The Best Restaurants and Bars in Shanghai, China — Updated 2025

Discover the culinary gems that make Shanghai a world-class dining destination

The Best Restaurants and Bars in Shanghai

Shanghai’s dining scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavours, blending centuries-old Chinese culinary traditions with cutting-edge international influences. As we move through 2025, the city continues to cement its reputation as Asia’s most exciting food destination, where ancient recipes meet modern techniques in a metropolis that never sleeps. From hidden gems in the former French Concession to spectacular rooftops overlooking the futuristic Pudong skyline, Shanghai offers an unparalleled dining adventure for every palate and budget.

As a chef who has explored Shanghai’s culinary landscape for decades, I’m thrilled to share this curated selection of establishments that showcase the best of what this magnificent city has to offer. Whether you’re seeking traditional Shanghainese dishes, innovative fusion creations, or simply a perfectly crafted cocktail with a view, this comprehensive guide will navigate you through Shanghai’s ever-evolving restaurant and bar scene.

Join me as we explore the establishments that are defining Shanghai’s gastronomic identity in 2025 – from Michelin-starred fine dining to authentic street food experiences that capture the soul of this dynamic city.

Top Fine Dining Restaurants in Shanghai

Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet

• Address: Waitan, Huangpu, Shanghai, China, 200002
• Website: uvbypp.cc

Hours: Dinner service only, one seating per night at 6:30 PM

Ultraviolet continues to redefine what fine dining means, not just in Shanghai but globally. Chef Paul Pairet’s revolutionary multi-sensory restaurant remains the city’s most exclusive dining experience in 2025, limited to just 10 guests per evening in a secret location.

What makes Ultraviolet extraordinary is its immersive approach – each of the 20+ courses is accompanied by precisely choreographed sounds, scents, and visual projections that transform the minimalist dining room into different environments. The restaurant has maintained its three Michelin stars since 2018, cementing its status as Shanghai’s premier gastronomic temple.

The 4-hour dining journey takes you through a carefully crafted narrative, where dishes like “Truffle Burnt Soup Bread” and “Mont Blanc Snow Bowl” become memorable characters in a culinary story. Every element of the experience is meticulously controlled, from temperature and timing to lighting and music, creating moments of surprise, delight, and occasional bewilderment.

Securing a reservation requires planning months in advance and a significant investment (current price is approximately 8,500 RMB/$1,200 USD per person including wine pairing), but for serious food enthusiasts, Ultraviolet remains the ultimate Shanghai dining bucket list experience.

Fu 1088

• Address: 375 Zhenning Rd, Chang Ning Qu, China, 200025
• Contact: +86 21 5239 7878
• Website: blog.remyhouse.com

Hours: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 PM – 10:30 PM

Housed in a beautifully preserved 1930s Spanish-style villa, Fu 1088 offers a refined take on classic Shanghainese cuisine that has earned it a devoted following among locals and visitors alike. The restaurant’s concept revolves around private dining rooms, each uniquely designed, creating an intimate atmosphere that feels more like dining in a sophisticated home than a commercial establishment.

Executive Chef Tony Lu masterfully updates traditional Shanghai flavors while respecting their essence. Signature dishes include the delicate “Eight Treasure Duck” (requiring 24-hour advance ordering), the umami explosion of “Braised Pork Belly in Sweet Soy Sauce,” and the seasonal “Hairy Crab Roe Tofu.” The restaurant’s wine cellar features an impressive selection of both Chinese and international labels.

What sets Fu 1088 apart is its perfect balance of old-world charm and contemporary sophistication. The service is impeccable without being intrusive, and the attention to detail—from antique tableware to custom-made condiments—creates a seamlessly luxurious experience.

Reservations are essential, especially for dinner, and should be made at least two weeks in advance. For the full experience, request the “Chef’s Tasting Menu” (approximately 1,200 RMB/$170 USD per person), which showcases the kitchen’s versatility through eight exquisite courses.

