Hello, food and culture enthusiasts! Today, I invite you to Shanghai, the Pearl of the Orient. Shanghai is a captivating city filled with dazzling night views, modern architecture, and diverse street food. Among its hidden gems, ‘Mala Beef Jerky’ stands out. The numbing and spicy mala flavor of this jerky will create special memories of your Shanghai trip. Shall we explore Shanghai’s varied flavors and charms, starting with mala beef jerky? From local-recommended restaurants to hidden photo spots, we’re starting the ultimate guide that covers everything for your Shanghai trip!
1. Tasting Shanghai’s Attractive Snack, Mala Beef Jerky
While Shanghai is famous for its diverse street food, ‘Mala Beef Jerky’ boasts a unique charm. Mala (麻辣) is a representative flavor from China’s Sichuan province, characterized by a numbing sensation and spiciness that creates an addictive taste. Mala beef jerky applies this mala flavor to jerky, offering an intense flavor that’s hard to resist once tasted.
Mala beef jerky is made from various meats including pork, beef, and chicken, with each brand differentiating itself through unique spice blends. You can taste various mala beef jerky especially on Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s bustling shopping street. As you walk, you might find yourself drawn into stores by the spicy aroma.
For those trying mala beef jerky for the first time, here are a few tips: start with small pieces to adjust to the spiciness level. Also, enjoying it with beer or carbonated drinks can help neutralize the spiciness for a more enjoyable experience. During your Shanghai trip, mala beef jerky will offer more than just a snack – it will provide an unforgettable culinary experience.
2. Experiencing the Essence of Bee Cheng Hiang Jerky on Nanjing Road
Nanjing Road (南京东路) is the heart of Shanghai, a bustling area that’s a paradise for shopping and gastronomy. The Bee Cheng Hiang jerky you can find here has become an essential experience for Shanghai trips, transcending a simple snack.
Bee Cheng Hiang is a brand that started in Singapore in 1933, boasting a history of nearly 90 years. They produce the highest quality jerky by combining traditional manufacturing methods with modern technology. The Bee Cheng Hiang store on Nanjing Road is always crowded with tourists due to their excellent taste and quality.
The characteristic of Bee Cheng Hiang jerky lies in its diversity. They offer various types from traditional pork jerky to beef, chicken, and even salmon jerky. Particularly, the mala flavored jerky is popular among tourists visiting Shanghai. The numbing taste of mala and the chewy texture of jerky blend exquisitely, creating an addictive flavor that’s hard to stop once you start.
Bee Cheng Hiang stores offer opportunities to taste the jerky before purchase. This allows you to experience various flavors and choose products that suit your taste. They also provide vacuum packaging services, enabling long-term storage and convenient enjoyment during your trip.
Bee Cheng Hiang jerky is also popular as a gift. With luxurious packaging and various gift set compositions, you can gift the taste of Shanghai to family and friends. Limited edition or seasonal products are particularly popular among collectors, allowing you to encounter special products depending on when you visit.
When visiting the Bee Cheng Hiang store on Nanjing Road, it’s best to avoid peak times. Usually, between 2 PM and 5 PM is relatively less crowded. Also, don’t worry if you’re not fluent in Chinese. Most staff can communicate in basic English and will kindly explain about the products.
Finally, after purchasing Bee Cheng Hiang jerky, I recommend exploring other attractions around Nanjing Road. Visit nearby People’s Square, the Bund (外滩), Xintiandi (新天地), etc., to experience Shanghai’s diverse aspects. Enjoying Shanghai’s scenery along with Bee Cheng Hiang jerky will create unforgettable travel memories.
3. Shanghai’s Must-Visit Course: Exploring 4 Local-Recommended Restaurants
Shanghai, China’s largest economic center and international metropolis, is a place where various cultures coexist. This characteristic is reflected in its food culture, allowing you to experience diverse tastes from traditional Chinese cuisine to modern fusion dishes. Explore the true taste of Shanghai through these four local-recommended restaurants.
