Hangzhou

Comprehensive Guide to Cuisine and Dining in Hangzhou, China

Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province, is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, which reflects the city’s historical significance, natural beauty, and cultural refinement. Hangzhou cuisine, a branch of Zhejiang cuisine, is known for its delicate flavors, fresh ingredients, and artistic presentation. Dining in Hangzhou is not just about eating; it’s an experience that connects you to the city’s history, traditions, and way of life.

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1. Local Specialties and Popular Dishes

Hangzhou cuisine emphasizes seasonal ingredients, light seasoning, and a balance of sweet and savory flavors. Below are some must-try dishes:

Signature Dishes

1. West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy (西湖醋鱼, Xīhú Cùyú)

   • A famous dish made with fresh fish from West Lake, cooked in a sweet and sour vinegar-based sauce. The fish is tender, and the dish is a perfect representation of Hangzhou’s culinary style.
   • Cultural Note: This dish is often associated with Hangzhou’s poetic and romantic culture, as West Lake is a symbol of the city.

2. Dongpo Pork (东坡肉, Dōngpō Ròu)

   • Named after the famous poet Su Dongpo, this dish features braised pork belly cooked in soy sauce, sugar, and wine until it becomes tender and flavorful. It’s rich and indulgent.
   • Cultural Note: Su Dongpo was a historical figure who lived in Hangzhou, and this dish reflects his legacy.

3. Longjing Shrimp (龙井虾仁, Lóngjǐng Xiārén)

   • Fresh river shrimp stir-fried with Longjing (Dragon Well) tea leaves, a famous green tea from Hangzhou. The dish is light, aromatic, and uniquely Hangzhou.
   • Cultural Note: Longjing tea is a symbol of Hangzhou’s tea culture, and this dish combines culinary and tea traditions.

4. Beggar’s Chicken (叫花鸡, Jiàohuā Jī)

   • A whole chicken marinated, wrapped in lotus leaves, and baked in clay. The result is tender, flavorful meat with a unique aroma.
   • Cultural Note: The dish has a legendary origin story tied to a beggar who created it, symbolizing ingenuity and resourcefulness.

5. Lotus Root Stuffed with Glutinous Rice (藕粉, Ǒu Fěn)

   • A sweet dessert made by stuffing lotus root with glutinous rice, then simmering it in syrup. It’s a refreshing and healthy treat.

Snacks and Street Food

• Hangzhou Xiaolongbao (小笼包): Steamed soup dumplings with a thin skin and juicy filling.
• Scallion Pancakes (葱油饼, Cōngyóu Bǐng): Crispy, flaky pancakes with a savory scallion filling.
• West Lake Lotus Root Starch Soup (西湖藕粉, Xīhú Ǒu Fěn): A sweet, jelly-like dessert made from lotus root starch.

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2. Popular Dining Areas and Recommended Restaurants

Dining Areas

1. Hefang Street (河坊街)

   • A historic pedestrian street lined with traditional restaurants, tea houses, and street food vendors. It’s a great place to sample local snacks and experience Hangzhou’s old-world charm.

2. Hubin Yintai (湖滨银泰)

   • A modern shopping and dining area near West Lake, offering a mix of upscale restaurants and casual eateries.

3. Wushan Night Market (吴山夜市)

   • A bustling night market where you can find a variety of street food, from skewers to dumplings.

4. Longjing Tea Village (龙井茶村)

   • Located in the hills near West Lake, this area is perfect for enjoying farm-to-table meals featuring Longjing tea and other local ingredients.

Recommended Restaurants

1. Lou Wai Lou (楼外楼)

   • One of Hangzhou’s oldest and most famous restaurants, located near West Lake. It’s known for serving authentic Hangzhou dishes like West Lake Fish and Dongpo Pork.
   • Price Range: ¥200–¥400 per person.

2. Zhi Wei Guan (知味观)

   • A well-known chain specializing in Hangzhou snacks and traditional dishes. It’s a great place to try a variety of local flavors.
   • Price Range: ¥50–¥150 per person.

3. Jin Sha (金沙)

   • A high-end restaurant located in the Four Seasons Hotel, offering refined Hangzhou cuisine in a luxurious setting.
   • Price Range: ¥500+ per person.

4. Grandma’s Home (外婆家, Wàipó Jiā)

   • A popular chain offering affordable and delicious Hangzhou-style home-cooked dishes.
   • Price Range: ¥50–¥100 per person.

5. Green Tea Restaurant (绿茶餐厅, Lǜchá Cāntīng)

   • A trendy restaurant serving creative Hangzhou dishes with a modern twist.
   • Price Range: ¥50–¥150 per person.

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3. Dining Etiquette in Hangzhou

Understanding Chinese dining etiquette will enhance your experience and help you avoid cultural faux pas:

1. Chopstick Etiquette

   • Do not stick chopsticks upright into a bowl of rice, as it resembles incense used in funerals.
   • Avoid pointing chopsticks at others or using them to gesture.

2. Sharing Dishes

   • Meals are typically served family-style, with shared dishes placed in the center of the table. Use serving spoons or chopsticks to take food from shared plates.

3. Tea Culture

   • Tea is an integral part of dining in Hangzhou. When someone pours tea for you, tap the table with your fingers as a gesture of thanks.

4. Pace of Eating

   • Meals are meant to be enjoyed leisurely. Take your time to savor the food and engage in conversation.

5. Paying the Bill

   • It’s common for the host to pay the bill. If you’re dining with locals, offer to pay, but don’t insist too much if they decline.

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4. Cost Ranges for Dining Options

• Street Food and Snacks: ¥10–¥50 per item

  • Examples: Scallion pancakes, dumplings, and skewers.

• Casual Restaurants: ¥50–¥150 per person

  • Examples: Grandma’s Home, Green Tea Restaurant.

• Mid-Range Restaurants: ¥150–¥300 per person

  • Examples: Zhi Wei Guan, restaurants in Longjing Tea Village.

• Fine Dining: ¥300–¥800+ per person

  • Examples: Lou Wai Lou, Jin Sha.

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5. Cultural and Practical Considerations

1. Seasonal Ingredients

   • Hangzhou cuisine emphasizes seasonality. For example, bamboo shoots are a spring delicacy, while lotus root is popular in summer and autumn.

2. Language Barrier

   • Many local restaurants may not have English menus. Consider using a translation app or asking for recommendations from hotel staff.

3. Cash vs. Mobile Payment

   • Mobile payment apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used. However, some smaller vendors may only accept cash.

4. Vegetarian Options

   • While Hangzhou cuisine is not traditionally vegetarian, many dishes can be adapted. Look for Buddhist vegetarian restaurants for more options.

5. Tea Pairing

   • Hangzhou is famous for its tea culture. Pair your meal with a pot of Longjing tea for an authentic experience.

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Conclusion

Dining in Hangzhou is a journey through the city’s history, culture, and natural beauty. From savoring iconic dishes like West Lake Fish to exploring bustling food streets like Hefang Street, you’ll find a wide range of culinary experiences to suit every budget and preference. By understanding local dining etiquette and embracing the city’s tea culture, you’ll not only enjoy delicious food but also gain a deeper appreciation for Hangzhou’s rich heritage.