Yu Ge Zhanjiang (Jingan)

Hours: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM

Open until 2am, this restaurant specializing in regional dishes from the Cantonese city of Zhanjiang is a popular choice for a late-night supper. Free-range chicken shipped directly from Zhanjiang is either steamed or deep-fried, resulting in exceptionally juicy flesh with intense flavor that showcases the quality of the source ingredients.

The pan-fried white pomfret is a must-try dish, packing an umami punch and bringing a briny sweetness that transports you straight to the South China Sea. Another standout is the Chinese mugwort cake, a rustic snack stuffed with either savory or sweet filling then steamed to perfection—a rare find even in Shanghai’s diverse culinary landscape.

What makes Yu Ge special is its dedication to authentic regional cuisine that hasn’t been diluted for mass appeal. The restaurant’s interior balances contemporary design with subtle Cantonese touches, creating a sophisticated yet comfortable atmosphere that works equally well for business dinners or late-night gatherings with friends.

Pro tip: Many of Yu Ge’s signature dishes require advance preparation, so it’s advisable to pre-order when making your reservation to avoid disappointment. The restaurant gets particularly busy after 10pm when Shanghai’s restaurant industry workers come for their post-shift meals—a testament to its quality and authenticity.

Fu He Hui

• Address: 1037 Yuyuan Road, Changning District, Shanghai, China
• Contact: +86 21 3980 9188
• Website: No official website

Hours: 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)

Fu He Hui represents the pinnacle of vegetarian fine dining in Shanghai, earning a Michelin star for its innovative approach to plant-based cuisine. Set in a serene, Zen-inspired space that feels miles away from the bustling city outside, the restaurant offers a peaceful retreat where the focus is entirely on the subtle flavors and textures of vegetables, fungi, and tofu.

Chef Tony Lu (also behind Fu 1088) brings his considerable talents to vegetarian cooking, creating dishes that are so satisfying and complex that even dedicated carnivores leave impressed. The tasting menu format—available in 8, 12, or 16 courses—takes diners through a progression of dishes that showcase seasonal ingredients through both traditional Chinese techniques and modern approaches.

Standout creations include the “Five Mushroom Broth” served in a teapot, the delicate “Tofu Skin and Truffle” parcels, and the surprising “Smoked Watermelon” that somehow evokes the texture and richness of meat. The tea pairing option is particularly recommended, with expert selections that complement the nuanced flavors of each dish.

The restaurant’s design deserves special mention—featuring recovered wood, natural stone, and abundant greenery, it creates an atmosphere that perfectly aligns with the philosophy behind the food. Service is discreet yet warm, with staff providing thoughtful explanations of each dish and its ingredients.

For Shanghai’s growing community of vegetarians, vegans, and flexitarians, Fu He Hui represents the gold standard of meat-free dining. Reservations should be made at least two weeks in advance, particularly for dinner service.

Best Local Shanghai Cuisine

Jian Guo 328

• Address: 326 Jianguo Rd (W), Xuhui District, Shanghai, China, 200031
• Website: No official website

Hours: 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM

For an authentic taste of classic Shanghainese cuisine without the tourist markup, locals have been flocking to Jian Guo 328 for decades. This no-frills eatery embodies the essence of a traditional Shanghai dining experience—bustling, occasionally chaotic, but consistently delicious.

The restaurant’s signature hong shao rou (red-braised pork belly) is widely considered among the best in the city—the perfect balance of fatty and lean meat, braised until meltingly tender in a rich sauce of soy, sugar, and spices. Other standout dishes include the xiao long bao (soup dumplings) with delicate skins and flavorful broth, stir-fried river shrimp with their distinctive sweetness, and crispy fried eel strips glazed with a sweet-savory sauce.

What makes Jian Guo 328 special is its unwavering commitment to traditional flavors. Unlike many local restaurants that have modified their dishes to appeal to international palates, the kitchen here maintains the authentic sweet-savory profile that characterizes true Shanghainese cooking.

