Shanghai is a city where food is as layered and diverse as its skyline. It’s a place where street vendors serve up soup dumplings alongside Michelin-starred restaurants, and neighborhoods like the French Concession hide culinary treasures. We particularly like tours that go beyond the guidebook—like the Eat Like A Local: Shanghai Night Food Tour—which takes you off the beaten path to taste authentic regional dishes paired with local beers and spirits. Whether you’re after a lively night out, a morning market stroll, or a bike ride through historic lanes, Shanghai’s food tours deliver a genuine taste of local life, making it one of the best cities in China for culinary explorations.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the top 15 food tours in Shanghai, each offering a unique way to experience the city’s flavors. From intimate small-group crawls and private culinary adventures to scenic bike rides with tastings, there’s something for every traveler eager to try Shanghai’s best bites.
1. Eat Like A Local: Shanghai Night Food Tour
At number one, the Eat Like A Local: Shanghai Night Food Tour scores a perfect 5.0 based on 591 reviews. For $90, you spend about three hours exploring the neighborhoods of Changning and Jing’An as the city lights come on. This tour shines for its authentic focus—visiting family-run eateries and sampling regional Chinese dishes beloved by locals. You’ll sip local beers and spirits, learning about Shanghai’s history and culture while tasting Dumplings, Xiaolongbao, and Sichuan specialties. The small group size (capped at 12) ensures a personal experience, and all food and drinks are included.
One highlight is exploring the residential streets where locals eat and drink more than travelers. Tour guide Rebekah’s commentary on Shanghai’s history and culinary traditions makes this more than just a tasting—it’s a culture. Reviewers say, “This was our favorite way to experience Shanghai’s culinary scene,” emphasizing the tour’s authentic vibe. Good for night owls and food lovers wanting an intimate look at local flavors.
Bottom line: If you want a lively, authentic introduction to Shanghai’s regional dishes in a small group, this tour is hard to beat.
2. Half-Day Bike Tour of Shanghai Old Town with Food Tasting
At number two, the Half-Day Bike Tour of Shanghai Old Town with Food Tasting offers a unique way to combine sightseeing with culinary exploration. For $85, you spend about four hours cycling around the atmospheric streets of Old Town, the Former French Concession, and Fuxing Park. This tour is perfect if you want to see the city’s historical neighborhoods at a relaxed pace while trying local dishes like scallion noodles and street snacks.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance—visiting a Buddhist temple and a wet market, then stopping at a cozy café for coffee and pastries. Reviewers love how accessible and easy the ride is, with many describing it as “an excellent introduction to local life.” During the ride, you’ll learn about Chinese religious practices and see everyday Shanghai life in action.
Bottom line: Best suited for active travelers who want a laid-back way to experience historic neighborhoods and sample classic street foods.
3. Eat Like a Local Through Shanghai’s French Concession
Number three on our list, this Eat Like a Local in Shanghai’s French Concession offers a 3.5-hour crawl through one of the city’s most beautiful neighborhoods. For just $75, you’ll visit four local eateries and enjoy more than 10 classic dishes, from dumplings to desserts, plus unlimited local beer, soda, and bottled water. This tour is capped at 12 participants, ensuring a cozy experience.
What makes this experience special is how it takes you far from touristy spots—featuring hidden food gems that have been passed down through generations. The guide shares stories behind recipes and reveals the history of the area’s multicultural influences. Reviewers praise the guide’s enthusiasm and the quality of the food, noting it as “the highlight of our trip.” The craft beer pub visit is a nice touch for those wanting to unwind.
Bottom line: Ideal for foodies who want a deep dive into Shanghai’s culinary secrets with a friendly, small-group atmosphere.
4. Eat Like a Local: Street Breakfast Tour in Shanghai
Number four, the Street Breakfast Tour for $75, offers a morning immersion into Shanghai’s lively breakfast scene. Over three hours, you’ll sample pulled noodles, Xiaolongbao, and pancakes at street stalls, while observing Tai Chi practitioners and water calligraphers in Xiangyang Park. This tour is perfect for families or anyone interested in experiencing daily Shanghai life from a local perspective.
The highlight is exploring a wet market and ending at a bakery for fresh treats. The tour is limited to eight guests, which makes it very personal. Reviewers love how this tour shows the city’s food in its natural setting, with comments like, “You get to see and taste real Shanghai in the morning.” It’s a great way to start the day with a balanced mix of culture and cuisine.
