Founder Chen Lina said the international interest surged after the star was retained this year. Now, influencers with tens of millions of followers and even prominent film producers are among its clientele.

　　Today, 80 percent of Wu You Xian's daily customers are foreigners. Chen has equipped every employee with a translation device, and the shop's walls are plastered with photos of visitors from around the world.

　　"I put my heart into making everyxiaolongbao, using real ingredients and never cutting corners — that's what keeps customers coming back from all over the world," Chen said. "They call me the most affordable Michelin-starred spot in town."

　　These unassuming sidewalk eateries are taking off with international visitors through TikTok, Instagram and YouTube.

　　"We're just glad that people come to savor our Shanghai dishes," said Xue, the shift manager. "When foreign diners give us a thumbs-up, it fills us with pride."

　　Li JunfengandChen Tianyiin Shanghai contributed to this story.

　　heqi@chinadaily.com.cn