The restaurant’s popularity means that queues are common, particularly during peak hours. Your best strategy is to arrive just before opening or in the late afternoon between lunch and dinner service. The prices remain remarkably reasonable for the quality—expect to pay around 150-200 RMB ($20-30 USD) per person for a satisfying meal including several shared dishes.

English menus are available, but bringing a Chinese-speaking friend will enhance your experience and help navigate the extensive offerings. Cash is preferred, though major credit cards are accepted.

Jesse (Jiē Shí)

• Address: 41 Tianping Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China
• Contact: +86 21 6282 9260
• Website: No official website

Hours: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM

Jesse represents the gold standard for traditional Shanghainese cuisine, serving local favorites in a modest setting that has changed little since its opening. This small, always-packed restaurant has earned its loyal following through consistent quality and unwavering adherence to authentic recipes and techniques.

The codfish with wine sauce exemplifies Jesse’s approach—simple in concept but complex in execution, with the fish poached to perfect tenderness and the sauce hitting precise notes of sweetness and umami. Their version of hong shao rou (red-braised pork) is the stuff of legend—cubes of pork belly braised until they achieve that perfect balance of melt-in-your-mouth fat and tender meat, glazed in a deeply flavored sauce that’s the perfect embodiment of Shanghai’s sweet-savory flavor profile.

Other must-order dishes include the opulent “Eight Treasure Duck” (pre-order required), the deceptively simple braised river eel, and seasonal specialties like hairy crab roe over tofu in autumn. The menu changes subtly with the seasons, always highlighting the freshest available ingredients prepared in ways that honor Shanghai’s culinary heritage.

Jesse maintains two locations—the original, more intimate space on Tianping Road, and a larger, slightly more upscale branch on Kangping Road. For the most authentic experience, the original location is recommended, though be prepared for close quarters and the possibility of sharing tables during busy periods.

Reservations are essential and should be made at least a week in advance for dinner. For the best experience, bring a Shanghainese friend who can help navigate the extensive menu and perhaps order some off-menu specialties known only to regulars.

Innovative Contemporary Dining

The Commune Social

• Address: 511 Jiangning Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai, China
• Contact: +86 21 6047 7638
• Website: No official website

Hours: 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM, 6:00 PM – 10:30 PM (Open all day on weekends)

The Commune Social has evolved from its initial concept as a “tapas, dessert and cocktail bar” into one of Shanghai’s most consistently excellent dining destinations. While the no-reservations policy remains (though this has been relaxed for larger groups), the restaurant has expanded both its physical space and culinary ambitions under the guidance of chef Jason Atherton’s team.

The restaurant’s approach centers on contemporary European techniques applied to Asian-influenced flavor profiles, with a menu divided into sections including raw, cold, hot, and dessert. Standout dishes include the yellowtail with coconut, chili, and lime; Iberico pork with garlic and miso; and the signature “PBJ” dessert that reinvents the classic sandwich as a sophisticated sweet finale.

What makes The Commune Social special is its perfect balance between casual and refined dining. The atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious, with various dining areas including a courtyard that’s glorious in good weather, while the food and service maintain meticulous standards worthy of much more formal establishments.

The restaurant’s no-tipping policy is built into slightly higher menu prices, creating a straightforward dining experience without unnecessary complications. The wine list is concise but thoughtfully assembled, with bottles that complement the menu’s eclectic flavors.

For the optimal experience, arrive early (before 6:30 PM for dinner or 12:30 PM for lunch) to avoid the inevitable queue, and come with a flexible attitude—the beauty of The Commune Social is in the spontaneity of the experience and the joy of sharing multiple small plates with good company.

Mercado 505

• Address: 505 Wulumuqi Rd (N), 505, Jing’An, China, 200031
• Contact: +862162488505
• Website: No official website

Hours: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 PM – 10:30 PM

Mercado 505 brings the vibrant flavors of Latin America to Shanghai with an emphasis on authenticity and quality ingredients. Housed in a beautifully renovated heritage building, the restaurant combines industrial-chic design elements with warm lighting and colorful accents to create an atmosphere that’s simultaneously sophisticated and relaxed.

