Authentic Shanghai Food Tour with Chi Gua Va

If you’re craving more than just the usual tourist eats in Shanghai, this Authentic Shanghai Food Tour with Chi Gua Va promises a flavorful journey through the city’s most beloved street food spots. Priced at a reasonable $35 per person and lasting around three hours, this tour offers a genuine taste of Shanghai’s culinary scene, led by a guide with a knack for blending food, culture, and insider tips.

What makes this experience stand out? We love the fact that the guide is a passionate local who’s intimately familiar with the hidden gems many visitors never discover. Plus, the focus on classic local dishes like soup dumplings, dim sum, and Yunnan rice noodles makes for a deeply satisfying and authentic gastronomic experience. One consideration — the bill at the end can be a surprise if you’re not expecting to split around 150-250 RMB with your group, but it’s quite reasonable given the quality and variety of food you’ll share.

This tour suits curious travelers eager to explore Shanghai beyond its landmarks, especially food lovers who want a relaxed, local-focused experience. It’s also ideal for those traveling in small groups (limited to 10 people), wanting insider tips, and to taste a good mix of familiar and lesser-known dishes.

Key Points

• Authentic local food: The tour highlights well-loved Shanghai and Yunnan dishes, offering genuine flavors.
• Knowledgeable guide: The host, Ben, is praised for his friendly, insightful approach that enriches the experience.
• Flexible and personal: The tour can be customized for vegetarians, those with allergies, or specific dietary needs.
• Cultural insights: Beyond food, expect to learn about Shanghai’s neighborhoods and local customs.
• Affordable value: For $35, you get a comprehensive, food-centric tour with plenty of insider tips.
• Shared bill: Food and drinks are paid at the end, split evenly, which can be a fun, communal experience.

A Detailed Look at the Shanghai Food Tour Experience

Starting Point: A Convenient Meet at People’s Square

The tour kicks off at Exit 19 of People’s Square Metro Station, a central and easily accessible spot. From here, your guide, Ben — who’s known for his friendly nature and depth of local knowledge — will greet you and set the tone for a fun, relaxed exploration. He emphasizes the importance of tailoring the experience to guests’ dietary restrictions, making it welcoming for vegetarians and those with allergies, which demonstrates a thoughtful approach.

First Stop: Lai Lai Soup Dumplings

The journey begins at Lai Lai Snack Dumpling, widely regarded as one of the top places for soup dumplings in Shanghai. As you settle into this classic snack, you’ll get to enjoy their signature soup dumplings, which are known for their delicate wrappers and flavorful broth-filled interiors. The reviewer notes the “great choices” and calls Lai Lai “the best for soup dumplings”, giving an authentic start to the tour.

Expect to spend around 30 minutes here, with no admission fee, making it a relaxed and unpressured beginning. It’s a perfect way to warm up your palate with a dish beloved across China, yet executed with local style and flair.

Second Stop: Nanjing Lu (Nanjing Road)

Next, the tour takes you to Nanjing West Road, where you’ll sample some traditional Chinese dim sum. Not only will you taste delicious bites, but you’ll also get a brief tour of Shanghai’s most famous pedestrian street, a bustling hub of shopping, history, and vibrant city life.

This stop is also about 30 minutes, free of charge, and offers a peek into Shanghai’s busy urban vibe alongside some classic snacks. The guide’s commentary helps you appreciate the significance of these local treats and the street’s lively atmosphere.

Third Stop: Xiandelai for Signature Shanghai Specialties

The journey continues with a visit to Xiandelai, where the focus shifts to Shanghai specialties, including fried pork ribs with rice cakes and signature noodle soup. These dishes showcase local culinary techniques and flavors that might not be found in more tourist-heavy spots.

Here, the guide’s insider tips help you understand the cultural context of these dishes, and you’ll be able to see how Shanghai flavors blend influences from surrounding regions. The approximately 30-minute stop includes lively conversation, great food, and insights into local eating habits.

Fourth Stop: Jiujiang Road and Yunnan Rice Noodles

The final stop takes you to a Yunnan rice noodle restaurant on Jiujiang Road — a personal recommendation from Ben. This dish is less common and provides a chance to try something truly authentic and regional. Expect about a half-hour here, with no cover charge, but be prepared to split the bill at the end.

