Yuyuan Garden, located in the heart of Shanghai, is not just a stunning historical landmark but also a treasure trove for food lovers. While most visitors might not consider dining at scenic spots their first choice, Yuyuan Garden’s vibrant food scene is an exception. Boasting a variety of century-old eateries and renowned snacks, it offers a delightful blend of tradition and flavor. In this guide, I’ve personally tested six of the most popular restaurants and snack shops in Yuyuan Garden. Here are the highlights, honest reviews, and must-try items to help you savor the best of this iconic culinary destination.
1. Dexing Pavilion (德兴馆)
Signature Dish: Kaichang Scallion Oil Noodles (开洋葱油拌面)
Dexing Pavilion is a crowd favorite, known for its expertly crafted scallion oil noodles. At 30 RMB per bowl, the dish is on the pricier side but delivers a memorable experience. The noodles are perfectly chewy, with a delightful umami boost from dried shrimp. The scallion oil is a standout—bright green scallions are fried to perfection without a hint of bitterness, showcasing the chef’s attention to detail. However, given its simplicity, a more reasonable price range of 18-20 RMB might better match expectations.
2. Green Wave Hall (绿波廊)
Verdict: Skip This One
Despite its historical reputation, Green Wave Hall seems to have lost its charm. A candid chat with the staff and passersby revealed a lack of enthusiasm for the food. Even a friendly doorman admitted, albeit reluctantly, that the dishes are underwhelming. Many diners echoed similar sentiments, making it an easy place to skip during your visit.
3. Songyuelou (松月楼)
Highlight: Vegetarian Delicacies
Songyuelou is a haven for vegetarian food lovers, serving an entirely plant-based menu. The standout here is their vegetarian steamed buns, packed with flavorful fillings that rival those from the famous Lüyang Village. The quality of the dishes here ensures it remains a favorite among those seeking a healthy and satisfying meal.
4. Ningbo Tangyuan Shop (宁波汤团店)
Specialty: Ningbo-Style and Crab Roe Tangyuan
This shop offers two types of tangyuan: the classic Ningbo style and the indulgent crab roe variety. While the Ningbo tangyuan tastes similar to store-bought frozen ones, the crab roe tangyuan is a must-try. Bursting with authentic crab flavor, it stands out for its richness and balance. The service is also worth mentioning—when a crab roe tangyuan broke apart, the chef promptly replaced it, ensuring an excellent customer experience.
5. Dahuchun (大壶春)
Famous For: Shengjianbao (Pan-Fried Soup Dumplings)
Dahuchun is a historic establishment, tracing its roots back to 1932. Their signature shengjianbao is a tribute to the “Qingshui” (simple and light) style of cooking. These dumplings feature a thick yet fluffy dough with a pleasant aroma of flour. The star is the filling: fresh pork without the addition of jelly stock, resulting in a leaner but flavorful bite. While it lacks the soupy burst of some other variations, the emphasis on meat quality makes this a satisfying choice.
6. Nanxiang Steamed Bun Shop (南翔馒头店)
Recommendation: The Ultimate Yuyuan Experience
Nanxiang Steamed Bun Shop is a Shanghai institution and a must-visit at Yuyuan Garden. After a decade-long hiatus, I returned with tempered expectations, only to be blown away by the quality. The buns are available at both the takeout counter and the dine-in restaurant, but the experience differs significantly.
- Dine-In Experience:
- Price: 40 RMB for six buns
- Wait Time: 1-2 hours on average
- With over 500 seats and a Michelin star to its name, the dine-in area offers an elevated experience. The meticulously crafted buns, bursting with juicy fillings, are well worth the wait.
- Takeout Option:
- Price: 25 RMB for 12 buns
- Wait Time: Around 15 minutes
- While more affordable, the quality of the takeout buns is slightly inferior, making the dine-in option a better choice for those seeking the full experience.