Mao Tou Lao Die Restaurant (毛头老爹饭店) – A Braised Pork Haven in Shanghai

Arron Goh
Aug 18
2 min read

Mao tou lao die braised pork in Shanghai China

When it comes to food in Shanghai, one dish that stands above all is the legendary 红烧肉 (hong shao rou, braised pork belly). And if you’re near Jing’an Temple, there’s one spot locals swear by – Mao Tou Lao Die (毛头老爹饭店).

A Neighborhood Gem – Mao Tou Lao Die Restaurant

Nestled not too far from the bustling Jing’an Temple area, Mao Tou Lao Die isn’t your flashy fine-dining place. Instead, it feels warm and grounded, the kind of restaurant that has gained its reputation not from fancy interiors, but from the kind of cooking that wins hearts over generations.

The Star of the Show – 红烧肉 Braised Pork

The restaurant is best known for its braised pork belly, glistening with a dark caramelized sauce, perfectly balancing sweet and savory flavors. The pork is tender yet retains just enough bite – every mouthful melts together with the glossy sauce and a bowl of white rice.

It’s Shanghai comfort food at its finest.

More Than Just Pork

While the braised pork is the star, Mao Tou Lao Die also serves a variety of classic Shanghainese dishes. You’ll find stir-fried seasonal greens, local tofu specialties, and other comforting dishes perfect for sharing with friends or family.

Why You Should Visit

Location: Conveniently near Jing’an Temple, making it an easy food stop during your city walk.
Authenticity: A true local taste of Shanghai’s signature dish.
Value: Delicious flavors at reasonable prices – you get to eat like a local without burning a hole in your pocket.

Our Take

After a long day of exploring Shanghai, nothing felt more satisfying than digging into a plate of rich, saucy 红烧肉 here. It’s not just food; it’s a cultural experience. If you’re in the city and want to taste what Shanghainese comfort food really feels like, Mao Tou Lao Die is a must.