6 reasons to visit Shanghai – and how to experience it like a local
An insider’s look at some restaurants and shops not to be missed in the ‘Pearl of the Orient’
Shanghai is a city full of surprises, even for someone like me who was born and raised there. Each time I go back to my hometown, the “Pearl of the Orient” would reveal to me a different facet of itself – there are always new restaurants, speakeasies and boutique hotels. However, I keep heading back to a few places. If you want a taste of life in Shanghai like a local, head off to some of my all-time favourites.
Mao Long Restaurant
134 Jinxian Road, Huangpu District
The hole-in-a-wall place, nestled in the bustling city centre, is one of the best-kept secrets of the locals. The menu features traditional Shanghainese home cooking. Some of my favourite dishes include red braised pork and yan du xian – a traditional soup with cured pork and bamboo shoots. The resturant has a strong celebrity following. Explore the neighbourhood too if you are interested in local stores and heritage architecture.
Jia Jia Tang Bao
90 Huanghe Road, Huangpu District
This is one of my favourite xiao long bao places in Shanghai. There’s always a queue outside, but it is definitely worth the wait. Make sure you try the ones with pork mixed with crab roe. The deep-fried dumpling shop Xiao Yang Sheng Jian opposite is also a locals’ favourite.