Yu Garden Food Tour: A Delicious Culinary Adventure in Shanghai
Introduction to the Culinary Scene Around Yu Garden
Yu Garden, a stunning classical Chinese garden in the heart of Shanghai, is not only a feast for the eyes but also a paradise for food lovers. The area surrounding Yu Garden, especially Yuyuan Bazaar, is teeming with restaurants and food stalls offering a wide array of delicious Shanghai dishes and local snacks. Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure as we explore the food near Yu Garden Shanghai. From savory steamed buns to sweet glutinous rice balls, there’s something to satisfy every craving. For a complete overview, see our [main guide to Yu Garden] (/blog/yu-garden-a-complete-guide-for-tourists-visiting-shanghais-classical-garden/).
Must-Try Shanghai Dishes
No trip to Yu Garden is complete without indulging in these iconic Shanghai delicacies:
Nanxiang Steamed Buns (Xiaolongbao)
Perhaps the most famous must-try food in Yuyuan Bazaar, Nanxiang Steamed Buns, or Xiaolongbao, are a Shanghai staple. These delicate soup dumplings are filled with flavorful broth and meat, and are best enjoyed with a dash of vinegar and ginger. Be careful when you bite into them – the hot soup can squirt out! The most famous place to try these is at Nanxiang Mantou Dian (南翔馒头店), though be prepared for a potential queue.
Fried Dumplings (Shengjian Bao)
Another popular Shanghai street food Yu Garden offers is Shengjian Bao, pan-fried pork buns. These dumplings are crispy on the bottom and fluffy on top, filled with juicy pork and a savory broth. They’re often sprinkled with sesame seeds and chopped scallions.
Glutinous Rice Balls (Tangyuan)
For a sweet treat, try Tangyuan, glutinous rice balls filled with black sesame paste. These chewy and sweet dumplings are often served in a sweet broth and are a perfect way to end your meal.
Crab Shell Cake (Xiè ké huáng)
Xiè ké huáng, or crab shell cake, is a savory pastry that gets its name from its resemblance to a crab shell. These flaky cakes are filled with savory meat or vegetable fillings and are a popular local food around Yu Garden. They’re a great option for a quick and tasty snack.
Recommended Restaurants and Food Stalls
Yuyuan Bazaar is filled with countless restaurants and food stalls. Exploring Yuyuan Bazaar itself is an experience! However, to make your culinary journey easier, here are a few recommendations for the best restaurants near Yu Garden:
- Nanxiang Mantou Dian (南翔馒头店): The undisputed king of Xiaolongbao. Expect long lines, but the steamed buns are worth the wait.
- Lü Bo Lang Restaurant (绿波廊): A more upscale option offering traditional Shanghai cuisine with stunning views of Yu Garden.
- Shanghai Old Street (上海老街): While not a single restaurant, this area offers a variety of food stalls and small eateries serving local snacks and dishes.
Budget-Friendly Options
Enjoying delicious food near Yu Garden Shanghai doesn’t have to break the bank. Many food stalls in Yuyuan Bazaar offer affordable and tasty options. Look for street food vendors selling dumplings, noodles, and other local snacks. Don’t be afraid to try something new!
Tips for Foodies
- Be prepared for crowds: Yuyuan Bazaar is a popular tourist destination, so expect large crowds, especially during peak season.
- Bring cash: While some restaurants may accept credit cards, many food stalls only accept cash.
- Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases: Knowing a few basic phrases like “xièxiè” (thank you) and “duōshao qián?” (how much?) can be helpful.
- Try everything! The best way to experience the culinary scene around Yu Garden is to try as many different dishes as possible.
