Lao Ren He
Time-Honored BrandLao Ren He · Shanghai · Founded 1850
A time-honored Shanghai-style restaurant founded in 1850, renowned for its savory 'zao' (wine lees) dishes and home-style flavors, preserving the essence of century-old Haipai culinary culture.
Brand Story
Founded during the Xianfeng era of the Qing Dynasty (around 1850), Lao Ren He is one of Shanghai's earliest Benbang (local) cuisine restaurants. Its name, meaning 'harmony for the elderly and young alike,' reflects the philosophy of 'harmony brings wealth, and all ages are welcome.' The founder, said to be a local chef, started the business in the old city, offering seasonal delicacies such as marinated meats and drunken crab. As Shanghai prospered after the opening of its port, the restaurant gained popularity among citizens and literati for its unique wine lees techniques and authentic local flavors. Through wars and changing times, Lao Ren He has upheld traditional cooking methods, passing down the distinctive 'zao' aroma, savory-saltiness, and rich sauce of Benbang cuisine. Signature dishes like Drunken Chicken and Zao Bo Tou are not just culinary delights but also carriers of Shanghai's urban life and cultural heritage. Today, with affordable prices and consistent quality, it serves generations of diners, standing as a living testament to Haipai food history.
Signature Products
Tender chicken (Sanhuang breed) marinated in aged wine lees; golden skin, succulent meat, rich aroma, and savory taste. (30-50 RMB per serving)
A traditional Benbang assortment of pork tripe, tongue, chicken feet, etc., steeped in wine lees; mellow, refreshing, and appetizing. (40-60 RMB per serving)
River shrimp fried until shells are crisp, then coated in a sweet-savory sauce; crispy outside, tender inside, a classic accompaniment to drinks. (50-80 RMB per serving)
Pork belly slowly simmered until glossy red, rich in soy sauce aroma; fatty but not greasy, melting in the mouth. (45-70 RMB per serving)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Shanghai（上海）
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Cultural Note
Lao Ren He's wine lees technique originates from Jiangnan folk traditions, using fermented rice lees combined with pickling and braising to create a unique flavor. The dishes embody the Benbang philosophy of 'balanced saltiness and freshness, and harmonious intensity,' reflecting a culinary approach of 'inclusiveness and excellence.' The restaurant insists on traditional seasonings and heat control, avoiding MSG to preserve natural flavors, making it a living heritage of Haipai cuisine.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "China Time-Honored Brand" (中华老字号)?
A China Time-Honored Brand is a designation by China’s Ministry of Commerce for brands with a long history that inherit products, craftsmanship or services across generations and have operated continuously to the present.
When was Lao Ren He founded?
Lao Ren He was founded in 1850, originating in Shanghai, Shanghai, primarily in the Dining field.
What is the signature product of Lao Ren He?
Its signature product is Zao Ji (Drunken Chicken). See the "Signature / Buy Online" section on this page for more products and shopping links.
Where can I find the official list of China Time-Honored Brands?
You can log into the MOFCOM "China Time-Honored Brand Information Management System", or browse this site’s brand directory — we have profiled 1,451 time-honored brands.
Sources / References
Brand fundamentals (founding year, heritage level, recognition batch) follow official sources such as the MOFCOM time-honored brand list. Story and encyclopedia: