As winter settles over Shanghai, one familiar sign returns to Nanjing Road: the warm, nutty aroma of freshly ground sesame and walnut. For many residents, the scent is as reliable as any weather report.

The aroma leads straight to the grinding counters at long-established shops such as Sanyang Nanhuo Store and Shanghai First Foodhall. Small groups of customers often gather around the grinding machines, many of them longtime Shanghainese shoppers who know exactly what they want.

Freshly ground sesame and walnut powder is considered a winter staple in Shanghai. At Sanyang Nanhuo Store, the grinding counter has become a local landmark. Trays of black sesame seeds and whole walnuts are placed on display before they are milled into a fine, warm powder. As the machine works, golden oils rise to the surface, and the fragrance spreads through the street.

At Shanghai First Foodhall, the scene is just as lively. Large piles of walnuts are stacked behind the counter, and regulars often bag their still-warm powder on the spot. Many request small adjustments, such as adding more walnuts or reducing the amount of added sugar. Staff members handle these orders with practiced efficiency.

For many residents, buying freshly ground powder marks the start of their winter wellness routine. A spoonful of powder stirred into hot milk in the morning, or enjoyed on its own, provides a quick burst of warmth and energy. Those who prefer convenience often choose pre-packaged jars, including popular versions from Tai Kang Foods that have been trusted by local families for decades.

Customers at Sanyang Nanhuo Store also find a wide range of specialty blends. The "Five Black Powder", made from black sesame, black oats, black rice, mulberries, and black goji berries, is especially popular among younger shoppers. The "Five Red Powder", which includes red dates, adzuki beans, goji berries, red rice, and longan, is favored by office workers seeking a lightly sweet afternoon boost.

Beyond these ready-to-grind blends, Nanjing Road is a key destination for dried goods used in Chinese cooking throughout the year. Shelves in traditional shops such as Sanyang Nanhuo Store, Shao Wan Sheng, Tai Kang Foods, and Shanghai First Foodhall are filled with red dates, longans, lotus seeds, mushrooms, and many other ingredients. Both common and premium items can be found, from everyday edible fungi to high-end morels and bamboo fungus.

Dried seafood is another highlight of the winter season and is widely regarded as essential. Dried scallops add depth to congee and soups, while sea cucumbers and dried abalone are used for celebratory dishes after being rehydrated and braised. Each shop offers different strengths, and seasoned shoppers often compare selections across multiple stores before making a choice.

For visitors searching for gifts, Sanyang Nanhuo Store also offers boxed sets of dried goods. The packaging is designed to be both practical and elegant, making it a convenient way to bring home a taste of Shanghai's winter traditions.

If you go

Sanyang Nanhuo Store

Address: No 630 East Nanjing Road

Shanghai First Foodhall

Address: No 720 East Nanjing Road

Tai Kang Foods

Address: No 766 East Nanjing Road

Shao Wan Sheng

Address: No 414 East Nanjing Road

Source: Official WeChat account of Huangpu district at " shhuangpu"