For the first time, a dim sum restaurant has been awarded one Michelin star in the Michelin Guide Shanghai as the 2025 guide was unveiled on Nov 19 at the Bellagio Shanghai.

Following its relocation to South Maoming Road, Wu You Xian, known for its specialty in Shanghai crab xiaolongbao, earned the one Michelin star. By infusing hairy crab into the xiaolongbao, the founder, Chen Lina, meticulously separated the crab into eight parts, including the crab meat, roe and paste, ensuring that diners experience the unique taste of each component — a quality that Wu You Xian takes great pride in.

"I treat my xiaolongbao like my children, like works of art; they are my life," said Chen, a national first-class dim sum chef. She emphasized that although the xiaolongbao may be small, they encapsulate a world of gourmet flavors.

The new Shanghai guide features a selection of 145 restaurants, with 10 newly added to the list, showcasing 30 different cooking styles.

"After a meticulous scouting of the city, our Inspectors were glad to witness the emergence of an increasing number of local restaurants, particularly in the realms of Shanghainese cuisine, which beautifully balances history and modernity. From its beloved Xiaolongbao and Dim Sums to intricate court cuisine, Shanghai's dining scene has long been a symbol of cultural richness and culinary innovation," said Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the Michelin Guide.

"This year's selection includes over 50 Star-rated restaurants, covering a wide range of culinary styles that merge local and global cuisines, reflecting the deep cultural heritage and the preservation of traditional culinary techniques. Furthermore, the emergence of young chefs brings a fresh energy and innovative ideas into the culinary scene further promoting the diversification of Shanghai's dining offerings," Poullennec added.

Taian Table, also honored with the Michelin Green Star, and Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet, have both achieved the prestigious three Michelin stars.

Fu He Hui, known for dishes rich in cultural significance and exquisite displays of traditional cooking techniques, has been elevated to two Michelin stars this year, joining a total of nine restaurants at this level.

In addition to Wu You Xian, four establishments have either been promoted to or newly gained one Michelin star, making a total of 41 restaurants listed with one Michelin star this year.

The Michelin Guide Shanghai also honors three exceptional professionals with the Michelin Young Chef Award, the Sommelier Award and the Service Award.