According to Time Out's 2026 survey of 60,000 locals, 88% of Shanghai residents agreed that it is cheap to dine out well. Food is not a treat in Shanghai. It is a daily religion.
The Non-Negotiable: Xiaolongbao
No trip to Shanghai is complete without xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). The thin pleated skin holds a completely liquefied pork skin aspic that transforms into the signature savory broth when steamed.
How to Eat Xiaolongbao:
- Pierce the top with chopsticks
- Suck out the soup
- Dip in Zhenjiang vinegar
- Eat the whole thing in one bite
- Jia Jia Tang Bao in Hongkou District (40 CNY per person)
- Din Tai Fung globally (120 CNY per person)
The Night Market Ritual
Shanghai's night markets are living ecosystems, not tourist attractions. Wujiang Road between Hunan Road and Julu Road: 300 meters of family-run stalls since the 1980s.
- Skewer hot pot (2-5 CNY per skewer)
- Nanjing salted duck blood soup (12 CNY)
- Oyster omelette (20 CNY)
Tip: Arrive after 7 PM. These stalls began appearing in the 1980s when the Mao-era state canteen system collapsed – what started as survival is now the most authentic food street in Shanghai.
Shanghai's New Wave Dining Revolution
Since 2022, chef-driven independent restaurants are redefining Chinese fine dining internationally. Fucai in the Former French Concession serves a 16-course modern Zhejiang tasting menu (300-800 CNY per person).
These restaurants are not catering to foreigners. They are catering to Shanghai's increasingly sophisticated local clientele.
Reservations essential.
The Budget Secret: Department Store Food Courts
The most underutilized strategy: upper floors of major department stores called "food courts" offer incredible value and quality.
- Department stores compete on food quality to attract customers
- Prices are regulated and transparent
- Hygiene standards are strictly enforced
- Perfect for solo dining or quick meals