Shanghai’s dazzling skyline and rich history create a city where old meets new. Its food scene is exceptional, from street eats to Michelin-starred delights. And while meat dominates, vegetarian food in Shanghai is thriving, offering far more than just tofu.

Shanghai has become a great city for vegetarians, driven by its Buddhist roots, rising health trends, and global culinary influences. Whether you’re vegetarian, health-conscious, or simply after a lighter meal, plant-based options abound. From classic Buddhist fare to trendy fusion cafés and even halal-friendly vegetarian food in Shanghai—there’s something for everyone.

You'll see restaurants getting creative with classic Chinese dishes using plant-based ingredients, alongside international spots with modern touches like mock meat, “vegan pork”, and tofu skin.

Even if you hit some language barriers in smaller places, photo menus and translation apps are super helpful. In popular areas like Jing'an, Xuhui, or Pudong, you'll often find English menus and staff who speak some English.. So.. don’t worry!

Let’s explore Shanghai’s top vegetarian spots, from hearty mains to tasty snacks and dessert cafés. These places shine not only for their delicious food but also for their inviting atmosphere, great service, and overall dining experience.

Address: 227 Yanping Lu, near Wuding Lu, Jing'an District

Opening Hours: Daily, 11am-10pm

Price: SGD 23 - 34 per person

About: Duli is a charming plant-based bistro celebrated for its bold take on Sichuan flavors. With a modern, intimate setting, it's perfect for a leisurely lunch or dinner. The founders aim to show that plant-based cuisine can be both comforting and complex, often highlighting seasonal ingredients. Don't miss their spicy vegan pork wontons, tangy mala tofu, and signature rice bowls.

Where to find it: You'll find Duli in the lively Jing'an District, easy to get to from many parts of the city.

Insider Tip: Ideal for a post-shopping meal after exploring the boutiques on Wuding Lu.

Address: 4/F, Wood Zone, Taikoo Li, 500 Dongyu Lu, Pudong

Opening Hours: 11am-2pm, 4:30pm-9pm

Price: SGD 29 - 38 per person

About: Located in the upscale Taikoo Li mall, Qingchun Perma is an elegant vegan restaurant serving contemporary versions of traditional Chinese dishes. Part of the Perma brand, it emphasizes sustainability and mindful eating. Their menu features a wide range of mushrooms, root vegetables, tofu, and fermented delights. Try their colorful dumplings, herbal soups, and turmeric rice bowls.

Where to find it: This restaurant is conveniently located inside the modern Taikoo Li shopping complex in Pudong.

Insider Tip: A great choice for lunch after visiting Century Park or shopping in Taikoo Li.

Address: 2F, 49 Huaihai East Rd, Huangpu

Opening Hours: 10:30am-8:30pm

Price: SGD 19 - 29 per person

About: Hui Yuan Su Shi Fang is a well-known vegetarian restaurant in Shanghai that’s been around for years. It follows Buddhist cooking traditions and serves tasty, easy-to-enjoy vegan food. The menu is full of options like mock meat stir-fries, truffle dumplings, and dishes with fresh tofu and mushrooms. People love the big portions, homemade sauces, and fair prices. Two favourites are the sweet orange mock chicken and the seaweed dumpling soup.

Where to find it: Located in Huangpu District, it's easy to get to from major tourist spots.

Insider Tip: It’s just a short walk from Dashijie station, so it’s a great place to eat after visiting People’s Square or Yu Garden.

Address: 2F, Shiguang Li Mall, 230 Ruipin Rd, Xuhui

Opening Hours: 11am-9:30pm

Price: SGD 29 - 38 per person

About:  Lin Hu SuShi is a calm and stylish vegetarian restaurant in Xuhui District. The inside is decorated with wood, plants, and lots of natural light, making it a peaceful place to eat. The food is beautifully served and full of gentle, rich flavours. Some popular dishes include beancurd with cumin, stir-fried aubergine with basil and chillies, and smooth wild mushroom soup.

Where to find it: You'll find this spot on the second floor of Shiguang Li Mall in the Xuhui District.

Insider Tip: It’s close to Longhua Temple and Middle Longhua Road station, so it's easy to get to after sightseeing.

Address: L4-03, Bohua Plaza, No. 388 Shanhaiguan Rd, Jing'an

Opening Hours: 11am-9pm (Afternoon Tea 2-4:30pm)

Price: SGD 29 - 44 per person

About: Ru Pure Vegan is a bright and modern vegan restaurant with a wide choice of dishes. The menu includes things like fusion-style pizzas and stews made with tea. The dining area has big windows and a stylish terrace with views of the city. The food is served in a creative way, try the durian flatbread with mint or the avocado chocolate mousse with purple yam crackers.

Where to find it: You'll find this spot in Bohua Plaza within the Jing'an District.

Insider Tip: It’s a lovely place to relax after visiting the Shanghai Natural History Museum.

