Where & What To Eat in China: Foodie’s Guide for Delicious Local Eats
Planning your first trip and unsure where to begin with what to eat in China?
Eating out in China and ordering food without speaking Chinese can sometimes seem challenging, especially if you prefer to explore local spots instead of touristy, more expensive restaurants.
In this blog post, I’ll help you navigate dining in China: offering tips to overcome the language barrier, the types of restaurants to look for, sharing my favorite must-try dishes, and suggesting some go-to options for when you’re unsure where to start 🍚🍜🥟
Planning a first trip to China? Check out my tips-packed China Travel Guide for first-timers! 🇨🇳
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Tips to Overcome the Language Barrier When Ordering
No matter which restaurant you choose, chances are the staff won’t speak English, or their English may not be fluent enough to describe what’s in a dish or whether it can be made without spice (which is a need for some of us).
Here are some tips to prepare yourself for the ordering adventure:
- Research Local Cuisine: Before leaving, explore the local Cuisine of the area you’re visiting. This will help you decide if you like the overall flavors and guide your food choice.
- Download Dish Pictures: Save images of dishes you might like. Then, you can show them to the restaurant server, making it easier for both of you!
- Save Dish Names in Chinese: Look up the names of Chinese dishes and their translations. Then, you can show them to the server, similar to using pictures.
- Use Translation Apps Like Pleco: Download apps like Pleco to translate Chinese and English easily.
- Don’t be scared to learn some easy Chinese words that can be useful when ordering at restaurants.
Simple & Useful Words to Learn
| Chinese Characters | Phonetic Transcription | English Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 你好 | nǐ hǎo | Hello |
| 谢谢 | xièxie | Thank you! |
| 多少钱 | duō shǎo qián? | How much does it cost? |
| 我听不懂 | wǒ tīng bù dǒng | I don’t understand |
| 我不会说中文 | Wǒ bú huì shuō zhōngwén | I don’t speak Chinese |
| 厕所在哪里 | cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ? | Where is the bathroom? |
| 不要，谢谢 | bù yào, xièxie | No, thank you |
| 有没有英文菜单？ | Yǒu méiyǒu yīngwén càidān? | Do you have an English menu? |
| 我要这个 | wǒ yào zhège | I want this one (perfect for choosing at Restaurants) |
| 我不喜欢吃辣的 | Wǒ bù xǐhuān chī là de | I don’t like spicy food |
| 水 | shuǐ | Water |
| 米饭 | mǐfàn | White Rice |
Types of Restaurants & Their Differences
In China, you’ll find different styles of restaurants, from fancy, expensive restaurants perched at the top of skyscrapers to tiny spots serving homemade baozi and dumplings.
We’re here to explore local, homemade food that’s easy on the wallet but still tasty. In this case, what’s called in Chinese “Canting” or “Fanguan”—simple, family-run restaurants—and street food stalls are the best options for us!
1. Simple Restaurant or 饭馆
In China, I usually opt for these simple restaurants for most of my meals.
I prefer to ignore online reviews and trust my instincts. You can find these places on every street and every city across China.
They typically offer a variety of dishes, often highlighting regional Cuisine without focusing on just one dish.
To help you choose, rely on a universal tip: if you see many locals eating there, it’s probably a good choice.
These restaurants often don’t have menus, but they do have pictures on the walls. Moreover, they can quickly prepare basic and simple dishes, so those images you save beforehand can be helpful!
A piece of advice: don’t be put off by the place’s appearance. These spots don’t focus much on style, but since they’re family-run, the food is usually fresh and delicious.
2. Canteens or 餐厅
In China, especially in shopping malls, you’ll find places similar to canteens, where you can choose from multiple food stalls.
These spots are usually bustling with blue-collar workers and other employees grabbing a quick lunch.
If you can take a seat at one of the many communal tables in front of the stalls (which aren’t tied to any specific vendor), these canteens offer a great way to enjoy a simple, homemade meal without spending much, and you might even get to meet some locals.
A piece of advice: don’t worry if you don’t speak the language. You can point to the food at the stalls, and the servers will understand. It’s much simpler than ordering in a restaurant.
3. Street Food Stalls
You’ll find many street food stalls in most cities, especially during breakfast and dinner.
For breakfast, these stalls often prepare “Jianbing,“ a Chinese version of the French crepe, typically filled with pickles, ham, spices, and sauces for flavor. It’s one of the most common breakfasts in China.
In the evenings, the scene shifts as these stalls start grilling spicy meat, vegetables, and fish skewers.
They’re usually surrounded by low tables and chairs where people can sit and enjoy food, offering one of the most local dining experiences.
In Xi’an, from spring to summer, these lively spots are found on nearly every corner.
4. Night Markets or 夜市
Night markets are usually the go-to choices for adventurous eaters. You’ll feel the urge to try as many things as possible here.
Most towns in China have at least a night market, often located in the older part of the city.
At these busy markets, you can find everything from delicious Chinese snacks like baozi to meat and fish skewers and even savory options like skewered salty potatoes.
There are plenty of options for those with a sweet tooth, from candied fruit skewers to traditional Chinese desserts and ice cream.
Remember that not all food stalls have stools or enough space to accommodate all customers. Night market is a great experience if you’re ready to eat while walking and exploring.
Local Cuisines & Must-Try Dishes
Nearly every region in China has its own cuisine style, each with unique flavors and must-try dishes. Here are the styles I’ve tried and some of my favorite dishes I order every time.
1. What to Eat in China: Sichuan Cuisine
Bold, spicy flavors characterize Sichuan Cuisine, thanks to the famous Sichuan peppercorn.
