Chinese fine dining is regional: Cantonese seafood and dim sum, the chilli and numbing pepper of Sichuan, the delicate soups of Shanghai. Larger tables see more of the menu.
In Shanghai the Chinese list is led by Canton 8 (Ruijin Road) in Luwan (Two MICHELIN Stars, CNY 800-1,500 / USD 110-210 per person). If you want the same cooking for less, Din Tai Fung (Shanghai Centre) at CNY 200-400 / USD 30-55 is the value pick.
- 1.
Canton 8 (Ruijin Road)
Two MICHELIN StarsCantonese · Luwan · CNY 800-1,500 / USD 110-210
Renowned for its exquisite and authentic Cantonese cuisine, Canton 8 delivers classic dishes with meticulous execution. The dining room offers an elegant, understated setting, allowing the premium ingredients and refined cooking techniques to take center stage. Their dim sum is particularly celebrated for its delicate flavors and craftsmanship, making it a favorite among discerning diners.
Order: Crispy Roasted Pork Belly; Baked Barbecued Pork Buns
- 2.
Imperial Treasure Fine Dining (Bund)
Two MICHELIN StarsCantonese · Bund · CNY 1,000-2,000 / USD 140-280
Offering a refined take on classic Cantonese dishes, Imperial Treasure on the Bund provides a sophisticated dining experience with stunning river views. The kitchen prioritizes premium ingredients and traditional cooking methods, resulting in dishes that are both familiar and elevated. Expect impeccable service in a luxurious setting, ideal for special occasions and business dinners.
Order: Peking Duck; Crispy Roasted Duck; Steamed Crab with Glutinous Rice
- 3.
Ji Pin Court
Two MICHELIN StarsCantonese · Xuhui · CNY 800-1,800 / USD 110-250
Ji Pin Court is celebrated for its precise and authentic Cantonese fare, meticulously prepared from high-quality ingredients. The restaurant offers a tranquil and elegant environment, perfect for enjoying delicate dim sum during lunch or expansive à la carte dishes for dinner. Its commitment to traditional flavors and sophisticated presentation consistently impresses diners seeking genuine Cantonese excellence.
Order: Stir-fried Lobster with Ginger and Scallions; Superior Bird's Nest Soup
- 4.
Xin Rong Ji (Nanyang Road)
Two MICHELIN StarsTaizhou / Chinese · Jing'an · CNY 800-1,800 / USD 110-250
Xin Rong Ji excels in bringing refined Taizhou cuisine to Shanghai, focusing on fresh seafood and subtle, nuanced flavors. The elegant interiors and attentive service create a comfortable yet luxurious dining atmosphere. Dishes are prepared with precision, showcasing the natural quality of ingredients, making it a top choice for those seeking authentic and high-end regional Chinese gastronomy.
Order: Roasted Goose; Steamed Yellow Croaker
- 5.
Da Dong Roast Duck (IFC Mall)
One MICHELIN StarPeking Duck / Chinese · Pudong · CNY 500-1,000 / USD 70-140
Dong Zhenxiang
Da Dong elevates the Peking duck experience with its signature 'super-lean' roast duck, celebrated for its crisp skin and tender meat. The restaurant offers a modern, spacious setting, and the menu extends beyond duck to include a range of innovative Chinese dishes. It’s a consistently popular choice for both locals and visitors seeking a refined take on classic Chinese fare.
Order: Signature "Super-Lean" Roast Duck
- 6.
Lei Garden (IFC Mall)
One MICHELIN StarCantonese · Pudong · CNY 500-1,000 / USD 70-140
Lei Garden delivers consistently high-quality Cantonese cuisine in a spacious and bustling environment. Famous for its excellent dim sum and traditional dishes, the restaurant maintains a high standard of classic cooking. It's a reliable choice for families and business gatherings, offering a taste of authentic Hong Kong-style Cantonese food with efficient service.
Order: Crispy Roasted Pork; Steamed Chicken with Chinese Ham and Mushrooms
- 7.
Din Tai Fung (Shanghai Centre)
One MICHELIN StarTaiwanese / Dim Sum · Jing'an · CNY 200-400 / USD 30-55
World-renowned for its exquisitely crafted xiao long bao, Din Tai Fung offers a consistent and delightful dining experience. The transparent kitchen allows guests to watch chefs meticulously fold dumplings. Beyond soup dumplings, their menu includes a variety of Taiwanese dishes, all served in a clean, family-friendly setting, making it a global dim sum benchmark.
Order: Pork Xiao Long Bao; Shrimp and Pork Wontons in Spicy Sauce
Booking a Chinese table in Shanghai
- · Book 2-4 weeks ahead for most starred restaurants, especially for weekend evenings. Ultraviolet requires booking months in advance, often on specific release dates, due to its limited seating and high demand.
- · Be aware that many high-end establishments require a non-refundable deposit or full pre-payment to secure your reservation, particularly for tasting menus or private rooms. Always confirm their cancellation policy when booking.
- · Consider dining for lunch at starred restaurants. Many offer more accessible set lunch menus that provide an excellent opportunity to experience the cuisine and ambiance at a significantly lower price point than dinner.
- · Strict no-show and late arrival policies are common. Arriving late without notice can result in your table being given away or cancellation fees being applied. Communicate any delays proactively with the restaurant.
And the local dishes in Shanghai
Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings)
These delicate steamed dumplings are filled with savory pork and a rich, hot broth. Best enjoyed by first biting a small hole, sipping the soup, then consuming the dumpling. Nanxiang Mantou Dian in the Yu Garden Bazaar is a renowned spot for this Shanghainese classic, though many local eateries excel.
Shengjian Mantou (Pan-Fried Pork Buns)
A delicious contrast to xiaolongbao, these buns are pan-fried to a crispy bottom, filled with pork and a small amount of soup, and topped with sesame seeds and scallions. They offer a delightful textural experience. Yang's Fry-Dumpling is a popular chain widely available, known for its consistent quality.
Hongshao Rou (Braised Pork Belly)
This quintessential Shanghainese dish features succulent pork belly slow-cooked in a rich, caramelized soy sauce until incredibly tender and flavorful. It’s often served with hard-boiled eggs. Jesse Restaurant (Jishi Jiujia) on Tianping Road is highly regarded for its authentic rendition, embodying homemade comfort.
Cong You Ban Mian (Scallion Oil Noodles)
A deceptively simple yet profoundly satisfying dish, these springy noodles are tossed in fragrant scallion-infused oil and dark soy sauce, sometimes with crispy fried scallions. It’s a humble, comforting, and incredibly addictive staple. A Niang Mian in the former French Concession is famous for its perfect balance.
Seven days in Shanghai
Pair these Chinese tables with the full itinerary: neighbourhoods, museums and what to skip.
Read the Shanghai travel guide