- Jin Xiao Chun (金小春):
Jin Xiao Chun is a representative restaurant for Shanghai-style cuisine. Since opening in 1875, it has been loved by Shanghai people for nearly 150 years. Especially famous are their ‘Hong Shao Rou (红烧肉)’ and ‘Song Hua Dan (松花蛋)’. Hong Shao Rou is a dish where pork is braised in soy sauce and sugar, harmonizing tender meat texture with a sweet and savory sauce. Song Hua Dan is a dish where duck eggs are specially aged, characterized by its unique taste and aroma. Jin Xiao Chun’s interior recreates 1920s Shanghai, allowing you to enjoy not only the food but also the atmosphere. - Yang Zi Jiang Restaurant (杨子江饭店):
Yang Zi Jiang Restaurant is Shanghai’s representative seafood specialist. They present fresh seafood through various cooking methods, with ‘crab dishes’ being particularly famous. Shanghai crabs are in season during autumn, and visiting during this time allows you to experience the best taste. ‘Steamed Hairy Crab (清蒸大闸蟹)’ is Yang Zi Jiang Restaurant’s signature menu, a dish that brings out the crab’s inherent flavor. ‘Garlic Sauce Steamed Shrimp (蒜蓉粉丝蒸虾)’ is also a must-try menu. The restaurant’s location near the Huangpu River is a big advantage, allowing you to take a riverside walk and enjoy the night view after your meal. - Fu Chun Xiao Long (富春小笼):
Xiao Long Bao is a representative dumpling dish of Shanghai. Fu Chun Xiao Long, operating since the 1960s, is a traditional store considered the best Xiao Long Bao restaurant even among locals. The thin dumpling skin is filled with meat juice, spreading flavor throughout your mouth with one bite. Besides the basic pork Xiao Long Bao, you can taste various types including crab meat and shrimp Xiao Long Bao. The store is small and always crowded, so there might be a long wait, but it’s worth it for the delicious Xiao Long Bao. - Nan Xiang Mantou Dian (南翔馒头店):
Nan Xiang Mantou Dian is a long-established dumpling specialist that opened in the early 1900s. You can taste not only Xiao Long Bao but also various types of dumplings and dim sum. Particularly, ‘Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao’ is their signature menu, made in the traditional way with excellent taste and quality. Modern reinterpretations like ‘Crab Meat Xiao Long Bao’ and ‘Black Truffle Xiao Long Bao’ are also popular. Nan Xiang Mantou Dian is characterized by its open kitchen, allowing customers to directly observe the hygienic cooking process.
These four restaurants showcase various aspects of Shanghai cuisine. From traditional flavors to modern reinterpretations, you can experience Shanghai’s rich food culture. However, these popular restaurants might have long waiting times, so it’s best to plan your visit with ample time. Also, there might be difficulties with Chinese menus or communication, so learning some necessary Chinese expressions in advance could be helpful. Discover the true charm of this city through your delicious journey in Shanghai.
4. The World of Shanghai Dumplings Recognized by Michelin
Shanghai’s dumplings are globally recognized for their taste. Especially, dumpling restaurants introduced in the Michelin Guide are loved by many gourmets for their excellent taste and quality. Here are some must-visit Michelin dumpling restaurants in Shanghai.
- Fu Chun Xiao Long (富春小笼): This Xiao Long Bao specialist is selected for the Michelin Bib Gourmand. Their thin-skinned dumplings are filled with juicy meat, with pork Xiao Long Bao and crab meat Xiao Long Bao being particularly famous. It’s popular among locals for its excellent taste at affordable prices.
- Da Hu Chun (大壶春): This restaurant specializes in Sheng Jian Bao, Shanghai-style pan-fried buns. The crispy fried exterior is filled with juicy meat, with pork Sheng Jian Bao and shrimp Sheng Jian Bao being particularly famous. Sheng Jian Bao is a representative Shanghai street food, allowing you to fill your stomach at an affordable price.
- Lin Long Fang (麟笼坊): This dim sum specialist is selected for the Michelin Bib Gourmand. You can taste various types of dim sum, with shrimp shumai and Xiao Long Bao being particularly famous. It’s a great place to visit on special occasions, allowing you to enjoy excellent dim sum in an elegant atmosphere.
Besides these, there are numerous dumpling restaurants in Shanghai. Visit the restaurants introduced in the Michelin Guide to experience the essence of Shanghai dumplings.
5. From Hong Shao Rou to Mala Longxia: Mastering Shanghai’s Representative Dishes
Shanghai is a gastronomic city where you can taste various dishes. Representative Shanghai dishes like Hong Shao Rou, Mala Longxia, and Qing Tang Yu captivate gourmets with their unique flavors and diverse ingredients.
- Hong Shao Rou (红烧肉): This is a representative Shanghai dish where pork is braised in soy sauce and sugar. The harmony of tender pork and sweet and savory sauce is exquisite, making it perfect as a rice dish. Each restaurant has its own secret recipe for Hong Shao Rou, so it’s good to explore various restaurants to find your own favorite Hong Shao Rou.
- Mala Longxia (麻辣龙虾): This is a crayfish dish stir-fried in spicy seasoning. The numbing mala taste and spicy seasoning blend to create an addictive flavor. Mala Longxia is a representative late-night snack in Shanghai, tasting even better when enjoyed with beer.
- Qing Tang Yu (清汤鱼): This is a dish where fish is boiled in clear broth. It’s characterized by its light and clean taste, allowing you to taste the freshness of the fish. Qing Tang Yu is a healing food that soothes taste buds tired of stimulating flavors.
Besides these, there are numerous representative dishes in Shanghai. Experience Shanghai’s diverse gastronomic world by tasting various dishes.
6. Shanghai Travel Tips: From Finding Restaurants to Photo Spots
Here are some tips to make your Shanghai trip richer and more efficient. From restaurant hunting to photo spots where you can take memorable shots, and practical information for convenient travel, we’ve covered everything for your Shanghai trip.
