9 Must-Try Local Eats in Shanghai 🍜

Planning a trip to Shanghai and not sure what to eat? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Here’s a foodie guide to 9 local spots that even Shanghai locals can’t resist. Let’s dig in! 😋

9 Must-Try Local Eats

1️⃣ Shrimp Soldiers & Crab Generals (虾兵蟹将) – Crab Roe Noodles

If you love rich flavors, this crab roe noodle dish is a must-try! The crab roe is freshly hand-picked from five crabs by the owner herself, making every bite bursting with umami. The noodles are perfectly chewy and coated in that savory, fragrant sauce. Trust us, you won’t be able to stop eating!

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2️⃣ Yuxing Ji (裕兴记) – Crab Roe Noodles (Century Link Mall)

Fun fact: Ma Jiaqi from TFBoys has dined here! After slurping up their famous crab roe noodles, take a stroll through the nearby 1192 Old Shanghai Street for some retro vibes. Their crab roe soup dumplings and red bean glutinous rice balls are also worth a try!

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3️⃣ Shanghai Old Restaurant (上海老饭店)

Ready to dive into authentic Shanghai cuisine? This is the place! Their Eight Treasure Duck and Eight Treasure Spicy Sauce are absolute classics. Pro tip: Come hungry!

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4️⃣ Haling Noodle House (哈灵面馆) – Spicy Bullfrog Noodles

Feeling adventurous? Their signature bullfrog noodles are tender, juicy, and pack a spicy punch! The noodles soak up all that rich, spicy broth—perfect for spice lovers. 🌶️

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5️⃣ Xiande Lai (鲜得来) – Fried Pork Ribs with Rice Cakes

A Shanghai street food legend! Crispy golden pork ribs paired with soft, chewy rice cakes, all drizzled with a sweet-savory sauce. It’s the kind of snack you’ll keep craving.

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6️⃣ Shanghai Dexing Restaurant (上海德兴馆)

For more traditional flavors, try their Steamed Pomfret with Fermented Pork Bones. This dish brings out a unique aroma from steaming fish with minced pork and fermented rice wine. A real taste of old-school Shanghai!

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7️⃣ Ningbo Tangyuan Shop (宁波汤团店)

This spot is a paradise for glutinous rice ball lovers! Their classic black sesame tangyuan is a must, but they also offer fun flavors like durian and matcha red bean. Soft, gooey, and full of flavor!

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8️⃣ Songhelou Noodle House (松鹤楼面馆)

This Suzhou-style noodle house is all about bold flavors and rich broths. Their signature Braised Pork Noodles feature melt-in-your-mouth pork and an intensely savory soup. Comfort food at its finest.

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9️⃣ Spring Breeze Pine Moon House (春风松月楼) – Vegetarian Delights

Veggie lovers, this one’s for you! Their Three Delicacies & Five Veggies Buns are stuffed with king oyster mushrooms, white jade mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, and seasonal greens. Thin-skinned, juicy, and oh-so-flavorful! 🥟

Shanghai’s food scene is full of hidden gems and delicious surprises. Whether you're craving something rich, spicy, or sweet, this list has you covered. Ready to eat your way through the city? Let us know which spot you’re trying first!

Happy eating! 🍽️

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