The dining options in Shanghai can be categorized into two main groups:
Budget Cafes and Restaurants in Shanghai
When it comes to Shanghai, you can easily find affordable and delicious food almost everywhere you go. Xiangyang Road, in particular, is a popular destination for hungry tourists. This area is home to a variety of budget-friendly restaurants in Shanghai that serve incredibly tasty dishes. Their menus often feature a range of options, including vegetables, noodles, meat, and soy-based dishes. You'll notice that the food here is typically served in bite-sized pieces, so don't be surprised if you don't see many table knives.
The affordable cafes in Shanghai offer reasonably priced meals, typically around 20 CNY, where you can enjoy a generous serving of diverse and hearty dishes, although they may not be considered very refined. For those who appreciate not only flavorful but also unique culinary experiences, exploring some of Shanghai's best cafes is a must.
While wandering the streets of Shanghai, you might come across an unusual treat for Europeans - raw sugar cane stalks. These stalks are meant to be chewed, allowing you to savor the sweet juice while discarding the tough fibers. If you prefer not to chew them yourself, vendors are available to extract the juice from the stalks for a fee.
Distinctive Dining in Shanghai
Customer reviews and the standout dishes on the menu undoubtedly speak for themselves in Shanghai's dining scene. However, it's worth noting that prices at restaurants in Shanghai offering European-style dishes are typically a bit higher:
Jean Georges Shanghai, situated at The Bund, 3, Zhong Shan Dong Yi (phone: +86 (21) 6321 7733), specializes in a diverse range of fish dishes, including options like foie gras. The starting price for a dish here is approximately 120 CNY.
12 chairs. If you're traveling with a large group, consider ordering a gourmet 10-course lunch for only 800 CNY! Delight in dishes like white truffle pudding and more at 3/F, Building 26A, Sinan Mansions, 519 Fuxing Zhong Lu (phone: +86 (21) 3330 3920).
M on the bund. Indulge in dishes like saddle of lamb and delicate desserts at Michel Garneau's restaurant located at 5 Zhong Shan Dong Yi (phone: +86 21 6350 9988). A modest meal for 2 people will cost around CNY 600.
