Global Major Cities Guide

Sections

1. Overview of Fine Dining in Hangzhou

Hangzhou is famous for its Hangzhou cuisine (also known as Zhejiang cuisine), which emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients and delicate flavors. Signature dishes include West Lake Fish in Vinegar Sauce, Dongpo Pork, and Longjing Shrimp. In recent years, the city has also embraced international cuisines, with Michelin-starred restaurants and luxury hotel dining experiences offering a mix of Chinese and Western fine dining.

2. Top Fine Dining Restaurants in Hangzhou

a) Jin Sha (金莎)

Location: Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake
Cuisine: Upscale Hangzhou and Cantonese cuisine
Highlights: Jin Sha is one of the most prestigious restaurants in Hangzhou, offering a refined take on traditional Hangzhou dishes. Signature dishes include Longjing Tea-Smoked Duck and Braised Pork Belly with Abalone.
Cost: Approximately ¥800–¥1,500 per person, depending on the menu and wine pairing.
Reservations: Highly recommended. You can book via the Four Seasons website, by phone, or through platforms like Dianping (China’s Yelp equivalent).
Dress Code: Smart casual to formal.
Cultural Tip: The restaurant overlooks a serene garden, so request a table with a view for a more immersive experience.

b) 28 HuBin Road (湖滨28)

Location: Hyatt Regency Hangzhou
Cuisine: Traditional Hangzhou cuisine with a modern twist
Highlights: Known for its authentic flavors and artistic presentation, this restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Signature dishes include West Lake Fish in Vinegar Sauce and Beggar’s Chicken.
Cost: Approximately ¥600–¥1,200 per person.
Reservations: Essential, especially for dinner. Book through the Hyatt Regency website or by phone.
Dress Code: Business casual.
Cultural Tip: The restaurant is known for its impeccable service. It’s polite to thank the staff with a simple “谢谢” (xièxiè, meaning "thank you").

c) Jiangnan Memory (江南忆)

Location: Near West Lake
Cuisine: Fusion of Hangzhou and contemporary Chinese cuisine
Highlights: This restaurant offers a creative take on traditional dishes, blending local ingredients with modern culinary techniques. The Longjing Tea-infused Dishes are a must-try.
Cost: Approximately ¥500–¥1,000 per person.
Reservations: Recommended, especially on weekends. Use Dianping or call directly.
Dress Code: Smart casual.
Cultural Tip: Tea culture is deeply rooted in Hangzhou. Pair your meal with a pot of Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, a local specialty.

d) The House on the Moon (月中居)

Location: Longjing Tea Plantation area
Cuisine: Farm-to-table Hangzhou cuisine
Highlights: Nestled in the tea fields, this restaurant offers a tranquil dining experience with dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Try the Tea-Smoked Chicken and Seasonal Bamboo Shoots.
Cost: Approximately ¥400–¥800 per person.
Reservations: Required. Book via phone or WeChat.
Dress Code: Casual chic.
Cultural Tip: Arrive early to explore the tea fields and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

e) Eudora Station

Location: Near West Lake
Cuisine: Western fine dining with Asian influences
Highlights: A popular spot for expatriates and travelers, Eudora Station offers a mix of European and Asian dishes. The steak and seafood platters are highly recommended.
Cost: Approximately ¥300–¥600 per person.
Reservations: Recommended for dinner. Book via phone or online.
Dress Code: Smart casual.
Cultural Tip: This is a more relaxed fine dining option, making it ideal for those who want a break from traditional Chinese cuisine.

3. Practical Details for Fine Dining in Hangzhou

a) Costs

Fine dining in Hangzhou typically ranges from ¥300 to ¥1,500 per person, depending on the restaurant and whether you opt for wine or tea pairings.
Tipping is not customary in China, as service charges are often included in the bill.

b) Reservations

Reservations are highly recommended for fine dining restaurants, especially during weekends and holidays.
Use platforms like Dianping (available in English) or call the restaurant directly. Many high-end establishments also accept reservations through hotel concierges or WeChat.

c) Dress Codes

Most fine dining restaurants in Hangzhou require smart casual attire, though some upscale venues may expect business casual or formal dress.
Avoid overly casual clothing like flip-flops, shorts, or tank tops.

d) Payment

Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, UnionPay) are widely accepted at fine dining establishments, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash (RMB) for smaller expenses.
Mobile payment apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay are extremely popular in China. If you have access to these, they are often the most convenient option.

4. Cultural and Local Considerations

a) Tea Culture

Hangzhou is the home of Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, one of China’s most famous green teas. Many fine dining restaurants incorporate tea into their dishes or offer tea pairings. Take the opportunity to learn about tea culture and etiquette.

b) Dining Etiquette

Chopsticks: Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as this resembles a funeral ritual.
Sharing: Chinese dining is communal, so dishes are often shared. If you’re dining with locals, wait for the host to start eating before you begin.
Toasting: If alcohol is served, it’s customary to toast with a polite “干杯” (gān bēi, meaning "cheers").

c) Timing

Dinner service typically starts around 6:00 PM and ends by 9:30 PM. Arrive on time, as punctuality is appreciated.

d) Language

While many fine dining establishments have English-speaking staff, it’s helpful to learn a few basic phrases:
- “Thank you” = 谢谢 (xièxiè)
- “I’d like to make a reservation” = 我想预订 (wǒ xiǎng yùdìng)

5. Conclusion

Hangzhou’s fine dining scene offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, with options ranging from authentic Hangzhou cuisine to innovative fusion dishes. By planning ahead, respecting local customs, and embracing the city’s tea culture, you’ll enjoy a truly memorable dining experience. Bon appétit—or as they say in Chinese, 慢慢吃 (màn màn chī, meaning "enjoy your meal")!