1. What are some popular local dishes to try in the Shanghai French Concession area?
Some popular local dishes to try in the Shanghai French Concession area include:1. Shengjianbao (pan-fried soup dumplings)
2. Xiaolongbao (steamed soup dumplings)
3. Lányóu tofu (steamed soft tofu)
4. Hong shao rou (red-braised pork)
5. Shanghai-style noodles (such as niangao noodles or zha jiang mian)
6. Cantonese dim sum dishes like har gow (shrimp dumplings) and char siu bao (barbecue pork buns)
7. Jianbing (savory Chinese crepe)
8. Peking duck
9. Xiaolongxia (spicy crawfish or crayfish)
10. Tangyuan (glutinous rice balls filled with sweet sesame paste).
2. Are there any outdoor dining options in the French Concession for a nice al fresco meal?
Yes, there are many outdoor dining options in the French Concession area. Some popular choices include:
– Le Jardin Restaurant: This restaurant offers alfresco dining in a charming garden setting.
– Mr. Willis Rooftop Bar & Restaurant: Located on the rooftop of a historical building, this restaurant offers stunning views of the city and outdoor dining under string lights.
– Franck Bistrot: This French bistro has a beautiful terrace for outdoor dining.
– Gemma Napoli Pizzeria: Enjoy authentic Neapolitan pizza on their outdoor patio.
– Kommune: This cafe has a lovely outdoor seating area perfect for enjoying coffee or brunch.
– Lost Heaven Garden Terrace: This popular restaurant features an open-air terrace with traditional Chinese decorations and serves delicious Yunnan cuisine.
3. Is there a variety of international cuisine available in the French Concession, or is it mostly Chinese food?
The French Concession is known for its diverse and international food scene. While there are plenty of traditional Chinese restaurants in the area, there are also numerous options for international cuisine from Italian and French to Japanese and Indian. There are also many Western-style cafes, bakeries and brunch spots to choose from. Overall, there is a wide variety of international cuisine available in the French Concession.
4. Can you recommend any hidden gem restaurants that are off the beaten path in the French Concession?
Yes, here are four hidden gem restaurants in the French Concession that are worth checking out:
1. Fu’44 – This cozy and intimate restaurant serves up modern Chinese cuisine with a twist. They offer a small menu with dishes like braised pork belly and eggplant stir-fry, all made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
2. Lost Heaven – Tucked away on the second floor of an old villa, this restaurant transports you to ancient China with its decor and menu inspired by various ethnic groups. Try their signature Yunnan-style fried goat cheese or spicy Sichuan-style prawns.
3. La Bota – This Spanish tapas bar is a great spot for a casual yet delicious meal. The small plates menu features classic Spanish dishes like patatas bravas, jamón ibérico croquetas, and paella, all made with authentic ingredients imported from Spain.
4. Quaint Garden – For a taste of traditional Shanghainese cuisine, head to Quaint Garden located in a quiet alley off bustling Huaihai Road. The restaurant serves up comforting dishes like soup dumplings (xiao long bao), crispy eel, and braised pork belly in a charming garden setting.
5. Are there any vegetarian or vegan-friendly restaurants in this area?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants in this area. Some options include:
– Veggie Grill: A fast-casual chain restaurant serving exclusively vegetarian and vegan dishes.
– Plant Power Fast Food: Another fast-casual chain offering a variety of plant-based burgers, sandwiches, and sides.
– Cafe Gratitude: A casual plant-based eatery with locations in both Newport Beach and Costa Mesa.
– Avant Garde Vegan Café: A cozy café offering creative vegan dishes such as jackfruit tacos and cauliflower wings.
– Seabirds Kitchen: A popular vegetarian and vegan restaurant known for their flavorful tacos, bowls, and salads.
– Veggie Connection: A family-owned spot serving delicious vegan cuisine made from scratch using local ingredients.
6. Do most restaurants accept credit cards, or is it recommended to have cash on hand?
Most restaurants do accept credit cards, but it is always a good idea to have some cash on hand as well, especially if you plan on dining at smaller or more casual establishments. Some restaurants may have a minimum purchase amount for credit card use, so it is always best to check beforehand or ask your server. Additionally, having cash on hand can also be helpful for tipping the staff.
