Guilin

Popular Street Food Items in Guilin

1. Guilin Rice Noodles (桂林米粉, Guìlín Mǐfěn)

   • Ingredients: Fresh rice noodles, pickled vegetables, peanuts, green onions, chili sauce, and a savory broth made from pork or beef bones.
   • Preparation: The rice noodles are boiled and served in a bowl with a small amount of broth. Toppings like pickled vegetables, peanuts, and chili sauce are added for flavor. Some vendors also offer braised meat or crispy pork skin as an optional topping.
   • Typical Cost: Around 5–15 RMB per bowl, depending on the portion size and toppings.
   • Where to Find: Guilin Rice Noodles are ubiquitous and can be found at street stalls, small eateries, and night markets throughout the city. Popular spots include Zhongshan Road and the Zhengyang Pedestrian Street.
   • Tips: Locals often customize their noodles with extra chili or vinegar, which is usually available on the table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the condiments!

2. Luo Si Fen (螺蛳粉, Luó Sī Fěn)

   • Ingredients: Rice noodles, river snail broth, pickled bamboo shoots, tofu skin, peanuts, and chili oil.
   • Preparation: The dish is prepared by simmering rice noodles in a tangy and spicy broth made from river snails and herbs. It is then topped with a variety of crunchy and savory ingredients.
   • Typical Cost: 10–20 RMB per bowl.
   • Where to Find: While more common in nearby Liuzhou, you can find this dish in Guilin’s night markets and specialty noodle shops.
   • Tips: The broth has a strong, pungent aroma due to the fermented bamboo shoots. If you’re new to it, start with a small portion to see if you enjoy the flavor.

3. Stuffed Snails (酿田螺, Niàng Tiánluó)

   • Ingredients: River snails, minced pork, garlic, ginger, and spices.
   • Preparation: The snails are cleaned thoroughly, and their shells are stuffed with a mixture of minced pork, garlic, and spices. They are then stir-fried with chili and herbs.
   • Typical Cost: 20–40 RMB per plate.
   • Where to Find: Look for this dish at night markets or small family-run restaurants specializing in local cuisine.
   • Tips: Eating stuffed snails can be a bit tricky. Use a toothpick to extract the filling, and don’t forget to savor the flavorful sauce.

4. Fried Li River Fish (漓江烤鱼, Líjiāng Kǎoyú)

   • Ingredients: Fresh fish from the Li River, chili, garlic, and local spices.
   • Preparation: The fish is marinated with spices and grilled over charcoal until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
   • Typical Cost: 30–60 RMB, depending on the size of the fish.
   • Where to Find: Vendors near the Li River or at night markets often sell this dish. The Guilin Night Market is a great place to try it.
   • Tips: Ask for a less spicy version if you’re not accustomed to heat, as the marinade can be quite fiery.

5. Osmanthus Rice Cake (桂花糕, Guìhuā Gāo)

   • Ingredients: Glutinous rice flour, sugar, and osmanthus flowers.
   • Preparation: The rice flour is mixed with sugar and osmanthus flowers, then steamed to create a soft, fragrant cake.
   • Typical Cost: 5–10 RMB per piece.
   • Where to Find: Street vendors near tourist attractions like Elephant Trunk Hill or Seven Star Park often sell this dessert.
   • Tips: This is a great snack to take on the go. It’s mildly sweet and pairs well with tea.

6. Fried Taro Balls (炸芋头丸, Zhà Yùtóu Wán)

   • Ingredients: Taro, sugar, and sometimes sesame seeds.
   • Preparation: Mashed taro is shaped into small balls, coated in a light batter, and deep-fried until golden brown.
   • Typical Cost: 5–10 RMB for a small bag.
   • Where to Find: Night markets and street vendors throughout Guilin.
   • Tips: These are best enjoyed fresh and hot, as they lose their crispiness when cooled.

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Where to Find Street Food in Guilin

1. Zhengyang Pedestrian Street (正阳步行街)

   • A bustling area filled with street food vendors, small restaurants, and souvenir shops. It’s a great place to sample a variety of local snacks in one location.

2. Guilin Night Market (桂林夜市)

   • Located near Zhongshan Middle Road, this market comes alive in the evening with vendors selling everything from grilled seafood to sweet treats.

3. Xicheng Pedestrian Street (西城步行街)

   • Another popular spot for street food, offering a mix of traditional Guilin snacks and modern Chinese street food.

4. Local Neighborhood Markets

   • Smaller, less touristy markets in residential areas often have hidden gems. These are great for a more authentic experience and lower prices.

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Cultural and Practical Tips for Enjoying Street Food in Guilin

1. Hygiene: While most street food vendors in Guilin maintain good hygiene, it’s always a good idea to choose stalls with a high turnover of customers, as this indicates fresh ingredients.

2. Cash is King: Many street vendors only accept cash or mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay. Make sure to carry small denominations of cash if you don’t have access to mobile payment options.

3. Spice Levels: Guilin cuisine often incorporates chili and spices. If you’re not accustomed to spicy food, ask for “less spicy” (少辣, shǎo là) or “no spice” (不辣, bù là).

4. Sharing is Common: Many street food items are served in small portions, making them perfect for sharing. This allows you to try a wider variety of dishes.

5. Be Adventurous: Some dishes, like stuffed snails or river snail noodles, may seem unusual at first, but they are beloved by locals and worth trying for an authentic experience.

6. Timing: Street food is most vibrant in the evenings, especially at night markets. Plan your visit after 6 PM for the best selection.

7. Respect Local Customs: When eating at a street stall, it’s polite to return your bowl or plate to the vendor after finishing your meal. This small gesture is appreciated.

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Guilin’s street food scene is a delightful blend of bold flavors, unique ingredients, and cultural traditions. By exploring the city’s vibrant markets and food stalls, you’ll not only satisfy your taste buds but also gain a deeper appreciation for the local way of life. Enjoy your culinary adventure in Guilin!