Food, shopping, wellness, nightlife & luxury experiences in Shanghai
The best places to eat in Shanghai — from street food to fine dining
A legendary spot for authentic Shanghainese Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). Expect a queue, but the fresh, juicy dumplings are worth it. Try the pure crab roe dumplings for a treat.
Famous for Shengjianbao (pan-fried pork buns). Crispy on the bottom, fluffy on top, and filled with hot broth and savory pork. A classic Shanghai street food experience in a sit-down setting.
A historic, no-frills local eatery renowned for its sesame noodles (ma jiang mian) and spicy pork chop. Perfect for a quick, flavorful, and incredibly affordable local lunch.
Another local favorite for Shanghainese breakfast and lunch, specializing in Xiaolongbao and other dim sum. Less touristy than some, offering a more authentic neighborhood vibe.
While a Taiwanese chain, Din Tai Fung offers consistently high-quality dim sum, especially their signature Xiaolongbao. A safe bet for delicious, clean, and reliable food in a comfortable setting.
Showcasing the vibrant flavors of Yunnan province, Lost Heaven offers a unique culinary journey with a beautiful, atmospheric setting. Great for a memorable dinner with friends or a date.
A beloved institution for traditional Shanghainese home-style cooking. The braised pork belly (hongshao rou) and hairy crab (seasonal) are must-tries. Reservation highly recommended for this small, popular spot.
An unparalleled, multi-sensory dining experience. Only 10 guests per night are transported to a secret location for a 20-course avant-garde meal, accompanied by custom visuals, sounds, and scents. Booking months in advance is essential.
Paul Pairet's more accessible, yet still luxurious, modern French bistro with stunning views of the Bund. Known for its generous portions, playful dishes, and chic atmosphere. Excellent for a celebratory dinner.
Exquisite Cantonese fine dining within the historic Bund 3 building. Offers refined dim sum, classic Cantonese dishes, and a sophisticated ambiance with beautiful Bund views. Perfect for an elegant meal.
Pan-fried pork buns with a crispy bottom, fluffy top, and juicy, hot broth inside. A quintessential Shanghai breakfast or snack.
Delicate steamed soup dumplings, usually filled with pork, crab, or a mix. Best enjoyed with ginger and vinegar.
Flaky, savory scallion pancake, often cooked on a flat griddle until golden and crisp. Some versions include an egg or bacon.
A savory crepe made from a thin batter, often spread with egg, crispy cracker, scallions, cilantro, and various sauces. A popular breakfast item.
A glutinous rice roll, typically filled with pickled vegetables, pork floss, fried dough stick (youtiao), and sometimes sugar or savory fillings. A hearty breakfast.
Often called 'Chinese burger,' this is a shredded stewed pork (or other meat) served in a crispy, oven-baked flatbread. Originally from Shaanxi province, but popular everywhere.
Various meats (lamb, chicken, beef) and vegetables skewered and grilled, often seasoned with cumin and chili powder. A late-night favorite.
Candied hawthorn berries (or other fruits like strawberries, grapes) on a stick, coated in a hard, clear sugar syrup. A sweet, crunchy treat.
A bustling, traditional wet market offering fresh produce, meats, seafood, spices, and local snacks. A vibrant sensory experience and a glimpse into local life. Many vendors also sell ready-to-eat items like dumplings and noodles.
A large, well-organized indoor wet market offering a vast array of fresh ingredients, from exotic fruits to live seafood. It's clean and efficient, making it a good entry point for market newcomers.
While touristy, this area near Yu Garden offers a concentration of traditional Shanghainese snack shops and eateries. It's more of a food street than a market, but great for sampling a variety of local treats in one go.
An upscale international supermarket with an excellent gourmet food court, offering a wide range of imported goods, fresh produce, and prepared meals. Great for a quick, quality bite or to pick up specialty ingredients.
Offers hands-on cooking classes focusing on regional Chinese cuisine, particularly Shanghainese and Sichuan dishes. Includes a market tour to learn about ingredients. Great for all skill levels.
Beyond just cooking, Untour Shanghai provides immersive cultural experiences, including market tours, dumpling making, and home-cooked meals with local families. Focuses on authentic experiences.
Where to shop in Shanghai — districts, markets, and bargains
Divided into East (pedestrian street with department stores, souvenir shops) and West (upscale malls, luxury boutiques). East Nanjing Road is more tourist-oriented, West Nanjing Road is high-end.
Known as Shanghai's 'Champs-Élysées,' this elegant street is lined with international luxury brands, flagship stores, and high-end department stores. Great for fashionistas and luxury shoppers.
A charming labyrinth of narrow alleys in the French Concession, filled with artisan boutiques, art galleries, cafes, and unique souvenir shops. Perfect for finding handcrafted items and unique gifts.
A bustling three-story market where you can get custom-made suits, shirts, dresses, and traditional Chinese garments like Qipao (cheongsam) at very reasonable prices. Bring photos for inspiration.
Located underground at the Science & Technology Museum Metro station, this market is famous for selling 'replica' goods (counterfeits) of clothing, accessories, electronics, and souvenirs. Bargaining is essential.
