Shanghai dining scene

Explore Shanghai’s Culinary Cosmos

Dive into Shanghai’s vibrant dining scene, where tradition meets innovation in a galaxy of flavors. Discover the city’s top restaurants, curated for an unforgettable experience.

Shanghai’s Dining Universe

Key trends illuminating Shanghai’s status as a global culinary hub

500+
Michelin-Starred Restaurants
Shanghai boasts one of the highest concentrations of Michelin-starred dining in Asia.
1000+
New Openings Annually
The city’s dining scene evolves rapidly with new culinary ventures each year.
50+
Global Cuisines
From Cantonese to French, Shanghai offers a diverse culinary spectrum.

From Culinary Chaos to Curated Excellence

Before: Navigating Shanghai’s overwhelming dining options can lead to mediocre meals and wasted time.

After: Our expertly curated list ensures top-tier dining experiences, blending tradition and innovation.

  • ✓ Handpicked by culinary experts
  • ✓ Consistent 4.5+ star ratings
  • ✓ Diverse cuisines for every palate
  • ✓ Prime locations across Shanghai
Shanghai dining experience

Shanghai’s Stellar Dining Destinations

A curated constellation of the city’s finest restaurants, from avant-garde to authentic

Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet
#1 Avant-Garde

Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet

A single-table, multi-sensory dining experience with innovative European cuisine and Asian influences.

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M on the Bund
#2 Fusion

M on the Bund

Blends Middle Eastern and European flavors with iconic Huangpu River views since 1999.

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Jean-Georges Shanghai
#3 French

Jean-Georges Shanghai

Exquisite French cuisine by chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten with stunning city views.

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Mr & Mrs Bund
#4 Modern French

Mr & Mrs Bund

Creative French dishes by Paul Pairet in a vibrant, 1920s-inspired setting.

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Yang’s Dumplings
#5 Shanghainese

Yang’s Dumplings

Famous for its crispy sheng jian bao, a Shanghai staple since 1994.

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Din Tai Fung
#6 Taiwanese

Din Tai Fung

World-renowned for its delicate xiao long bao and Taiwanese dishes.

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Element Fresh
#7 Healthy

Element Fresh

Modern, healthy dining with fresh salads, smoothies, and Asian-inspired dishes.

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Lou Shang
#8 Shanghainese

Lou Shang

A Shanghai institution serving authentic local cuisine for over 20 years.

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Hakkasan
#9 Cantonese

Hakkasan

Michelin-starred Cantonese cuisine with a modern twist, straight from London.

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Sun with Aqua
#10 Japanese

Sun with Aqua

Premium Japanese dining on the Bund with fresh seafood and elegant ambiance.

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Efes Restaurant
#11 Turkish

Efes Restaurant

Authentic Turkish cuisine perfect for casual dining with friends or family.

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Kebabs on the Grille
#12 Indian

Kebabs on the Grille

Trendy Indian restaurant offering a unique dining experience with bold flavors.

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Restaurant Comparison Analysis

RestaurantCuisinePriceLocationSpecialtyRating
UltravioletAvant-Garde¥¥¥¥¥Secret LocationMulti-sensory dining4.9/5
M on the BundFusion¥¥¥HuangpuBund views4.6/5
Jean-GeorgesFrench¥¥¥¥HuangpuFine dining4.7/5
Mr & Mrs BundModern French¥¥¥¥HuangpuCreative tasting menu4.6/5
Yang’s DumplingsShanghainese¥¥MultipleSheng jian bao4.5/5
Din Tai FungTaiwanese¥¥MultipleXiao long bao4.7/5
Element FreshHealthy¥¥MultipleFresh salads4.4/5
Lou ShangShanghainese¥¥HuangpuLocal classics4.5/5
HakkasanCantonese¥¥¥¥HuangpuModern Cantonese4.8/5
Sun with AquaJapanese¥¥¥¥The BundSeafood4.6/5
Efes RestaurantTurkish¥¥MultipleGrilled meats4.4/5
Kebabs on the GrilleIndian¥¥MultipleIndian flavors4.5/5

What Diners Are Saying

Ultraviolet’s immersive dining is like nothing I’ve experienced—pure culinary art!
— Emma Chen, Food Critic
M on the Bund’s views and flavors make every visit unforgettable.
— Michael Zhang, Traveler
Din Tai Fung’s xiao long bao are a must-try for any food lover in Shanghai.
— Sarah Li, Local Foodie
Hakkasan’s modern Cantonese dishes are a perfect blend of tradition and innovation.
— David Wu, Business Executive
Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How were these restaurants selected?
A: Each restaurant was chosen based on expert reviews, customer ratings, and culinary reputation.

Q: What cuisines are featured?
A: From Shanghainese to French, Japanese, and more, our list spans global flavors.

Q: Are reservations needed?
A: Yes, especially for fine dining spots like Ultraviolet and Jean-Georges; book 1-2 weeks in advance.

Q: What’s the price range?
A: Options range from ¥20-50 for casual dining to ¥500+ for fine dining experiences.

Q: Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
A: Many restaurants offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options with prior notice.

Q: Which is best for special occasions?
A: Ultraviolet, Jean-Georges, and Hakkasan offer upscale settings ideal for celebrations.

Shanghai dining

Ready to Embark on a Culinary Journey?

Join thousands of diners exploring Shanghai’s finest restaurants.

20,000+
Satisfied Diners
4.7/5
Average Rating
90%
Would Recommend

Key Takeaways

Curated Excellence

Every restaurant is vetted for quality, authenticity, and exceptional service.

Diverse Flavors

From local Shanghainese to global cuisines, there’s something for everyone.

Trusted Reviews

Backed by diner feedback and expert culinary insights.