The 10 Best Breakfast And Brunch Spots In Lujiazui, Shanghai
![Secret Recipe](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/20x11/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/6889117226_728c90b117_o.webp)
Named after Lu Shen, a famous academic from the Ming dynasty, Lujiazui was little more than farmland and warehouses in the early 1990s. Now, Lujiazui, which means ‘the mouth of Lu’s family,’ has become one of Shanghai’s most modern neighborhoods and the city’s symbol of China’s quick economic development. If you’re fortunate enough to be spending time in Shanghai’s most futuristic enclave, make sure you start your day at one of these restaurants for a delicious western or traditional Chinese breakfast or brunch.
Sunflour
Restaurant, Chinese
![Whole Wheat Bread Crumb](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/4451489113_62ae7dc169_z.webp)
Just as its name suggests, all the breads here are made of graham (whole wheat) flour, which makes the whole restaurant flavorful. The bread comes with fried egg, chips, potatoes and sausages, which will kick start your lively morning and fill you with strength. On a sunny day sit outside, next to the green plants. Take your time and have a warm, lazy morning to start your day.
Secret Recipe
Restaurant, Chinese
![Secret Recipe](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/6889117226_554b897cea_b.webp)
The biggest coffee chain in Malaysia, Secret Recipe has been taking China by storm with its signature marble cheesecake. Offering a wide variety of Southeast Asian food, as well as some simpler western dishes, there’s something for everyone’s taste. This restaurant is located in the Super Brand Mall next to the Huangpu river, where you can find a unique view of the Bund at nighttime.
Nanxiang 1900
Named for the year of its founding, Nanxiang 1900 has over 100 years of business under its belt and is still going strong. The Nanxiang steamed buns (小笼包 xiăolóngbāo) are a must eat for tourists, though you don’t have to be a visitor to enjoy these delicious soup filled dumplings. This style of steamed dumplings is traditional Shanghainese food for breakfast, and an integral part of culinary culture in China. Make sure to pay attention to the hot liquid inside the dumplings, using your chopsticks to poke a small hole on the top to allow it to cool. If you’re still confused about how to eat like a local, the staff are very happy to explain how to take your first bite.
Jade on 36
Restaurant, French
![View from the Shangri-L](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/2043266.webp)
Serving the most fantastic French cuisine in town, Jade on 36 is definitely a place you will never forget. They have creative chef surprising you with fresh and delicious food. All waiters wear traditional Chinese clothes, and are quiet and gentle. The location is also perfect, it is in the five star Shangri-la hotel, with an amazing view of the Bund. It’s expensive, of course, but absolutely worth it for one of the best culinary experiences in Shanghai.
Fuel Espresso
Bar, Chinese
![Cup of expresso](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/4752816318_26a00b064c_b.webp)
This is the first and the only Fuel Espresso in mainland China. It is not easy to find its location, but you can smell it when you walk onto the second floor of IFC, which will help you in the right direction. Just as their name indicates, having some classic espresso and cakes for breakfast here will give start a vigorous morning. If you fancy bar stools and jazz, Fuel Espresso definitely is a perfect choice.
Crystal Jade Noodles & Dumplings
This well known brand from Singapore has traveled far to make it to Shanghai, with a slightly altered menu that includes hot pot, noodles, and dumplings. While there are many places to indulge in dumplings in Shanghai, Crystal Jade’s are delightfully unique. They use both eastern and western ingredients, coming up with innovative fillings like goose liver and cheese. Besides the exquisitely prepared dishes, the tableware is also a feast for the eyes, with crystalline decorations that heighten the enjoyment of your meal.
Blue Frog
For a more North American flavor on your plate, you can’t do much better than Blue Frog. Reasonable prices, good food, and generously sized hamburgers, have brought them a devoted fan base in the city. Their brunch menu has some solid western offerings, like the meat-heavy Big Blue breakfast and the sinfully saucy Cointreau syrup pancakes. Located in a square under the Shanghai World Financial Center, one of Shanghai’s most recognizable skyscrapers, Blue Frog has some decent outdoor seating that makes it a good bet for a weekend breakfast.
Tasty Congee
Restaurant, Chinese
![香油條腸粉 (炸兩) Rice noodle rolls filled with twisted cruller](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/8405676850_f000183bc9_c-650x650.webp)
Known in Chinese as Zhèngdŏu (正斗), Tasty Congee is known as one of the best teahouses from Hong Kong. Congee is a staple breakfast food across Asia, a rice porridge that must be tried if you’re after a traditional Chinese breakfast. Try it with some condiments on the side, like salted duck eggs, zha cai, or the most common Chinese breakfast set: fried bread sticks known as youtiao. The restaurant is beautifully decorated in a Chinese motif, and is a nice choice for a filling and hearty meal.
Win House
Restaurant, Chinese, Dim Sum
![Win House/Courtesy of Cora Cao](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/IMG_67481.webp)
Win House is your best option if you are looking for an American-Mexican style restaurant, with both American and Tex Mex dishes. Their brunch is served all day, so go ahead and order eggs for dinner, and with 15 dishes available, there’s something for everyone (we recommend the California eggs Benedict). The outdoor seating with a view of the Huangpu is another nice bonus.
Farine
Bakery, Cafe, French
![Farine](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/farine-cake-resized.webp)
It is said that Farine serves the best traditional French bread in Shanghai. Besides the beautiful design of their cakes, the taste is the most attractive part. Any kind of tart will be a good choice here, but don’t miss the croissant, which comes with the latte. Sitting in a bright bakery during a quiet morning, tasting authentic French pastry, you will forget you’re in Shanghai, China. It’s a little expensive, but absolutely worth it.