Must-Try Foods In Zhujiajiao Water Town (Shanghai) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Zhujiajiao Water Town, Shanghai, China

Zhujiajiao Water Town, known as the "Venice of Shanghai," is famed for not only its picturesque canals and ancient buildings but also for its rich culinary heritage that dates back centuries. Influenced by the water town's riverside location, the local cuisine has developed a strong emphasis on freshwater fish and rice-based dishes. Due to its proximity to Lake Tai, it's known for a variety of aquatic food. Additionally, Zhujiajiao's food often features the sweet and savory flavors characteristic of Jiangnan cuisine, which is typical of the region south of the Yangtze River.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Zhujiajiao Water Town, Shanghai, China

• Zongzi - (Non-Veg) A traditional Chinese rice dumpling made of glutinous rice stuffed with different fillings and wrapped in bamboo leaves.
• Shengjianbao - (Non-Veg) Savory pan-fried steamed buns filled with juicy pork and gelatin that melts into broth when cooked.
• Xiaolongbao - (Non-Veg) These are delicate steamed soup dumplings filled with pork and a rich broth, requiring a careful bite to enjoy properly.
• Nian Gao - (Veg) Also known as rice cake, often stir-fried with vegetables and sometimes with meat for added flavor.
• Ci Fan - (Veg/Non-Veg) Rice balls covered with various toppings and fillings, ranging from vegetarian options to meat.
• Glutinous Rice with Red Dates - (Veg) A sweet dish where sticky rice is steamed with jujubes, imparting a natural sweetness.
• Qing Tuan - (Veg) Green-colored glutinous rice balls filled with sweet red bean paste, traditionally eaten around the Qingming festival.
• Crab Shell Pie - (Non-Veg) A flaky pastry shaped like a crab shell, filled with a mixture of meat or sweet sesame, and then deep-fried.
• Stinky Tofu - (Veg) A fermented tofu that has a pungent odor but is a beloved street snack, often served deep-fried with chili sauce.
• Lotus Root with Sweet Sauce - (Veg) Slices of crisp lotus root cooked in a sweet and sticky sauce, showcasing the natural flavor of the vegetable.

Top Famous Restaurants in Zhujiajiao Water Town, Shanghai, China

Zhang's Restaurant

Address: 262 Beidajie, Zhujiajiao, Qingpu District, Shanghai

Famous Food: Shengjianbao (Non-Veg)

Xiang Xue Yuan

Address: 66 Xijing Street, Zhujiajiao, Qingpu District, Shanghai

Famous Food: Lotus Root with Sweet Sauce (Veg)

Zhengda Restaurant

Address: 5-6 Shiji Street, Zhujiajiao, Qingpu District, Shanghai

Famous Food: Glutinous Rice with Red Dates (Veg)

Zhujiajiao Kezhi Garden Restaurant

Address: 109 Xihu Street, Zhujiajiao, Qingpu District, Shanghai

Famous Food: Zongzi (Non-Veg)

Ah Po Hong Shao Kao

Address: Near Fangsheng Bridge, Zhujiajiao, Qingpu District, Shanghai

Famous Food: Grilled Skewers (Non-Veg and Veg options)

30 Nian Special Restaurant

Address: 44 Xijing Street, Zhujiajiao, Qingpu District, Shanghai

Famous Food: Nian Gao (Veg)

Old Street Fanchi Chicken

Address: 81 Xijing Street, Zhujiajiao, Qingpu District, Shanghai

Famous Food: Soy Sauce Chicken (Non-Veg)

Tao Heung Garden

Address: 66 Caohe Street, Zhujiajiao, Qingpu District, Shanghai

Famous Food: Xiaolongbao (Non-Veg)

Whether seeking authentic local flavors or a picturesque dining experience, Zhujiajiao Water Town offers an assortment of culinary delights along its ancient waterways. Visitors will find both street food and established restaurants providing a taste of traditional Shanghainese cuisine.