Eat Like a Local: Must-Try Restaurants in Shanghai Right Now

By TopFoodGrub

Hello, I've just returned from my long trip to China. I am full of energy and so excited to post about great restaurants and cafe that I've tied. These are my TOP 5 favourite hidden gems in Shanghai that I always share with my friends planning to visit Shanghai. I bet you will love it!

🔗 Click hyperlinked location that takes you to baidu map. You can't use google map in China without vpn, instead use Apple map or Baidu map to navigate your way.

Top1. Yu Xing Ji/ 裕兴记·蟹黄面馆(外滩店) - Best Shanghai crab noodle

Location: 四川中路410号南京路步行街路口50米 (Go to the nearest branch from your location)

Recommendation: crab noodle

If you're visiting Shanghai, you can't miss the city's famous crab dishes. Crab noodles (蟹黄面), crab xiaolongbao, and crab soup over rice are absolute must-tries. The rich, velvety crab sauce infuses each dish with a deep, savory flavor that lingers long after your meal.

When enjoying crab noodles, it's best to start by adding a small amount of the crab topping to the dry noodles and mixing gradually. This allows you to find the perfect balance of flavor. If you love seafood, consider adding shrimp—it enhances the dish with even more depth and umami.

Shanghai's crab specialties are a true delight, offering a taste of the city's rich culinary heritage. Don't leave without indulging in these iconic flavors!

Top2. Hu Xi Lao Nongtang Mianguan/ 沪西老弄堂面馆 - Best Shanghai traditional noodle

Location: 北京西路1738号 (Go to the nearest branch from your location)

Recommendation: Pork liver and clam noodle (蛤蜊猪肝面), fried pork(炸猪排)

OMG! This is hands down the best noodle spot in Shanghai, and it’s no surprise that locals love it too. Be prepared for a long queue—it’s well worth the wait! They offer a variety of noodle dishes, but my go-to is their classic bowl.

One of the standout toppings is their cooked eel, served with a bold, dark soy sauce and a giant piece of almost raw garlic. I’ll be honest—I usually hate eel. But here? It’s unbelievably soft, flavourful, and nothing like I’ve ever had before.

The lively atmosphere, surrounded by locals, is a sign you’re in the right place. The noodle portions are generous, but don’t leave without trying their crispy fried pork, reminiscent of katsu. It’s the perfect side to complete your meal!❤️

Top3. Siji Minfu Kaoya dian/ 四季民福烤鸭店(外滩外白渡桥店) - Best Beijing duck

Location: 上海市虹口区吴淞路130号城投控股大厦辅楼彩虹北三层 (Go to the nearest branch from your location)

Recommendation: Beijing duck, Zhajiang mian

You're right—this place is originally from Beijing, where it’s so famous that getting a reservation is nearly impossible. But why not try it in Shanghai?

Here, you can experience the same top-tier quality of Beijing duck, with its perfectly crispy skin and succulent meat. Watching the chef expertly slice the duck tableside is almost like a performance, adding to the experience.

Beyond the duck, their other dishes are equally impressive, making it a fantastic spot for a well-rounded feast. If you’re craving authentic Beijing flavors in Shanghai, this is the place to be!

Top4. Ming he Shangfang/鸣鹤山房·成都串串香火锅茶坊(上海首店) - Best spicy hotspot in skewers

江宁路101号 (Go to the nearest branch from your location)

You’ve probably heard of Chinese hotpot, but have you tried hotpot with skewers? Instead of just adding ingredients to the pot, you get to pick your favorite skewers and dip them into the flavorful broth of your choice. It’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy hotpot!

But here’s something you might not know—hotpot restaurants in China are often home to some of the best desserts. It’s common to see Uber deliveries bringing sweet treats straight to hotpot spots. This place is no exception! After indulging in a spicy, mouth-numbing broth, cool down with a refreshing icy dessert. The contrast makes the experience even better!

Top5. Jin Long/ 金龙·港式打边炉（武进路店）- Best Cantonese hotpot

北外滩街道武进路183号(近吴淞路)(Go to the nearest branch from your location)

You might be familiar with the fiery red broth of Sichuan hotpot, but have you ever tried Cantonese hotpot? Instead of numbing spice, it offers a rich, deeply comforting flavor—almost like a delicious congee.

After trying this place, I’ve found myself preferring Cantonese hotpot over the spicy version, which always leaves me with a stomachache. The flavours here are warm, soothing, and incredibly satisfying.

The highlight? Giant abalone and tender chicken, both unforgettable. And nothing goes to waste—the broth itself is a treat, packed with flavour and pure comfort in a bowl. If you're looking for a different kind of hotpot experience, this is the place to be!