1. What are some must-try local dishes in Suzhou?
Some must-try local dishes in Suzhou include:1. Sweet and Sour Mandarin Fish (Tian Shan Yu)
2. Braised Crab with Vinegar and Ginger (Xie Huanggu)
3. Stewed Rice Wine Eel (Drunken Eel) (Zui Xian Chou Dou Fu)
4. Fried Shrimp with Sticky Rice Cake (Ma Yu Xia Ren Gao)
5. Steamed Salted Pork Belly Bun (Dao Le Zhi Rou Bao)
6. Stuffed Duck Wrapped in Lotus Leaves (Qu Lian Ya)
7. Suzhou-style Soup Dumplings (Suan Tang Long)
8. Pan-Fried Buns with Minced Pork and Soup Filling (Huluobu Guozi)
9. Braised Beef Noodles with Soybean Paste Sauce (Hong Shi Niurou Mien)
10. Dongpo Pork Belly (Dongpo Rou).
2. Is it safe to drink tap water in Suzhou?
It is not recommended to drink tap water in Suzhou, as the quality of the city’s tap water may vary and is not always safe for consumption. It is best to stick to bottled or boiled water during your stay in Suzhou.
2. Where can I find the best street food in Suzhou?
Some popular areas for street food in Suzhou include Shiquan Street, Guanqian Street, Pingjiang Road, and Lingering Garden. These areas have a variety of food stalls and vendors selling traditional snacks and dishes. You can also visit local night markets such as Mudu Zhuilan Food Street or Taihu Lake Water Town Food Street for even more options.
3. Is there a popular night market in Suzhou for trying local snacks?
Yes, there are several popular night markets in Suzhou where you can try local snacks. Some of the most popular ones include Pingjiang Lu Night Market, Shantang Street Night Market, and Panmen Gate Night Market. These night markets offer a wide variety of local snacks such as steamed buns, dumplings, noodles, skewers, and sweet treats like tang yuan (glutinous rice balls) and tofu pudding.
4. Can you recommend any restaurants that specialize in traditional Suzhou cuisine?
Some restaurants that specialize in traditional Suzhou cuisine include:1. Songhelou Restaurant: This restaurant has been serving authentic Suzhou dishes for over 200 years and is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
2. Wangshunlou Restaurant: Known for its delicate flavors and exquisite presentation, this restaurant specializes in Huaiyang cuisine, which is a branch of Suzhou cuisine.
3. Jinji Lake Shangri-La Hotel, Suzhou: This five-star hotel offers several restaurants that serve traditional Suzhou dishes, including Wen Garden Chinese Restaurant and Wu Jiang Court.
4. Xian Qiao Taihu Lake Branch: This restaurant is located by the tranquil Taihu Lake and serves fresh seafood dishes prepared using traditional Suzhou cooking techniques.
5. Deyuelou Restaurant: With over 100 years of history, this restaurant serves a variety of classic Suzhou dishes, such as braised pork belly and sweet and sour Mandarin fish.
6. Ba Si Ren Jia (Eight Ultimate Senses): This restaurant offers a modern twist on traditional Suzhou cuisine with creative dishes made with fresh and seasonal ingredients.
7. Fanglian Mansion: Situated in an ancient mansion dating back to the Ming Dynasty, this restaurant specializes in imperial-style Huaiyang cuisine.
8.Veranda Bar & Grill at InterContinental Suzhou: Located on the top floor of this luxury hotel, Veranda Bar & Grill offers stunning views of the city while serving sophisticated interpretations of local Suzhou dishes.
9. Novel Garden Restaurant at Pan Pacific Hotel: Nestled within a courtyard garden, this restaurant offers an elegant setting to enjoy traditional Suzhou dishes made with high-quality ingredients.
10. Harizhu Restaurant: Known for its stylish decor and attentive service, this restaurant serves a mix of refined fusion dishes and authentic Suzhou specialties.
5. Are there any unique dining experiences, such as dining on a boat or in a garden, available in Suzhou?
Yes, there are several unique dining experiences available in Suzhou, such as:
1. Dining on a boat: There are many restaurants and cafes located on boats that offer scenic views of the canals and lakes in Suzhou while you enjoy your meal.
2. Garden dining: Some restaurants in Suzhou are set within traditional Chinese gardens, providing a peaceful and beautiful atmosphere to dine in.
3. Moonlight Night Cruise and Dinner: This experience includes a night cruise on the Grand Canal of Suzhou with dinner served onboard.
