Jing’an Temple, one of Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks, not only offers a spiritual escape but is also surrounded by an abundance of local eateries offering delicious food. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Shanghai flavors or craving something new, the area around Jing’an Temple has something to satisfy every palate. Here’s a list of 10 hidden gem restaurants and food spots near Jing’an Temple that are beloved by locals and visitors alike.
1. Huang Ayi Guo Tie Da Wang (黄阿姨锅贴大王, Formerly Sha Fu)
Must-try: Potstickers (锅贴)
This 28-year-old establishment is famous for its crispy potstickers with a thin, crunchy skin and juicy filling. The meat is tender and slightly sweet, making it a favorite of both locals and celebrities like actress Tang Yan. A must-try for anyone visiting the area.
2. Xiao Fang Kuai Dessert (小方块甜点)
Must-try: Sliced Cakes (切片蛋糕)
Known as one of the best cake spots in Shanghai, Xiao Fang Kuai offers cakes that are a true value for money, with each slice priced between ¥10 to ¥20. Their offerings include over 20 varieties, such as hazelnut chocolate (榛果巧克力), tofu cake (豆乳蛋糕), rose lychee (玫瑰荔枝), lemon tart (柠檬塔), and pistachio strawberry (开心果草莓), each boasting rich flavors and firm textures.
3. Du She Mian Guan (毒蛇面馆, Poison Snake Noodle House)
Must-try: Eel Shreds Noodles (鳝丝面), Fried Pork Chop with Fermented Red Bean Curd (南乳炸猪排)
This local favorite is known for its thick, flavorful sauce that coats each noodle. The eel (鳝丝) is fresh and generously portioned, and the fried pork chop (炸猪排), marinated with fermented red bean curd (南乳), is savory and delicious. Pair the dish with Shanghai’s signature spicy soy sauce for an extra kick.
4. Xiao Shi Hui (小实惠)
Must-try: Fried Dumplings (油煎馄饨), Salted Pork Rice (咸肉菜饭), White Braised Eel Shreds (白烧鳝丝)
The fried dumplings (油煎馄饨) are crispy on the outside, with a juicy filling inside, and the salted pork rice (咸肉菜饭) is an excellent example of traditional Shanghai cuisine. The white braised eel shreds (白烧鳝丝) are rare and full of flavor, complemented by cilantro to remove any fishy taste. A great spot for budget-friendly yet flavorful meals.
5. Ding Fu Ji (鼎福记)
Must-try: Wuxi Xiaolongbao (无锡小笼包)
Famous for its large xiaolongbao (无锡小笼包) with a fresh, sweet broth and a savory pork filling, this place brings the authentic flavors of Wuxi to Shanghai. Pair your xiaolongbao with their signature wontons for a truly satisfying meal.
6. Nong Tang Xiao Hun Tun Shi Fu (弄堂小馄饨食府, Alley Xiao Wonton House)
Must-try: Small Wontons (小馄饨)
This spot serves small wontons (小馄饨) cooked in a clay pot, filled with fresh meat and topped with a variety of delicious ingredients like egg skin and seaweed. The soup is rich and flavorful, making it a perfect dish for a cozy meal.
7. Mei Xin Dim Sum (美新点心)
Must-try: Tangyuan (汤圆, Sweet Glutinous Rice Balls)
A classic Shanghai snack, Mei Xin (美新点心) has been serving tangyuan for nearly 100 years. The most popular version is the double-filled tangyuan (双拼汤圆) with salted pork and black sesame, which has become a beloved treat for Shanghai’s older generations. It’s a perfect dish for those seeking something nostalgic.
8. Hu Xi Lao Nong Tang Mian Guan (沪西老弄堂面馆, Old Alley Noodle House)
Must-try: Clams and Pork Liver Noodles (蛤蜊猪肝面), Intestine Noodles (大肠面)
This well-loved Shanghai noodle spot serves noodles with freshly cooked toppings, including tender pork liver and intestine. The clams are fresh and clean, making the noodle bowls flavorful yet delicate. It’s a local favorite for noodle lovers.
9. Hu Shang Wang Ji (沪上王记)
Must-try: Scallion Oil Pancakes (葱油饼)
Hu Shang Wang Ji (沪上王记) specializes in the traditional Shanghai scallion oil pancake. These pancakes are made with small dough balls, filled with a generous amount of scallions, oil, and lard, which are then flattened and pan-fried to a crispy golden brown. Once baked, they are placed in an oven for a second round of crisping, producing an irresistible aroma.
10. Dong Ji Lu Chun Mian Guan (董记庐春面馆, Dong Ji Spring Noodle House)
Must-try: Stir-fried Pork Liver Noodles (酱爆猪肝面)
Although this place is small, it has earned a loyal following thanks to its authentic Shanghai flavors. The stir-fried pork liver noodles (酱爆猪肝面) are the standout dish: thin slices of pork liver are quickly stir-fried to perfection, retaining a crisp, chewy texture. Served with a rich, savory sauce, this dish is sure to keep you coming back for more.