Global Major Cities Guide

Sections

1. Signature Dishes of Hangzhou

1.1. West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy (西湖醋鱼 - Xīhú Cùyú)

Description: This iconic dish is named after Hangzhou’s famous West Lake. It features a freshwater fish (usually grass carp) cooked in a sweet and sour vinegar-based sauce.
Cultural Significance: The dish symbolizes the harmony of flavors and is often associated with Hangzhou’s poetic and serene landscape.
Ingredients: Freshwater fish, Zhejiang black vinegar, sugar, ginger, and soy sauce.
Preparation: The fish is poached or steamed, then topped with a glossy sauce made from vinegar and sugar.
Where to Try:
- Lou Wai Lou (楼外楼): A historic restaurant near West Lake, famous for traditional Hangzhou dishes.
- Zhi Wei Guan (知味观): Another well-known spot for authentic local cuisine.
Price Range: 80–150 RMB depending on the restaurant and portion size.

1.2. Dongpo Pork (东坡肉 - Dōngpō Ròu)

Description: A rich and flavorful braised pork belly dish named after the famous Song Dynasty poet and statesman Su Dongpo.
Cultural Significance: Su Dongpo is said to have invented this dish during his time in Hangzhou. It represents the city’s literary and cultural heritage.
Ingredients: Pork belly, Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, sugar, and ginger.
Preparation: The pork is slow-cooked until tender, with a balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Where to Try:
- Lou Wai Lou: Known for its authentic preparation.
- Grandma’s Home (外婆家 - Wàipó Jiā): A popular chain offering affordable and delicious Hangzhou dishes.
Price Range: 40–100 RMB per serving.

1.3. Longjing Shrimp (龙井虾仁 - Lóngjǐng Xiārén)

Description: A light and elegant dish made with fresh river shrimp and infused with Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, a famous green tea from Hangzhou.
Cultural Significance: This dish highlights the city’s tea culture and its integration into local cuisine.
Ingredients: Fresh shrimp, Longjing tea leaves, egg white, and starch.
Preparation: The shrimp are stir-fried and lightly coated with a sauce made from tea-infused water.
Where to Try:
- Zhi Wei Guan: Known for its refined version of this dish.
- Louwailou: A classic choice for Hangzhou specialties.
Price Range: 80–150 RMB.

1.4. Beggar’s Chicken (叫花鸡 - Jiàohuā Jī)

Description: A whole chicken stuffed with herbs and wrapped in lotus leaves, then baked in clay.
Cultural Significance: Legend has it that a beggar invented this dish by cooking a stolen chicken in mud. It’s now a symbol of rustic ingenuity and is often served at celebratory meals.
Ingredients: Whole chicken, lotus leaves, Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, and various spices.
Preparation: The chicken is marinated, wrapped, and slow-cooked to retain its juices and aroma.
Where to Try:
- Louwailou: Offers a traditional version of this dish.
- Jinsha Restaurant (金沙厅): A high-end option at the Four Seasons Hotel.
Price Range: 150–300 RMB.

1.5. Pian Er Chuan Noodles (片儿川 - Piàn’ér Chuān)

Description: A comforting noodle soup with sliced pork, bamboo shoots, and pickled vegetables.
Cultural Significance: A beloved local breakfast or lunch dish, showcasing Hangzhou’s love for simple yet flavorful food.
Ingredients: Wheat noodles, pork, bamboo shoots, pickled mustard greens, and broth.
Preparation: The noodles are cooked in a light broth and topped with stir-fried pork and vegetables.
Where to Try:
- Kui Yuan Guan (奎元馆): A historic noodle house specializing in Pian Er Chuan.
Price Range: 20–40 RMB per bowl.

2. Local Snacks and Desserts

2.1. Hangzhou-Style Dim Sum (点心 - Diǎnxīn)

Examples:
- Lotus Root Stuffed with Glutinous Rice (藕粉 - Ǒu Fěn): Sweet and sticky, often served as a dessert.
- Steamed Buns with Pork (小笼包 - Xiǎolóngbāo): Juicy and flavorful.
Where to Try: Zhi Wei Guan or street food stalls near Hefang Street.
Price Range: 10–30 RMB per item.

2.2. West Lake Lotus Root Starch (西湖藕粉 - Xīhú Ǒu Fěn)

Description: A sweet, jelly-like dessert made from lotus root starch and flavored with osmanthus syrup.
Where to Try: Local dessert shops or tea houses around West Lake.
Price Range: 15–30 RMB.

3. Dining Customs and Etiquette in Hangzhou

Tea Culture: Hangzhou is famous for its Longjing tea. Tea is often served before or during meals. When dining, it’s polite to pour tea for others before yourself.
Sharing Dishes: Meals are typically served family-style, with shared dishes placed in the center of the table. Use serving utensils or the back of your chopsticks to take food from communal plates.
Chopstick Etiquette: Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as this resembles incense used in funerals.
Tipping: Tipping is not customary in most restaurants in China, though high-end establishments may add a service charge.
Reservations: Popular restaurants like Lou Wai Lou and Zhi Wei Guan can get busy, so it’s advisable to make reservations in advance.
Street Food: Hangzhou’s street food scene, especially around Hefang Street, is vibrant and worth exploring. Be prepared to pay in cash or via mobile payment apps like Alipay or WeChat Pay.

4. Where to Explore Hangzhou’s Food Scene

Hefang Street (河坊街): A historic pedestrian street lined with food stalls and shops selling local snacks and specialties.
West Lake Area: Many upscale restaurants with scenic views of the lake.
Wushan Night Market (吴山夜市): A bustling night market offering a variety of street food and snacks.

5. Practical Tips

Language: While many restaurants have picture menus, learning a few basic Mandarin phrases (or using a translation app) can be helpful.
Payment: Mobile payment is widely used, but cash is still accepted in most places.
Dietary Restrictions: Vegetarian options are available but may require clarification, as dishes often use meat-based broths or seasonings.

By exploring Hangzhou’s cuisine, you’ll not only enjoy delicious food but also gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich history and culture. Bon appétit (or as they say in Mandarin, 慢慢吃 - Mànmàn chī, meaning “eat slowly and enjoy”)!

Hangzhou

Local Cuisine