1. What are the most popular local dishes in Shenzhen?
– Some of the most popular local dishes in Shenzhen include Chaozhou-style oyster noodles, Hakka stuffed tofu, Chinese barbeque pork (char siu), Cantonese dim sum, and seafood dishes such as steamed scallops and fried squid.2. Can you recommend any must-try street food in Shenzhen?
– Some must-try street food in Shenzhen includes grilled skewers (chuan’r), stinky tofu (chou doufu), pan-fried dumplings (shui jiao), rice noodle rolls (cheung fan), and egg waffles (gai daan zai).
3. What are some popular international cuisines in Shenzhen?
– Due to its diverse population and international influences, there is a wide variety of international cuisines available in Shenzhen. Some popular ones include Korean, Japanese, Italian, French, and American cuisine.
4. Are there any special dietary options available in Shenzhen?
– Yes, many restaurants in Shenzhen offer vegetarian and vegan options, as well as dishes that cater to specific dietary restrictions such as gluten-free or halal.
5. What are the signature drinks or beverages in Shenzhen?
– Some signature drinks or beverages in Shenzhen include the locally brewed tea called Gongfu tea, milk tea with tapioca pearls (boba), herbal soups made with ingredients like white fungus or red bean, and fruit smoothies made with exotic tropical fruits like dragon fruit and lychee.
2. Are there any must-try restaurants in the city?
There are many amazing restaurants in the city, but some must-try options include:1. Cuisine Wat Damnak – for its innovative Cambodian cuisine and beautiful setting
2. Marum – a socially responsible restaurant offering delicious local dishes with a modern twist
3. Mahob Khmer Cuisine – for authentic Khmer cuisine in a traditional wooden house setting
4. Romdeng – for tasty Cambodian street food and a chance to support a culinary training program for disadvantaged youth
5. Malis – for upscale, contemporary Cambodian cuisine and elegant ambiance
6. Friends the Restaurant – another socially responsible restaurant serving delicious international and Asian fusion dishes.
7. The Sugar Palm – known for its traditional Khmer home-style cooking and warm hospitality.
8. Chanrey Tree – offers beautifully presented modern Cambodian dishes.
9. SugarCane Rooftop Lounge – stunning rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city and delicious cocktails.
10. Van’s Restaurant – French colonial-style dining experience featuring classic Cambodian dishes.
3. What is the best place to go for a traditional Chinese meal in Shenzhen?
A popular destination for a traditional Chinese meal in Shenzhen is Dameisha Village, which offers a range of restaurants serving authentic local dishes such as dim sum, Cantonese seafood, and Sichuan cuisine. Other notable options include Xi Xiang Feng in Coco Park and Dapeng Ancient Town in Longgang District.
4. Are there any vegetarian or vegan restaurants in the city?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan restaurants in the city. Some popular options include Soho House, EartH Kitchen, Mildreds, The Gate Islington, and Wild Food Cafe. There are also many mainstream restaurants that offer vegetarian or vegan options on their menu.
5. Where can one find the best seafood in Shenzhen?
Some popular places to find the best seafood in Shenzhen are Shekou Seafood Street, Sea World Square, and Dongmen Seafood Plaza. These areas offer a variety of restaurants and street stalls that serve fresh and delicious seafood dishes. Additionally, many of the hotels in Shenzhen also have highly rated seafood restaurants.
6. Are there any rooftop dining options with a view of the city?
Yes, there are several rooftop dining options with a view of the city in various cities around the world. Some examples include:
– 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar in New York City, USA: This rooftop bar offers stunning views of the Empire State Building and the Manhattan skyline.
– Sky Garden in London, UK: This rooftop restaurant and bar is located on the 35th floor of a skyscraper and offers panoramic views of the city.
– Altitude at Shangri-La Hotel Sydney in Sydney, Australia: This rooftop bar sits atop the iconic Shangri-La Hotel and offers breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour.
– Sirocco at Lebua Hotel in Bangkok, Thailand: Located on the 63rd floor of Lebua Hotel, Sirocco offers stunning views of Bangkok’s skyline and Chao Phraya River.
– The Top of The Standard in New York City, USA: This trendy rooftop lounge offers amazing views of downtown Manhattan from its location on top of The Standard hotel.
7. Can you recommend any hidden gem restaurants that are not well-known but offer amazing food?
Yes, I can recommend a few hidden gem restaurants that are not widely known but offer amazing food:
1. Aroma Indian Cuisine (Atlanta, GA): This small family-owned restaurant serves delicious and authentic Indian dishes at affordable prices.
2. La Vara (Brooklyn, NY): This Spanish restaurant offers unique and flavorful tapas dishes inspired by the owners’ travels throughout Spain.
