Shanghai’s Culinary Landscape: 6 Best Food Streets & Local Hotspots

For international visitors, Shanghai’s charm lies not just in its skyscrapers and historical architecture, but in the food hidden along its streets. Beyond the famous Nanjing Road, Shanghai food streets offer everything from traditional Benbang cuisine to regional street snacks from across China, making the city a paradise for adventurous eaters.

From century-old restaurants to neon-lit night markets, these six Shanghai food hotspots will satisfy your palate, immerse you in local culture, and help you find great eats—wherever you stay in the city.

1. Yunnan South Road: The Classic Street Food Vibe

📍 Huangpu District | Metro Line 8/10 – Laoximen or Dashijie Station
ALT: Yunnan South Road Shanghai street food stalls with locals dining outdoors

Yunnan South Road is one of Shanghai’s original food streets, dating back to the early 20th century. Once a gathering place for small eateries from across China, it remains a living museum of local flavors and nostalgia.

Must-Try Food:

• Xiao Shaoxing White Cut Chicken (Baizhanji) – tender, juicy, and served cold with a special dipping sauce.
• Xiandelai Ribs and Rice Cake (Paigu Niangao) – crispy fried pork ribs and soft rice cakes covered in a sweet-savory glaze.

💬 “This place is like a time machine, taking me back to old Shanghai’s alleyways. Every bite tastes like childhood.” — Lucas 🇫🇷

2. Yuyuan Food Market (Hefeng Tower): Immersive Culture

📍 Yuyuan Garden Area | Metro Line 10 – Yuyuan Station
ALT: Yuyuan Food Market inside Hefeng Tower near City God Temple, Shanghai

Located within the Yuyuan Garden commercial complex beside the City God Temple, this lively food market blends ancient architecture with modern tech. Often called Shanghai’s “Snack Kingdom,” it’s the perfect stop for first-time visitors.

Must-Try Food:

• Tilanqiao Scallion Pancake – golden, crispy, and fragrant with fresh scallions.
• Hunan Fire Palace Stinky Tofu – crispy outside, soft inside, served with spicy sauce.

💬 “Ordering on a touchscreen in such a historic setting—it’s the perfect mix of food and culture!” — Emily 🇺🇸

3. Huaihai Road Food Street: Old-School Chic

📍 Huangpu–Xuhui Districts | Metro Line 1 – Huangpi South Road or Line 13 – Huaihai Middle Road Station
ALT: Huaihai Road Shanghai with restaurants and classic architecture

Huaihai Road captures old-school Shanghai elegance, filled with time-honored brands that represent both Benbang traditions and Haipai-style Western fusion. It’s a perfect place to experience Shanghai’s nostalgic charm.

Must-Try Food:

• Guangmingcun Restaurant – iconic Benbang dishes like Stir-fried Eel with Oil (Xiangyou Xuanhu) and Flash-fried Shrimp (Youbao Xia).
• Harbin Food Factory – beloved for Butterfly Cookies and Almond Strips, classic Old Shanghai pastries.

💬 “It feels both traditional and modern here—like a microcosm of Shanghai itself.” — James 🇬🇧

4. Huanghe Road Food Street: Neon Lights & Haipai Flavors

📍 North of People’s Square | Metro Line 1/2/8 – People’s Square Station
ALT: Huanghe Road Shanghai at night with neon signs and restaurants

Recently spotlighted by the TV show Blossoms Shanghai, Huanghe Road has become a trendy hotspot known for Haipai cuisine and nostalgic neon lights.

Must-Try Food:

• Park Hotel Pastry Shop – home of the legendary Butterfly Cookies and Drunken Cake.
• Tai Shen Yuan Benbang Cuisine – known for rich dishes like Eight-Treasure Duck and Braised Pork Belly (Hongshao Rou).

💬 “Walking here feels like stepping back into the 90s. The food and atmosphere are unforgettable.” — Anna 🇩🇪

5. Changli Road Night Market: Affordable Feast

📍 Pudong New Area | Metro Line 7/13 – Changqing Road or Line 8 – Chengshan Road Station
ALT: Changli Road night market in Shanghai with food stalls and crowds

Across the river in Pudong, Changli Road is Shanghai’s most energetic night market—a paradise for budget food lovers. From breakfast to midnight snacks, this area buzzes with energy.

Must-Try Food:

• Jianbing Guozi (Chinese Crepe) – made fresh with customizable fillings and crispy fritters.
• BBQ & Spicy Crawfish – flavorful, messy, and perfect for sharing with friends.

💬 “This is a food party! Everyone can find something they love here.” — Sophie 🇦🇺

6. Qibao Old Street: Traditional Snacks in an Ancient Town

📍 Minhang District | Metro Line 9 – Qibao Station
ALT: Qibao Old Street Shanghai with traditional snack stalls and canal view

Qibao Old Street offers a journey back in time, where cobblestone alleys meet sizzling food stalls. This ancient water town is a favorite for both tourists and locals seeking authentic snacks.

Must-Try Food:

• Sweet Rice Balls (Tangyuan) – thin-skinned, generous fillings; try both sweet and savory versions.
• White Cut Lamb (Baiqie Yangrou) – tender, flavorful, and uniquely local.

💬 “Eating street food in an ancient water town—it felt like stepping into Shanghai’s history.” — Haruto 🇯🇵

Conclusion: A City That Tells Stories Through Food

From century-old streets to modern food hubs, from night markets to ancient-town snacks, Shanghai’s culinary landscape reflects its dynamic culture and Haipai spirit.

Whether you stay downtown, in Pudong, or near Hongqiao, there’s always a food cluster nearby waiting to surprise your taste buds. Grab this guide and start your Shanghai food adventure today!

Traveler Tips:

• 🚇 Use the Metro Daduhui app for seamless ticketless rides.
• ⏰ Visit famous spots outside peak hours to avoid queues.
• 🗣️ Chat with vendors — you might hear incredible food stories passed down for generations!