Global Major Cities Guide

Sections

Categories of Healthy Food Available in Hangzhou

Traditional Chinese Healthy Cuisine
- Focus: Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) principles often influence local cuisine, emphasizing balance and the health benefits of ingredients.
- Examples:
  - Lotus Root Soup: A light, nutritious soup often paired with goji berries or red dates.
  - Bamboo Shoots: A local specialty, low in calories and high in fiber.
  - West Lake Vinegar Fish: A lightly cooked fish dish with a sweet and sour sauce, often made with fresh local fish.
  - Douhua (Tofu Pudding): A soft tofu dish served with light soy sauce or herbs.
- Where to Find: Local restaurants like Louwailou (楼外楼) and Zhiweiguan (知味观) offer traditional dishes with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
- Focus: Hangzhou has a strong Buddhist influence, which has led to a variety of vegetarian and vegan-friendly establishments.
- Examples:
  - Temple Cuisine: Dishes made with mock meats, tofu, and fresh vegetables.
  - Vegetarian Dumplings: Filled with mushrooms, spinach, or bamboo shoots.
  - Stir-Fried Seasonal Greens: Often cooked with minimal oil and seasoning.
- Where to Find:
  - Jujingyuan Vegetarian Restaurant (聚净缘素食馆): A popular spot for plant-based meals.
  - Lingyin Temple Vegetarian Restaurant: Located near the famous Lingyin Temple, offering Buddhist-inspired vegetarian dishes.
Organic and Farm-to-Table Dining
- Focus: Restaurants that prioritize organic, locally sourced ingredients.
- Examples:
  - Salads and Grain Bowls: Featuring fresh vegetables, quinoa, and lean proteins.
  - Herbal Teas: Made with locally grown herbs like chrysanthemum or osmanthus.
- Where to Find:
  - Green Kitchen: A modern eatery offering organic and sustainable meals.
  - Farm to Table: A restaurant that emphasizes fresh, seasonal produce.
International Healthy Cuisine
- Focus: Western-style health foods, including gluten-free, keto, and low-carb options.
- Examples:
  - Smoothie Bowls: Topped with fresh fruits, nuts, and seeds.
  - Avocado Toast: Served with whole-grain bread and healthy toppings.
  - Grilled Salmon or Chicken: Paired with steamed vegetables or quinoa.
- Where to Find:
  - Element Fresh: A chain offering salads, wraps, and smoothies.
  - Moka Bros: Known for its healthy bowls and juices.
Street Food with a Healthy Twist
- Focus: While street food is often indulgent, some vendors offer lighter, healthier options.
- Examples:
  - Steamed Buns (Baozi): Filled with vegetables or lean meats.
  - Fresh Soy Milk: A nutritious and popular breakfast drink.
  - Grilled Sweet Potatoes: A naturally sweet and filling snack.
- Where to Find: Night markets like Hefang Street (河坊街) often have vendors selling healthier street food options.

Typical Costs of Healthy Dining in Hangzhou

Budget-Friendly Options:
- Street food or small local eateries: ¥10–¥30 per dish.
- Vegetarian restaurants near temples: ¥30–¥50 per meal.
Mid-Range Restaurants:
- Organic or farm-to-table dining: ¥50–¥100 per person.
- International healthy cuisine: ¥80–¥150 per person.
High-End Dining:
- Upscale restaurants like Louwailou: ¥150–¥300 per person.

Dining Procedures in Hangzhou

Ordering Food:
- Many restaurants have bilingual menus (Chinese and English), but smaller local eateries may only have Chinese menus. Use translation apps like Pleco or Google Translate if needed.
- Pointing to pictures on the menu or asking for recommendations (e.g., "有什么推荐的吗?" – "Yǒu shé me tuījiàn de ma?") can be helpful.
Payment:
- Mobile payment apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used. Cash is still accepted, but credit cards are less common in smaller establishments.
- Tipping is not customary in China.
Dietary Restrictions:
- Clearly communicate any dietary restrictions. For example, say "我不吃肉" (Wǒ bù chī ròu – "I don’t eat meat") if you’re vegetarian.
- Be aware that some dishes may include hidden ingredients like pork broth or lard, so it’s best to confirm with the staff.
Reservations:
- Popular restaurants may require reservations, especially during weekends or holidays. Use apps like Dianping (China’s Yelp equivalent) to book a table.

Local Considerations and Cultural Insights

Seasonal Eating:
- Hangzhou cuisine emphasizes seasonal ingredients. For example, lotus root is popular in autumn, while bamboo shoots are a spring delicacy. Eating seasonally is considered healthier and more flavorful.
Tea Culture:
- Hangzhou is famous for Longjing (Dragon Well) Tea, a green tea known for its health benefits. Many restaurants serve it as a complimentary beverage, and it’s a great alternative to sugary drinks.
Portion Sizes:
- Portions in Chinese restaurants are often designed for sharing. If dining alone, consider ordering smaller dishes or asking for a half portion ("半份" – "bàn fèn").
Food Safety:
- Stick to reputable restaurants and avoid raw or undercooked foods from street vendors to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Sustainability:
- Many restaurants in Hangzhou are adopting eco-friendly practices, such as using biodegradable packaging or sourcing ingredients locally. Supporting these establishments aligns with a health-conscious and environmentally friendly lifestyle.

Conclusion

Hangzhou offers a wide range of healthy dining options, from traditional Chinese dishes rooted in TCM principles to modern organic and international cuisines. By exploring the city’s vegetarian restaurants, farm-to-table eateries, and health-focused cafes, you can enjoy nutritious meals while immersing yourself in the local culture. Be mindful of seasonal ingredients, communicate dietary preferences clearly, and embrace the city’s tea culture for a truly health-conscious dining experience.