Shanghai, a Famous City for Chinese Cuisine

When it comes to Shanghai, it’s undoubtedly one of China’s top food cities, where cuisine from all over the country converges.

The locals in Shanghai favor the delicate flavors of Jiangnan cuisine, commonly known as “Benbang Cuisine.” This style of cooking is characterized by a preference for sweetness, making it a heaven for those who enjoy sweet dishes.

There are countless dishes to mention, but the most famous ones include Red Braised Pork, Stir-fried Eel with Hot Oil, Eight Treasure Duck, and Tofu with Vermicelli. As for snacks, iconic ones are Shengjian Bao (pan-fried dumplings), Xie Ke Huang (crab shell yellow), Scallion Oil Noodles, and Fresh Meat Mooncakes. These dishes are just a glimpse into the world of Shanghai food, though they are the most representative of the city’s culinary traditions.

First on the list is Red Braised Pork. Shanghai’s red braised pork is made with top-quality pork belly that has a marbled texture. The fat is tender and soft, and the dish is never greasy. A genuine Shanghai red braised pork is a masterpiece of color, aroma, taste, and texture. The secret lies in the slow cooking method that thickens the sauce naturally. When the dish is served, it glistens with a deep red hue, and the first thing you’ll notice is the caramelized aroma, followed by the savory fragrance of the sauce and a slight scent of rice wine. The flavor is rich but not overpowering. One restaurant that excels in this dish is Yuan Yuan Restaurant, known as the “Best Red Braised Pork in Shanghai.” The restaurant sells around 120,000 servings of this dish each year, which speaks volumes about its popularity.

Another essential dish is Stir-fried Eel with Hot Oil, which is all about quality ingredients—“fresh, pure, and precise.” The eels are killed fresh, and the dish is paired with vegetables and a rich red sauce. The eel is tender, and the dish’s flavor is aromatic and savory. For locals, this dish is considered a classic that brings back childhood memories of special occasions. The sizzling sound when the dish is served immediately draws everyone’s attention. The eels are so tender they melt in your mouth, and the red sauce clings perfectly to the rice, making it a dish that’s incredibly satisfying to eat. A recommended restaurant for this dish is Wu Li Xiang, regarded as serving the "Best Stir-fried Eel in Shanghai." The ingredients are carefully selected, the cooking technique is superb, and the sizzling sound is music to the ears.

Now, let's talk about local snacks, especially the iconic Shengjian Bao. To put it simply, Shengjian Bao are pan-fried buns, but the real process of making them is far from simple. The best Shengjian Bao will surprise you with its wonderful taste. A single bite releases juice, and the bottom is crispy while the top remains soft. The process involves three key steps: first, the dough is fermented to a perfect balance, ensuring the bottom crisps up while locking in the juices; second, the filling is made with 30% fat and 70% lean pork, and the secret ingredient is pigskin jelly, which gives the bun its juicy burst; third, the buns are fried for exactly 240 seconds—getting the timing just right is crucial. Once cooked, they’re topped with sesame seeds and scallions, and the aroma will fill the air. For authentic Shengjian Bao, try Da Hu Chun, which is famous for its delicate process and exceptional taste. The dough is given time to rise properly, ensuring the buns have the perfect balance of flavors.

Moving on to Scallion Oil Noodles—if you’re traveling in Shanghai, I highly recommend you skip the hotel breakfast buffet and try some Scallion Oil Noodles instead. This simple dish is taken to perfection. The noodles are chewy and springy, and the scallion oil sauce is the soul of the dish, offering a burst of flavor. The green onions are slow-fried on low heat to release their fragrance, resulting in a harmonious blend of “caramelized, savory, and oniony” flavors. For locals, Scallion Oil Noodles is a childhood dish, evoking memories of early mornings when the scent of fried scallions filled the air. It’s a dish that carries warmth and nostalgia. A great place to try it is Hu Xi Lao Long Tang, known as “the best Scallion Oil Noodles in Shanghai.” But be prepared to wait in line—its popularity speaks for itself.

In reality, Shanghai offers a wide array of amazing food, and I could go on and on about it all day. If you love food and are tired of burgers and pizza, then come to Shanghai to experience the authentic Benbang Cuisine, and it will surely provide you with an exceptional culinary experience.