Eat Like a Local: Street Breakfast Tour in Shanghai

Shanghai , China

Eat Like a Local: Street Breakfast Tour in Shanghai

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(228 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Savor the taste of Shanghai’s famous breakfast wontons, pulled noodles, savory pancakes and more on this 3-hour, small-group walking tour with a knowledgeable local guide. Begin your day with a stroll past water calligraphers and tai chi masters in Xiangyang Park, before meandering to street stalls and a wet market to experience Chinese cuisine freshly prepared in front of you. Be sure to come hungry on this child-friendly tour, limited to small groups ensure a personalized experience.

Available options

Tour

What's included

Professional guide

Post-tour welcome packet with helpful restaurant recommendations, local travel tips & so much more to help make your stay in Shanghai easy & fun

Tasting stops add up to a very large meal, and you will most likely not need to schedule a meal for several hours after the tour

Coffee and/or Tea

Detailed itinerary

Our walking culinary tours are designed to get visitors off the beaten path and into authentic local shops where they can eat shoulder to shoulder with locals. Since 2010, UnTour Food Tours has taken thousands of guests to our favorite mom-and-pop-owned shops. UnTour Food Tour has been featured in The New York Times, Travel & Leisure, National Geographic, Monocle, CNN, The Sunday Time Travel Magazine, Eat the World with Emeril Lagasse, Samantha Brown Travels, The Guardian & more. Come explore Shanghai's tastiest authentic cuisine with us!

Some of Shanghai’s best food is found streetside in the morning hours. Explore a local market and taste the Chinese breakfast of champions with this street food tour through the beautiful former French Concession neighborhood. You’ll meet our trusted vendors selling classic local dishes, including the world-famous jianbing (Chinese crepe), steaming baskets of the city’s finest soup dumplings, freshly-pulled noodles, and much more.

Start your morning off at Xiangyang Park. Stroll through one of the former French Concession’s most energetic parks – and watch the retirees practicing tai chi, water calligraphy, line dancing and Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Finish your tour in the shadows of IAPM, one of Shanghai's most luxurious shopping malls with great local boutiques, bars, cinemas, and restaurants (although you won't need to eat again for hours after the tour).

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Alcoholic beverages

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

8 reviews

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4★

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Tripadvisor 5.0

220 reviews

5★

212

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please advise any specific dietary requirement at time of booking - 72 hours advanced notice is required to be able to cater to any dietary restrictions.

Wear comfortable shoes and come hungry

Meeting point

Meeting Point: Xiangyang Park, South Gate, 1008 Huaihai Middle Rd. 襄阳公园-南门，在淮海中路1008号。

Important notes

• Meeting Location: Xiangyang Park, 1008 Huaihai Middle Rd.

Your guide will meet you at the entrance to Xiangyang Park at 1008 Huaihai Middle Road. It is roughly a 5-minute walk from the South Shaanxi Rd. metro stop on lines 1, 10, & 12.

• Show Your Taxi/Didi: 襄阳公园-南门

• Metro Directions (highly recommended): By metro, take Line 1/10/12 to South Shaanxi Road Metro Station. Follow signs for Exit 2. From Exit 2, walk one block west on Huaihai Middle Road to Xiangyang Park at the intersection of Xiangyang Road. Your guide will meet you at the entrance of Xiangyang Park (directly across the street from the Gucci store).

• Tours depart on time so please plan to arrive 5 minutes early. Late guests will not be eligible for a refund.

• If you have any dietary restrictions or food allergies, notify us at info@untourfoodtours.com at least 72 hours before the tour start time so we can make accommodations.

• You will receive your guide's contact info ~24 hours in advance of your tour. If you are running late or having trouble finding the start point, *please contact your guide directly*. Our office is only open from 9:30am-4:30pm Mon-Fri, so there will not be any one available to answer your call if you call or email the office or send a message through Viator.

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

About Shanghai

Shanghai is a global financial hub and a city of stunning contrasts, where futuristic skyscrapers stand alongside traditional shikumen houses. It's known for its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and historic landmarks, making it a must-visit destination in China.

Top Attractions

The Bund

The Bund is a famous waterfront area with a stunning skyline of colonial-era buildings and modern skyscrapers. It's a must-visit for its historic significance and breathtaking views.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Oriental Pearl Tower

This iconic tower is a symbol of modern Shanghai, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture 2-3 hours ¥150-200

Yu Garden

Yu Garden is a classical Chinese garden with beautiful landscapes, pavilions, and historical buildings. It's a peaceful oasis in the bustling city.

Historical/Garden 2-3 hours ¥30

Shanghai Museum

The Shanghai Museum houses an extensive collection of ancient Chinese art and artifacts, providing a deep dive into China's rich history and culture.

Museum 2-3 hours Free

Nanjing Road

Nanjing Road is one of the world's busiest shopping streets, offering a mix of international brands, local shops, and vibrant street life.

Shopping 2-3 hours Varies by shop

Must-Try Local Dishes

Xiaolongbao

Small soup dumplings filled with meat and hot broth, typically pork. They are a staple of Shanghai cuisine and are often served with soy sauce and ginger.

Dumplings Contains meat, gluten, and soy.

Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou)

A slow-cooked dish of pork belly braised in soy sauce, sugar, and other seasonings. It's tender, flavorful, and often served with steamed buns or rice.

Main dish Contains pork and soy.

Shanghai Soup Dumplings (Shao Mai)

Open-topped dumplings filled with minced pork and shrimp, often served with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, vinegar, and ginger.

Dumplings Contains pork, shrimp, and soy.

Stinky Tofu (Chou Doufu)

Fermented tofu with a strong odor, often deep-fried and served with pickled cabbage. It's an acquired taste but a popular street food.

Snack Vegetarian, contains soy.

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby nature reserves Biking along the Huangpu River Tea house visits Spa treatments Visiting museums and historic sites Attending traditional performances Boat rides on the Huangpu River Swimming at nearby beaches

Best Time to Visit

April to October

This period offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is lively with numerous festivals and events.

15°C to 35°C 59°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
Widely spoken: Shanghainese, English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Shanghai is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps like Didi.
• Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.

Getting there

By air

Shanghai Pudong International Airport • 30 km from city center
Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport • 13 km from city center

By train

Shanghai Railway Station, Shanghai South Railway Station

By bus

Shanghai Long-Distance Bus Station, Shanghai South Long-Distance Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Shanghai Metro is efficient, clean, and covers most of the city. It's the fastest and most convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi, Meituan

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

The Bund Pudong French Concession Xintiandi Tianzifang

Day trips

Hangzhou

180 km from Shanghai • Full day

Hangzhou is a beautiful city known for its natural beauty, historic sites, and the famous West Lake. It's a great day trip from Shanghai for those looking to escape the city and enjoy some nature.

Suzhou

100 km from Shanghai • Full day

Suzhou is a historic city known for its classical gardens, silk production, and canals. It's a great day trip for those interested in history, culture, and architecture.

Zhujiajiao

50 km from Shanghai • Half day

Zhujiajiao is an ancient water town known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, canals, and bridges. It's a great day trip for those looking to experience traditional Chinese water town life.

Festivals

Shanghai Tourism Festival • September Shanghai International Film Festival • June Chinese New Year • January/February (varies)

Pro tips

Use the Shanghai Public Transportation Card for convenient and discounted travel on metro, buses, and ferries.
Download a translation app or carry a phrasebook to help with language barriers.
Try local street food, but be cautious of food safety and choose busy stalls with high turnover.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Consider hiring a local guide or joining a tour to gain insights into Shanghai's history and culture.