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The Bund

Food In The Bund

Food History of The Bund, Shanghai, China

The Bund, known as Waitan in Chinese, is a famous waterfront area in central Shanghai, which historically served as a symbol of Shanghai's internationalism. Its food scene is just as cosmopolitan as its past, reflecting a fusion of cultures. Dating back to the early 20th century, The Bund has been home to numerous exclusive clubs and luxury hotels that featured Western cuisine for the expatriates and social elites during colonial times. Meanwhile, local Shanghainese cuisine continued to flourish in the nearby streets, showcasing a blend of sweet and savory flavors characteristic of East China's culinary style. Today, The Bund is a melting pot of different culinary traditions, with a vast array of dining options ranging from traditional Chinese dishes to varied international fare, all while enjoying views of the Huangpu River and Shanghai's skyline.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in The Bund, Shanghai, China

  1. Xiaolongbao (Non-Veg) - Steamed soup dumplings typically filled with pork and a rich, savory broth.
  2. Sheng Jian Bao (Non-Veg) - Pan-fried pork buns with a juicy filling, a crispy bottom, and a soft, fluffy top.
  3. Scallion Pancakes (Veg) - Crispy, flaky flatbreads made with dough laced with scallions and cooked to perfection.
  4. Hairy Crab (Non-Veg) - A seasonal delicacy, these crabs are prized for their sweet flesh and rich roe, typically enjoyed in autumn.
  5. Vegetarian Mock Duck (Veg) - A traditional Buddhist dish made with gluten or tofu, seasoned and cooked to mimic duck.
  6. Shanghai Stir-Fried Noodles (Veg/Non-Veg) - These can be made with vegetables or with added pork or shrimp, featuring thick, chewy noodles stir-fried with soy sauce and various toppings.
  7. Shanghai-Style Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou) (Non-Veg) - Slow-cooked to achieve a delicate balance of sweetness and savory flavors, often accompanied by hard-boiled eggs.
  8. Stinky Tofu (Veg) - Fermented tofu known for its strong odor but is a popular street food that offers a unique flavor, typically served fried.
  9. Vegetable Spring Rolls (Veg) - Light, crispy rolls filled with a mix of seasoned vegetables.
  10. Stir-Fried Bok Choy (Veg) - A simple yet delicious dish highlighting the freshness and natural sweetness of this Asian green.

Top Famous Restaurants in The Bund, Shanghai, China

M on the Bund
Address: No.5 The Bund, 7th Floor, Shanghai
Famous Food: Pavlova (Veg) - A classic dessert of meringue, often topped with fresh fruit and cream.
Lost Heaven
Address: 17 Yan'an East Road, Shanghai
Famous Food: Yunnan-style Chicken (Non-Veg) - A dish inspired by the flavors of China's Yunnan province, infused with aromatic herbs.
Jean Georges
Address: 4/F, 3 Zhongshan East 1st Rd, Shanghai
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Famous Food: Black Truffle Pizza (Veg) - An upscale twist on pizza topped with the gourmet delicacy.
Goodfellas
Address: 7 Yan'an East Road, Shanghai
Famous Food: Margarita Pizza (Veg) - A classic Italian pizza with tomato, fresh mozzarella, and basil.
Wai Tan 1
Address: 1 East Zhongshan Road, Huangpu, Shanghai
Famous Food: Yangzhou Fried Rice (Non-Veg) - A popular Chinese dish with shrimp, ham, and vegetables.
The Chop Chop Club
Address: 3 Zhongshan East 1st Rd, Wai Tan, Huangpu, Shanghai
Famous Food: Grilled Sea Bass (Non-Veg) - A whole fish grilled with delicate spices and herbs.
Mercato
Address: 6F, No.3 Zhong Shan Dong Yi Road, Shanghai
Famous Food: Ricotta Cheese Meatballs (Non-Veg) - Meatballs enriched with creamy ricotta, served in a rich tomato sauce.
Yi Cafe at Pudong Shangri-La
Address: Pudong Shangri-La, 33 Fucheng Road, Pudong, Shanghai
Famous Food: Assorted Dim Sum (Veg/Non-Veg) - A variety of traditional Chinese dumplings both with vegetarian and meat fillings.
Mr & Mrs Bund
Address: Bund 18, 18 Zhongshan East 1st Rd, Shanghai
Famous Food: Lemon & Lemon Tart (Veg) - A tangy and sweet citrus dessert, highlighting the freshness of lemons.
Shanghai Grandmother Restaurant
Address: No.70 Fuzhou Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai
Famous Food: Shanghai Benbang Dishes (Non-Veg) - A term that refers to traditional local dishes that are often slow-cooked and flavored with soy sauce and sugar.
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