Paigu niangao (排⻣年糕)
At yet another laozihao (time honoured brand), there's the famous paigu niangao: a pork cutlet, which has been battered and deep-fried in a wok, sitting atop of two pieces of glutinous rice cake drenched in a sweet, sticky sauce made of dark soy sauce, sugar and water. If you ask anyone in Shanghai where’s the best place for paigu niangao, the chances are they’re going to say Xian De Lai. The shop has been around since 1921 and moved to its current spot on Yunnan Nan Lu, named Shanghai’s official food street, in the 90s. While you might be drawn to the dozens of other restaurants along the street, don’t miss this one on your Shanghai food journey.