Best Kao Fu in Shanghai, CN

Spongy braised wheat gluten with wood ear mushrooms and peanuts.

Old Jesse (Lao Jishi)

Former French Concession
4.5 / 5

The texture is perfectly spongy, absorbing the rich, sweet soy braise without becoming soggy. It's the definitive version of this Shanghai staple.

Local LegendClassicMust-Try
9.7Flavor
7.8Value
8.2Vibe

Guangming Cun

Huaihai Road
4.7 / 5

The most authentic everyday version locals queue for hours for. It's unadorned but honest, with a consistent quality that stays the same over decades.

Value KingAuthenticLocal Favorite
9.3Flavor
9.8Value
6.5Vibe

Fu 1039

Jing'an/Changning Border
4.7 / 5

The wheat gluten tasted fresher and more robust, and had a nice addition of peanuts for texture. A more refined, thoughtful version of the home-style dish.

UpscaleHistoricInstagrammable
9.1Flavor
7.2Value
9.8Vibe
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