A traditional Chinese market surrounding the Yu Garden, offering a vast array of souvenirs, handicrafts, tea, and local snacks. It's very touristy but great for finding classic Chinese gifts.
Specializes in pearls (freshwater and saltwater), jade, and other gemstones. You can find loose pearls, custom jewelry, and various accessories. Bargain hard for the best prices.
Authentic keepsakes and what to avoid
High-quality silk scarves, ties, pajamas, or embroidered pieces. Silk is a classic Chinese export and a luxurious gift.
Shanghai is a great place to buy various Chinese teas (e.g., Longjing green tea, Pu'er, Oolong) and beautiful porcelain or Yixing clay tea sets.
Intricate paper-cut designs depicting animals, landscapes, or auspicious symbols. Lightweight and easy to pack.
Elegant hand-painted fans or scrolls featuring Chinese calligraphy or traditional landscapes. Can be decorative and cultural.
Beautifully crafted items like small boxes, vases, or figurines using traditional Chinese techniques. Look for quality in specialized shops.
An iconic, milky, chewy candy from Shanghai, wrapped in edible rice paper. A nostalgic and delicious treat to share.
Style hotspots in Shanghai
A sophisticated shopping boulevard showcasing international luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Cartier, and high-end department stores. Perfect for designer fashion and accessories.
Home to flagship stores of global fashion brands, luxury malls like Plaza 66 and Jing'an Kerry Centre, and high-end department stores. It's where the fashion elite of Shanghai shop.
A pedestrian area combining renovated traditional Shikumen architecture with modern shopping and dining. Features a mix of international boutiques, local designer stores, and lifestyle brands.
Relax and rejuvenate in Shanghai
A popular and reliable chain offering high-quality traditional Chinese massages, foot reflexology, and oil massages in a tranquil, professional setting. Good value for money.
Known for its serene ambiance and professional therapists, offering a range of treatments from aromatherapy massage to facials. A step up in luxury and service.
An opulent spa experience within the luxurious Peninsula Hotel. Offers personalized treatments, a lavish setting, and exceptional service. Perfect for a full day of pampering.
For a truly local and often very effective experience, seek out one of the countless neighborhood foot massage shops. They might lack the fancy decor but often have highly skilled practitioners for a fraction of the price.
After dark in Shanghai
Located on the 58th floor of the Ritz-Carlton, Flair offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Bund, Oriental Pearl Tower, and the city skyline. Perfect for sophisticated cocktails and an unforgettable vista.
An iconic rooftop bar and club on the Bund, famous for its vibrant atmosphere, outdoor terrace, and unparalleled views of Pudong. Great for dancing, people-watching, and a classic Shanghai party night.
A multi-level speakeasy in the French Concession, hidden behind a false bookshelf in a cocktail supply store. Known for its innovative cocktails, intimate ambiance, and skilled mixologists.
A highly acclaimed speakeasy bar in the French Concession, known for its friendly atmosphere, classic cocktails, and creative concoctions. A favorite among locals and expats alike.
A spectacular acrobatic show combining traditional Chinese acrobatics with modern technology, music, and special effects. A thrilling and visually stunning performance for all ages.
A prominent cultural landmark hosting a diverse program of international and local opera, ballet, classical concerts, and theatrical performances. Check their schedule for current shows.
Splurge-worthy experiences in Shanghai
Charter a private yacht or luxury boat for an exclusive evening cruise along the Huangpu River, offering unparalleled views of the Bund and Pudong skyline, often with catering and drinks.
Indulge in a stay at one of Shanghai's most iconic luxury hotels, offering impeccable service, elegant rooms, Michelin-starred dining, and a prime location on the Bund.
Experience breathtaking aerial views of Shanghai's futuristic skyline, the Huangpu River, and beyond. Various tour lengths and routes are available for an unforgettable perspective.
Commission a bespoke, hand-tailored Qipao (cheongsam) from a renowned tailor, using exquisite silks and traditional craftsmanship for a truly unique and luxurious garment.
As mentioned in Splurge Restaurants, this is the ultimate luxury dining experience in Shanghai, a multi-sensory journey that transcends traditional gastronomy.
Best cafes and coffee spots in Shanghai
The largest Starbucks in the world, this experiential roastery offers an immersive coffee journey with multiple brewing methods, a Teavana bar, and an artisan bakery. It's a destination in itself.
A hugely popular local coffee chain known for its high-quality, specialty coffee at incredibly affordable prices. Often has small, minimalist grab-and-go kiosks, but also larger stores.
A trendy, design-forward local coffee brand with unique seasonal drinks and aesthetic interiors. Great for specialty coffee lovers and Instagrammable moments.
A popular French Concession spot known for its excellent coffee, delicious crepes (savory and sweet), and vibrant brunch menu. Features a lovely outdoor seating area.
The Kyoto-based minimalist coffee chain has several aesthetically pleasing outlets in Shanghai, serving clean, high-quality coffee. The Wukang Road branch is particularly popular.
A chic and cozy cafe known for its stylish interior, specialty coffee, and delicious pastries. A great spot for a relaxed afternoon coffee break or a casual meeting.