As we celebrate the Lantern Festival, the perennial debate between sweet and salty tangyuan or tangtuan (glutinous rice balls) has resurfaced, adding a delightful twist to the traditional celebration. In Shanghai, the art of making and enjoying tangyuan is deeply rooted in culinary history, offering a diverse range of flavors and styles, with the Northern China, Ningbo, Suzhou, and Cantonese styles each having their own unique characteristics and fillings.

In Northern China, tangyuan are crafted from dried glutinous rice flour into walnut-sized spheres filled with a mixture of walnuts, melon seeds, plums, and candied fruits combined with lard, sugar, and flour. On the other hand, Ningbo tangyuan feature glutinous rice flour soaked in water, encasing lard red bean paste or lard white fruit fillings, resulting in a smooth and sweet taste.

For tangyuan aficionados seeking authentic flavors and traditional craftsmanship, Shanghai offers a myriad of renowned establishments.

Qibao Old Street Tangtuan

Located in Qibao Ancient Town, this iconic spot is synonymous with authentic tangyuan craftsmanship. Handmade and freshly wrapped, the tangyuan here boasts impeccable textures and flavors, making it a must-try.

Location: No 26 South Street, Qibao Ancient Town (near Fuqiang Street)

Transportation: Take Metro Line 9 to Qibao Station and walk 910 meters

Ningbo Tangyuan

An esteemed establishment in the City God Temple area, Ningbo Tangyuan is a tangyuan pioneer. Renowned for its signature black sesame and fresh meat tangyuan, the transparent open kitchen offers a visual feast alongside the culinary delight.

Location: No 110 Yuyuan Road

Transportation: Take Metro Line 10 to Yuyuan Station and walk 670 meters from Exit 3

Meixin Dim Sum Shop

A century-old brand, Meixin Dim Sum Shop's tangyuan features luscious sesame and savory meat fillings inside a delicate glutinous rice skin, promising a delightful and satisfying experience.

Location: No 105 North Shaanxi Road

Transportation: Take Metro Lines 2, 12 or 13 to West Nanjing Road Station and walk 400 meters from Exit 12

Wang Jia Sha Dim Sum Shop

Renowned for its exceptional dim sum craftsmanship, Wang Jia Sha's technique is a recognized municipal intangible cultural heritage item. The unique "double layers " and "18 pleats" fresh meat tangyuan exemplify the shop's culinary prowess.

Location: No 805 West Nanjing Road

Transportation: Take Metro Line 2 to Nanjing West Road Station and walk 100 meters

Gaoxing Tangyuan

A local favorite in Pudong New Area, Gaoxing Tangyuan offers handcrafted oversized tangyuan with a distinctive savory filling favored by locals. The addition of congee to the glutinous rice skin provides a unique chewy texture, while the on-site wrapping by skilled artisans adds to the experience.

Location: No 63 Jingao Road

Transportation: Take Bus No 181, No 406 or Pudong No 78 to Jingao Road Jyujin Road Station and walk 10 meters

Shengxing Tangyuan

Reopened on Sinan Road, Shengxing Tangyuan remains beloved for its dedication to quality and traditional flavors. Every bite of its sesame and fresh meat tangyuan is a rich and aromatic experience.

Location: No 8 Sinan Road

Transportation: Take Metro Line 1 to South Shaanxi Road Station and walk 700 meters

Sixin Tangyuan

Sixin Tangyuan is a popular haunt in Hongkou district frequented by discerning patrons. With both sweet and salty options, its signature tangyuan satisfies all cravings.

Location: No 1908 North Sichuan Road (near Duolun Road)

Transportation: Take Metro Line 3 to Dongbaoxing Road Station and walk 600 meters from Exit 1

 

Sources: WeChat accounts of Shanghai Municipal Commission of Transport, Shanghai Municipal Archives, and Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism