Shanghai Airport's Best Dining Options

where to eat in shanghai airport

Shanghai Pudong International Airport has a disappointing selection of restaurants and bars, according to some travellers. However, if you're looking for a quick bite, there are several options available, including Western fast-food chains such as Burger King, Starbucks, KFC, and McDonald's. For those seeking a more local experience, there are Chinese restaurants in the airport, including one serving RMB70 lamian with hot water and pork soul. In addition, travellers can find coffee at Costa Coffee, Tim Hortons, McCafe, and an unnamed Italian cafe.

Characteristics Values
Food options Western food, Chinese food, Korean food, Japanese food
Restaurants/Cafes Starbucks, McDonald's, KFC, Pizza Hut, Burger King, Subway, Costa, Qingji Restaurant, Haoxi Liantai, Tim Hortons, Costa Coffee, Baker and Spice, McCafe
Quality Varied reviews; some positive, others negative

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Quick bites: KFC, Starbucks, and McDonald's

If you're looking for a quick bite to eat at Shanghai Airport, you're in luck as there are several fast-food options available, including KFC, Starbucks, and McDonald's.

KFC is a popular choice for travellers, with a convenient location near Maglev between T1 and T2 in the airport. The food receives mixed reviews, with some praising the quality of the breakfast options, including the pork panini and Beijing-style wrap, while others are less than impressed with the chicken offerings. However, it's a good option for a quick bite, with picture menu options available and efficient service.

McDonald's is another familiar option, located at Hong Qiao Airport in Puxi, Downtown Shanghai. Reviews for this location are also mixed, with some commenting on the average food quality and questionable hygiene practices of the staff. However, it's a convenient choice for a quick meal, especially if you're craving something familiar.

Starbucks, a ubiquitous coffee chain, can also be found at Shanghai Airport. While specific reviews for this location are scarce, Starbucks is known for its coffee, tea, and light snacks, making it a good option for a quick pick-me-up before your flight.

While these options may not offer the finest dining experience, they can be convenient choices for travellers seeking a quick, familiar bite to eat during a busy travel day. However, if you have more time and are looking for a more authentic culinary experience, some travellers suggest leaving the airport to explore the variety of dining options available in the city.

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Chinese food: lamian with hot water and pork soul

Shanghai Pudong Airport offers a variety of dining options for travellers, including both Western and Chinese cuisine. While the airport has a range of restaurants, one particular dish that stands out is lamian with hot water and pork soul, a delicious and affordable Chinese noodle dish.

Lamian (拉麵 in traditional Chinese or 拉面 in simplified Chinese) is a type of soft wheat flour noodle commonly found in northern China. The preparation technique involves twisting, stretching, and folding the dough to create strands of varying lengths and thicknesses. This traditional method dates back to the Ming dynasty, with the earliest description found in a 1504 dietary manual.

At Shanghai Pudong Airport, you can find lamian on the menu at one of the many Chinese restaurants available. One reviewer specifically mentions the RMB70 lamian with hot water and pork soul, indicating that it is "pretty good." This dish consists of hand-pulled lamian noodles served in a soup or broth. While lamian is typically served with beef or mutton, the availability of pork soul as an option adds a unique twist.

In addition to lamian, the airport offers a range of other Chinese dishes to cater to different tastes and preferences. You can explore various restaurants and stalls to find the perfect meal before your flight. However, it is worth noting that some travellers have commented that the food selection at Pudong International Airport is limited and expensive compared to other options outside the airport. Nevertheless, if you're looking for a quick bite and a taste of Chinese cuisine, lamian with hot water and pork soul could be a satisfying choice during your layover at Shanghai Pudong Airport.

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Western food: Burger King, Subway, and Pizza Hut

If you're looking for a bite of Western food during your layover at Shanghai Airport, you're in luck! There are several options available to satisfy your cravings.

