Shanghai, a city renowned for its vibrant culture and modern skyline, also boasts a culinary scene that reflects its rich heritage and diverse influences. Unlike the spicy and bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine, Shanghai’s food is known for its delicate and subtle tastes, offering a refined and nuanced dining experience. From the crispy and juicy Shengjian Bao to the exquisite Eight Treasure Duck, Shanghai’s local specialties are a testament to the city’s deep-rooted culinary traditions. Here’s a guide to some of the must-try dishes that capture the essence of Shanghai’s unique food culture.
Shengjian Bao (Pan-Fried Pork Buns)
Shengjian Bao, or pan-fried pork buns, are a beloved Shanghai delicacy with a history stretching back over a century. These buns are known for their crispy, golden-brown bottom, while the top is adorned with sesame seeds and chopped scallions. What sets Shengjian Bao apart is the delicious burst of soup inside the bun when you take a bite. The combination of a crisp exterior and a juicy, flavorful filling makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
You can enjoy these savory treats at places like A De Shengjian (阿德生煎), located at No. 315, Waipojin Road.
Eight Treasure Duck
A festive dish often associated with special occasions, Eight Treasure Duck is a specialty of the Shanghai Chenghuang Temple Old Restaurant. This dish is made by stuffing a whole duck with a mixture of ingredients, sealing it in a bowl, and steaming it to perfection. The result is a plump, aromatic duck with rich and flavorful juices. The Eight Treasure Duck is celebrated for its succulent taste and intricate preparation, making it a must-try for those wanting to experience Shanghai’s traditional flavors.
For a taste of this dish, visit Shanghai Old Restaurant (上海老饭店) at No. 242, Fuyou Road, Huangpu District.
Nanxiang Xiaolongbao (Nanxiang Steamed Dumplings)
Nanxiang Xiaolongbao, or Nanxiang steamed dumplings, are famous for their thin skin, generous filling, and rich taste. These dumplings are characterized by their delicate, translucent appearance and are often served with ginger strips and black vinegar for added flavor. Shaped like small pagodas, these dumplings are a classic example of Shanghai’s culinary artistry and are enjoyed by food enthusiasts both locally and internationally.
The best place to try these is at Nanxiang Steamed Bun Shop (南翔馒头店) in Yuyuan Mall, No. 85-87, Yuyuan Old Street, Huangpu District.
Shanghai Crabcake (Xie Ke Huang)
Shanghai Crabcake, also known as Shanghai Crab Shell Bun, is renowned for its crisp texture and flavorful filling. This delicacy is prepared using a combination of oil pastry and yeast dough, resulting in a round, flat bun that is topped with sesame seeds and baked in an oven. The filling varies between savory options like scallions, fresh meat, and crab roe, and sweet options such as white sugar, rose, and red bean paste.
For an authentic taste of Shanghai Crabcake, visit Wu Yuan Bakery (吴苑饼家), located at No. 255, Yanping Road, Jing’an District.
Pear Paste Candy (Li Gao Tang)
Pear Paste Candy is a time-honored Shanghai snack with a history spanning several centuries. Known for its sweet, honey-like flavor and crumbly texture, this candy is made from a blend of pure white sugar, almonds, Sichuan pepper, and other traditional Chinese medicinal ingredients. The candy is particularly popular in the Chenghuang Temple area, where it is considered a local specialty.
To sample this unique treat, head to Shanghai Pear Paste Candy Store (上海梨膏糖商店) at No. 125, Old School Field Road, Huangpu District.
Shanghai Guotie (Pan-Fried Dumplings)
Shanghai Guotie, or pan-fried dumplings, are a staple of Shanghai’s street food scene. Typically filled with minced pork and a variety of seasonal vegetables, these dumplings are known for their crispy bottoms and tender tops. The careful preparation and balanced flavors make them a favorite among locals.
For a satisfying bite of Guotie, visit A Nian Guotie (阿年锅贴), located at No. 600-4, Longchang Road, Yangpu District.