Bottom line: For those who want an authentic breakfast experience with a small group, this tour offers a warm and flavorful start to the day.
5. Late Night Food Tour in the Shanghai’s French Concession
Number five, the Late Night Food Tour at $89, explores the French Concession after dark. Over three hours, you’ll try Shanghainese dishes like hand-pulled noodles and local snacks, all while soaking in the neighborhood’s history. This tour is great if you prefer evening explorations and want to avoid daytime crowds.
Your guide explains the area’s past, from colonial buildings to modern night markets. The tour includes visits to three restaurants, offering enough food for a full meal. Reviewers mention how “Helen’s love of Shanghai is contagious,” and how the tour covers both food and history effortlessly. It’s perfect for night owls and history buffs who enjoy a flavorful walk.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for those wanting to combine historical insights with a satisfying food adventure at night.
6. Private Shanghai Evening Street Food Walking and Cruise Tour
Number six, the Private Evening Street Food Tour, costs $126 per person for about three to four hours. It’s perfect if you want exclusivity—your own guide leads you through busy streets and back alleys, sampling soup dumplings, lamb skewers, and local desserts. The highlight is ending the night with a Huangpu River cruise, offering shimmering views of Shanghai’s skyline.
This personalized experience includes commentary on the city’s history and culinary scene. Reviewers say, “Annie was a wealth of knowledge and customized everything to our preferences.” It’s best suited for travelers who want a flexible, private way to enjoy a full meal and see the city from the river.
Bottom line: Choose this for a tailored, intimate experience with the added bonus of a river cruise.
7. Shanghai: Half-Day Biking and Local Food Tour
Number seven, the Half-Day Biking and Local Food Tour for $69, combines cycling with food stops. This three-hour adventure is ideal for active travelers who want to discover Shanghai’s hidden neighborhoods and sample local snacks along the way. You’ll explore the French Concession, Xintiandi, and more, stopping for treats like dumplings and noodles.
The tour includes bike rental and entrance fees, making it excellent value. Reviewers find it “a great way to see some of the authentic side of Shanghai,” especially noting the friendly guides and delicious food stops.
Bottom line: Best for those who want a physical activity mixed with cultural and culinary discoveries.
8. Shanghai Private Food and Culture Tour (10 dishes, 5 eateries)
At number eight, the Private Food and Culture Tour offers a personalized exploration of Shanghai’s culinary scene. For $79, you visit five eateries, trying 10 dishes including traditional egg pancake, stewed milk dessert, and more. The tour passes by notable landmarks like Nanjing Road, the Bund, and People’s Square.
Reviewers praise the “friendly and informative” guide who shares stories behind each dish. This tour is great for first-timers wanting an in-depth, private experience. The focus on authentic food paired with cultural landmarks makes it a well-rounded option.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a comprehensive, private culinary experience that doubles as a city tour.
9. 4-Hour Food Tour in Qibao Water Town from Shanghai by Subway
Number nine on our list is the Qibao Water Town Food Tour. For $94.94, you travel by subway to this Ming- and Qing-era water town, exploring canals, bridges, and old streets for about four hours. You’ll sample foods like crab-meat dumplings and Haitang cake, plus enjoy Chinese tea.
What makes this tour special is its scenic setting and the chance to walk off the city’s bustle in a historic town. Reviewers mention how the small group and local guides make it feel intimate and authentic. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a cultural and culinary break outside Shanghai’s core.
Bottom line: A scenic day trip that combines traditional water town charm with delicious bites.
10. Shanghai: Evening Walking Food Tour
Number ten, the Evening Walking Food Tour for $69, explores the French Concession’s vibrant culinary scene. Over 3.5 hours, your guide takes you through local family-run eateries, sampling soup dumplings, Shanghai carbs, and ending with a craft beer at a taphouse.
This tour is perfect if you want an easy, accessible way to experience local dishes and neighborhoods. Reviewers mention Emma’s personable approach and the diverse stops, which make for a memorable evening. It’s best suited for those who prefer a relaxed pace and want to enjoy Shanghai’s nightlife flavors.
Bottom line: Great for travelers who want a casual, flavorful night out with local food and a lively atmosphere.
