Cuisine
Don't miss this street breakfast
What to eat for breakfast in Shanghai, how to order it, and which stalls are worth a detour.
30 of July 2026 · 3min read · Editorial team
What to order at a neighborhood stand
Local breakfasts are quick and eaten standing up: steamed buns, stuffed tortillas, rice porridge, and hot soy milk. Many stalls open at dawn and close before noon.
If you don't speak Chinese, pointing to a photo works well. Carrying small change is helpful, though mobile payments are accepted at more and more stalls.
How to Choose the Right Position
Check the turnover: if there's a line of neighbors and the food is hot, that's a good sign. Avoid stalls with cold food on display.
Stalls near neighborhood markets usually offer better value than those in tourist areas.
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