However, I always got non-spicy versions of everything when I visited this region. Thus, even if you don’t like spicy food, you can still visit Sichuan.
My all-time favorite Sichuan-style dish is undoubtedly the non-spicy version of the Kung Pao Chicken (宫保鸡丁, Gōng bǎo jī dīng).
This classic features diced chicken, peanuts, and chili peppers, offering a delicious blend of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors.
2. What to Eat in China: Cantonese Cuisine
Cantonese Cuisine, originating from Guangzhou and the Guangdong region, contrasts the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine.
It is characterized by its simple and natural flavors, often featuring seafood and vegetables.
If you find yourself in Guangzhou, you must try Dim Sum (点心).
I compare these small Chinese dishes to Spanish tapas, as they are served in small portions and often eaten in large quantities. They are perfect for brunch or enjoyed in tea houses.
3. What to Eat in China: Jiangsu Cuisine
Jiangsu cuisine, typical of the Jiangsu region and Shanghai, is known for its soft textures and slightly sweet flavors.
Also referred to as “Su” style, this Cuisine often features seafood and soups.
I’m sure you’ve already heard of Xiaolongbao (小笼包). If you’re in the region, it’s a must-try dish.
These steamed soup dumplings are filled with savory broth and meat; if made well, they melt in your mouth.
4. What to Eat in China: Zhejiang Cuisine
Zhe Cuisine, which originated in the Zhejiang region and is popular in cities like Hangzhou, is known for its fresh ingredients, the use of bamboo, and the emphasis on fresh fish.
In Hangzhou, you must try stir-fried Longjing Shrimp with Dragon Well Tea.
If you’re unsure about the combination of shrimp and tea, it’s worth a try. The flavor is light and delicious.
5. What to Eat in China: SShaanxi Cuisine
I’m most familiar with Shaanxi cuisine, having lived in Xi’an. It is known for its bold, earthy flavors.
In Xi’an, you’ll also notice the influence of Muslim culture, as the city was the starting point of the ancient Silk Road.
When in Xi’an, you absolutely must try Biang Biang Noodles.
These wide, thick noodles are often topped with spices and sauces, and they will satisfy you completely.
6. Guangxi Cuisine
Guangxi cuisine, typical of the southern Guangxi province and cities like Guilin, is known for its spicy, oily, and sour flavors.
Chili peppers, wheat, and rice noodles are key components of this Cuisine.
If you find yourself in the region, try Guilin rice noodles. These noodles are served with various toppings and sauces, which vary from restaurant to restaurant.
If your hotel offers a Chinese-style breakfast, you’ll see many Chinese enjoying this dish for breakfast.
Life-Saving Dishes if You Don’t Know What To Eat in China
It’s always wise to have a few go-to dishes in your back pocket when you don’t know what to eat in China. Just be aware that you can have a bowl of plain, white rice EVERYWHERE.
1. Kung Pao Chicken
Yes, kung pao chicken is a staple of Sichuan cuisine, and it can be found all over the country. It’s one of those reliable dishes that never disappoints, and it pairs perfectly with a bowl of white rice and vegetables.
2. Stir-fried Tomatoes and Scrambled Eggs
西红柿炒鸡蛋 (xī hóng shì chǎo jī dàn) is my #1 life-saving dish: it’s light and simple, and it can always be prepared quickly.
The dish combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the soft texture of scrambled eggs seasoned with salt, sugar, and sometimes green onions.
3. Pork in Sour Sauce
糖醋里脊 (táng cù lǐ jǐ) is among my all-time favorite dishes in China. It’s made of tender pork battered and deep-fried strips to create a crispy texture. Then, they are coated in a sweet and sour sauce made from sugar, vinegar, and soy sauce.
4. Noodles or Mian (面, or Miantiao 面条)
In most restaurants, noodles are always on the menu. This is a good option if you don’t know what to eat in China.
If you’re not a fan of spicy food, ask for a non-spicy version and check for a flavorful sauce to enhance the taste.
5. Vegetables
When visiting China, it’s easy to skip your veggies. But don’t worry, they’re on every menu. There are some of the most popular ones in Chinese restaurants
- 白菜 (bái cài) Chinese cabbage or bok choy
- 菠菜 (bō cài) Spinach
- 土豆 (tǔ dòu) Potato
- 胡萝卜 (hú luó bo) Carrot
- 黄瓜 (huáng guā) Cucumber
- 茄子 (qié zi) Eggplant
- 西红柿 (xī hóng shì) Tomato
FOR VEGETARIANS: Visiting China as a vegetarian or vegan can be challenging, as even vegetables are often cooked in animal-based oils. However, most vegetarian restaurants (素菜馆, Su Cai Guan) are typically near Buddhist sites or temples.
I hope this Foodie’s Guide has given you valuable tips on where and what to eat in China for the most authentic and budget-friendly experience.
Having lived in China and never had a bad meal, my first tip is to stay open-minded. The food in China is delicious across all regions. If you see locals dining at a restaurant, it’s a good sign you’ll find something tasty there, too! I hope you’ll enjoy great Chinese food 🍚🍜🥟
This blog post was all about where and what to eat in China.
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DISCLAIMER: These suggestions about where and what to eat are purely based on my experiences during my trips and are meant to provide helpful tips for your adventure. All information and instructions reflect my personal experiences and knowledge at the time of writing and may have changed since then. You must double-check all the details before your trip to ensure accuracy. The opinions and recommendations shared here are rooted in my unique journey through China.