4. Floating Restaurant at Jinji Lake: The Jinji Lake has floating restaurants where you can dine while enjoying the lake view.
5. Terrace dining overlooking Pingjiang Road: Pingjiang Road is a popular tourist spot lined with traditional buildings. Some restaurants offer terrace or rooftop dining options with views of this charming street.
6. Treetop dining at Taihu Yuyang Park: The Taihu Yuyang Park features tree houses where you can enjoy a unique dining experience surrounded by nature.
7. Themed restaurant experiences: There are also various themed restaurants in Suzhou, such as a medieval castle-themed restaurant or a ship-shaped restaurant, that provide a fun and unique dining experience for guests.
6. What is the typical price range for a meal at a local restaurant in Suzhou?
The typical price range for a meal at a local restaurant in Suzhou is between 30-50 RMB ($4.40-$7.30 USD). However, prices may vary depending on the type of restaurant and the dish chosen. High-end restaurants can have prices upwards of 100 RMB ($14.60 USD) per meal.
7. Are there any vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Suzhou?
Yes, there are several vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Suzhou. Some popular options include:– Vegetarian Lifestyle: This restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian dishes, including traditional Chinese dishes as well as international options.
– Green Vegetarian Restaurant: This all-vegetarian restaurant serves up creative and healthy plant-based dishes.
– Moon’s Cafe: A cozy cafe that serves organic vegetarian food and fresh juices.
– Jujum Vegetarian Fine Dining: A highly rated vegetarian restaurant offering a mix of Chinese and Western style dishes.
– Zenxiang Vegetarian Restaurant: A popular spot for traditional Buddhist-style vegetarian cuisine.
8. Is it common to share dishes at Chinese restaurants in Suzhou?
Yes, it is common to share dishes at Chinese restaurants in Suzhou. In fact, sharing dishes is a common practice in most Chinese restaurants and is seen as a way to promote a sense of communality and inclusiveness among diners. Additionally, Chinese cuisine typically consists of multiple smaller dishes served family-style, so sharing allows for sampling a wider variety of flavors and dishes.
9. Are there any international food options, such as Indian or Italian, available in Suzhou?
Yes, there are some international food options available in Suzhou. Popular Indian restaurants in Suzhou include Namaste India and Ganesh Bar & Restaurant. As for Italian cuisine, popular options include Da Marco Italian Restaurant and SuBito Italian Restaurant. There are also other international options such as Japanese, Korean, French, and American restaurants available in Suzhou.
10. Do most restaurants accept credit cards, or is cash preferred?
It depends on the restaurant. In big cities, most restaurants will accept credit cards, but some smaller establishments or local eateries may prefer cash. It’s always best to check with the restaurant beforehand or bring cash just in case.
11. Which areas of Suzhou are known for their food and dining scene?
Some of the areas in Suzhou known for their food and dining scene are:
– Pingjiang Road: This ancient street is lined with restaurants serving traditional Suzhou cuisine as well as international dishes. It also has a lively night market.
– Guanqian Street: This pedestrian shopping street is popular for its variety of local snacks, street food, and traditional Suzhou dishes.
– Shantang Street: This charming riverside area is famous for its local delicacies such as boiled fish in soy sauce, braised pig trotters, and steamed buns.
– Panmen Scenic Area: This scenic spot not only offers great views but also features many restaurants serving authentic Suzhou cuisine.
– Tiancizhuang Local Food Street: Located near the Taihu Lake, this street has a wide selection of local specialties including freshwater fish dishes.
– Suzhou Industrial Park (SIP): The expat community in SIP has led to the development of many international restaurants offering a diverse range of cuisines.
12. Can you recommend any local markets where I can buy fresh produce and ingredients to cook with?
Some potential local markets to consider are: 1. Farmers Markets: Usually held on weekends, farmers markets offer a variety of fresh produce from local farms. You can find vegetables, fruits, herbs, flowers, and even locally made products like honey, jams, and baked goods. Some popular farmers markets in Toronto include St. Lawrence Market, Evergreen Brick Works Farmers Market, and The Stop’s Farmer Market at Wychwood Barns.
2. Kensington Market: This vibrant neighborhood is home to an array of specialty food shops offering a diverse range of ingredients from different cultures. Wander through the market and you’ll find fresh produce stands alongside spice shops, cheese stores, and more.