The menu is a journey through Latin American cuisine, with particular emphasis on Mexican, Peruvian, and Argentine influences. Standout dishes include the table-side prepared guacamole, ceviche mixto with sea bass and octopus, authentic tacos al pastor, and Argentinian beef cuts cooked on a wood-fired grill. The kitchen takes no shortcuts—corn tortillas are made in-house daily, and the restaurant maintains its own program for aging premium beef.

What sets Mercado 505 apart is its commitment to balancing authenticity with accessibility. Dishes remain true to their origins while subtly accommodating local preferences and available ingredients. The restaurant’s spacious layout includes various seating options, from high communal tables in the bar area to comfortable banquettes for larger groups and intimate corners for date nights.

The bar program deserves special mention, featuring one of Shanghai’s most comprehensive selections of tequila and mezcal, alongside expertly crafted margaritas and pisco sours. Weekend brunches have become legendary, offering free-flow options with Latin American-inspired breakfast items that make for a lively alternative to the city’s many European-style brunches.

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner and weekend service. For the full experience, request a seat at the counter overlooking the open kitchen to watch the chefs in action.

Phenix

• Address: 17 Yunnan Rd (S), Huangpu, Shanghai, China, 200003
• Contact: +862163288680
• Website:  No official website

Hours: 6:30 AM – 10:30 AM, 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM, 6:00 PM – 10:30 PM

Housed in the sophisticated PuLi Hotel, Phenix has quietly established itself as one of Shanghai’s most consistent fine dining destinations. Under the direction of executive chef Michael Wilson, the restaurant has evolved from its French roots to embrace a more contemporary approach that draws inspiration from across Europe while incorporating premium Asian ingredients.

The dining room exudes understated luxury, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a serene garden—a rare peaceful oasis in bustling Jing’an district. Tables are generously spaced, creating an atmosphere of refined privacy that makes Phenix equally appropriate for business dinners and special celebrations.

The menu changes seasonally, with standout dishes including the butter-poached Boston lobster with carrot and orange; dry-aged duck with preserved cherry and beetroot; and a spectacular chocolate soufflé that has become something of a signature. The restaurant’s commitment to sourcing exceptional ingredients is evident in every dish, with many items imported directly from specialized producers in Europe and Japan.

Wine pairings deserve special mention, with one of Shanghai’s most knowledgeable sommelier teams offering both classic and unconventional matches that elevate the dining experience. The cheese trolley, featuring perfectly ripened selections from France and Italy, is another highlight for those who appreciate European dining traditions.

While Phenix is undoubtedly a special occasion restaurant for most diners, the weekday business lunch offers exceptional value, providing access to the same quality cooking at a more accessible price point. Reservations are essential, particularly for weekend dinner service.

Shanghai’s Best Burger Joints

RAC Bar

• Address: 55 Shanxi Rd (S), Huangpu, Shanghai, China, 200001
• Website: No official website

Hours: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM (Tuesday-Sunday), Closed Monday

RAC (short for Restaurant à Côté) Bar has established itself as Shanghai’s premier destination for gourmet burgers since opening in 2018. Tucked away on a quiet street in the former French Concession, this intimate spot combines the comfort of American-style burgers with French culinary precision and a distinctly Shanghai sensibility.

The signature RAC Burger features a house-ground beef patty made from premium cuts, topped with melted Comté cheese, caramelized onions, and a secret sauce that strikes the perfect balance between tangy and savory. The brioche buns are baked fresh daily, achieving that ideal combination of structure and softness needed for a truly great burger experience.

Beyond the classic offerings, seasonal specials showcase chef Stephane Javelle’s creativity, with past highlights including the “Truffle Shuffle” (featuring black truffle sauce and foie gras) and the “Shanghai Connection” (incorporating local flavors like XO sauce and pickled mustard greens). Vegetarians aren’t an afterthought here—the mushroom burger with blue cheese and arugula has converted many devoted meat-eaters.

What makes RAC special is its commitment to quality without pretension. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with a small bar serving craft beers and natural wines selected to complement the menu. The space is intimate (just 25 seats), creating a convivial environment where conversations between neighboring tables are common.

No reservations are accepted, so arrive early or be prepared to put your name on the waiting list—a glass of wine at the bar makes the wait more pleasant. For the complete experience, order the hand-cut fries with house-made aioli and save room for the chocolate chip cookies served warm from the oven.

Check out our full guide to 20 Best Burgers in Shanghai You Must Try for more great burger spots.

Charlie’s Burger

• Address: China, CN 上海市 静安区 茂名北路 281 281弄16号1楼101 邮政编码: 200041
• Contact: +862161082586
• Website: No official website

Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM (Daily)

Charlie’s Burger has built a loyal following by perfecting the classic American smashed burger in Shanghai. Unlike many burger joints that have gone the gourmet route with thick patties and exotic toppings, Charlie’s embraces the simple pleasure of a thin, crispy-edged beef patty with classic accompaniments.

The star of the show is undoubtedly the “Double Cheese” – two smashed patties with perfectly melted American cheese, grilled onions, pickles, and house sauce on a potato bun. The technique is key here: the balls of premium beef are smashed onto a scorching hot grill, creating a caramelized crust while keeping the interior juicy. The result is a textural triumph that delivers maximum beef flavor in a manageable package.

The menu is refreshingly focused, with just a handful of burger variations, excellent hand-cut fries, and thick milkshakes that achieve the perfect consistency for straw consumption. For those seeking something different, the fried chicken sandwich rivals the burgers for popularity, featuring a perfectly crisp coating and juicy meat enhanced by housemade pickles and a spicy mayo.

The space itself is casual and bright, with counter service and limited seating that creates a perpetual turnover of diners. This is fast food elevated through quality ingredients and meticulous technique rather than luxury additions or fancy presentation.

Charlie’s doesn’t take reservations, and the lunch rush can see lines extending out the door. Your best bet is to arrive before noon or after 2 PM on weekdays, or to use their efficient takeaway service. While outdoor seating is available in warmer months, the burgers are best enjoyed immediately—this is not food that benefits from travel time.

Conclusion: Savoring Shanghai’s Culinary Brilliance in 2025  

Shanghai’s dining scene is a thrilling fusion of tradition and innovation—where centuries-old recipes meet cutting-edge gastronomy, and hidden alleyway eateries stand alongside Michelin-starred temples of taste. As we’ve explored in this 2025 guide, the city offers something extraordinary for every palate, budget, and occasion.  

From the multi-sensory spectacle of Ultraviolet to the humble perfection of Old Jesse’s Shanghainese classics, each restaurant tells a story of Shanghai’s rich culinary identity. The bustling energy of Mercado 505, the Zen-like elegance of Fu He Hui, and the late-night delights of Yu Ge Zhanjiang all contribute to making this city one of the world’s greatest food destinations.  

Why Shanghai Stands Out in 2025  

✔️ Global Influences, Local Soul – Whether it’s French fine dining or Cantonese seafood, every dish carries a Shanghai twist.  

Your Next Steps  

For more culinary adventures, explore:  

• 20 Best Burgers in Shanghai You Must Try
• Chinese and Japanese Food Near Me

Happy eating, and may your Shanghai food journey be unforgettable!  

— Khalid  

Chef & Founder of TheFoodNearMe

FAQs About Dining in Shanghai (2025 Edition)  

Final Bite: Shanghai Awaits!

Whether you’re sipping cocktails at Speak Low, savoring a RAC burger, or indulging in Fu 1088’s Shanghainese banquet, Shanghai’s food scene is a feast for the senses  

Which restaurant are you most excited to try? Drop a comment—I’d love to hear your picks! 🍽️