The best restaurants in Shanghai are a mix of old and new, with classic Shanghainese cuisine sitting alongside inventive modern dishes. While the city’s dining scene is constantly evolving, these ten establishments remain some of the most popular and well-loved spots among locals and visitors alike. Whether we’re looking for an intimate dinner setting or a more casual meal, there’s something for everyone on this list.
What are the most popular restaurants in Shanghai?
There are many different types of restaurants in Shanghai, and it can be difficult to determine which are the most popular. One way to judge this is by the number of people who frequent these establishments. Based on this criterion, three restaurants stand out as the most popular in Shanghai – Din Tai Fung, Crystal Jade, and South Beauty. Din Tai Fung is a world-renowned restaurant chain that specializes in xiao long bao or soup dumplings. The original restaurant was founded in Taiwan, but there are now branches all over the world. The Shanghai branch is always crowded with people eager to try this delicacy. Crystal Jade is another Chinese restaurant chain that is very popular in Shanghai. It has many locations all over the city and serves a wide variety of dishes, from dim sum to Peking duck.
The best restaurants in Shanghai include:
There’s no shortage of amazing restaurants in Shanghai, but if we’re looking for the best, these are the places you need to check out.
#1 Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet
Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet is a single-table restaurant in Shanghai, China, opened in May 2012 by French chef Paul Pairet and the VOL Group
#2 M on the Bund
Established in 1999 by Australian restaurateur Michelle Garnaut, the restaurant specializes in dishes with a mixture of Middle Eastern and European flavors
#3 Jean-Georges Shanghai
Jean-Georges Shanghai is the latest venture by the world-renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten
#4 Mr & Mrs. Bund
The restaurant is helmed by French chef Paul Pairet, who has put together a menu that reflects his creative and eclectic culinary sensibilities
#5 Yang’s Dumplings
Fudan University was established in 1905 as Fudan Public School
#6 Din Tai Fung
Din Tai Fung is without a doubt one of the best restaurants in Shanghai. The dumplings are delicious, and the atmosphere is cozy and inviting
#7 Element Fresh
The Best restaurant has a modern, airy feel and the food is delicious
#8 Lou Shang
Lou Shang is a Shanghai institution that has been around for over 20 years
#9 Hakkasan
Hakkasan, a Michelin-starred restaurant from London, has finally landed in Shanghai
#10 Sun with Aqua
Aqua, located in the heart of Shanghai on the Bund, is one of the best restaurants in the city
#11 Efes Restaurant
Efes is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal with friends or family
#12 Kebabs on the Grille
Kebabs on the Grille is a new, trendy restaurant in Shanghai that offers a unique dining experience
#1 Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet
Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet is a single-table restaurant in Shanghai, China, opened in May 2012 by French chef Paul Pairet and the VOL Group. Since October 2013, it has been awarded two Michelin stars. The restaurant seats 10 people and can be booked for lunch or dinner. The menu features modern European cuisine with an Asian twist and changes every day.
In the world of haute cuisine, there are few restaurants as highly praised as Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet. Located in the heart of Shanghai, this culinary hotspot has been wowing critics and guests alike with its unique and inventive dishes for years. What makes Ultraviolet so special? Well, it’s all in the details. From the dramatic presentation of each course to the innovative flavors and ingredients, everything about this restaurant is top-notch. Whether we’re a foodie looking for an unforgettable dining experience or simply want to taste some of the best food that Shanghai has to offer, Ultraviolet is definitely worth a visit.
Established | 2012 |
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Food type | avant-garde |
Address | Waitan, Huangpu, Shanghai, China, 200002 |
Country | China |
Seating capacity | 10 |
Website | https://uvbypp.cc/ |
#2 M on the Bund
If we’re looking for a taste of Shanghai’s best restaurants, look no further than M on the Bund. This iconic establishment offers diners panoramic views of the Huangpu River and the city’s legendary skyline. The restaurant is known for its modern Chinese cuisine, which features innovative takes on traditional dishes. Guests can eat in one of the elegant indoor dining rooms or on the spacious outdoor terrace. No matter where we sit, we’ll be treated to an unforgettable culinary experience.
This restaurant is located on the 7th floor of the Nissin Shipping Building at No. 5 The Bund, Sha. The menu here is extensive and covers all of the regional favorites, so there’s something for everyone. And if you’re feeling adventurous, be sure to try one of their signature dishes like crispy duck with honey and walnuts or Sichuan-style hot pot.
