Affordable Michelin Restaurants in Shanghai: What to Eat

When you think of Shanghai, it's not just about luxury brands and skyscrapers; there are also amazing eats hidden in every corner. If you’re wondering what to eat in Shanghai, you absolutely can’t miss the affordable Michelin restaurants! I’ve put together a list of 10 places that are Michelin recommended but won’t break the bank. Let’s check out what’s worth trying!

Renhe Restaurant: Consistently Delicious Michelin Meals

📍Address: 407 Zhaojiabang Road
Average Spend: 201 RMB

Renhe Restaurant is like the "evergreen tree" among Shanghai’s affordable Michelin spots, making the list from 2021 to 2024. I was drawn in by its reputation, and it didn’t disappoint. The dishes have a refined blend of Chinese and Western styles, with each plate beautifully arranged and bursting with flavor. The service is excellent; you really feel well taken care of. Maybe give their signature dish a try? It's really up to you!

Yongxing Restaurant: High Cost-Effectiveness for Local Cuisine

📍Address: Lane 626, Fuxing Middle Road
Average Spend: 88 RMB

Yongxing Restaurant is a hidden gem tucked away in an alley. It may not catch your eye, but it’s a true representative of local Shanghai cuisine with Michelin recommendations. I have to mention their Duck Rolls, which are so aromatic, rich in flavor, and quite generous in portion! With an average spend of 88 RMB, you can enjoy classic and authentic local dishes that are super satisfying.

Ding Tele Congee and Noodle Shop: A Classic Michelin Recommendation for 8 Years

📍Address: 290 Ninghai East Road
Average Spend: 78 RMB

I can’t resist yellow croaker noodles, and I come to Ding Tele Congee and Noodle Shop just for them. If you love seafood, you absolutely must try their Yellow Croaker Noodles! The fish is fresh and not fishy at all, and it’s so tender, it will move you. This place is both friendly and authentic, making the Michelin recommendation for 8 consecutive years worthwhile to visit.

Solo: A Dual Michelin and Black Pearl Restaurant

📍Address: 103, 191 Hengshan Road, Tianping Road Street
Average Spend: 198 RMB

First off, Solo has both Michelin and Black Pearl recommendations, which is really exciting. I’m particularly fond of their Beef Tartare and Chilean Beef Slices; they are so much more tender and juicy than I expected. The elegant and minimalist dining environment also makes it feel like a great value.

Haosheng Restaurant: Michelin Bib Gourmand Recommended

📍Address: 156 Guangyuan Road
Average Spend: 158 RMB

I visited for the first time because a friend took me, and I thought, “Really? It looks so unassuming!” But once I tried their local dishes, I was truly impressed. Especially the warmth of the homestyle dishes, which taste high-end, I totally understand why Haosheng Restaurant has been a Michelin Bib Gourmand for many years!

Weixiangzhai: Super Affordable Michelin Spot

📍Address: 14 Yandang Road
Average Spend: 31 RMB

For working folks, happiness isn’t far away when you can enjoy a Michelin meal for under 50 RMB. The sesame noodles at Weixiangzhai have attracted countless "heavy flavor" lovers for decades. The sesame sauce is thick and rich, and each bite is packed with flavor, satisfying like nothing else.

Fuxing Noodle King: Delicious Tomato Noodles

📍Address: 133-12, Tianyaoqiao Road, Yongxin Lane
Average Spend: 35 RMB

If you love tomatoes, this is a must-go place! Fuxing Noodle King’s Tomato Mixed Noodles are among the best I’ve ever had. The thin noodles are cooked perfectly—neither too soft nor mushy—retaining that rare chewiness, and combined with a rich tomato flavor, every bite is just bliss.

Lao Zhengxing Restaurant: A Hidden Treasure for Gatherings

📍Address: 556 Fuzhou Road, East Nanjing Road
Average Spend: 185 RMB

Lao Zhengxing Restaurant is an iconic local eatery in Shanghai, and their Spicy Eel is simply divine. The eel is shredded and seasoned with rich pepper and oil; it perfectly balances Shanghai’s flavors with modern tastes. If you’re looking for a place to gather for a meal without any regrets, this spot is a great choice.

Xi Yue No. 8: The Cheapest Michelin Two-Star

📍Address: 101, Main Building, 63 Runan Street
Average Spend: 212 RMB

Isn’t “the cheapest Michelin two-star restaurant” an alluring title? At Xi Yue No. 8, I ordered their Shrimp Dumplings, and each dumpling is crystal clear, with three juicy shrimp packed into a tiny space. It feels like something an angel would eat!

Rongjia Yellow Croaker Noodles: A Michelin Four-Star Delicacy

📍Address: L105A-1, 688 West Nanjing Road
Average Spend: 146 RMB

Another top-notch place for yellow croaker noodles. The broth at Rongjia is so rich and flavorful, you can practically taste its soul. The creamy broth is made from fish bones, with each sip carrying layers of deliciousness. Don’t be fooled into thinking it’s just seasoned; it's truly special.

Finally, here’s a handy summary table of these 10 restaurants to help you plan:

Remember to plan for these meals next time you're in Shanghai—you’ll definitely fall in love with the flavors of this city!