Shanghai, China’s largest city and a global financial hub, is also home to one of the most exciting street food scenes in the world. This bustling metropolis, known for its skyscrapers and historic waterfront, is equally famed for its vibrant street food culture. From tiny stalls tucked away in local neighborhoods to sprawling food markets, Shanghai offers a culinary adventure that will satisfy even the most dedicated food lovers.
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For American travelers on the hunt for authentic, budget-friendly eats, Shanghai’s street food is a treasure trove of flavors. This guide will take you through the top street foods you must try, where to find them, and how to enjoy the best of Shanghai’s diverse food culture without breaking the bank.
1. Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings): Shanghai’s Signature Snack
No visit to Shanghai is complete without trying xiaolongbao, the city’s iconic soup dumplings. These delicate, steamed dumplings are filled with a mixture of savory broth and pork, and they are as fun to eat as they are delicious. The trick is to carefully nibble a small hole in the dumpling skin to sip out the flavorful soup inside before biting into the dumpling itself.
Where to Try Xiaolongbao:
The best xiaolongbao can be found in street markets and local eateries. Head to Yu Garden Bazaar, a lively shopping and food destination, where you’ll find street stalls selling freshly made xiaolongbao. For a more traditional experience, check out the famous Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant.
Budget Tip: You can enjoy a basket of six to eight xiaolongbao for around $2 to $4, making this a budget-friendly snack that’s both filling and flavorful.
2. Jianbing (Chinese Crepes): A Savory Breakfast Delight
For a quick, satisfying breakfast on the go, look no further than jianbing. This popular street food is a Chinese-style crepe, typically made from a batter of mung bean flour, topped with egg, and stuffed with a variety of savory fillings like crispy wonton crackers, green onions, pickles, and chili sauce. Some vendors even offer extra fillings like sausage or pork floss.
Jianbing is crispy, savory, and slightly spicy, making it a perfect morning meal or midday snack.
Where to Find Jianbing:
Jianbing stalls are found all over the city, especially near metro stations and busy intersections. One of the best areas to grab a jianbing is in the Jing’an Temple neighborhood, where local vendors serve up freshly made crepes to hungry commuters.
Budget Tip: A freshly made jianbing costs between $1.50 to $2.50, making it one of the cheapest and most satisfying meals you can find in Shanghai.
3. Shengjianbao (Pan-Fried Pork Buns): A Crispy and Juicy Treat
Another local favorite, shengjianbao, are pan-fried pork buns that have been a staple of Shanghai’s street food culture for over a century. Unlike xiaolongbao, these buns are larger, with a thicker dough, and are pan-fried to create a crispy bottom while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Filled with seasoned pork and sometimes a little soup, shengjianbao are crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor inside.
Where to Try Shengjianbao:
You’ll find shengjianbao at most street food markets, but the best-known spot is Yang’s Fried Dumplings, with several locations across the city. However, some of the tastiest buns come from tiny, unassuming street vendors scattered throughout Huangpu and Hongkou districts.
Budget Tip: A serving of four shengjianbao typically costs around $2 to $3, making it a fantastic and affordable street snack.
4. Chuanr (Grilled Skewers): Shanghai’s Street BBQ
If you’re craving something grilled, chuanr (grilled skewers) are a must-try. Originating from the Xinjiang region of China, chuanr consists of marinated meats, seafood, and vegetables grilled over an open flame and seasoned with spices like cumin and chili powder. Lamb, chicken, and squid are especially popular choices, but you can also find vegetable skewers for a lighter option.
Chuanr is perfect for late-night snacking and pairs well with a cold beer.
Where to Find Chuanr:
Street vendors selling chuanr can be found throughout Shanghai, especially in the evenings. Wujiang Road Food Street is one of the most popular places to indulge in skewers, as the entire street is lined with BBQ stalls grilling up a smoky, spicy feast.
Budget Tip: Individual skewers cost between $0.50 to $1, so you can enjoy a full meal of chuanr for just a few dollars.
5. Cong You Bing (Scallion Pancakes): Crispy and Flavorful
Cong you bing, or scallion pancakes, are a savory street food staple in Shanghai. These flaky, fried pancakes are made from dough mixed with chopped scallions, then pan-fried to a golden crisp. The result is a satisfying snack that’s crispy on the outside and chewy inside, with a mild onion flavor that pairs perfectly with a side of soy sauce or chili paste.
Where to Find Cong You Bing:
Scallion pancake vendors are ubiquitous across the city. Try wandering through the Qibao Ancient Town or head to the Zhongshan Park area, where food stalls sell fresh cong you bing hot off the griddle.
Budget Tip: A single scallion pancake costs around $1, making it an incredibly budget-friendly option for snacking on the go.
6. Noodles Galore: Exploring Shanghai’s Noodle Scene
Shanghai is a haven for noodle lovers, with a wide variety of noodle dishes available at street food stalls. Two of the most popular noodle dishes to try are Shanghai fried noodles (thick noodles stir-fried with soy sauce, pork, and vegetables) and yangchun noodles (a simple noodle soup made with a clear broth and topped with green onions and pork).
Both dishes are simple, comforting, and packed with flavor.
Where to Try Noodles:
You’ll find noodle stands scattered throughout the city, but for a local experience, visit the Yunnan South Road Food Market. Here, vendors specialize in different noodle dishes, offering everything from spicy beef noodles to vegetarian options.
Budget Tip: A bowl of noodles will typically cost between $2 to $4, making it a filling and affordable meal.
7. Sweet Treats: Tanghulu and Sticky Rice Balls
Shanghai’s street food scene isn’t just about savory dishes—there are plenty of sweets to satisfy your sweet tooth. Tanghulu, a traditional Chinese snack of candied fruits on a stick (usually hawthorn or strawberries), is a must-try. The fruits are skewered and coated in a hard sugar shell, offering a sweet and tart contrast in every bite.
Another popular treat is sticky rice balls, which are filled with sweet red bean paste or black sesame. These chewy, slightly sweet snacks are sold at street stalls throughout the city.
Where to Find Sweet Treats:
Nanjing Road and Tianzifang are two popular areas where you can find tanghulu and sticky rice balls, along with other sweet treats like egg tarts and sesame balls.
Budget Tip: A stick of tanghulu costs around $1 to $2, while sticky rice balls are usually $0.50 to $1 each.
8. Best Food Markets in Shanghai
To fully immerse yourself in Shanghai’s street food culture, a visit to one of the city’s bustling food markets is a must. Some of the best places to explore include:
- Wujiang Road Food Street: One of Shanghai’s most famous food streets, offering everything from dumplings to grilled skewers.
- Qibao Ancient Town: A historic water town on the outskirts of Shanghai, known for its traditional snacks and local delicacies.
- Yunnan South Road Food Market: A haven for noodle lovers and adventurous eaters.
Budget Tip: At these markets, you can sample a variety of dishes for less than $10, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers.
Conclusion: Street Food Heaven in Shanghai
For food lovers and budget travelers alike, Shanghai’s street food offers an unparalleled experience. Whether you’re indulging in xiaolongbao, jianbing, or sticky rice balls, you’ll find that the flavors and diversity of Shanghai’s street food reflect the city’s rich culinary heritage. The best part? You can enjoy an unforgettable food journey without spending a fortune.
Shanghai’s street food scene invites you to explore the heart of Chinese culture, one delicious bite at a time. So grab your chopsticks, head to the nearest street vendor, and dive into the irresistible flavors of this vibrant city.