Savoring the best for last

Street of crayfish

Shouning Road in Huangpu district: Crayfish fans have mixed feelings about Shouning Road, because the environment is not exactly as well appreciated as the famous crayfish dishes it is famous for.

Crayfish are freshwater crustaceans that resemble little lobsters, hence its Chinese name of xiao long xia. Some of the restaurants in Shouning Road maintain minimum hygiene and you have to be careful of the greasy floors as you navigate through stacks of used dishes and kitchen waste by the roadside.

It can be a mite confusing as well, since many outlets claim to be the genuine Xiang Ba Dao, and they employ workers who try to attract, even drag diners into their restaurants.

The most recommended is still "Shanghai’s First Xiang Ba Dao Crayfish" at No 20-24, which along with its franchises in other parts of the city, commands the highest ratings on restaurant review sites. Dishes to order here include the spicy crayfish, fresh seafood dishes and barbecue.

Expect to pay an average of 100 yuan per person.