3. Golden Harbor Authentic Chinese Cuisine (Champaign, IL): This unassuming Chinese restaurant may not look like much from the outside, but it’s known for its authentic Szechuan cuisine and spicy hot pot.
4. The Grotto Cafe (Phoenix, AZ): Tucked away in a historic home, this charming cafe offers homemade soups, sandwiches, and salads made with fresh local ingredients.
5. Yai’s Thai Kitchen (Portland, OR): Located inside a food cart pod, this Thai restaurant offers a limited menu of outstanding dishes including their famous green curry chicken.
6. Melt Bar & Grilled (Cleveland, OH): This eclectic grilled cheese bar serves up creative takes on the classic sandwich with adventurous flavor combinations like bacon mac & cheese and honey glazed ham with Gouda.
7. Mariscos German Taco Truck (Los Angeles, CA): This hidden gem taco truck serves up mouth-watering seafood tacos with fresh caught fish and homemade sauces. Be sure to try their shrimp ceviche tostada as well!
8. Is it common to find street food vendors in Shenzhen?
Yes, street food vending is very common in Shenzhen. There are numerous street food vendors scattered throughout the city, offering a variety of snacks and popular local dishes at affordable prices. Some of the most popular areas for street food in Shenzhen include Dongmen Pedestrian Street, Huaqiangbei Commercial Street, and Luohu Commercial City. Additionally, food trucks have become increasingly popular in recent years, providing even more options for street food on the go.9. What is the etiquette for dining out in Shenzhen?
1. Make a reservation: It is recommended to call in advance and make a reservation, especially for popular or upscale restaurants.
2. Arrive on time: In Chinese culture, being punctual is valued, so it is important to be on time for your reservation. If you are running late, call the restaurant and inform them.
3. Greet the staff: When entering the restaurant, greet the staff with a simple “ni hao” (hello).
4. Wait to be seated: The staff will guide you to your table; do not seat yourself.
5. Table manners: When sitting down at the table, wait for the host or guest of honor to take their seat first before taking yours. Keep your hands visible on the table while eating, and never place your elbows on the table.
6. Sharing dishes: In Chinese dining culture, it is common to order several dishes and share them family-style with everyone at the table. Take small portions from each dish and do not finish all of one dish by yourself unless you are dining alone.
7. Use chopsticks properly: If you are not comfortable using chopsticks, it is acceptable to ask for a fork or spoon. When using chopsticks, do not leave them sticking straight up in your rice bowl as this resembles incense sticks used in funerals.
8. Toasting: It is customary to toast with each person at the table individually with a “gan bei!” (cheers) before drinking.
9. Paying the bill: In Chinese culture, it is polite for the person who extended the invitation or planned the meal to pay for everyone’s meal. However, if someone insists on paying for their own portion, it is polite to accept graciously instead of arguing over the bill.
10. How much should I expect to spend on a meal at an average restaurant in the city?
It depends on the type of restaurant and location, but on average, you can expect to spend around $20-$30 per person for a meal at an average restaurant in the city. This may vary based on the menu options and any additional charges for drinks or desserts. Fine dining restaurants may have higher prices, while fast food or casual dining establishments may have lower prices.
11. Are there any food markets or night markets worth visiting for a unique dining experience?
There are quite a few markets in different parts of the country that offer unique dining experiences. Some popular options include:
1. Jaya One Night Market in Selangor – This market offers a variety of traditional Malaysian street food and snacks, as well as live performances and entertainment.
2. Jonker Street Night Market in Malacca – This bustling night market is known for its tasty local dishes such as chicken rice balls, satay and nyonya kuih.
3. Central Market Kuala Lumpur – Located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, this indoor market offers a range of local delicacies from different states of Malaysia.
4. Taman Connaught Night Market in Kuala Lumpur – This night market holds the record for being the longest night market in Malaysia, stretching over 2 kilometers. Visitors can find an array of street food and local products here.
5. Gaya Street Sunday Market in Sabah – Every Sunday, this busy street turns into a lively market selling everything from traditional food to handicrafts and souvenirs.
6. Batu Ferringhi Night Market in Penang – Located by the beach, this night market offers a wide range of delicious street food and is also a great spot to watch the sunset.
7. Kuching Central Markets in Sarawak – Popular among locals and tourists alike, these markets offer authentic Sarawakian dishes such as laksa and kolo mee.
8. Kampung Baru Sunday Bazaar in Kelantan – This weekly bazaar features traditional Malay cuisine from Kelantan such as nasi kerabu, ayam percik, and more.
9. Cameron Highlands Night Market in Pahang – Visitors can enjoy a cool evening at this highland market while sampling fresh produce such as strawberries and locally grown vegetables.