Burger King

For a familiar taste of home, head to Burger King at Hong Qiao Airport. Located in the middle of the airport, it's easy to access and offers the classic American hamburgers and fries you know and love. Be prepared for potential waits, as it tends to get busy, but after a long flight, it may be worth the recognisable menu.

Subway

If you're looking for a quick bite before your flight, Subway at Hong Qiao Airport might be your best bet. The outlet is a little hard to spot, but the English-speaking staff and familiar food might make up for it. You may need to find seating in another public area, though, as there aren't many seats in the restaurant.

Pizza Hut

For pizza lovers, Pizza Hut at Pu Dong Airport offers a convenient option. While reviews are scarce, the restaurant's presence suggests a chance to indulge in some pizza, perhaps with a local twist, given its location in Shanghai.

With these options, you can satisfy your hunger pangs with a taste of home or try a local spin on Western classics during your time at Shanghai Airport.

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Coffee: Tim Hortons, Costa Coffee, and McCafe

Shanghai Pudong International Airport has been criticised for its poor food options. However, if you're looking for a coffee, there are a few options available. Tim Hortons, Costa Coffee, and McCafe are all present in Shanghai, although it is unclear whether they have locations in the airport.

Tim Hortons, founded by Canadian hockey star Tim Horton in 1964, opened its first store in Shanghai, its 4850th store worldwide. As of December 2024, Tim Hortons has 1022 stores across 82 cities in China under the name "Tianhao Coffee." The company pairs fresh, quality local food with its beverages and provides signature hospitality at a fair price.

Costa Coffee has multiple locations in Shanghai, but it is unclear if any are in the airport.

McCafe, owned by McDonald's, is present in Shanghai Pudong International Airport, according to one source.

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Artisan food: Baker and Spice

Baker & Spice is an artisanal bakery and deli from the Wagas Group, with 23 outlets in Shanghai. The bakery has a striking wood-grained marble storefront and offers a variety of freshly baked goods, including baguettes, breads, bagels, cakes, jams, pates, granola, and coffee.

The bakery is known for its high-quality, delicious food and friendly service. The staff are described as energetic and positive, always ready to help customers with a smile. Baker & Spice is committed to working with people who are passionate about their work and dedicated to providing a great experience for customers.

The bakery offers a range of options for travellers looking for a quick bite before their flight or something more substantial. Customers can choose from a variety of sandwiches, salads, and pastries, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The bakery also offers a selection of drinks, including coffee and tea, to pair with their baked goods.

Baker & Spice is a great option for travellers looking for a taste of artisanal food in Shanghai's Pudong International Airport. The bakery provides a convenient and delicious option for those looking for a quick meal or a snack on the go. With its convenient location near the Maglev between T1 and T2, travellers can easily access the bakery and enjoy its offerings before their flight.

In addition to Baker & Spice, there are several other food options available at the airport, including Western and Asian cuisine. Some popular choices include KFC, which is located near Maglev between T1 and T2, offering quick and tasty options for travellers on the go. Haoxi Liantai is another well-reviewed restaurant within the airport, offering a variety of dishes to suit different tastes and preferences.

Frequently asked questions

Shanghai Pudong Airport has a variety of food options in Terminal T1, T2, S1, and S2, including Western food, Chinese food, and Korean food. Some of the restaurants and cafes available are KFC, Starbucks, Costa Coffee, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, and Tim Hortons.

Yes, there are many Chinese restaurants in the airport, including Qingji Restaurant. You can also find Chinese food at the restaurants near the check-in counters and Gate 70.

For a quick bite, KFC, located between T1 and T2, is a good option with good food and quick service. Other fast-food options include Burger King and Subway.

Yes, there are several coffee places at the airport, including Starbucks, Costa Coffee, and McCafe. Tim Hortons is also a great option for coffee and food.

While there is a lack of good sit-down restaurants at the airport, one option is Haoxi Liantai, located near Maglev between T1 and T2. The breakfast buffet also has a great selection.

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