After a decade in Shanghai, I've noticed tourists frequently miss out on these 3 local dishes.

Sophie's Culinary Journey: Sophie Steiner moved to Shanghai in 2015, eager to explore authentic Chinese cuisine beyond the Americanized General Tso's chicken she grew up with, discovering traditional dishes often overlooked by tourists.

Three Must-Try Dishes: The article highlights three traditional Shanghai dishes—kaofu (braised wheat gluten), youbaoxia (fried shrimp), and douhua (silken tofu)—that showcase the city's culinary heritage and are typically enjoyed in home settings rather than restaurants.

Culinary Research and Exploration: Sophie conducted extensive research on Shanghai's food scene before her arrival, immersing herself in local blogs and social media to prepare for her culinary adventures, which included tasting street food and home-cooked meals.

Cultural Significance of Dishes: The article emphasizes the cultural importance of these dishes, illustrating how they reflect Shanghai's history as a trading port and the diverse influences that shape its modern cuisine, while also encouraging readers to appreciate the local flavors.