When the sun goes down in Shanghai, the city doesn’t sleep, it eats. From sizzling skewers to steaming buns, Shanghai’s night markets offer a street food spectacle that’s as thrilling as the skyline. These buzzing food alleys are the soul of the city after dark, dishing out mouthwatering bites and unforgettable vibes.

Night markets in Shanghai are more than just a local tradition, they’re part of the daily rhythm. It’s where friends gather, families feast, and curious travellers fall in love with the flavours of China. Whether you’re after spicy skewers, sweet treats, or a cultural adventure on a stick, these street food havens deliver.

Activities to Enjoy With Friends in Shanghai

In this tasty guide, we’ll take you on a night market crawl through Shanghai’s best after-hours foodie spots. Expect bold flavours, local tips, must-try dishes, and a few cheeky travel hacks to help you snack like a pro.

Tucked just a short walk from People’s Square, Shouning Road is the sizzling hub for seafood lovers. This street is legendary for its late-night lobster, oyster towers, and wok-tossed shellfish, all bursting with garlicky, buttery goodness.

Crayfish drenched in chilli oil? Yes, please. Grilled oysters with a sprinkle of spring onion? Don’t mind if we do. Locals swarm this spot when the cravings hit hard, and the sizzling aroma fills the air.

Local tip: Rock up early in the evening, around 5 or 6 PM, for the freshest catch and way shorter queues. It gets rowdy fast (in the best way).

If you’re after something low-key and delightfully local, Tianshan Tea City Night Market is your go-to. Known more to Shanghainese than tourists, this hidden gem offers a peaceful nibble zone perfect for exploring authentic eats without the crowds.

Think lamb skewers fresh off the flames, spicy tofu with a punch, and crispy-bottomed dumplings that snap and sizzle. During the day, the tea market itself is worth a wander for a serene tea-tasting session.

Local tip: Pair a daytime tea masterclass with an evening feast—it’s a culture-meets-cuisine kind of day.

Ready to go off the beaten path? Daxi Road in Minhang serves up old-school street food vibes. It’s the kind of place where granny still makes mooncakes by hand and you’ll spot students devouring braised duck neck at midnight.

It’s a no-frills, all-flavour market where rice cakes, sticky treats, and deep-fried everything steal the show. The kind of market that whispers “only locals know this.”

Local tip: Bring a translation app or better yet, a local friend. This spot is delightfully old-school—don’t expect English menus or tourist signs.

Smack in the middle of the action near Nanjing West Road’s shopping wonderland is Wujiang Road Food Street. Slick, modern, and packed with options, this is where fashionistas and foodies collide.

What’s on the menu? Shengjianbao (pan-fried soup buns), bubble tea in every flavour imaginable, meat skewers sizzling on open grills, and more dessert stands than your diet can handle.

Local tip: Pop over between shopping sessions—it’s the ultimate street-snack break from all that retail cardio.

Fangbang Road, near the historic Yuyuan Garden, is where you taste the nostalgia of old Shanghai. It’s filled with sensory treats, from sticky rice dumplings to tanghulu (sugar-coated hawthorn sticks that look like candy on a wand).

The vibe is festive, especially on weekends when the crowds pour in, music blares, and the entire street turns into a street food carnival.

Local tip: Come on a Friday or Saturday night for maximum flavour and full-on festive chaos.

Right next door to the famous Yuyuan Garden, this evening market strikes a fine balance between authentic bites and tourist comfort. It’s clean, colourful, and packed with street food stalls that dish out everything from crab soup buns to the notorious (and oddly addictive) stinky tofu.

You’ll also find traditional sweets and lantern-lit alleyways that feel plucked out of a Chinese fairytale.

Local tip: Time your visit to catch one of the cultural shows or lantern displays for a full evening experience.

Craving halal eats with bold spices? Tongbei Road Night Market is your ticket to Shanghai’s Muslim-Chinese street food scene. It’s a riot of cumin-scented skewers, hand-pulled noodles, and charcoal-grilled flatbreads.

The flavours here are different—earthier, bolder, with Central Asian flair. Perfect if you're looking for something beyond your typical Chinese street food fare.

Local tip: Great for halal travellers or those looking to explore diverse food cultures within Shanghai.

Feeling overwhelmed by the choices? Here’s your cheat sheet to Shanghai’s iconic street snacks:

Bonus: If you're vegetarian or spice-happy, look out for veggie dumplings and mala (spicy-sizzling) skewers to spice up your evening.

Just 1.76 km from Ajian Night Market, Modena by Fraser offers stylish serviced apartments with kitchenettes – perfect for longer stays or those who crave a late-night bite.

With its cosy yet modern design, it’s a great base for exploring Shanghai’s night food scene in comfort.

Located in the Putuo District, this hotel delivers affordable comfort with a free breakfast – an ideal pick for budget travellers who want to explore local night markets without overspending.

The vibe is fuss-free, clean, and convenient, with regular Traveloka deals for extra savings.

Located in Minhang and just 8.28 km from Hongqiao International Airport, Hanting Premium Hotel is a smart and convenient choice for travellers. With 24-hour reception, reliable Wi-Fi throughout, and easy access to public transport, this hotel offers comfort and practicality.

If you're in town for a short visit or a longer stay, you'll appreciate its clean, modern facilities and friendly service.

Set in the heart of Huangpu, this upscale hotel blends luxury with location, just a short walk from designer shops and sizzling street food stalls.

With elegant rooms and sweeping city views, Crowne Plaza is a classy choice for travellers who want it all, and Traveloka makes it easy with bundled packages.

Booking with Traveloka means fewer worries and more flavour. Whether you're in it for the soup buns or the skyline, these hotel picks put you right where the food action is.

Ready to turn your street food dreams into a Shanghai adventure?

Let the night feast begin.