10. Medan Niaga Satok Weekend Market in Sarawak – This weekend market is famous for its mouth-watering street food, including Sarawak’s famous kolo mee and fragrant white pepper chicken.
12. Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants in Shenzhen?
Yes, there are several Michelin-starred restaurants in Shenzhen. As of 2021, there are eight restaurants in Shenzhen that have been awarded Michelin stars. These include:1. The Alexa Mambo Restaurant – 2 Michelin Stars
2. Kaiseki Yoshiyuki – 1 Michelin Star
3. Golden Flower at Wynn Palace – 1 Michelin Star
4. L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon – 2 Michelin Stars
5. Ming Court (Palace Tower) at Cordis Hong Kong – 3 Michelin Stars
6. Sun Tung Lok Chinese Cuisine – 2 Michelin Stars
7. The Eight (Grand Lisboa Hotel) – 3 Michelin Stars
8. The Kitchen at Bacchanal Buffet (Caesars Palace) – 1 Michelin Star
13. Can you suggest any local snacks or dishes that I should try while visiting Shenzhen?
Sure, here are some local snacks and dishes that you should try while visiting Shenzhen:
1. Dim Sum: This is a must-try dish in any trip to Shenzhen. Dim Sum consists of small steamed or fried dishes that are served in bamboo baskets. Some recommended options include shrimp dumplings, siu mai, and BBQ pork buns.
2. Braised Pork Rice (Lu Rou Fan): This is a popular street food in Shenzhen made from tender braised pork served over steamed rice.
3. Chaozhou Porridge: Also known as Teochew porridge, this is a comforting dish made from a thick broth of rice and various toppings such as vegetables, seafood, and meat.
4. Wonton Noodles: Shenzhen is famous for its wonton noodles which consist of thin egg noodles in a rich soup with savory wontons filled with pork or shrimp.
5. BBQ Skewers (Shaokao): You can find countless street stalls selling BBQ skewers throughout the city. These skewers typically feature meats like chicken, beef, pork, lamb, and vegetables grilled on an open flame.
6. Hakka Tea (Keemun Cha): This iconic tea is made by the Hakka people and has a smoky flavor that pairs well with dim sum or other savory dishes.
7. Coconut Pudding: Made from fresh coconut milk and tender coconut jelly, this dessert is a sweet treat that will cool you down on hot days.
8. Egg Tarts: This Portuguese-inspired pastry has become extremely popular in China and you can find delicious versions of them at many bakeries in Shenzhen.
9. Congee (Zhou): Similar to Chaozhou porridge, congee is made from boiled rice but has a thinner consistency and can be topped with ingredients like preserved eggs or shredded chicken.
10. Douhua (Tofu Pudding): This soft and silky tofu dessert can be served sweet or savory, with toppings like red bean paste, black sesame, or meat.
11. Steamed Milk Custard: This warm and creamy dessert is a popular comfort food in Shenzhen and can be found at traditional dessert shops.
12. Snake Soup: For the adventurous foodie, snake soup is a must-try dish in Shenzhen. It typically includes snake meat, mushrooms, herbs, and spices.
13. Salted Fish Fried Rice: This classic Cantonese dish combines salted fish with fried rice for a flavorful and savory meal that is often served at local restaurants.
14. Are there any food delivery services available in the city?
Yes, there are several food delivery services available in the city such as Uber Eats, Grubhub, DoorDash, and Postmates. These services allow you to order food from local restaurants and have it delivered directly to your doorstep. Some restaurants also offer their own delivery options through their websites or apps.
15. Is it safe to eat and drink tap water in Shenzhen?
It is generally safe to drink tap water in Shenzhen, as the city has a well-developed and modern water treatment system. However, it is always advisable to be cautious and purify the water before consuming it, especially if you are used to drinking bottled or filtered water. Some people may experience mild stomach discomfort if they are not accustomed to the local tap water, so it is recommended to start by drinking small amounts and gradually increase the intake.
16.Is it customary to tip at restaurants in Shenzhen? If so, how much is appropriate?
Yes, it is customary to tip at restaurants in Shenzhen, although it is not considered mandatory. A service charge of 10% may be added to the bill in upscale restaurants, but if not, a tip of around 10-15% is appropriate for good service. In smaller or more casual restaurants, rounding up the bill is also a common way to show appreciation for the server. It is important to note that some restaurants may already include a service charge in the bill, so it’s best to check before tipping.
17.How prevalent are Western food options in Shenzhen?
Western food options are relatively prevalent in Shenzhen. In the city center and in popular expat areas such as Shekou, Futian, and Nanshan, there are many restaurants serving Western cuisines such as burgers, pizza, steaks, and French cuisine. There are also many international chains like McDonald’s, KFC, Starbucks, and Subway that offer familiar Western dishes. However, compared to Chinese and other Asian cuisines, Western food options may be less numerous in certain areas of Shenzhen. Additionally, the level of authenticity may vary for each restaurant.
