China has one of the world’s most diverse and flavorful cuisines. From spicy Sichuan dishes to sweet and savory Cantonese, every region has something unique. Whether you’re exploring street food or sitting down at a fancy restaurant, the food culture here is a must-experience part of your trip.
Traditional Dishes You Must Try
Peking Duck (北京烤鸭)
Peking Duck is famous for its crispy skin and tender meat. It’s roasted to perfection and typically served with pancakes, hoisin sauce, and sliced scallions. Look for this dish at a specialty restaurant in Beijing for the best experience.
Mapo Tofu (麻婆豆腐)
This popular Sichuan dish is for those who love spicy food! The tofu is cooked in a bright red sauce made from fermented bean paste and chili oil. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect when paired with rice.
Dim Sum (点心)
Dim sum is a collection of small bite-sized dishes that are often served in steaming bamboo baskets. You’ll find dumplings, buns, and other tasty items here. This Cantonese tradition is best enjoyed at restaurants that specialize in creating a wide variety of these mini dishes.
Kong Pao Chicken (宫保鸡丁)
This is a classic Sichuan stir-fry featuring chicken, peanuts, and vegetables. It’s a mix of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors that go great with rice. It’s widely available in many Chinese eateries.
Dumplings (饺子)
Dumplings are another must-try. They’re stuffed with a variety of fillings, like pork, beef, vegetables, or shrimp, and you can find them either steamed or pan-fried. The best places to eat dumplings are smaller, family-operated shops.
Famous Street Foods
Jianbing (煎饼)
Jianbing is a Chinese-style crepe, often eaten for breakfast. It’s an eggy pancake filled with various toppings like fried crackers, chili sauce, and cilantro. You’ll find this sold by street vendors in cities all around China.
Chuan (串)
Chuan (skewers) are one of the most popular street foods, especially in northern China. Various meats and vegetables are grilled over an open flame and seasoned with spices. It’s quick, cheap, and delicious.
Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐)
This one is not for the faint-hearted. Stinky tofu lives up to its name with a pungent aroma, but once you get past the smell, the taste is surprisingly mild. Try it deep-fried from a street vendor for the best experience.
Xiaolongbao (小笼包)
These soup dumplings are a Shanghainese specialty. Filled with either pork or a mix of meat and soup, the key is to eat them carefully to avoid getting burned. You’ll find the best ones in local restaurants or night markets.
Rou Jia Mo (肉夹馍)
Often referred to as a Chinese hamburger, Rou Jia Mo consists of shredded pork stuffed into a flatbread. The bread is crispy on the outside but soft inside, and it soaks up the savory juices from the meat. These are especially popular in Xi’an.
Must-Visit Restaurants in China
Quanjude (全聚德) – Beijing
Quanjude is one of the best and most well-known places to try Peking Duck. It’s been serving this iconic dish since 1864 and remains a favorite for both locals and tourists. Book ahead, as it gets busy.
Din Tai Fung (鼎泰豐) – Shanghai
Though Din Tai Fung is a global chain, its origins in Taiwan make it a respected restaurant for dumplings and soup buns. The Shanghai branch is famous for its Xiaolongbao, and all dishes are made using traditional techniques.
Haidilao Hot Pot (海底捞火锅)
If you want to try hot pot, Haidilao is a modern and customer-friendly chain. You’ll get your broth boiling at the table, and you can pick from a wide variety of meats, vegetables, and noodles to cook right at your seat. Service here is famously attentive.
Shunfeng 123 (顺风123) – Guangzhou
Shunfeng 123 specializes in Cantonese cuisine, focusing on seafood. Its dishes are fresh, expertly made, and showcase the region’s flair for seasoning without overwhelming the ingredients. Be sure to try the roasted goose or steamed fish.
Zhang Mama (张妈妈) – Chengdu
If you’re in Chengdu and want a true Sichuan experience, head over to Zhang Mama. This small, local restaurant is extremely popular with both locals and expats. The Mapo Tofu and spicy beef noodles are especially famous here.
Tips for Finding Authentic Cuisine
Go Where the Locals Eat
The best way to find authentic Chinese food is to go where the locals eat. Avoid the overly touristy places and stick to crowded restaurants that seem to be filled with locals, as they usually know the best spots for good food.
Ask for Recommendations
One of the best ways to discover great food is to ask locals. If you’re staying in an Airbnb, ask your host where they eat. If you’re in a hotel, ask the concierge to point out some local favorites.
Explore Night Markets
Night markets are a great place to try a variety of street foods in one place. These markets come alive in the evening, and you’ll find all the local specialties right there. Take your time, wander around, and sample as much as you can.
Don’t Be Afraid to Try Something New
Some dishes or street foods might seem intimidating at first, but trust me, they’re worth a try. Give it a go! You might discover your new favorite snack or meal.
Bonus Tip: Know Basic Mandarin Food Phrases
It’s helpful to learn a few Mandarin phrases to order food or ask for recommendations. Simple phrases like “bù là” (不辣) for “not spicy” or “mài dān” (买单) for “check, please” will make your dining experience much smoother.
Next time you’re in China, don’t hesitate to embark on a culinary journey. The food is diverse, flavorful, and always an adventure. Just follow the tips above, and you’ll be eating like a local in no time!
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