Two Day Dining Guide in Shanghai, Authentic Cuisine in the Alleys

Discovering Shanghai's Culinary Heart in Two Delicious Days

Shanghai, known for its blend of traditional and modern influences, is a culinary paradise. From street food stalls to fine dining restaurants, the city offers a wide range of flavors that cater to every palate. In this two-day dining guide, we'll take you through Shanghai's alleys to discover authentic Shanghai cuisine that's a must-try for any foodie. Whether you're planning a Shanghai itinerary or a city tour shanghai, make sure to include these delicious destinations.

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Day 1: Exploring the Authentic Flavors of Old Shanghai

● Morning: Yu Garden and Surrounding Alleys

Start your culinary adventure at Yu Garden, a historical garden complex that's also known for its surrounding food alleys. Here, you'll find a wide variety of traditional snacks and street food that represent the essence of Shanghai cuisine.

Sheng Jian Bao (Pan-Fried Buns): These buns are filled with pork or crab meat and have a crispy bottom and soft, juicy inside. Don't miss the chance to try them at a stall near Yu Garden.

Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings): Another staple of Shanghai cuisine, these delicate dumplings are filled with pork broth and meat, and are served with a vinegar-and-soy-sauce dipping sauce. Look for a reputable stall to ensure the best taste.

● Afternoon: NanXiang Old Street

After your morning snack hunt, head to Nanxiang Old Street, a historic district famous for its traditional buildings and quaint alleys. Here, you'll find a concentration of local restaurants and food stalls that offer authentic Shanghai dishes.

Lion's Head Meatballs: These large meatballs, simmered in a rich broth, are a favorite among locals. Try them at a restaurant that specializes in Shanghai-style home cooking.

Pork Rib Rice Noodles: A hearty dish that combines tender pork ribs with fragrant rice noodles, this is a perfect lunch option. Look for a stall that offers freshly made noodles and slow-cooked pork ribs.

● Evening: The Bund and Nearby Restaurants

As the evening sets in, head to The Bund for a scenic view of Shanghai's skyline. While there, don't miss the opportunity to try some high-end Shanghai cuisine at a nearby restaurant.

Braised Pork Belly: This classic Shanghai dish is served with a sweet-and-savory sauce and is often paired with rice or noodles. Look for a restaurant that offers it as a specialty.

Shanghai Noodles: Unlike other Chinese noodles, Shanghai noodles are thinner and have a unique texture. Try them with a selection of toppings like braised pork, shrimp, or vegetables.

Day 2: diving Deeper into Shanghai's Culinary Scene

● Morning: Tianzifang

Tianzifang is a popular tourist destination known for its quaint alleys, art galleries, and cafes. But it's also a great place to try authentic Shanghai snacks and street food.

Fried Dough Sticks (You Tiao): These crispy sticks of dough are often served with a cup of soy milk for breakfast. Look for a stall that offers freshly fried dough sticks.

Mango Pudding: While not traditionally Shanghai, this sweet treat has become a popular snack in the city. Try it at a local dessert shop for a refreshing end to your morning.

● Afternoon: Huaihai Road

Huaihai Road is a bustling shopping and dining district that's home to a variety of restaurants serving both traditional and modern Shanghai cuisine.

Braised Lion's Head Meatballs: Unlike the smaller lion's head meatballs found at street stalls, these larger meatballs are often served as a main dish with vegetables and rice. Look for a restaurant that specializes in Shanghai-style braised dishes.

Shark's Fin Soup: While it may be a luxury dish, shark's fin soup is a traditional Shanghai specialty that's worth trying at least once. Look for a high-end restaurant that offers it as a signature dish.

● Evening: French Concession

As the evening approaches, head to the French Concession, a historic district with a mix of European and Chinese architecture. Here, you'll find a variety of restaurants that offer fusion cuisine that combines Shanghai cuisine with international flavors.

Shanghai-Style Pizza: A unique fusion dish that combines traditional Shanghai ingredients like braised pork and shrimp with a pizza crust. Try it at a restaurant that specializes in fusion cuisine.

Shanghai Noodles with Seafood: Another fusion dish that combines Shanghai noodles with fresh seafood like shrimp, scallops, and clams. Look for a restaurant that offers a variety of seafood dishes。

Conclusion: A Culinary Adventure in Shanghai

In conclusion, Shanghai's alleys are filled with a wide variety of authentic Shanghai cuisine that's worth exploring. From traditional snacks and street food to high-end restaurants and fusion dishes, the city offers a culinary adventure that's sure to satisfy any foodie. Whether you're planning a shanghai itinerary or a city tour shanghai, make sure to include these delicious destinations on your list of shanghai must see attractions. Enjoy your culinary journey through Shanghai!