- Finding Restaurants:
Shanghai is a city of gastronomy. The best way to find local restaurants is to use apps used by locals. ‘Dianping (大众点评)’ is China’s representative restaurant review app, providing real-time evaluations, photos, and menu information. If it’s difficult to use due to lack of English version, try apps that support English like ‘Bon App’ or ‘Xiaohongshu (小红书)’.
It’s best to avoid peak times when visiting restaurants. Usually, 11:30 AM to 1 PM and 6 PM to 8 PM are the busiest times. Also, for famous restaurants, reservations are often essential, so it’s good to check and make reservations in advance.
- Photo Spots:
Shanghai boasts diverse scenery from modern skyscrapers to traditional buildings. Here are some representative photo spots:
- The Bund (外滩): You can take great photos with skyscrapers as a backdrop along the Huangpu River. The night view is especially beautiful.
- Yu Garden (豫园): This is a traditional Chinese garden with beautiful buildings and ponds.
- Tianzifang (田子坊): This is an artistic alley with unique murals and shops.
- Nanjing Road (南京东路): Neon signs and shopping malls in this bustling area make a great background.
Recently, there are many hidden photo spots popular on social media. ‘1933 Old Millfun (老场坊)’ is a multi-cultural space renovated from an old slaughterhouse, boasting unique architectural beauty. The spiral staircase in front of the ‘Shanghai Natural History Museum’ is also a place where you can take great shots.
- Transportation Information:
Shanghai’s public transportation is very well developed. The subway is the most convenient and economical means of transportation, covering most tourist attractions. Purchasing a transportation card called ‘Jiaotong Ka (交通卡)’ allows you to conveniently use subways and buses.
Taxis are relatively cheap, but can be difficult to catch during rush hour. In such cases, try using ‘DiDi (滴滴出行)’, China’s representative car-hailing app. It also provides an English version, making it easy for foreigners to use.
- Shopping Information:
Shanghai is a shopping paradise. Nanjing Road and Huaihai Road are representative shopping streets where you can find various products from global brands to local brands. Especially at ‘Taobao Makers’, an offline store of ‘Taobao (淘宝)’, you can purchase trendy Chinese products at affordable prices.
When using duty-free shops, you must carry your passport. Also, most stores prefer mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay, so it’s convenient to install these in advance.
- Cultural Experiences:
You can have various cultural experiences in Shanghai. You can learn about Chinese history and culture at the ‘Shanghai Museum’, and enjoy spectacular performances at the ‘Shanghai Circus’. Also, taking a dim sum making class at a local cooking school would be a good experience. - Language and Communication:
Although Shanghai is an international city, English often doesn’t work. It’s good to learn basic Chinese expressions. Using translation apps is also helpful. Especially apps like ‘Flitto’ or ‘Papago’ also provide image translation functions, making it easy to understand menus or notices. - Safety and Health:
Shanghai is a relatively safe city, but basic precautions are necessary. Take care of your valuables and avoid walking alone late at night. Also, don’t drink tap water directly, make sure to boil it or buy bottled water.
It’s also a good idea to get travel insurance before your trip. Note down the contact information of ‘Shanghai United Family Hospital’ where you can receive medical treatment in English in case of emergency.
- Weather and Clothing:
Shanghai has distinct four seasons. Summer (June-August) is hot and humid, while winter (December-February) is cold and dry. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the best seasons for travel. Prepare clothes suitable for your travel season, and make sure to bring sunscreen and a hat especially in summer. - Internet and Communication:
Services like Google, Facebook, and Instagram are blocked in China. You can use these services with a VPN, but be cautious as it’s illegal under Chinese regulations. Instead, try using China’s SNS, WeChat. WeChat provides various services including messenger functions, payments, and taxi hailing. - Etiquette and Cultural Differences:
Understanding Chinese culture and etiquette can make your trip more enjoyable. For example, it’s impolite to point at food with chopsticks or stick chopsticks upright in rice during meals. Also, it’s better to refrain from talking loudly in public places.
If you prepare for your Shanghai trip referring to these tips, you can have a richer and more enjoyable experience. If you respect local culture and enjoy your trip with an open mind, you’ll be able to discover the true charm of Shanghai.
Conclusion:
As you conclude your journey through Shanghai, this vibrant city where East meets West, you’ve likely experienced a kaleidoscope of flavors, sights, and emotions. From the numbing delight of mala beef jerky to the breathtaking night views of the Bund, Shanghai has offered you a tapestry of unforgettable moments.
Traveling is not just about visiting places; it’s about immersing yourself in the culture, understanding the people, and creating memories that linger long after you leave. Whether it’s the bustling streets of Nanjing Road, the serene beauty of Yu Garden, or the culinary adventures in local eateries, each experience enriches your understanding of this captivating city.
As you reflect on your time in Shanghai, remember that the essence of travel lies in its unpredictability. The unexpected encounters, the hidden gems discovered by chance, and the moments of serendipity all contribute to the richness of your journey.
May your memories of Shanghai remain vivid and cherished, and may they inspire you to continue exploring the wonders of this incredible city. Until next time, farewell, and happy travels!