This last leg of the tour is especially appreciated by those wanting to try regional Chinese dishes beyond the typical Cantonese, Sichuan, or Shanghainese fare. It’s a chance to experience the diversity of China’s culinary landscape in a small, friendly setting.

What to Expect Regarding Food, Cost, and Atmosphere

The food is not included in the upfront price — instead, the group shares the bill at the end, which typically totals around 150-250 RMB per person. This approach encourages a shared dining experience and often leads to lively conversations. The guide recommends paying in cash or via Alipay, reflecting local customs.

The tour is designed for small groups — capped at 10 travelers — fostering an intimate atmosphere where questions and curiosity are welcomed. With a duration of about 2.5 to 3 hours, it balances enough time to savor each dish without feeling rushed.

Ben’s background as a full-time network engineer and passionate street food lover shines through in his storytelling and recommendations. One reviewer mentioned that he and his friends “were the perfect hosts,” creating an atmosphere that felt more like visiting old friends than taking a tour. His knowledge about the city’s food scene and cultural nuances adds layers of depth to the experience.

The Authenticity and Experience

What truly elevates this tour is its focus on authenticity. Instead of generic tourist restaurants, you’re visiting places locals frequent — places that have been serving delicious dishes for years. This is reinforced by reviews praising the “delicious food, great choices,” and how the tour became “more than just about food,” but a cultural experience as well.

Tour participants regularly comment on how the guide’s insights about Shanghai neighborhoods and local customs enrich the visit, turning it into an immersive experience. It’s clear that this tour is about tasting genuine local flavors, understanding the food’s cultural significance, and having fun along the way.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food lovers eager to explore Shanghai’s culinary scene through local, everyday eateries. It’s ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, small-group atmosphere and appreciate insider tips about the city.

If you’re a vegetarian or have dietary restrictions, the guide is happy to customize the tour, making it accessible for different needs. Because food and drinks are paid at the end, it’s suitable for those who prefer a flexible spending approach, and the price is generally quite reasonable given the quality and variety of dishes.

It’s also a great choice if you’re interested in cultural insights alongside your eating experience. The combination of street food, regional specialties, and local street scenes offers a well-rounded taste of Shanghai life.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely. For $35, you’re getting a well-paced, authentic, and personable introduction to Shanghai’s street food culture. The emphasis on local eateries means you’ll taste dishes that many travelers might miss, and the guide’s friendly, knowledgeable approach makes the experience both educational and fun.

If you value delicious food, insider tips, and a personal touch, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s particularly suited to those who want a relaxed, culturally rich experience that adds depth to their Shanghai visit.

And with the flexibility to tailor dietary needs and the chance to explore beyond the typical tourist spots, this tour delivers meaningful value for those looking to connect with the city’s culinary heartbeat.

FAQ

What is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour begins at Exit 19 of People’s Square Metro Station, a central location easily accessible via public transportation.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours, allowing plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are food and drinks included in the price?
No, food and drink are paid separately at the end of the tour, with an average split of 150-250 RMB per person.

Can I customize the tour if I have dietary restrictions?
Yes, inform the guide in advance, and they will accommodate vegetarians, allergy sufferers, or other dietary needs.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the guide is happy to arrange options and customize the experience for vegetarians and other dietary restrictions.

How many people will be in my group?
The tour has a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a small, intimate group environment.

What makes this guide special?
Ben is praised for his friendliness, local insight, and ability to make guests feel like they’re visiting old friends rather than just on a tour.

What dishes will I try?
Expect to taste signature Shanghai soup dumplings, dim sum, fried pork ribs with rice cakes, signature noodle soup, and regional Yunnan rice noodles.

Is this a good introduction to Shanghai’s food scene?
Absolutely. It combines popular local dishes with hidden gems, offering a comprehensive and authentic introduction to street eats.

What should I bring?
Cash or Alipay for splitting the bill, and an open mind ready for delicious adventures in the city’s street food markets.

This tour offers a flavorful, friendly, and genuine slice of Shanghai life. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler craving local tastes, it’s a delightful way to satisfy your appetite and curiosity.