Shanghai's Best Xie Huang Mian: A Foodie's Top Restaurant Guide
Top-Rated Xie Huang Mian Restaurants in Shanghai
Shanghai, a city renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, offers a plethora of dining experiences. Among the many delicacies, xie huang mian (蟹黄面), or crab roe noodles, stands out as a true Shanghainese specialty. For a complete overview, see our main guide to Xie Huang Mian. This guide will lead you to some of the best xie huang mian Shanghai restaurants, ensuring a memorable gastronomic adventure.
Restaurant 1: Cejerdary (蟹家大院)
Cejerdary (蟹家大院) is widely considered the gold standard for xie huang mian in Shanghai, especially its location on The Bund. Established in 2010, they are known for their meticulously prepared “Crab Gold Birthday Noodles” (蟹黄金蟹面). Each bowl, while on the pricier side (around ¥360), is said to contain the painstakingly picked meat and roe from about 12 crabs, ensuring a rich and decadent experience. They even operate their own crab farms by Yangcheng Lake to maintain quality and supply. Expect a refined dining experience, focusing purely on the essence of hairy crab.
Restaurant 2: Xie Huang Yu (蟹黃魚)
Xie Huang Yu (蟹黃魚) is a popular spot in Shanghai, known for its unique blend of crab roe and yellow croaker (黄鱼) in its signature noodles. Located conveniently near the Dashijie (大世界) Metro Station (Line 8, Exit 3, 2nd floor of Jinzhong Plaza), this restaurant offers a delightful culinary experience that combines the richness of crab roe with the delicate sweetness of yellow croaker. Beyond their famous noodles, they also offer other classic Shanghainese dishes with a crab twist, such as crab roe scrambled eggs with rice, and even creative takes like braised pork belly. The ambiance is often described as a perfect blend of classical and modern, with lush green plants and soft lighting creating a comfortable and photogenic setting suitable for gatherings.
Restaurant 3: Xie Huoji (蟹伙计)
For those seeking a comprehensive “crab feast” experience, Xie Huoji (蟹伙计) is a compelling choice. This restaurant specializes in all things hairy crab, often offering a “crab full banquet” featuring various parts of the crab – roe, leg meat, and body meat – prepared in different styles. Their signature dish is often highlighted as a rich combination of these crab essences with secret recipe tofu, served with homemade crab vinegar and high-quality fish maw. The result is a fragrant and incredibly satisfying dish, perfect with noodles or rice. Xie Huoji is also known for other crab delicacies like large crab roe soup dumplings (蟹黄大汤包) and perfectly marinated drunken crabs (熟醉蟹), showcasing the chef’s expertise in handling this prized ingredient. The focus here is on the pure, unadulterated flavors of fresh crab.
Hidden Gems: Local Favorites for Xie Huang Mian
Beyond the well-known establishments, Shanghai is full of hidden gems serving exceptional xie huang mian. Asking locals for recommendations often unveils the best-kept secrets. Places like Yuxingji Noodle House (裕兴记面馆) on Weihai Road are popular among locals for their generous portions and authentic taste. While these smaller eateries may not have fancy decor, they more than make up for it with their delicious and often more affordable xie huang mian. Look for places with a bustling atmosphere and queues, as these are often indicators of a beloved local spot.
Price Range and Atmosphere: What to Expect
The price of xie huang mian can vary significantly depending on the restaurant. At upscale establishments like Cejerdary, expect to pay a premium, often upwards of ¥300-400 per bowl, reflecting the quality of ingredients and the dining experience. Restaurants like Xie Huang Yu and Xie Huoji might fall in a mid-to-high range, offering a balance of quality and value. Smaller, local eateries like Yuxingji Noodle House offer more budget-friendly options, typically ranging from ¥80-150.
The atmosphere also ranges widely. Upscale restaurants provide elegant and refined settings, suitable for a special occasion. Local noodle shops, on the other hand, are often bustling, casual, and provide an authentic glimpse into daily Shanghainese life. Researching beforehand will help you find a place that suits your budget and preferences.
How to Make a Reservation (if necessary)
Many popular xie huang mian restaurants in Shanghai, especially the more upscale ones like Cejerdary and those popular during peak hairy crab season (typically autumn/winter) and on weekends, highly recommend or even require reservations.
- Check the restaurant’s website: Many restaurants have online reservation systems.
- Call ahead: If an online option isn’t available, calling the restaurant directly is the best way to book a table. Be prepared for potential language barriers, though some higher-end establishments may have English-speaking staff.
- Walk-in: For smaller, more casual spots, walk-ins are usually fine, but be prepared for a potential wait during busy hours.
Booking in advance will save you time and ensure you don’t miss out on this culinary delight.
