A Taste of Shanghai: Crystal Shrimp—Translucent Magic on Your Plate

(Shuijing Xiaren: The Iconic Dish Every Traveler Should Try)

When people think of Shanghai cuisine, Xiaolongbao and Shengjian often steal the spotlight. But there is another classic that locals proudly call “Shanghai’s No. 1 Dish”—the elegant, translucent, and irresistibly tender Crystal Shrimp (Shuijing Xiaren).

Born at the historic Jing’an Hotel, this dish captures the essence of Haipai (Shanghai-style) cooking: refined techniques, subtle flavors, and a dedication to freshness. If you’re traveling to Shanghai and want a taste of authentic local cuisine, this is a dish you simply can’t miss.

I. What Makes Crystal Shrimp Special?

Crystal Shrimp uses fresh river shrimp, hand-peeled for maximum tenderness. The preparation is meticulous: gentle salting, egg-white coating, cold aging, and a final low-temperature oil “slide” that keeps the shrimp glossy and tender.

The result?
A plate of shimmering, pearl-like shrimp that taste naturally sweet with a signature bouncy snap—no shells, no mess, just pure satisfaction.

💡 Chef’s Tip: Never add cooking wine when velveting shrimp. The alcohol gets trapped by the coating and dulls the shrimp’s sweetness.

II. Where to Eat the Best Crystal Shrimp in Shanghai

1. Jing’an Hotel — The Birthplace of Crystal Shrimp

Keywords: Origin Story · Historic Icon · Under Renovation

Built in the 1920s as the Spanish-style Haig Apartments, Jing’an Hotel is the birthplace of the famous Crystal Shrimp. It is currently undergoing a full renovation and is expected to reopen in late 2025—restored to its original name and transformed into luxury serviced apartments with boutique dining.

Although you can’t try the original version here right now, the building remains a cultural landmark worth a stroll.

Transport: Jing’an Temple Station (Metro Line 2/7)

Why Go: Architecture walk, Shanghai history, photo spots.

Heji Xiaocai (Qibao Branch)

Keywords: Renowned Chain · Family Friendly · Impeccable Service
Address: 5F, Tower A, Huibao Shopping Plaza, 3457 Caobao Road, Minhang District

Heji Xiaocai is a beloved Shanghai chain known for delivering consistently authentic local flavors. Their Crystal Shrimp ranks among the city’s best—plump, translucent, and wonderfully bouncy. The umami is so vivid that locals joke with the Shanghainese idiom: “It’s so fresh, your eyebrows might fall off!”

Vibe & Service:
The restaurant offers a bright, spacious dining area with plenty of private rooms, making it ideal for family reunions, gatherings with friends, or business meals. Service is warm, attentive, and impressively efficient—you’ll feel well taken care of from the moment you arrive until the last dish is cleared.

3. HOMES Shanghai Cuisine (100 North Xiangyang Road, Xuhui)

Keywords: Michelin Guide · Authentic Flavor · Quiet Ambiance

Featured in the Michelin Guide for several years, HOMES is beloved for its faithful execution of local dishes. They use Taihu freshwater shrimp for a firmer texture and serve the dish with a side of Zhenjiang vinegar for added brightness.

• Price: 120–150 RMB/person
• Transport: Changshu Road Station (Metro 1/7), Exit 1
• Why Go: Boutique old-villa setting, refined flavors
• Pro Tip: Book in advance; window seats create a cinematic “Old Shanghai” vibe.

4. Paul’s Restaurant / Baoluo Jiujia (271 Fumin Road, Jing’an)

Keywords: Local Institution · Big Portions · Down-to-Earth

For over 30 years, this has been the go-to spot for everyday Shanghainese comfort food. Their Crystal Shrimp is stir-fried with green fava beans—soft beans paired with crisp shrimp make a hearty, home-style dish.

• Price: 60–80 RMB/person
• Transport: Jing’an Temple Station (Metro 2/7), Exit 8
• Why Go: Generous portions, local atmosphere
• Pro Tip: Arrive before 5:00 PM to avoid long waits. Sit on the first floor to hear locals chatting in Shanghainese.

5. Lao Ren He (4F, Golden World, 988 Huaihai Middle Road, Xuhui)

Keywords: Time-Honored Brand · Consistent Quality · Signature Zao Lu

A beloved Shanghai Laozihao (Heritage Brand), Lao Ren He offers consistently excellent Crystal Shrimp—plump, bright, and delicately coated. They’re also famous for their Zao Lu (rice-wine brine) dishes, especially popular during summer.

• Price: 98–115 RMB/person
• Transport: South Shaanxi Road Station (Metro Line 1)
• Why Go: Classic flavors, reliable quality
• Pro Tip: Pair the Crystal Shrimp with the Zao Lu Platter for a perfect sweet-savory contrast.

III. Travel Tips: Crafting the Perfect Food Itinerary

• Best Season: Spring & Autumn—plumpest shrimp. Winter shrimp are especially crisp.
• Best Pairings: Iced oolong tea or warm yellow wine to refresh the palate.
• Nearby Sights:
  • Jing’an Hotel: Jing’an Temple, Jiuguang Mall
  • Xin Shou Ji: Nanjing Road, Shanghai Museum
  • HOMES: Xiangyang North Road cafés

IV. Conclusion: A Taste of Shanghai’s Elegance

Crystal Shrimp is more than a dish—it’s a journey through Shanghai’s culinary heritage. From historic hotels to cozy family kitchens and modern boutique restaurants, this dish reflects the city’s unique blend of nostalgia and innovation. Discover more of Shanghai’s best eats on our Shanghai Local Food Trails.