3. Chinatown: Toronto’s Chinatown is known for its vast selection of fresh produce at affordable prices. There are numerous grocery stores throughout the area where you can find a wide variety of vegetables, fruits, seafood, and other ingredients commonly used in Asian cuisine.
4. Little Italy: This neighborhood is home to many small independent grocery stores selling fresh and imported Italian products like meats, cheeses, breads, olives, vegetables and fruits.
5. Public Farmers’ Market at Nathan Phillips Square: Held every Wednesday during the summer months (May-October), this outdoor market offers vendors selling a variety of fresh produce as well as prepared foods from local restaurants.
6. Fresh City Farms: This urban farm operates several farm stands throughout the city where you can purchase seasonal organic produce grown locally.
7. Fiesta Farms: This independent supermarket has been serving the community since 1957 with a selection of fresh produce sourced from local farms as well as international products.
8. The Sweet Potato: This family-run store specializes in locally sourced organic produce and has two locations in Toronto (Dundas West and Guelph Street).
9. Independent Butcher Shops: For high-quality meat options (including organic and grass-fed), check out independent butcher shops like Sanagan’s Meat Locker, Rowe Farms, and The Healthy Butcher.
10. Seafood Markets: For fresh seafood options, you can visit fishmongers such as Hooked Inc., Diana’s Seafood Delight, or the St. Lawrence Market fish shops.
11. Bulk Food Stores: For affordable prices on grains, nuts, spices and other pantry staples, bulk food stores like Bulk Barn and The Big Carrot Natural Food Market offer a variety of options to choose from.
13. Are there any rooftop or outdoor dining options with views of the city in Suzhou?
Yes, there are several rooftop or outdoor dining options with views of the city in Suzhou. Some popular options include:1. Suzhou Sky Bar at the InterContinental Suzhou: This rooftop bar offers a panoramic view of the city skyline and serves a variety of drinks and light bites.
2. West Hill Bistro & Bar at Hyatt Regency Suzhou: Located on the 48th floor, this rooftop restaurant offers stunning views of Jinji Lake and the surrounding skyline while serving up contemporary Chinese cuisine.
3. Top of City at Pan Pacific Suzhou: This outdoor terrace overlooks Jinji Lake and is a great spot to admire the sunset while enjoying a cocktail or Italian fare.
4. Café Xiujiang at Blossom Hill Boutique Hotel: With an outdoor seating area overlooking Xuanmiao Temple, this café offers a quaint setting to enjoy local dishes and pastries.
5. No 5 Terrace Dining & Lounge at Hotel Nikko Suzhou: This rooftop restaurant boasts views of the old town area and serves up Japanese fusion cuisine.
6. Hallakaffee Rooftop Cafe: Set atop a historic building in Pingjiang District, this cafe offers cozy outdoor seating with scenic views of the canals below.
7. Garden Restaurant Rooftop Bar at Hotel Soul Suzhou: Situated on top of Hotel Soul, this unique bar has an urban garden theme and offers cityscape views while serving creative cocktails and tapas-style dishes.
14. What are some popular dessert options in Suzhou’s cuisine?
Some popular dessert options in Suzhou’s cuisine include:
1. Sweet Osmanthus soup: This delicate and aromatic soup is made from sweet osmanthus flowers, rice, and rock sugar.
2. Tangyuan: These sticky rice balls filled with a variety of sweet fillings, such as red bean or black sesame paste, are a popular dessert during festivals and special occasions.
3. Wufangzhai Wonton Crackers: These crispy wonton crackers are often served as a snack or dessert, sprinkled with flavored sugar on top.
4. Euryale Seed Soup: A traditional Chinese dessert soup made from euryale seeds, dried longan fruit, and rock sugar.
5. Pineapple cake: A soft and buttery cake filled with candied pineapple bits.
6. Lotus Root Powder Cake: These small cake bites are made from lotus root powder, rock sugar, and water chestnuts for added crunch.
7. Red date cake (hongzao gao): A steamed or baked cake made from red dates, glutinous rice flour, brown sugar, and ginger.
8. Three Mien Cake: A layered sponge cake made with wheat flour dough on the bottom layer, almond paste in the middle layer, and mashed mung beans on the top layer.
9. Sesame Seed Soup (zhima tang): A smooth and creamy soup thickened with black sesame seeds and seasoned with rock sugar syrup.
10. Rice ball stuffed with caramel filling (muah chee): Soft glutinous rice balls tossed in roasted peanut powder and drizzled with caramel sauce on top.
