Shanghai’s buffet scene combines world-class dining with spectacular views. The best value comes from Huangpu River cruise buffets, where you’ll get both dinner and a front-row seat to the glittering skyline. Our favorite pick is the Crystal Princess cruise – it’s pricier but worth every yuan for its fresh seafood spread and complete views of the city from every angle. Back on land, smart travelers book private customized river tours that partner with the famous Dingtaifeng restaurant – you’ll get their legendary dumplings plus flexibility with timing. For the budget-conscious, standard river cruises offer decent international buffets at reasonable prices. Let’s look at our recommended buffet experiences in Shanghai.
Key Points
- Shanghai Huangpu River Night Cruise with Buffet Dinner offers stunning skyline views and an average-quality buffet for a memorable experience.
- Shanghai Dragon Cruise Night View With Seafood Buffet provides a luxurious seafood spread along with live entertainment for a complete sightseeing and dining package.
- Shanghai Night Tour to Huangpu River Cruise with Dingtaifeng or Buffet option offers a private guided tour with flexible dining choices and breathtaking skyline views.
- Shanghai Luxury Cruise Night View With Seafood Buffet aboard the five-star Crystal Princess ship boasts 360-degree skyline views, though reviews note issues with food quality and overcrowding.
- Shanghai Sightseeing Cruise Night View With Seafood Buffet delivers panoramic architectural views and a range of culinary options at a premium price point.
Shanghai Huangpu River Night Cruise With Buffet Dinner
For a memorable evening in Shanghai, the Shanghai Huangpu River Night Cruise with Buffet Dinner offers a captivating experience.
With a 4.7 rating from 13 reviews and a 92% recommendation rate, this night cruise along the Huangpu River is a popular choice among travelers.
The tour includes a buffet dinner, professional English guide (if booked), and hotel pickup and drop-off in downtown Shanghai. Guests can enjoy the stunning views of the Shanghai skyline from the ship’s four levels, which boasts ample space.
While the dinner quality has been described as average or canteen-style, the overall experience is considered memorable by most travelers.
The cruise also provides complimentary beer, wine, coffee, or tea, and private tours ensure that only your group participates.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, the Shanghai Huangpu River Night Cruise with Buffet Dinner is a convenient and unique way to explore the city.
Read our full review: Shanghai Huangpu River Night Cruise With Buffet Dinner Review
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Shanghai Dragon Cruise Night View With Seafood Buffet
The Shanghai Dragon Cruise Night View With Seafood Buffet offers travelers a captivating experience on the Huangpu River.
This 3-hour evening cruise showcases the stunning skyline of Shanghai, with views of iconic landmarks like the Bund and Pudong. Theres some good a lavish seafood buffet while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
The menu features an impressive spread of fresh seafood, including prawns, crab, sushi, and more. Diners can also enjoy a variety of Chinese and international dishes, as well as desserts.
The cruise’s modern vessel provides a comfortable setting, with both indoor and outdoor seating areas.
Beyond the dining experience, the cruise also offers live entertainment, such as traditional Chinese music and dance performances.
This unique combination of sightseeing, dining, and entertainment makes the Shanghai Dragon Cruise Night View With Seafood Buffet a must-try activity for visitors to Shanghai.
Read our full review: Shanghai Dragon Cruise Night View With Seafood Buffet Review
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Shanghai Night Tour to Huangpu River Cruise +Dingtaifeng or Buffet at Cruiseship
An evening of unparalleled splendor awaits as travelers embark on a Shanghai Night Tour that seamlessly blends a captivating Huangpu River cruise with the option to indulge in either the renowned Dingtaifeng cuisine or a lavish buffet aboard the cruise ship.
This private tour offers an intimate experience, with only your group participating. Priced from $136.54 per person, the tour provides a professional guide, covers metro/subway fees, and is accessible for those with special needs.
The tour offers a memorable dining experience, whether it’s the sophistication of Dingtaifeng or the variety of the buffet. As the cruise glides along the Huangpu River, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the Shanghai skyline and the city’s vibrant lights.
Positive reviews highlight the tour’s flexibility, with specific praise for the guide’s personal commitment. With free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, this Shanghai Night Tour promises a truly unforgettable evening.
Read our full review: Shanghai Night Tour to Huangpu River Cruise +Dingtaifeng or Buffet at Cruiseship Review
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Shanghai Luxury Cruise Night View With Seafood Buffet
Aboard the Crystal Princess, a five-star cruise ship, travelers can embark on a captivating night cruise along the Huangpu River. Priced from $85.00 to $80.75 per person, the 3-hour experience includes a seafood buffet and 360-degree views of Shanghai’s skyline.
The 59.98-meter vessel features large outdoor decks, high-end audio systems, and interactive entertainment areas, offering an elegant dining environment with a variety of Chinese and Western dishes.
The cruise sails upstream to Lupu Bridge and downstream to Yangpu Bridge, with the dinner buffet starting at 17:30 and the departure around 19:00.
While the overall rating is 3.2/5 based on 12 reviews, guests have praised the beautiful views and lovely dinner, but some have noted issues with cold food and an overcrowded buffet.
A VIP area is available for an additional 100 RMB, and the cruise is wheelchair accessible with small group options.
Travelers can enjoy a culturally enriched experience through the cruise’s collaboration with the Shanghai Conservatory of Music.
Read our full review: Shanghai Luxury Cruise Night View With Seafood Buffet Review
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Shanghai Sightseeing Cruise Night View With Seafood Buffet
Travelers seeking a captivating night cruise along the Huangpu River can embark on the Shanghai Sightseeing Cruise, offering a seafood buffet and panoramic views of the city’s stunning skyline.
This 3-hour tour provides a unique opportunity to witness the city’s architectural marvels illuminated at night, including the iconic Shanghai Tower and Jin Mao Tower.
The seafood buffet features a delectable selection of fresh seafood, catering to a range of culinary preferences.
With private group options and pickup services available, this experience provides a convenient and immersive way to explore Shanghai’s waterfront.
Priced at €138.61 per person, the Shanghai Sightseeing Cruise Night View with Seafood Buffet is a must-try for those seeking an unforgettable dining and sightseeing experience in the heart of the city.
Read our full review: Shanghai Sightseeing Cruise Night View With Seafood Buffet Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Buffet Experiences?
The dress code for buffet experiences is typically casual. Most establishments don’t have strict dress requirements, allowing guests to dine comfortably in everyday attire. However, some upscale buffets may have slightly higher expectations for guest appearance.
Are Vegetarian or Halal Options Available at the Buffets?
Vegetarian and halal options are typically available at Shanghai’s buffets, catering to diverse dietary needs. Many establishments offer a range of plant-based dishes and clearly label items that are suitable for those following halal or vegetarian diets.
Can I Cancel My Buffet Reservation if Needed?
Most buffet restaurants allow customers to cancel their reservations if needed. Policies vary, but cancellations are usually permitted without penalty as long as they’re made within a certain timeframe, often 24 to 48 hours in advance.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages for the Buffet Experiences?
Many buffet restaurants in Shanghai offer discounts or package deals to attract customers. Some common promotions include early bird specials, group discounts, and combination packages that include drinks or desserts. Customers should check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to inquire about any available offers.
How Early Should I Arrive to Ensure a Good Table?
To ensure a good table, it’s best to arrive 30-45 minutes before the buffet opens. This allows you to be seated promptly and have time to browse the selection before the crowds arrive.
Recap
Shanghai offers a variety of buffet dinner cruises along the Huangpu River, providing stunning night views of the city’s skyline. These cruises feature an array of seafood and international cuisine, making them a popular choice for visitors seeking a unique dining experience. Whether it’s a luxury cruise or a sightseeing tour, these buffet experiences are sure to delight and satisfy.