But local diners say, in some ways, new businesses that cater to migrants are a much-needed cultural exchange on a continent where there is hostility to the incoming masses from the Middle East and Africa.
Yet the fate of London's foodies captured less attention than that of the parka-clad fans who missed out on tickets to see the reunion of Oasis, a laddish rock band.
At the community canteen in the Youyi Road Subdistrict in Baoshan, diners can use their smartphones to choose dishes and pay their bills. The cost is based on the weight of the food to avoid waste.
Several diners described the experience of entering a restaurant hoping to treat themselves to a relaxing meal, then feeling guilty for taking up space, or fearful that they're being judged by everyone around them.