Shanghai currently has more than 100,000 restaurants catering to foodies and ranking first for number and density in China. It also has the largest number of shopping malls nationwide, according to data provided by the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce.

The data also showcased that the proportion of Shanghai residents who choose to eat out has reached 61 percent, far higher than the national average of 42 percent.

It has been reported that in 2019 the total number of online restaurants in Shanghai ranked first among those of the country's four first-tier cities. According to the report, Shanghai's catering industry shows "three highs" -- high per capita consumption, high taste in style and high growth rate. Among them, per capita consumption amounts of buffet, river and lake fresh food, western food, hot pot, barbecue and other categories are the highest in China.

The New York-based burger joint Shake Shack is good proof of the first-store economy – it achieved a total sale of 2,998 burgers on its opening day and turnover exceeded 300,000 yuan ($43,108).

To To Kui, a 139-year-old Chinese brand representing Cantonese cuisine decided to locate its first store in Shanghai. Since its opening, it has attracted a large number of customers who are willing to queue for about three hours to sample the food.

A view of beautiful Shanghai at night [Photo/WeChat account: scofcom]