7. How is the overall hygiene and cleanliness of the dining establishments in the French Concession?
The overall hygiene and cleanliness of dining establishments in the French Concession is generally good. Most restaurants and cafes follow strict regulations for food safety and sanitation, and are regularly inspected by authorities. In addition, many western-style restaurants have high standards of cleanliness and often display health inspection certificates.
However, it is important to note that some smaller local restaurants may not maintain the same level of cleanliness as larger establishments. It is always advisable to use caution when choosing a dining establishment and to pay attention to the general cleanliness of the establishment before dining there.
8. Are there any specialty markets or food halls where I can sample different local foods in one place?
Yes, there are several specialty markets and food halls where you can sample different local foods.
– Borough Market: Located in Southwark, this is one of London’s oldest and largest food markets. It features a variety of local and international foods, including fresh produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and street food stalls.
– Maltby Street Market: This smaller market located in Bermondsey offers a range of artisanal and local products, including street food stalls serving up unique dishes.
– Camden Market: This popular market in north London has a designated street food area with vendors offering everything from Korean BBQ to vegan burgers.
– Kerb Food Market: With multiple locations throughout the city, Kerb offers a rotating lineup of street food vendors serving up diverse cuisines.
– Mercato Metropolitano: This large indoor market in Elephant & Castle showcases many local producers and features an array of dining options ranging from Italian pizza to Vietnamese pho.
Also, keep an eye out for various pop-up markets and festivals that often feature local specialties. Check Time Out London or follow the social media accounts of different markets to stay updated on any upcoming events.
9. Do I need to make reservations at popular restaurants, or can I walk-in for a table during peak hours?
It is recommended to make reservations at popular restaurants, especially during peak hours. This will ensure that you have a table and avoid long wait times. Most popular restaurants allow for online or phone reservations. However, there may be some restaurants that also accept walk-ins during peak hours, but it is not guaranteed that a table will be available. It is always best to plan ahead and make reservations to ensure a smooth dining experience.
10. Is street food readily available and safe to eat in this area?
It depends on the specific area and country. In some areas, street food is a popular and safe option for eating, while in others it may be less common and there may be concerns about food safety. It is always important to use your best judgment and research reviews or recommendations before trying any street food.
11. Are there any budget-friendly dining options in the French Concession, such as affordable lunch specials or happy hour deals?
Yes, there are several budget-friendly dining options in the French Concession. Here are a few suggestions:1. Yang’s Fried Dumplings (Xiangyang Road Branch) – This popular chain offers delicious fried dumplings at very affordable prices, with most dishes costing under 20 RMB.
2. Xibozi Noodles (Yongjia Road Branch) – This casual eatery serves tasty hand-pulled noodles and other Chinese dishes at budget-friendly prices.
3. Brocade Vegetarian Restaurant (Huaihai Road Branch) – This spot offers a variety of affordable vegetarian and vegan options, including lunch specials starting at just 30 RMB.
4. Barbarian Kebabs (Wulumuqi Road Branch) – For a quick and cheap meal, head to this street-side stall for tasty lamb kebabs and other grilled skewers starting at around 10 RMB each.
5. The Camel Sports Bar & Kitchen (Nanchang Road Branch) – This sports bar and restaurant offers happy hour deals on drinks and bar snacks from 4-8pm daily.
6. Kommune – Located in trendy Ferguson Lane, this cafe offers budget-friendly lunch sets starting at 45 RMB that include a main dish, side salad, and drink.
7. Jasmine Lounge (Jiashan Market Branch) – Take advantage of the happy hour deal at this cozy wine bar from 5-8pm daily, with discounts on select wines by the glass and small plates starting at just 15 RMB.
Remember to also keep an eye out for street food stalls or local markets where you can find tasty and affordable snacks or meals as well!
12.Aside from restaurants, are there any other types of food vendors or stalls in the French Concession selling snacks or drinks?13.
Yes, there are a variety of vendors and stalls selling snacks and drinks in the French Concession. Some popular options include street food vendors selling crepes, waffles, and other savory snacks, as well as fruit stands where you can buy fresh fruits or pressed juices. There are also bubble tea shops, coffee houses, and ice cream parlors scattered throughout the area. Additionally, there are some traditional Chinese snack vendors offering items like roasted nuts and candied fruits.
Is breakfast typically included at most hotels in this area, or should I plan to eat out for breakfast every day?
It depends on the specific hotel you are staying at. Some hotels may include breakfast as part of their services, while others may charge an additional fee for it. It is best to check with your hotel before your stay to find out if breakfast is included or not. Alternatively, you can also research nearby restaurants or cafes that offer breakfast options in case it is not included at your hotel.
14.Is it customary to tip at restaurants in the French Concession, and if so, how much is expected?
Yes, it is customary to tip at restaurants in the French Concession. A tip of 10-15% of the total bill is considered a standard amount, or you can round up to the nearest whole number if your bill is small. Tipping in cash is preferred, but some restaurants may allow you to add a tip amount to your credit card payment.
15.How easy is it to find English menus at restaurants here for non-Chinese speakers?
It depends on the location of the restaurant. In major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, it is relatively easy to find English menus at restaurants. In smaller cities or more rural areas, English menus may not be as common. However, with the increasing number of tourists and expats in China, many restaurants are starting to offer bilingual menus or even have pictures of dishes on their menu to make it easier for non-Chinese speakers. It is always a good idea to do some research beforehand or ask for recommendations from locals to find restaurants with English menus.
16.Are there any rooftop bars or restaurants with views overlooking the French Concession area?
Yes, there are several rooftop bars and restaurants with views overlooking the French Concession area. Some popular options include Bar Rouge, Flair Rooftop Restaurant and Bar, Char Bar & Grill, and Vue Restaurant & Lounge. These locations offer impressive views of the tree-lined streets and charming buildings of the French Concession while enjoying drinks or a meal.
17.What is a typical price range for meals at regular mid-range restaurants here?
The price range for meals at regular mid-range restaurants can vary, but it is usually between $10-$25 per person. This may depend on the cuisine and location of the restaurant. In more expensive cities, the average price may be higher.
18.Are there any famous chefs with their own restaurants located within the French Concession area?19.
Yes, there are several famous chefs with their own restaurants located within the French Concession area:
1. Jean-Georges Vongerichten – He is a Michelin-starred chef with his own restaurant called “Jean-Georges Shanghai” in the French Concession.
2. Pierre Gagnaire – This renowned French chef has his namesake restaurant, “Pierre Gagnaire”, which serves contemporary French cuisine in the heart of the French Concession.
3. Paul Pairet – His innovative and experimental eatery, “Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet”, is situated in a hidden location inside the French Concession.
4. Steven Guo – Owner of multiple popular restaurants in Shanghai including “Lost Heaven” and “Found 158”, Steven Guo is known for his creative fusion dishes inspired by Yunnan cuisine.
5. Alan Wong – His eponymous restaurant “Alan Wong’s Shanghai” offers a taste of Hawaiian regional cuisine combined with Chinese flavors.
6. Ling Huang – Chef Ling Huang’s restaurant, “Fu He Hui”, received two Michelin stars for its vegetarian haute cuisine menu that blends traditional Chinese ingredients with modern techniques.
7. Judy Wu – Founder and owner of “Drunk Horse” and “KAKADU”, Judy Wu is a renowned chef who specializes in Sichuan and Hunan cuisine.
Are food delivery services like Meituan and Eleme available in the French Concession?
As these services are constantly expanding, it is possible that they may be available in certain areas of the French Concession. However, it ultimately depends on the specific location and availability of partnering restaurants. It is best to check directly with the individual delivery services for a more accurate answer.
20.How late do most restaurants stay open in this area for dinner, and are there any late-night food options available?
Most restaurants in this area close between 9pm and 11pm for dinner, though some may stay open until midnight or later. There are also a few restaurants that specialize in late-night dining and are available until the early hours of the morning. Additionally, there are typically several fast food and convenience stores open late in this area for those looking for a quick meal option.