Global Major Cities Guide

Sections

1. Best Restaurants and Dining Spots with Scenic Views

a. He Long Park Restaurant (贺龙公园餐厅)

Location: Near the summit of Tianzi Mountain, within Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.
View: Offers panoramic views of the Tianzi Mountain peaks and the surrounding forested valleys.
Cuisine: Traditional Hunan cuisine, known for its bold, spicy flavors. Popular dishes include spicy stir-fried pork, steamed fish with chili, and local wild vegetables.
Approximate Cost: ¥80–150 per person.
Reservation: Reservations are not always required, but it’s recommended during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn). You can ask your hotel or guide to assist with booking.
Tips: Arrive early to secure a table by the window. Be prepared for simpler service, as the focus is on the view and the food.

b. Yun Tian Ge (云天阁)

Location: Near the top of the Bailong Elevator, overlooking the Avatar Hallelujah Mountains.
View: Spectacular views of the sandstone pillars and the lush forest below.
Cuisine: A mix of Hunan and local Tujia ethnic dishes. Try the Tujia-style bacon, sour fish soup, and sticky rice cakes.
Approximate Cost: ¥100–200 per person.
Reservation: Reservations are highly recommended, especially for window seats. Call ahead or book through your hotel.
Tips: Visit during sunset for the most magical views. The restaurant can get crowded, so plan your visit during off-peak hours if possible.

c. Xiangxi Impression Restaurant (湘西印象餐厅)

Location: Wulingyuan Scenic Area, near the entrance to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.
View: Overlooks the lush greenery and rolling hills of the Wulingyuan area.
Cuisine: Hunan and Tujia fusion cuisine. Signature dishes include Tujia-style hotpot, pickled chili fish, and stir-fried mountain mushrooms.
Approximate Cost: ¥120–250 per person.
Reservation: Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner. Many hotels can assist with booking.
Tips: This is a great spot for group dining. The restaurant often features live performances of Tujia music and dance.

d. Tianmen Mountain Restaurant (天门山餐厅)

Location: Near the summit of Tianmen Mountain, accessible via the Tianmen Mountain Cableway.
View: Stunning views of the famous Tianmen Cave (Heaven’s Gate) and the winding Tongtian Avenue (99 Bends Road).
Cuisine: Simple Chinese dishes, including noodles, dumplings, and stir-fried vegetables. The focus here is more on the view than gourmet dining.
Approximate Cost: ¥50–100 per person.
Reservation: No reservations needed, but seating is limited during peak hours.
Tips: Combine your meal with a visit to the glass skywalk for an unforgettable experience.

e. Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge Café

Location: At the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge.
View: Overlooks the dramatic canyon and the world-famous glass bridge.
Cuisine: Light snacks, coffee, and tea. Perfect for a quick break while enjoying the view.
Approximate Cost: ¥30–80 per person.
Reservation: No reservations required.
Tips: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos.

2. Types of Cuisine Offered

Zhangjiajie’s dining scene is heavily influenced by Hunan cuisine, which is known for its bold, spicy, and sour flavors. Additionally, the local Tujia ethnic group contributes unique dishes to the region’s culinary offerings. Here are some common dishes to try:

Hunan Cuisine: Spicy stir-fried pork, steamed fish with chopped chili, and spicy tofu.
Tujia Dishes: Tujia-style bacon, sour fish soup, and sticky rice cakes.
Local Specialties: Wild mountain vegetables, bamboo shoots, and handmade noodles.

3. Approximate Costs

Budget Dining: ¥30–80 per person (street food or small local eateries).
Mid-Range Dining: ¥80–200 per person (restaurants with scenic views).
High-End Dining: ¥200–400 per person (luxury dining experiences, often in hotels or upscale restaurants).

4. Reservation Procedures

Phone Reservations: Most restaurants accept phone reservations. If you don’t speak Mandarin, ask your hotel or guide to assist.
Hotel Concierge: Many hotels in Zhangjiajie offer concierge services to help guests book restaurants.
Online Platforms: Some restaurants may be listed on Chinese apps like Dianping (similar to Yelp). However, these apps are primarily in Chinese, so assistance may be needed.

5. Local Considerations and Tips

Peak Seasons: Zhangjiajie is busiest during Chinese public holidays (e.g., Golden Week in October, Chinese New Year). Make reservations well in advance during these times.
Weather: The weather in Zhangjiajie can be unpredictable, especially in the mountains. Bring a light jacket or umbrella if dining outdoors or near open windows.
Cash vs. Digital Payment: Many restaurants accept WeChat Pay and Alipay, but smaller establishments may only accept cash. Carry some Chinese yuan (RMB) with you.
Dietary Restrictions: Hunan cuisine is spicy, so if you prefer milder flavors, ask for “less spicy” (少辣, shǎo là) or “no spice” (不辣, bù là).
Timing: For the best views, plan your meals around sunrise, sunset, or clear weather days. Check the weather forecast before heading out.
Transportation: Many scenic restaurants are located within or near the national parks. Ensure you have transportation arranged, as public transport may not be available late in the evening.

6. Additional Recommendations

Combine Dining with Sightseeing: Many restaurants are located near major attractions like Tianzi Mountain, Tianmen Mountain, and the Glass Bridge. Plan your meals as part of your sightseeing itinerary.
Cultural Etiquette: In Chinese culture, sharing dishes is common. Order a variety of dishes to share with your group for a more authentic experience.
Photography: Bring a good camera or smartphone to capture the stunning views. Many restaurants allow photography, but be mindful of other diners.

Dining with a view in Zhangjiajie is an unforgettable experience that combines the region’s natural beauty with its rich culinary traditions. By planning ahead and considering the tips above, you’ll be able to enjoy a seamless and memorable dining adventure. Safe travels and bon appétit!

Zhangjiajie

Dining with a View