Crab Roe Tofu (Xiè Fěn Dòufu): Shanghai’s Golden Autumn Classic
Crab Roe Tofu is one of the most unforgettable dishes in Shanghai Benbang cuisine. When the rich golden crab roe melts into silky tofu, the flavor is pure, sweet, ocean-fresh, and unmistakably Jiangnan. Locals call it the “taste of Shanghai in autumn.”
Made with freshly picked hairy crab roe, crab meat, pork lard, and soft silken tofu, this dish is simple in appearance but incredibly layered in flavor—creamy, savory, slightly sweet, and deeply umami. For visitors, it offers the rare joy of “eating premium seafood with chopsticks.”
I. What Makes Crab Roe Tofu Special
The soul of the dish is the crab roe. Autumn (September–November) is the peak season for Dàzháxiè hairy crabs in the Yangtze River Delta. Chefs hand-pick the roe and meat, slowly sauté it in lard to release crab oil, then combine it with superior broth and silken tofu. A touch of vinegar brightens the richness, while scallions and a hint of ginger add fragrance.
Crab Roe Tofu captures the heart of Shanghai cooking: pairing humble tofu with precious seasonal ingredients to create maximum freshness (xiān). Once a banquet staple, it is now a must-try dish for travelers seeking authentic Benbang flavors.
II. Where to Eat Crab Roe Tofu in Shanghai: 5 Best Spots
Below is a curated guide to the top restaurants offering excellent versions of this classic dish—ranging from historic old brands to modern crab specialists.
| Venue | Address & Access | Highlights & Price | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Old Jesse (Lǎo Jíshì) | 41 Tianping Rd., Xuhui | Uses premium Yangcheng Lake crab; tofu is extremely soft; broth adds depth. One of Shanghai’s most beloved Benbang restaurants. | Reserve 1 day ahead. Try their Hongshao Pork—perfect with the tofu. ¥128/serving; avg. ¥300/person. |
| 2. Lubolang (Green Wave Gallery) | 115 Yuyuan Rd., next to Yuyuan Garden | A historic restaurant once used for state banquets. The tofu is fragrant, smooth, and full of crab oil. | Book in advance. Pair with Crab Roe Soup Dumplings. ¥158/serving; avg. ¥350/person. |
| 3. Lan Xin Restaurant | 130 Jinxian Rd., Huangpu | “Michelin in the Alley.” Uses Chongming crab; tofu is tender yet intact, with pepper for extra aroma. Loved by locals. | Expect a queue; go before 11:30 AM. Good value. ¥68/serving; avg. ¥100/person. |
| 4. Yuen Court (Yuán Yuàn) | 1 Yuyuan Rd., Jing’an | Family-friendly Benbang restaurant. Uses Yangcheng Lake crab; flavors are clean and balanced—great for kids. | Spacious branch at Jing’an Temple. Try their eel paste and pork intestine dishes. ¥88/serving; avg. ¥150/person. |
| 5. Xie Jia Dayuan (Crab House) | No. 6 Bund | A modern crab specialist. Replaces regular tofu with Japanese egg tofu for extra smoothness. Finished with Huadiao wine and sometimes caviar. | Reserve early, especially weekends. Great for dates. ¥298/serving; avg. ¥500/person. |
III. How to Enjoy Crab Roe Tofu Like a Local
- Best season: September–November (hairy crab peak). You can find it year-round, but autumn offers the richest flavor.
- How to order: Say “Lái yī fèn Xiè Fěn Dòufu.” For extra roe or meat: “Duō jiā xiè huáng / xiè ròu.”
- Best pairing: Light stir-fried greens and chrysanthemum tea to balance the richness.
- Nearby attractions:
- Old Jesse → Wukang Road, French Concession walks
- Lubolang → Yuyuan Garden, Nine-Turn Bridge
- Lan Xin → Huaihai Road & “nongtang” alleys
- Yuen Court → Jing’an Temple & Jing’an Park
- Crab House → The Bund night views
IV. Why This Dish Represents Shanghai
Crab Roe Tofu is more than comfort food—it’s a reflection of Benbang philosophy: fresh, seasonal, balanced, and elegant without being showy. With soft tofu, rich crab roe, and simple seasoning, the dish expresses Shanghai’s tenderness, sophistication, and deep connection to seasonal eating.
If you want to understand Shanghai through food, a single spoonful of Crab Roe Tofu will take you there. Discover more of Shanghai’s best eats on our Shanghai Local Food Trails.
