Photo credits: Obscura Shanghai
Explore Shanghai's best food spots with our list of top restaurants. Taste the heart of Chinese cuisine through our favorites.
Written by Alex Zhang
Updated on January 1, 2025
Ready for a taste of real Shanghai cuisine? Join us as we dive into the top 10 Chinese restaurants in Shanghai! Experience a world of delicious flavors with every bite, from juicy dumplings to spiced meats. Whether you want a fancy meal or a casual dinner, our guide has something for everyone. Explore these top spots and find out where great food meets rich culture right in the heart of Shanghai. Excited to discover the best? Let's go!
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(4.5)
What is it? Deep in the heart of Shanghai, a special spot called Obscura is waiting. It's hidden inside the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center on Renmin Ave. But it's not just a place to eat. It's an unforgettable adventure.
Why we love it: Obscura is special for many reasons. Yes, it's hard to get in, only open for a few hours, but it's so much more. The place feels alive with excitement. The look is modern, the music is always great, and the people? They're all about having a great time. Whether you're looking for a romantic night out or a fun evening with friends, Obscura Shanghai mixes top-notch dining with a fantastic atmosphere that will keep you coming back.
Renmin Ave, 100号上海城市规划展示馆, 200003 Shanghai
(4.5)
What is it? Tucked away on Shanghai's lively streets, Yu Zhi Lan at 126 Xinfeng Rd is a quiet spot. This cozy place blends sleek modern style with warm, classic Chinese touches. The vibe is both stylish and welcoming.
Why we love it: Yu Zhi Lan isn't just about eating; it's a journey of flavors, surrounded by soft Chinese music and beautiful, hand-painted walls. It draws locals and travelers alike. Whether you're looking for an intimate dinner or a fun night out with friends, Yu Zhi Lan offers a memorable night that'll make you want to come back soon. Dive into Chinese culinary delights in a space that feels far from the city bustle.
126 Xinfeng Rd, 201713 Shanghai
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(4.3)
What is it? In the heart of Shanghai, YongFoo Elite is a secret spot on Yongfu Road. It blends traditional Chinese tastes with modern style. Once you step in, you find yourself in a world where luxury and tradition come together beautifully.
Why we love it: YongFoo Elite has a special charm. Its cozy, softly lit space is perfect for a romantic date or a fun evening with friends. The mix of Eastern style and Art Deco, along with live jazz, makes for a magical setting. It's a hit with stylish locals and curious visitors alike, offering an unforgettable Shanghai dining experience with fantastic food and welcoming service.
Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
永福路200号, 200031 Shanghai
(4.3)
What is it? Hakkasan Shanghai is a special restaurant in the famous Bund18. It combines traditional Chinese tastes with a modern twist. When you enter, get ready for an amazing food journey.
Why we love it: Hakkasan Shanghai is not just a place to eat; it's a whole experience. The cozy, softly lit setting makes your evening unforgettable. The menu is a creative take on Cantonese food, made by chefs who blend old and new perfectly. Every dish tells its own story, and the music in the background makes everything even better. It's a top spot for anyone looking for a mix of classic and contemporary in Shanghai, offering an incredible night.
Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
中山东一路18号, 200125 Shanghai
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(4.2)
What is it? The House of Rong at 849 Wanhangdu Rd in Shanghai is a top spot for fancy meals. It's where old and new come together, offering a special dining experience.
Why we love it: Entering The House of Rong feels like a dream. It mixes traditional Chinese looks with modern style, making meals to remember. It's perfect for romantic dates, important meetings, or big celebrations. This place is all about great food and great service, making every visit special.
849 Wanhangdu Rd, 200042 Shanghai
(4.2)
What is it? Moose is a special place in the center of Shanghai's Changning area. You can find it at 119 Xinhua Road.
Why we love it: Moose is more than a restaurant. It's a cozy retreat where old-style charm and new excitement blend perfectly. It's great for a date night or a fun time with friends. Tucked away, it captures Shanghai's buzz but also gives you a peaceful spot to relax. The food is delicious, the service is great, and the music in the background makes everything better. Moose is a favorite for memorable evenings.
119弄1号CN 上海市 长宁区 新华路 119, 200052 Shanghai
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(4.1)
What is it? Fu 1015 is more than a restaurant. Located in the heart of Yuyuan Rd, it's a gem of Shanghai. It's where beauty meets warmth, welcoming you to a world where meals are special.
Why we love it: Fu 1015 wins our hearts with its beautiful décor and friendly vibe, perfect for any event or a casual evening. Its menu takes you on a memorable journey with each bite, set to the soft sounds of live music. Here, dining is not just about eating; it's a treasured experience for both locals and visitors. At Fu 1015, enjoying the best is not just an option; it's expected.
1015 Yuyuan Rd, 200031 Shanghai
(4.0)
What is it? Canton 8 is a standout restaurant in Shanghai, known for its amazing Cantonese food. It's located at 世纪大道1号 and welcomes everyone into a setting where old traditions blend with delicious food, all presented in a stylish, welcoming space.
Why we love it: Canton 8 is not just any restaurant - it's a whole experience. When you walk in, you're met with beautiful Chinese designs and music, making you feel right at home. The menu is full of incredible tastes, perfect for food lovers who appreciate fine dining or are excited to try something new. With top-notch service and dishes that are second to none, Canton 8 is the go-to place in Shanghai for a special dinner or a big celebration.
世纪大道1号, 20012 Shanghai
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We've shown you our top ten Chinese restaurants in Shanghai. From tasty dim sum to classic Peking duck, each place gives you a taste of China's rich food traditions in the city's busy center. Now that you have this food guide, why not try these dishes yourself? Book a table at one of these top spots on your next trip to Shanghai. Keep following our blog to find the best places to eat around the world.
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