15. If I have dietary restrictions, will I still be able to find suitable food options in Suzhou’s restaurants?
Yes, most restaurants in Suzhou will have options for those with dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, gluten-free, or halal diets. It is always best to inform the restaurant staff of your restrictions so they can recommend suitable dishes or make accommodations for you. Outdoor markets and supermarkets also offer a variety of options for different dietary needs.
16. Are there any famous tea houses or cafes that offer traditional Chinese tea ceremonies in Suzhou?
Yes, there are several famous tea houses and cafes in Suzhou that offer traditional Chinese tea ceremonies, such as the Tea House at Master of Nets Garden, Songhelou Teahouse, and Taihu Lake Tea Ceremony Retreat. These places provide a unique cultural experience where visitors can learn about the history and customs of Chinese tea drinking while enjoying different types of high-quality teas.
17. Is it customary to tip at restaurants and cafes in Suzhou?
Yes, it is customary to tip at restaurants and cafes in Suzhou. The amount of the tip is typically around 10% of the total bill, but it can vary depending on the quality of service and your satisfaction with the meal.
18. Can you suggest any budget-friendly dining options around the city center?
1. Baco Mercat: This popular restaurant serves delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes at affordable prices.
2. L.A. Chapter: Head to this trendy eatery for farm-to-table cuisine and a cozy atmosphere.
3. Guisados: This casual joint specializes in mouthwatering tacos and other Mexican favorites at budget-friendly prices.
4. Grand Central Market: Located in the heart of downtown, this food hall offers a wide variety of cuisines at affordable rates.
5. The Original Pantry Cafe: This iconic diner has been serving up hearty breakfasts and comfort food since 1924, with most dishes under $10.
6. Wurstküche: Satisfy your craving for sausage and beer at this popular spot, where you can get a filling meal for under $10.
7. Yang Chow: Treat yourself to tasty Chinese dishes at very reasonable prices – their famous slippery shrimp is a must-try!
8. Sawtelle Japantown: Explore this charming neighborhood for an array of affordable Japanese dining options, from ramen to sushi to izakayas.
9. Tacos Tumbras a Tomas: Get your fill of authentic street tacos at this popular food cart in the heart of the city center.
10. Spitz: Munch on delicious Mediterranean street food like kebabs and falafel wraps at this laid-back joint, with most items priced under $10.
19. How easy is it to navigate menus without knowing how to read Chinese characters?
It may be difficult to navigate menus without knowing how to read Chinese characters. Many menus in Chinese restaurants are written in traditional or simplified Chinese characters, which can be challenging for non-native speakers to understand. However, some restaurants may also have English translations of their menu items or picture menus that can aid in choosing dishes. Additionally, some popular dishes may have recognizable names in both English and Chinese, making it easier to order. Overall, navigating menus without being able to read Chinese characters may require some extra effort and communication with the staff, but it is still possible to order and enjoy a meal at a Chinese restaurant.
20. What are some off-the-beaten-path food spots that tourists may not know about but are worth checking out?
1. Hula Girl Shave Ice – a local favorite for refreshing Hawaiian shave ice with homemade flavors and gourmet toppings.
2. The Nook Neighborhood Bistro – a quaint restaurant tucked away in an alley serving up delicious globally-infused comfort food.
3. Poi Bowl – a popular food truck offering authentic Hawaiian plate lunches made with fresh ingredients and local favorites such as kalua pork and lomi salmon.
4. Highway Inn – a family-owned establishment known for their traditional Hawaiian dishes like laulau, poi, and poke bowls.
5. Wailana Coffee House – a classic diner with affordable prices and large portions, serving up local favorites like loco moco and spam musubi.
6. Ahi Assassins Fish Co. – a seafood market and deli specializing in fresh poke bowls made with locally sourced fish.
7. Helena’s Hawaiian Food – a long-standing restaurant famous for their kalua pig, short ribs, and other traditional Hawaiian dishes passed down through generations.
8. Sweet Home Waimanalo – a hidden gem in Waimanalo serving up delicious breakfasts, brunches, and pastries made from scratch using locally sourced ingredients.
9. Koko Head Cafe – a trendy spot known for their creative twists on classic breakfast dishes using local ingredients like macadamia nut butter pancakes and kalbi steak benedict.
10. Ono Seafood – a no-frills dining spot serving up some of the best poke on the island, with options like spicy tuna or shoyu tako (octopus).