How do I book a local dining experience in Shanghai?

Browse our Plus 1 Chopsticks hosts, select a profile, and submit a booking request. Your host will confirm availability for your selected date.

How long does a typical home-cooked meal experience last?

Most Shanghai home dining sessions last 2-3 hours, covering both the meal and local cultural conversation.

What is the cost per person for a guest?

Prices are set by the host, typically ranging from 200-500 RMB. Exact pricing is listed on each individual host profile.

What is your booking cancellation policy?

Cancel up to 7 days before your scheduled meal for a full refund. This ensures our local hosts have adequate preparation time.

Do I need to speak Chinese to dine with a host?

No. Many +1 Chopsticks hosts are multilingual; you can filter for English-speaking hosts when browsing.

Are the meals and hosts verified for food safety?

Yes. All +1 Chopsticks hosts undergo a verification process for hygiene, food safety, and ingredient quality to ensure a premium experience.

Can hosts accommodate dietary restrictions or allergies?

Yes. Our +1 Chopsticks hosts are local families and professionals who can usually cater to special dietary needs if mentioned during booking.

How do I apply to become a +1 Chopsticks host in Shanghai?

Click 'Become a Host' to start our application and verification process. We welcome locals passionate about authentic cooking.

Do you offer partnerships for travel agents?

Yes. We provide special rates for travel agencies and tour operators. Contact plusonechopsticks@gmail.com for partnership details.

Are these dinners suitable for solo travelers in Shanghai?

Yes! Many of our hosts are families, couples, and young professionals who enjoy hosting individuals. Most +1 Chopsticks hosts accommodate solo dining, making it a safe and authentic way for solo travelers to experience Shanghainese hospitality and home-cooked meals.

What makes +1 Chopsticks different from restaurants in Shanghai?

Unlike traditional restaurants, +1 Chopsticks offers authentic home-cooked meals prepared by local families in their homes. You get a genuine cultural experience with real Shanghainese hospitality, family recipes, and meaningful conversations with locals—something you cannot get in a restaurant.

Is home dining in Shanghai safe for tourists?

Yes, absolutely. All +1 Chopsticks hosts undergo a thorough verification process including background checks, food safety inspections, and hygiene certifications. We prioritize guest safety and comfort in every experience.

What authentic Shanghai dishes can I expect?

Our hosts prepare traditional Shanghainese cuisine including xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), shengjianbao (pan-fried buns), hairy crab, braised pork belly, and other regional specialties passed down through generations. Menus vary by host and season.

Can I find home dining experiences in specific Shanghai districts?

Yes! We have verified hosts throughout Shanghai including Pudong, Huangpu, Jing'an, Changning, Xuhui, Minhang, and other districts. You can filter by location when browsing our host profiles to find experiences near your hotel or in your preferred area.

What is the best time to book a home dining experience in Shanghai?

We recommend booking 1-2 weeks in advance to ensure availability. However, some hosts may accommodate last-minute bookings. Check individual host calendars for real-time availability. Peak seasons (spring and fall) fill up faster.

How do I know if a host is authentic and trustworthy?

All +1 Chopsticks hosts display verification badges, guest reviews, and ratings on their profiles. Read guest testimonials and check their experience level. Our verification process ensures every host meets our high standards for authenticity, safety, and hospitality.

What should I bring or wear to a home dining experience?

Wear comfortable, casual clothing. Remove your shoes when entering the home (hosts will provide slippers). Bring an open mind and appetite! Some guests bring small gifts from their home country, though it's not required. Your host will provide any specific instructions.

Dumpling class and tasting

Home Dining in Shanghai - Learn to Make Traditional Chinese Dumplings

Hosted by Grace Tong in Xuhui

Grace Tong

Xuhui

Languages I Speak

MandarinEnglish

Overseas Experience

Lived in the U.S. for over a decade before returning to China

Fun Facts About Me

I specialize in teaching the art of dumpling making, a skill passed down through generations in Chinese families. We offer 5 different filling options to customize your experience!

My Cultural Passions

Preserving traditional Chinese cooking techniques and passing them on to the next generation through hands-on teaching

Why I Want to Host

I love teaching visitors the hands-on skills of traditional Chinese cooking, especially the meditative art of folding dumplings. It's a chance to share culture through an interactive, memorable experience

Besides Food, What I'm Passionate About

Culinary education, cultural exchange through cooking, and helping people connect with Chinese traditions in a fun, interactive way

About Me

Hi, I’m Grace. Born in Guizhou and shaped by more than a decade living abroad—mostly in the U.S.—I found my way back to Chinese cooking through a familiar homesickness: missing the flavors of home. Cooking authentic Chinese dishes became my love language, and after two years back in China, I’m excited to open my kitchen to fellow travelers from around the world. Come share a thoughtfully prepared meal, good conversation, and a genuine cultural exchange—one table, many stories.

Availability

Saturdaylunch, dinner

Sundaylunch, dinner

¥250/person

Meal TypeDinner

Max Guests4

Free cancellation

Cancel up to 7 days before for a full refund