11. Biking Real Shanghai & Enjoy Local Food
Number eleven, the Biking Real Shanghai tour costs $78.78 and lasts about three hours. It’s designed for those who want to see multiple neighborhoods—from the French Concession to the Bund—on two wheels. Along the way, you’ll stop for local snacks and learn about Shanghai’s history with an engaging guide.
Reviewers highlight how the tour combines culture, history, and food in a lively, approachable way. The small group size (up to eight) keeps it personal, and the inclusion of bike rental makes it a solid value.
Bottom line: Ideal for active travelers who want to combine sightseeing, cycling, and tasting local specialties.
12. Shanghai Must-See and Foodie Test Bike Tour (Day & Night)
Number twelve, the Must-See and Foodie Test Bike Tour covers both day and evening, priced at $68. It explores The Bund, Yu Garden, and historic neighborhoods on a four-hour ride, with stops for local snacks and city views. This tour showcases Shanghai’s contrasts—modern skyscrapers and old Shikumen.
Reviewers appreciate that May, the guide, “showed places I would never have found on my own,” making this a highly personalized experience. It’s perfect for those wanting a comprehensive view of Shanghai’s sights and flavors.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers who want a full, active day blending sightseeing and tastings.
13. Shanghai: Half-Day Biking and Local Food Tour
At number thirteen, this Biking and Local Food Tour offers a three-hour ride through key neighborhoods, with stops for local snacks. It’s for those who want to experience Shanghai’s everyday life while cycling past shops, temples, and alleyways. The tour includes bike rental and is suitable for all fitness levels.
Reviewers mention how the balance of activity and food made it especially enjoyable—and a chance to see hidden corners of the city. The guide’s friendly manner and local insights add value.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers eager to combine exploration, exercise, and authentic snacks.
14. Shanghai-Cooking Dumpling & Meal in Local Family-w/Vegan
Number fourteen offers an immersive experience with cooking in a local family. For just $6 per person, you’ll learn to make traditional dumplings, taste authentic Chinese cuisine, and visit a local market. This hands-on tour emphasizes cultural exchange and includes free travel tips for navigating Shanghai and nearby cities.
Guests say it’s a “wonderful cultural experience,” with many appreciating the opportunity to connect directly with a Shanghai family. It’s ideal for budget travelers or those seeking an authentic, home-cooked meal.
Bottom line: For a memorable, intimate culinary experience, this tour combines learning, eating, and cultural exchange.
15. Off-beaten Route: Shanghai Old Town Discovery & Street Food Tasting
Closing our list at number fifteen, this Old Town Discovery & Street Food Tasting takes you into less-visited streets and landmarks like the Old City Wall and Confucius Temple. For just $78, the three-hour walk incorporates sampling fried dumplings, sticky rice rolls, and more, all while exploring historic sites.
Reviewers love how Lynn guides with enthusiasm, making the experience feel like exploring with a knowledgeable friend. It’s perfect for travelers who want a more personalized, historic, and culinary overview of Shanghai.
Bottom line: Best for those who want a mix of culture, history, and authentic street food in a relaxed setting.
How to Choose the Right Food Tour in Shanghai
When trying to decide among these options, consider your budget, fitness level, time available, and whether you prefer guided walking, biking, or private experiences. For a rundown with historical context and tastings, the Private Food and Culture Tour offers a personalized deep dive. If you’re short on time but eager for a rich night of local flavors, the Eat Like A Local Night Tour is perfect.
Travelers wanting active exploration should look at the Bike Tours or Biking Real Shanghai for a fun, energetic way to discover neighborhoods. For those seeking a cultural experience combined with cooking, the Dumpling & Meal in a Local Family is unbeatable.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons. Most tours are small-group maximums, meaning spots fill quickly. Check the tour details for the best time of day and plan accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Shanghai offers a surprisingly wide range of food tours that showcase its culinary diversity—from street snacks to family-style cooking and scenic bike tours. For those with limited time, the Night Food Tour or Street Breakfast Tour are fantastic introductions. For travelers wanting a private or active experience, the Private Shanghai Evening Street Food Walking and Cruise Tour or Biking Real Shanghai are excellent choices.
Whatever your style, these tours provide a genuine taste of Shanghai that’s both delicious and memorable. Just remember to book ahead, bring your appetite, and be ready for a culinary adventure through China’s most exciting city.