Shanghai’s street food scene is a whirlwind of sizzling woks, fragrant spices, and queues of eager locals hunting for their next cheap and cheerful bite. For travellers on a budget, the good news is you don’t need to splash out to eat well in this city. With just ¥20 in your pocket, you can fill up on flavours that are bold, authentic, and deeply satisfying.

If you’re a food-obsessed explorer or just fancy a tasty pit stop between attractions, this guide highlights the best street food dishes in Shanghai, all under RM13. Ready to eat like a local? Let’s dig in.

Activities to Enjoy With Friends in Shanghai

Shanghai street food isn’t just delicious—it’s a cultural experience. Expect bold Shanghainese tastes with hints of northern, western, and even Muslim Chinese influences. From breakfast stalls on the corner to buzzing late-night alleys, each bite tells a different story.

And best of all? It’s wonderfully affordable. You’ll find food carts near metro stations, student areas, and local markets dishing out flavour-packed meals for the price of a bottled water back home.

These plump little parcels of joy have a crisp bottom and a juicy, soupy centre. Usually served in sets of four to six, they’re the go-to snack for hungry locals.

Flaky, golden, and utterly addictive. These crispy pancakes are layered with spring onions and often jazzed up with a fried egg or chilli oil.

A Shanghai breakfast classic. Glutinous rice wraps around fried dough, pickles, and pork floss to create the perfect on-the-go snack.

Originating from Xinjiang, these are grilled over open flames and dusted with chilli and cumin. Smoky, spicy and impossible to stop at one.

A comforting combo to start your day. Dip the youtiao into warm soy milk or sip it chilled—it’s humble but wholesome.

Don’t let the humble radish fool you. These savoury pancakes are crunchy outside, soft inside, and packed with umami.

Fruity skewers dipped in syrup and hardened to a crisp glaze. Great as a sweet treat or an Instagram-worthy bite.

Create your own meal by picking ingredients like tofu, veggies, or meats. They’re cooked in a spicy broth and served hot.

Shanghai’s version of a breakfast wrap. Egg, herbs, crispy cracker, hoisin sauce—and maybe sausage—all rolled in a fresh crepe.

Famous for its easy access and dumpling stalls near West Nanjing Road.

Top spot for grilled seafood and buzzing night stalls.

Affordable bites in a maze of alleyways—popular with students.

Great mix of traditional snacks and late-night eats.

Where the student crowd flocks for cheap, tasty food every day.

Location: 98 Shouning Road, Huangpu District

Perfectly placed for evening strolls and grilled seafood on Shouning Road. Offers spacious, apartment-style stays with excellent accessibility.

Location: Changning District

Close to Tianshan Tea City’s affordable bites and student crowd. Comfortable rooms, modern facilities, and an in-house shopping mall.

Location: Near Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street

Step outside and you’re in foodie central. From pan-fried dumplings to tanghulu, everything is just a few blocks away.

Location: Jing’an, Shanghai

The hotel offered a calm and welcoming atmosphere, with attentive staff and spacious, comfortable rooms. Conveniently located near restaurants and public transport, it’s an excellent choice for future stays

With a little curiosity and loose change in your pocket, Shanghai’s street food world is yours to savour. Whether you're craving crispy dumplings, sweet candied fruit, or smoky skewers, there’s something delicious waiting just around the corner—and your wallet will thank you for it.

So grab a napkin, follow your nose, and tuck into the best of Shanghai’s street eats—all under ¥20.