Address: A4-1, 800 Changde Rd, Jing'an District

Opening Hours: 11am-2:30pm, 5pm-10pm

Price: SGD 42 - 48 per person

About: Yangege Hotpot is the place to go for an upscale vegetarian hot pot experience. You’ll cook fresh ingredients like rare Yunnan mushrooms, artisan tofu, handmade dumplings, in personal copper pots, using house-made broths. Their mock meats are especially well-seasoned and tasty. It feels like a special, interactive dining event.

Where to find it: This unique hot pot spot is located in the Jing'an District.

Insider Tip: It’s best to arrive before 6 pm or book a table ahead, as it gets busy in the evenings.

Address: No. 1037 Yuyuan Road (near Jiangsu Road)

Opening Hours: Daily, 11:30am-2:00pm; 5:30pm-9:30pm

Price:SGD 110 - 167 for set menus, seasonal tasting menus SGD 148 - 186, tea pairing extra SGD 53 per person

About: A landmark of vegetarian fine dining Shanghai, Fu He Hui mixes seasonal Chinese ingredients with ideas about wellness and nature. With many awards, including a Michelin star and a place on Asia's 50 Best Restaurants, this tasting-menu-only restaurant offers a thoughtful, luxurious experience. Dishes like roasted morels, lotus-root soup, and wild mushrooms are beautifully presented and served in peaceful, wood-decorated rooms. It truly offers some of the best food in Shanghai for a plant-based diet.

Where to find it: Located on Yuyuan Road, it's a prominent destination for gourmet vegetarian food.

Insider Tip: You must book in advance. Let them know about any dietary requirements when you reserve, as the chef can adjust the menu just for you.

Address: 1F, Shanghai Palace, No. 77 Songshan Road (near Huaihai Middle Road)

Opening Hours: 10:30am-9:30pm

Price: SGD 12 - 29 per person

About: Zao Zi Shu is one of the most loved vegetarian restaurants in Shanghai and has been around since 2001. What makes it stand out is its promise not to use alcohol, eggs, or even fake meats. Still, it serves tasty dishes inspired by traditional Chinese cooking, including well-known mock meats. The restaurant has a simple but cosy design, and even though some of the staff may not speak much English, they’re kind and willing to help. Popular dishes include the mushroom satay skewers, sweet lotus root, and pumpkin rice.

Where to find it: You'll find this established eatery in the Shanghai Palace building.

Insider Tip: Try visiting outside peak lunch hours around 12pm to 1:30pm since it gets very busy, especially on weekends.

Address: No. 441-445 Nanjing West Road

Opening Hours: 10am-9pm

Price: SGD 11 - 23 per person

About: Godly, also known as Gong De Lin, is the oldest vegetarian restaurant in Shanghai, open since 1922. It has a long history of welcoming politicians and famous guests. The food and setting take you back in time, with a menu full of traditional mock meat dishes and nostalgic Chinese flavours. There’s nothing fancy here. Just good, simple vegetarian food served in a modest dining space. Favourite dishes include the smoked mock duck, soy-based lion’s head meatballs, and stuffed lotus root.

Where to find it: Situated on the iconic Nanjing West Road, it's a historical landmark for vegetarian dining.

Insider Tip: It’s a great spot to learn about old-style vegetarian food in China. Go with friends so you can order and share a few dishes together.

Address: No. 349 Xinhua Road

Opening Hours: 11am-9pm

Price: SGD 19 - 34 per person

About: Wu Guan Tang is a peaceful place for those who want healthy, clean meals. The name means “Hall of Five Senses,” showing its goal of making food that pleases sight, smell, taste, touch, and even sound. The kitchen avoids deep-frying and processed items, using only fresh and seasonal produce. You’ll find simple yet elegant dishes like steamed okra with sesame, tofu boiled with seaweed, and stir-fried fiddlehead ferns. The space feels rustic, quiet, and welcoming, great for a calm break from the busy city.

Where to find it: This serene restaurant is located on Xinhua Road.

Insider Tip: Ask for a table near the small back garden for a more relaxed and peaceful meal.

Address: No. 20 Nanquan Road, next to Nonggongshang Supermarket

Opening Hours: 10:30am-9:30pm

Price: SGD 13 - 23 per person

About: Hidden in Pudong, this vegetarian café has a warm, bookish feel. There are bookshelves, framed poems, and a soft atmosphere that makes it perfect for solo diners or quiet lunches. It serves heart-warming, homemade food like mushroom dumplings, cabbage rolls, and soy-braised peanuts. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, enjoy every bite, and feel nourished. They even offer a small discount if you leave a book review at the end of your meal!

Where to find it: Located in Pudong, next to the Nonggongshang Supermarket.

Insider Tip: If you’re exploring the Lujiazui area, it’s a lovely stop for a slow and quiet meal, especially if you're dining alone.

Address: 1/F, Jing'an International Center, 89 Yutong Lu

Opening Hours: 10am-8:30pm

Price: SGD 13 - 17 per person

About: Hey Guac! successfully merges Tex-Mex and vegan cuisine. This cozy spot lets you create your own bowl or wrap with options like vegan beef, guacamole, roasted corn, and jalapeños. Their sauces are made fresh, and portions are generous.

Where to find it: You'll find this vibrant spot on the first floor of Jing'an International Center.

