out fast, so be sure to get there early.
15. No. 1 Food Store (第一食品商店) – Established 1954: A bustling state-owned food store, No. 1 Food Store holds a special place in the hearts of many Shanghainese families, carrying generations of memories.
16. Xiande Lai (鲜得来) – Established 1912:Here, the signature dish is steamed and then fried rice cakes served with Shanghai’s famous spicy soy sauce, creating a delicious balance of textures and flavors.
17. Kaiserling (凯司令) – Established 1928: Kaiserling is a renowned bakery offering time-honored pastries. Their signature butter cream and butterfly cookies make for excellent gifts or nostalgic treats.
18. Hongbaoshi (红宝石) – Established 1986: Known for its small, fresh cream cakes, Hongbaoshi has been a childhood favorite for many. Their classic whipped cream cakes with a cherry on top are still as popular as ever.
19. Laile Xiaolong (莱莱小笼) – Established 1994: This place is famous for its handmade xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). They sell out fast, so if you don’t want to wait in line, consider ordering takeout.
20. Nanxiang Mantou Shop (南翔馒头店) – Established 1900: For the best views of the Nine-Bend Bridge while enjoying xiaolongbao, visit this iconic restaurant. It’s a popular tourist spot, so expect a crowd.
21. Shen Dacheng (沈大成) – Established 1875: Shen Dacheng is legendary for its traditional Shanghai cakes and pastries. Their rice cakes and sweet dumplings are some of the best in town.
22. Lao Xiangzhai (老香斋) – Established 1851: This bakery is famous for its butterfly cookies, which are fragrant with a strong buttery taste. A must-try for dessert lovers!
23. Xinghualou (杏花楼) – Established 1851: One of Shanghai’s most famous Cantonese restaurants, Xinghualou is an institution known for its quality dim sum and Cantonese dishes.
24. International Hotel (国际饭店) – Established 1934: The butterfly cookies here are incredibly popular, with long queues forming daily to get a taste of this beloved treat.
25. Deda Western Restaurant (德大西餐社) – Established 1897: Deda is one of Shanghai’s oldest Western restaurants, offering a nostalgic dining experience for locals who cherish its long history.