Global Major Cities Guide

Sections

Spring Specialties

Spring in Hangzhou is a time of renewal, and the cuisine reflects the freshness of the season.

1. West Lake Water Shield Soup (西湖莼菜汤, Xīhú Chúncài Tāng)

Cultural Significance: This dish features water shield, a unique aquatic plant harvested from West Lake. It symbolizes the connection between Hangzhou’s cuisine and its iconic natural landmarks.
Best Time to Try: Late March to May, when water shield is at its freshest.
Preparation: The soup is made with water shield, egg whites, and sometimes shredded chicken or ham, resulting in a light, slightly viscous texture.
Where to Find: Lou Wai Lou (楼外楼), a historic restaurant near West Lake, is famous for this dish.
Cost: Around 40–80 RMB per serving, depending on the restaurant.
Dining Tip: Pair it with other light spring dishes to appreciate its delicate flavor.

2. Bamboo Shoots (春笋, Chūnsǔn)

Cultural Significance: Bamboo shoots are a symbol of spring in Hangzhou and are prized for their tender texture and earthy flavor.
Best Time to Try: March to April, during the bamboo shoot harvest.
Preparation: Often stir-fried with pork or braised in soy sauce for a savory dish.
Where to Find: Zhi Wei Guan (知味观), a well-known local restaurant, serves excellent bamboo shoot dishes.
Cost: 30–60 RMB per dish.
Dining Tip: Bamboo shoots are often served as part of a multi-course meal. Be sure to savor their natural sweetness.

Summer Specialties

Summer in Hangzhou brings an abundance of fresh produce and cooling dishes.

3. Lotus Root Stuffed with Glutinous Rice (藕粉糯米, Ǒu Fěn Nuò Mǐ)

Cultural Significance: Lotus roots are harvested from West Lake and are a symbol of purity and harmony in Chinese culture.
Best Time to Try: June to August, when lotus roots are in season.
Preparation: The lotus root is stuffed with glutinous rice, steamed, and then simmered in sweet osmanthus syrup.
Where to Find: Grandma’s Home (外婆家, Wàipó Jiā), a popular chain restaurant, serves this dish.
Cost: 20–40 RMB per serving.
Dining Tip: This dish is often served as a dessert or snack. It’s best enjoyed cold on a hot summer day.

4. Beggar’s Chicken (叫花鸡, Jiào Huā Jī)

Cultural Significance: A legendary dish said to have originated in Hangzhou, it represents ingenuity and resourcefulness.
Best Time to Try: Available year-round but especially popular during summer outings and picnics.
Preparation: A whole chicken is marinated, wrapped in lotus leaves, and baked in clay, resulting in tender, aromatic meat.
Where to Find: Louwailou (楼外楼) or high-end restaurants specializing in Hangzhou cuisine.
Cost: 150–300 RMB for a whole chicken.
Dining Tip: This dish is often shared among a group. Be prepared for a dramatic presentation as the clay is cracked open at the table.

Autumn Specialties

Autumn is the harvest season, and Hangzhou’s cuisine highlights the bounty of the land.

5. West Lake Vinegar Fish (西湖醋鱼, Xīhú Cù Yú)

Cultural Significance: This dish is a tribute to West Lake and is often served during family gatherings and celebrations.
Best Time to Try: September to November, when freshwater fish are at their best.
Preparation: Fresh grass carp is poached and served with a sweet and sour vinegar-based sauce.
Where to Find: Lou Wai Lou (楼外楼) or Zhi Wei Guan (知味观).
Cost: 80–150 RMB per dish.
Dining Tip: The fish is served whole, so be prepared to navigate the bones. It’s polite to leave the head and tail intact as a sign of respect.

6. Osmanthus Cake (桂花糕, Guìhuā Gāo)

Cultural Significance: Osmanthus flowers bloom in autumn and are a symbol of prosperity and good fortune.
Best Time to Try: September to October, during the osmanthus blooming season.
Preparation: Made with glutinous rice flour and infused with osmanthus syrup for a fragrant, chewy dessert.
Where to Find: Street vendors near West Lake or traditional pastry shops like Hangzhou Wangrunxing (杭州王润兴).
Cost: 10–20 RMB per piece.
Dining Tip: Pair it with a cup of Longjing tea for a quintessential Hangzhou experience.

Winter Specialties

Winter in Hangzhou calls for hearty, warming dishes.

7. Dongpo Pork (东坡肉, Dōngpō Ròu)

Cultural Significance: Named after the famous poet Su Dongpo, this dish is a symbol of Hangzhou’s literary and culinary heritage.
Best Time to Try: November to February, as it’s a warming dish perfect for cold weather.
Preparation: Pork belly is braised in soy sauce, sugar, and Shaoxing wine until it’s tender and caramelized.
Where to Find: Lou Wai Lou (楼外楼) or Grandma’s Home (外婆家).
Cost: 50–100 RMB per serving.
Dining Tip: This dish is rich and flavorful, so it’s best enjoyed with plain rice to balance the flavors.

8. Longjing Tea Shrimp (龙井虾仁, Lóngjǐng Xiārén)

Cultural Significance: This dish combines Hangzhou’s famous Longjing tea with fresh river shrimp, showcasing the city’s culinary creativity.
Best Time to Try: December to February, when shrimp are in season.
Preparation: Fresh shrimp are stir-fried with Longjing tea leaves, creating a light, aromatic dish.
Where to Find: Zhi Wei Guan (知味观) or upscale restaurants near West Lake.
Cost: 80–150 RMB per dish.
Dining Tip: This dish is delicate, so avoid overpowering it with strong-flavored side dishes.

Local Dining Customs and Etiquette

Tea Culture: Hangzhou is famous for Longjing (Dragon Well) tea. It’s customary to enjoy a cup of tea before or after a meal. Many restaurants offer tea as part of the dining experience.
Sharing Dishes: Meals are typically served family-style, with dishes placed in the center of the table for everyone to share. Use the communal serving utensils provided.
Chopstick Etiquette: Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as this resembles incense used in funerals.
Reservations: Popular restaurants like Lou Wai Lou can get crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. Make reservations in advance.
Cashless Payments: Many restaurants accept mobile payments like Alipay or WeChat Pay. Carry some cash if you’re visiting smaller establishments.

By exploring these seasonal specialties, you’ll not only enjoy the flavors of Hangzhou but also gain a deeper appreciation for its culture and traditions. Bon appétit! (慢慢吃, màn màn chī!)

Hangzhou

Seasonal Specialties