The first time I set foot in China, I was overwhelmed by the countless street stalls. But after many trips, I realized not everything is as delicious as it looks. Here are the dishes I genuinely love and would eat again.
Quick Facts
- Ideal time: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) – pleasant weather, less rain.
- Suggested days: 7-10 days for Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu.
- Budget reference: About 500-800 CNY/day (including food, transport, sightseeing).
- Getting around: Subway is fast and cheap (3-10 CNY/ride); ride-hailing (Didi) is more convenient.
- Connectivity: Don't forget to buy a China eSIM from SimNha before your trip – I used it and it was very stable, no hassle with VPN.
Hand-Pulled Noodles – Lanzhou Lamian
The Most Lively Dish
I still remember the first time I watched the chef pull the noodles right in front of me – it was a real performance. This dish has a clear broth, thinly sliced beef, and chewy noodles. A bowl at a local eatery in Lanzhou costs only 15-20 CNY.
💡 Tip: Order "hong shao" (spicy broth) if you like spicy – they'll add fragrant chili oil.
Beijing Skewers – Chuan'r
Flavor of the Alley
Gulou area at night is a paradise for skewers. Lamb skewers (yangrou chuan) are the bestseller, 10 CNY for 4 skewers. But don't miss chicken gizzards and grilled tofu – dip them in cumin and chili powder.
⚠️ Note: Avoid stalls on Nanluoguxiang tourist street – prices are double and not as tasty. Go deep into the alleys, find a place crowded with locals.
Shanghai Pan-Fried Buns – Shengjian Bao
Far from Ordinary Dim Sum
Shengjian bao are pan-fried buns with a thicker skin and crispy bottom. The pork filling has soup inside – bite gently to avoid burning your tongue. A serving of 4 costs 12-16 CNY. The best I've ever had was near Huanghe Road Food Market.
💡 Tip: Eat with black vinegar and shredded ginger – the mild sourness balances the richness.
Pickled Chicken Feet – Feng Zhao
Addictive Snack
I used to be afraid of this dish because I thought it was weird, but after trying it at Chengdu night market, I got hooked. Chicken feet are pickled with chili, garlic, vinegar – crunchy and tangy-spicy. A bag of 5 costs about 15-20 CNY. Best enjoyed with beer.
Chinese Crepe – Jianbing
Number One Street Breakfast
Jianbing is a thin crepe with egg, sprinkled with scallions, chili sauce, crispy fried cracker (baocui), and rolled up. I usually add a sausage (5 CNY). It's filling and cheap – only 8-12 CNY. Look for carts at major intersections before 9 AM.
⚠️ Note: If you see a stall using ketchup instead of dark sauce, skip it – that's a Westernized version, not authentic.
Stinky Tofu
A Test of Courage
The smell is strong, but the taste is surprising. I once ate it in Changsha – deep-fried tofu, dipped in chili sauce and herbs. 10 CNY per box. If it's your first time, choose the fried (not soup) version and eat with pickled vegetables.
Conclusion
Chinese street food is an endless journey of discovery. Don't be afraid to try strange dishes, but stay alert about prices and hygiene. And to safely share moments online, I always use SimNha's China eSIM – just install it before, and you'll have signal as soon as you arrive, no worries at all.