Established | 1999 |
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Food type | avant-garde |
Address | 20 Guangdong Rd, Waitan, Huangpu, Shanghai, China, 200002 |
Country | China |
Seating capacity | 10 |
Website | https://m-restaurantgroup.com/ |
#3 Jean-Georges Shanghai
When it comes to finding the best restaurants in Shanghai, Jean-Georges is always a top contender. The venue offers exquisite French cuisine in an intimate setting, complete with stunning views of the Huangpu River. From starters like foie gras and lobster bisque to main courses like beef tenderloin and roast duck, there’s something to please everyone’s palate at Jean-Georges. And if we’re looking for a sweet treat to finish your meal, the restaurant’s dessert menu doesn’t disappoint either, with options like crème brûlée and chocolate soufflé.
Jean-Georges Shanghai is the latest venture by the world-renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. Located in the heart of Shanghai’s former French Concession, Jean-Georges Shanghai offers guests a unique culinary experience with stunning views of the cityscape. The restaurant features an open kitchen and interactive dining area, as well as a wine cellar that houses more than 1,000 bottles from around the world.
Jean-Georges Shanghai has quickly become one of the best restaurants in Shanghai, serving up signature dishes such as black truffle soup and Wagyu beef tenderloin. The restaurant also offers an excellent selection of wines, champagnes, and cocktails. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a special occasion celebration, Jean-Georges Shanghai is sure to impress.
Established | 1997; 25 years ago |
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Food type | New French |
Address | 4F, Bund 3, 3 Zhongshan Dong Yi Road, Huangpu, Shanghai, China |
Country | China |
Seating capacity | 10 |
Website | https://www.jean-georges.com/ |
#4 Mr & Mrs. Bund
There’s no shortage of places to eat in Shanghai, but for a truly unique and memorable dining experience, Mr. and Mrs. Bund should be at the top of your list. The restaurant is helmed by French chef Paul Pairet, who has put together a menu that reflects his creative and eclectic culinary sensibilities. From the moment we walk in, we’ll be struck by the stunning decor- it feels like we’ve been transported to 1920s Paris.
But it’s the food that will really impress us. Mr. and Mrs. Bund offers an ever-changing tasting menu that features dishes like foie gras terrine with black truffles and roasted pigeon with lavender sauce. The wine list is also superb, with plenty of rare and interesting bottles to choose from.
Established | 2009 |
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Food type | Signature dishes |
Address | 18 Yanjiang East 1 Rd, Zhongshan, Guangdong Province, China, 528437 |
Country | China |
Seating capacity | 15 |
Website | http://www.mmbund.com/ |
#5 Yang’s Dumplings
Yang’s Dumplings is one of the best restaurants in Shanghai for authentic and delicious dumplings. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and a wide variety of dumpling flavors to choose from, including pork, shrimp, and vegetarian. The dumplings are made fresh and served hot, ensuring that they are always fresh and tasty. Yang’s Dumplings is a great place to enjoy an affordable meal with friends or family.
Yang’s Dumplings is a Shanghai institution, and for good reason: their pan-fried PO buns (known as sheng Jian bao) are some of the best around. For a cheap, classic Shanghai meal, head to one of the many locations of Yang’s Dumplings, and order the sheng Jian bao. You won’t be disappointed.
Established | 1994 |
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Food type | Dumplings |
Address | 7F7F+5XX, Dongbaoxing Rd, Hongkou District, Shanghai, China, 200081 |
Country | China |
Seating capacity | 8 |
Website | https://www.yangs-dumplings.com/ |
#6 Din Tai Fung
Din Tai Fung is globally known to serve the world’s best dumplings. What started out as a small Taiwanese restaurant has now turned into a global phenomenon, with locations all over the world. Din Tai Fung is famous for its skill in preparing dumplings – the dough is always thin and delicate, and the fillings are always flavorful and fresh. The restaurants also have a precise assembly line process that ensures that every dumpling is made perfectly. The end result is a delicious and satisfying dish that has won diners over all over the world.
If we are looking for some of the best restaurants in Shanghai, Din Tai Fung is a must-try. This world-famous chain serves up some of the tastiest dumplings and noodles around. The restaurant is always busy, but it’s worth the wait. be sure to try the signature xiao long bao (soup dumplings).
Established | 1958 |
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Food type | Dumplings |
Address | China, Shanghai, Pudong, Shiji Blvd |
Country | China |
Seating capacity | 12 |
Website | https://dintaifung.com.sg/ |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Shanghai has some of the best restaurants in the world. Whether we are looking for a casual meal or an upscale dining experience, we can find what we are looking for in this city. So why not head to Shanghai and enjoy some of the best food that the city has to offer? Shanghai is a city with an incredibly diverse and delicious food scene. From upscale restaurants to hole-in-the-wall joints, there is something for everyone. If we are looking for a great meal in Shanghai, be sure to check out one of these popular restaurants.