[Where To Eat:] Three Iconic Cantonese Restaurants in the Heart of Shanghai

Apart from the Greater Bay Area, Shanghai may be the city with the most favorable environment for the development of Cantonese cuisine. From the historic Xinghualou established during the Xianfeng era to the Mingya Cantonese Restaurant, which became popular among celebrities during the Republic of China era, Cantonese cuisine has taken root in Shanghai for over a century, deeply embedding itself in the hearts of Shanghai’s people. After the opening-up policy, Cantonese and Hong Kong merchants flocked north, leading to a surge in the popularity of Cantonese cuisine, with both high-end seafood and affordable tea restaurants setting trends in their wake.

1. Xingchu Fang Cantonese Restaurant

Rating: 4.8/5 (1699 reviews, Source: Dianping)

Per capita: 202 RMB

Business Hours: 11:00-14:00, 17:00-22:00

Address: No. 601 Fengyang Road, 1st Floor, Kempinski Hotel

(1) Google Map (2) Apple Map

Xingchu Fang, established in 1990, has long been a top choice for flavor rankings but has remained low-key. It initially attracted many celebrities and seasoned food critics, yet it continues to maintain its understated style.

A 400+㎡ two-story standalone Cantonese restaurant, featuring a minimalist white glass design in a prime location in Shanghai. The layout, including semi-enclosed private rooms, adds a touch of luxury and provides a comfortable dining experience.

Recommended Dishes:

• Xingchu Spicy Crab：A Michelin-starred chef’s recommendation, this signature dish features lively crabs stir-fried with garlic, chili, and fermented bean curd, creating a flavorful balance with its aromatic spiced coating.
• Golden Snapper Sashimi：A traditional Cantonese delicacy, this sashimi is served thinly sliced, translucent, and fresh. The fish is kept on ice to ensure its firm texture. It's best enjoyed with a mix of peanut oil, soy sauce, and sesame.
• Shunde Colorful Stewed Chicken：A visually stunning dish with colorful ingredients, the chicken is served with various shredded vegetables, mixed before eating to symbolize good fortune. The chicken skin is tender, and the dish is aromatic and flavorful.

2. Jipin Xuan

Rating: 4.3/5 (2249 reviews, Source: Dianping)

Per capita: 895 RMB

Business Hours: 11:00-14:00, 17:00-22:00

Address: 3rd Floor, No. 55, Urumqi South Road

(1) Google Map (2) Apple Map

Located at the intersection of Hengshan Road and Urumqi South Road, Jipin Xuan is housed in a grand white French-style building that was once the “藏酒轩” club under ASC Wine. After a complete redesign by French architect and entrepreneur Lu Jinyuan, it now stands as a landmark on Hengshan Road, popular for filming and weddings.

Founder Lu Jinyuan, a renowned entrepreneur and food lover, oversaw the development of Jipin Xuan and its Michelin-starred success. The restaurant provides a refined yet casual atmosphere, with traditional Cantonese dim sum available during lunch and a focus on high-quality dishes in the evening.

Recommended Dishes:

• Premium Honey-Glazed BBQ Pork：Known as the best BBQ pork, the meat is tender with a perfect caramelized glaze. The pork is well-marinated, resulting in a sweet, savory, and slightly crispy exterior.
• Olive Oil Sweet Peas with Beauty Rice：Featuring tender "beauty rice" (chicken head rice) and sweet peas, this dish is lightly dressed with olive oil to preserve the fresh flavors, complemented by crispy dried scallops for added texture.
• Salted Egg White Almond Tea：A comforting dessert made with smooth almond paste and egg white, providing a creamy texture and balanced sweetness.

3. Baolixuan

Rating: 4.7/5 (2377 reviews, Source: Dianping)

Per capita: 690 RMB

Business Hours: 11:30-14:00, 17:30-21:00

Address: Lane 108, Shanxi North Road, next to Bulgari Hotel Shanghai

(1) Google Map (2) Apple Map

Located opposite the Bulgari Hotel, Baolixuan is housed in the historical Shanghai Chamber of Commerce building. This building, dating back to 1902 and formerly known as the Shanghai Commercial Conference Association, has witnessed Shanghai's commercial glory.

The decor blends old Shanghai style with modern Italian furnishings. Calligraphy by Qiu Zhenzhong and Bulgari jewelry sketches adorn the walls, creating an elegant and nostalgic atmosphere.

Recommended Dishes:

• Pan-Seared Black Pepper Wagyu Beef Bun：The bun features tender Wagyu beef with a robust black pepper flavor. The beef is well-marinated and cooked to perfection, providing a delightful and flavorful bite.
• Rose Bean Curd：A delicate dish where the tofu is infused with a hint of rose, offering a unique floral note and a smooth texture.
• Braised Sea Cucumber with Abalone Sauce：Sea cucumbers braised in rich abalone sauce, known for their tender texture and savory taste, providing an upscale and luxurious dining experience.