Shanghai Sticky Rice Roll (Cifan Tuan) Travel Guide: A Taste of Tradition

Discover Shanghai’s local breakfast culture through its beloved Sticky Rice Roll (Cifan Tuan). Soft, flavorful glutinous rice wrapped around savory or sweet fillings, this humble dish is a window into the city’s culinary heritage and daily life.

I. What is Sticky Rice Roll?

Sticky Rice Roll is a classic Shanghai breakfast snack, a compact bundle of flavor and texture. Vendors steam glutinous rice until soft and slightly sweet, then wrap it around a variety of fillings:

• Savory options:
  • Crispy youtiao (fried dough stick)
  • Pork floss (rousong)
  • Pickled vegetables (zhacai)
• Sweet options:
  • Red bean paste (dousha)

The first bite is an audible crunch, followed by the soft, chewy rice. Each roll offers a balance of texture and taste, reflecting the care and tradition of Shanghai street food culture.

II. Where to Try the Best Sticky Rice Roll in Shanghai

1. Yang’s Fry-Dumpling (Wujiang Road Branch)

• Location: 2F, Huangpu Hui, 269 Wujiang Road, Jing’an District
• Price: 6–10 RMB per roll
• Transport: Metro Line 2/12/13, Nanjing West Road Station, Exit 13

Known for Shengjian buns, Yang’s also serves plump, perfectly sticky Cifan Tuan with generous fillings. A must-try on Wujiang Road food street. No reservation needed.

2. Shen Dacheng (East Nanjing Road Branch)

• Location: 636 East Nanjing Road, Huangpu District
• Price: 5–8 RMB per roll
• Transport: Metro Line 2/10, East Nanjing Road Station, Exit 3

Century-old bakery offering traditional flavors. High-quality glutinous rice and classic fillings make it a local favorite. Great spot for a break after shopping.

3. South Yunnan Road Food Street

• Location: South Yunnan Road, Huangpu District
• Price: 4–7 RMB per roll
• Transport: Metro Line 1/2/8, People’s Square Station, Exit 15

Famous food street with multiple vendors, each offering a unique twist on Cifan Tuan. Perfect for street food lovers seeking variety. Nearby: People’s Square, Shanghai Museum.

4. Hongkou Pastry Factory (North Sichuan Road Branch)

• Location: 2345 North Sichuan Road, Hongkou District
• Price: 5–9 RMB per roll
• Transport: Metro Line 10, North Sichuan Road Station, Exit 2

Specializes in traditional sweet rice products. Soft rice with diverse fillings, including classic youtiao and pork floss. Small shop with authentic old Shanghai vibes.

5. Tianzifang Food Stalls

• Location: Tiankang Road, Lane 210, Tianzifang, Huangpu District
• Price: 4–6 RMB per roll
• Transport: Metro Line 9, Dapuqiao Station, Exit 1

Hidden stalls in Shanghai’s creative alleyways. Combine art exploration with a taste of local breakfast culture. Experience both modern bohemian vibes and traditional street food.

III. Travel Tips

• Best Time: Breakfast hours, 7–10 AM
• Pairing: Soy milk or traditional Chinese tea
• Nearby Attractions:
  • Wujiang Road: Food street shopping and local snacks
  • East Nanjing Road: Iconic shopping district
  • Tianzifang: Creative shops and galleries

IV. Conclusion

Whether from a historic Laozihao bakery, a bustling street food stall, or a hidden creative alley, Cifan Tuan (Sticky Rice Roll) is a must-try taste of Shanghai. Soft, chewy, and filled with savory or sweet delights, it offers a delicious entry into the city’s food culture. Discover more of Shanghai’s best eats on our Shanghai Local Food Trails.