18.What are some popular dessert spots or sweet treats unique to Shenzhen’s cuisine?
Some popular dessert spots and unique sweet treats in Shenzhen’s cuisine include:
1. Mango sago pudding: This creamy and refreshing traditional Hong Kong-style dessert features diced mangoes, tapioca pearls, and evaporated milk.
2. Almond tofu: A soft and silky jelly-like dessert made from almond milk, typically served with fruit or syrup.
3. Durian pancakes: These pancakes are filled with the creamy and pungent durian fruit, a favorite among many in Asia.
4. Egg tarts: Similar to the famous Portuguese egg tarts, these flaky pastries have a rich and custardy filling.
5. Coconut glutinous rice balls: Also known as “zi ba,” these sticky rice balls are filled with sweet shredded coconut or red bean paste.
6. Pineapple buns: A popular snack in Shenzhen, these crispy-topped buns usually have a slice of butter sandwiched inside.
7. Black sesame soup: Typically served as a warm dessert soup, this thick porridge-like dessert is made from black sesame seeds and sugar.
8. Taro cake: A steamed savory cake made from mashed taro root mixed with rice flour and served with a sweet soy sauce dip.
9. Snowflake ice: A lighter version of shaved ice topped with various toppings such as fresh fruit, grass jelly, or condensed milk.
10. Fried milk: A unique dessert that consists of deep-fried cubes of creamy milk custard coated in a crispy batter.
19.Can you recommend any cooking classes or food tours for those interested in learning more about local cuisine?
Yes, here are a few options for cooking classes and food tours that showcase local cuisine:
1. Bali Cooking Class: This class offers hands-on experience in preparing traditional Balinese dishes using fresh ingredients from local markets.
2. Eat Street Culinary Tour: This food tour takes you to some of the best restaurants and street food stalls in Bali, giving you the chance to sample a variety of local dishes.
3. Ubud Market Tour and Cooking Class: Start off with a visit to a bustling market to pick out ingredients, then learn how to cook authentic Balinese dishes in this immersive cooking class.
4. Warung Enak Cooking Class: Led by an experienced chef, this cooking class introduces you to traditional Indonesian dishes and teaches you the techniques used to make them.
5. Seminyak Food Safari: This guided food tour takes you through the trendy neighborhood of Seminyak, stopping at various restaurants and street food vendors along the way for tastings of local fare.
6. Traditional Village Cooking Experience: Get a taste of village life with this unique cooking experience, which starts with a bike ride through rice paddies before heading to a local home for a hands-on cooking lesson.
7. Balinese Vegan Cooking Class: For those interested in plant-based cuisine, this vegan cooking class focuses on creating delicious Balinese dishes using only plant-based ingredients.
Overall, there are plenty of options available for those looking to learn more about Bali’s flavorful cuisine through cooking classes and food tours.
20.Are there any specific dietary restrictions that travelers should be aware of when dining out in Shenzhen?
Some specific dietary restrictions that travelers should be aware of when dining out in Shenzhen include:1. Pork: Pork is a very common ingredient used in many dishes in Shenzhen. Vegetarians or those who do not eat pork should inform restaurant staff beforehand to ensure their meals are prepared without it.
2. Seafood: Shenzhen is known for its fresh seafood, but travelers with allergies to shellfish or other types of seafood should exercise caution when ordering and make sure to inform restaurant staff about their allergies.
3. MSG: Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a commonly used flavor enhancer in Chinese cuisine, and some people may have sensitivities or reactions to it. If you want to avoid MSG, it’s best to ask the restaurant if they use it in their dishes before ordering.
4. Spicy food: Many dishes in Shenzhen can be quite spicy, so if you’re not used to eating spicy food, make sure to ask for non-spicy or mild versions of dishes.
5. Religious restrictions: Some restaurants may serve dishes that contain ingredients such as beef, lamb, or alcohol which may not be suitable for certain religious dietary restrictions. It’s best to inquire with the restaurant about the ingredients used in each dish before ordering.
6. Gluten-free options: While gluten-free options are becoming more available in Shenzhen, they may not be as prevalent as in Western countries. Be sure to communicate any gluten intolerance or sensitivity with restaurant staff beforehand.
7. Street food: Travelers should exercise caution when eating street food in Shenzhen as hygiene standards may vary among vendors and there’s a higher risk of food contamination.
It’s always best to communicate your dietary restrictions with restaurant staff beforehand and do some research on restaurants and their menus before visiting them. You can also download translation apps or carry cards with translations of your dietary restrictions in Mandarin if necessary.