2 Best Restaurants in Old City, Shanghai

Background Illustration for Restaurants

Narrow and crowded, the Old City is all that's left of Old China in Shanghai. Although it's home to the impressive Yu Garden and is a good place to find traditional street food, the area is changing thanks to government initiatives that are tearing down older buildings and revamping older streets. Adventurous diners should explore the side streets around Fangbang Lu in search of authentic Chinese snacks. At this neighborhood's eateries, with no English menu, many sellers are going to charge you the foreigner price. Unless you speak Chinese and can ask for and understand the price, be prepared to pay more than the locals. Make sure you know the price before you take a bite, even if that means for it to be written down.

Din Tai Fung

$$ | Lujiazui

The star attractions at this Taiwanese chain are the delicate, impeccably folded xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). Be sure to try the particularly delectable pork and black truffle version.

168 Lujiazui Xi Lu, Shanghai, 200120, China
021-5047–8883
Known For
  • Good service
  • Very family-friendly
  • About 10 locations around town

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Lu Bo Lang

$$ | Old City

A popular stop for visiting dignitaries, Lu Bo Lang makes for a great photo op: the three-story Chinese pavilion with upturned eaves sits next to the Bridge of Nine Turnings in Yu Garden. The food is good, with a recommendation from Michelin Guide Shanghai.

115 Yuyuan Lu, Shanghai, 200010, China
021-6328–0602
Known For
  • Osmanthus cakes
  • Crab soup dumplings
  • Traditional Chinese atmosphere
Restaurant Details
Credit cards accepted
Reservations essential

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