Insider Tip: Seating is limited, but it's excellent for takeaway lunch.

Address: 360 E Tianlin Rd

Opening Hours: 6am-8pm

Price: SGD 9.50 - 13 per person

About: This small, local noodle shop may look simple from the outside, but it’s known for serving delicious vegan noodles with heart. The menu changes with the seasons, offering handmade noodles, tofu rolls, and flavourful broths made from fresh vegetables from Shanghai. It’s great comfort food, especially on a cold day.

Where to find it: Situated on East Tianlin Road, it's a popular local spot.

Insider Tip: Best enjoyed for breakfast or a light early dinner, especially if you want to eat like a local.

Address: 1618 Nanjing W Rd, Jiuguang Dept. Store

Opening Hours: 10am-10pm

Price: SGD 9.50 - 15 per person

About: Inside Jiuguang Department Store, this casual counter serves fresh, budget-friendly baozi and vegan dumplings. The baozi are generously filled with ingredients like chives, vermicelli, and mushrooms, and the dumplings come with delicious in-house dipping sauces.

Where to find it: Located conveniently within the Jiuguang Department Store on Nanjing West Road.

Insider Tip: A fast, clean, and affordable pit stop for shoppers on Nanjing Road.

Address: 8F, 378 Wukang Rd

Opening Hours: 10am-7:30pm (Closed Tuesdays)

Price: SGD 9.50 - 17 per person

About: LN Fortunate Coffee is a quiet, all-vegan café originally from Taiwan. It serves light meals like rice bowls and sandwiches, as well as cakes and pastries made without eggs or dairy. Many drinks are made with oats or soy milk. It’s calm, quiet, and loved by people who work remotely or just want a peaceful place to relax.

Where to find it: Tucked away on Wukang Road, a charming area known for its European-style buildings.

Insider Tip: Their coconut cream cake and passionfruit cheesecake are very popular. Bring your laptop, many people use this spot to work or study.

Address: 3F, Zone 3, Grand Gateway 66, No. 699 Zhongshan South 2nd Road

Opening Hours: 11am-9pm

Price: SGD 17 - 30.50 per person

About:  This modern café serves Western-style vegetarian and vegan dishes, like colourful veggie burgers, pasta, and low-sugar desserts. Everything is dairy-free and made using natural ingredients. The chef uses things like dates, nuts, and coconut oil instead of sugar or butter so you get delicious food that’s also good for you.

Where to find it: Located on the third floor of Grand Gateway 66, a large shopping complex.

Insider Tip: Sit near the window to enjoy the sunshine and views over Xujiahui. A great spot for brunch or catching up with friends.

Address: 3F, No. 408 Shanxi North Road (near Beijing West Road)

Opening Hours: 10:30am-9:30pm

Price: SGD 15 - 27 per person

About: If Vegan is a trendy café with lots of plants and pretty décor. Downstairs is a flower shop, and upstairs is a relaxed space that’s great for Instagram photos. The menu mixes fun vegan dishes like soy-based “beef” with fresh grain bowls, salads, and creamy desserts. Try their lemon avocado tart or matcha tofu cake, they’re favourites for a reason.

Where to find it: You'll find this stylish café on Shanxi North Road.

Insider Tip: Come early to get the best window seats with natural light, perfect for food pics!

Suggested 1-Day Vegetarian Food Itinerary in Shanghai

Breakfast: Begin your day with a calm breakfast or light brunch at LN Fortunate Coffee. This peaceful café is great for easing into your morning. Order their smooth oat milk latte and a soft, sweet vegan pineapple bun. The quiet vibe and natural lighting make it a nice place to relax or even read a book before heading out.

For lunch, make your way to Hui Yuan Su Shi Fang, a long-loved vegetarian restaurant in the city. The menu here is full of tasty choices, including comforting mock sweet-and-sour chicken and flavourful truffle dumplings. It’s a great place to enjoy traditional Chinese food made with plant-based ingredients. The portions are generous and the prices are fair.

Afternoon Break: In the afternoon, head to Ru Pure Vegan for their relaxing tea session. Their café space is bright and modern, with big windows and a quiet terrace that gives you lovely views of the city. Treat yourself to a slice of durian vegan cake. Soft, rich, and surprisingly refreshing and enjoy a pot of their in-house floral tea. It's the perfect break between sightseeing.

Evening: Finish your day at Yangege Hotpot, a fully vegetarian hot pot Shanghai restaurant that’s perfect for dinner with friends or family. You can choose your own soup base, then add fresh mushrooms, vegetables Shanghai, tofu, and dumplings to cook at your table. 

It’s fun, interactive, and really filling. Ideal for ending your food journey on a warm, comforting note. For those interested in a popular hot pot chain, while not vegetarian, the Haidilao Hot Pot Shanghai branches are also well-loved, but Yangege offers a dedicated veggie experience.

Yes, enjoying vegetarian food in Shanghai fits perfectly in between your exciting activities in Shanghai. Beyond the delicious plant-based meals, the city offers plenty to keep you entertained. Here are some top recommended spots to explore:

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