Food In Tianzifang

Food History of Tianzifang, Shanghai, China

Tianzifang, located in the former French Concession area of Shanghai, is known for its maze of alleyways and traditional Shikumen houses. Over the years, it has transformed from a residential area into a bustling arts and crafts enclave, featuring a vibrant mix of shops, studios, galleries, and eateries. Tianzifang has become a melting pot of local Shanghainese snacks and various international cuisines, reflecting the diverse culture and history of Shanghai itself.

In this enclave, one can find the essence of Shanghainese food, characterized by the delicate flavors and a balance between sweetness and saltiness, often served alongside robust and rich street food fare influenced by the myriad of cultures that have settled in the area. The food in Tianzifang has evolved to cater to both local tastes and the preferences of tourists from around the world who come to experience this unique cultural district.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Tianzifang, Shanghai, China

• Shengjianbao (Pan-fried Pork Buns) - Non-Veg: These savory, pan-friend buns filled with juicy pork and gelatin that melts into soup when cooked are a staple Shanghai street food.
• Shanghai Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings) - Non-Veg: Renowned for their delicate skin and rich broth, these steamed dumplings filled with pork are a must-try.
• Vegetarian Spring Rolls - Veg: Light and crispy rolls filled with fresh vegetables exemplify a healthier side of Shanghai street snacks.
• Scallion Oil Noodles (Cong You Ban Mian) - Veg: A simple yet flavorful dish, these noodles served with scallion-infused oil capture the essence of Shanghainese comfort food.
• Sticky Rice Balls in Wine Soup (Jiuniang Yuanzi) - Veg: A sweet dessert soup featuring fermented rice wine and chewy glutinous rice balls.
• Vegetarian Mock Duck - Veg: Made of wheat gluten, it's a popular choice for those looking for plant-based versions of local dishes.
• Braised Tofu (Hongshao Tofu) - Veg: Soft tofu braised in a savory and slightly sweet sauce, it's both comforting and hearty.
• Stir-fried Rice Cake (Chao Nian Gao) - Non-Veg: Chewy rice cakes stir-fried with vegetables and sometimes with slices of pork or shrimp.
• Steamed Crab (Dazha Xie) - Non-Veg: Seasonal hairy crabs that are a delicacy in Shanghai, savored for their sweet meat and creamy roe.
• Lantern Festival Glutinous Rice Balls (Yuanxiao) - Veg: Traditionally eaten during the Lantern Festival, these sweet glutinous rice balls come with assorted fillings such as sesame, red bean, and peanut.

Top Famous Restaurants in Tianzifang, Shanghai, China

• Lotus Eatery (Shanghai Dim Sum) – Veg & Non-Veg: This restaurant is known for its Yunnan-style dishes. Address: Lane 200, Taikang Road, Tianzifang. Famous Food: Spicy Chicken, Stir-fried Cheese with Mushrooms (Veg).
• Origin: Focused on organic and vegetarian cuisine, Origin is a haven for health-conscious diners. Address: No. 32, Lane 274 Taikang Road, Tianzifang. Famous Food: Organic Salads (Veg), Quinoa Cakes (Veg).
• The Plump Oyster: A gourmet restaurant and bar specializing in fresh oysters and seafood, but also caters to vegetarian tastes. Address: Lane 274 Taikang Road, Tianzifang. Famous Food: Fresh Oysters (Non-Veg), Grilled Scallops (Non-Veg).
• T Kommune: A relaxed and artsy café serving a mix of Western and Asian dishes. Address: No. 7, Lane 210 Taikang Road, Tianzifang. Famous Food: Avocado Toast (Veg), Thai Basil Chicken Rice (Non-Veg).
• Tianzifang Sushi: As the name suggests, this is the place for sushi enthusiasts. Address: Lane 248 Taikang Road, Tianzifang. Famous Food: Assorted Sushi Platter (Non-Veg), Vegetable Sushi Rolls (Veg).