1. What are the must-try dishes in Chongqing?
Some must-try dishes in Chongqing include:1. Hot Pot: Chongqing is famous for its spicy and numbing hot pot, often referred to as “ma la” hot pot. This dish consists of a simmering broth filled with Sichuan peppercorns and chili peppers, where diners can cook various raw meats, vegetables, and other ingredients.
2. Spicy Chicken (La Zi Ji): This dish consists of crispy chunks of chicken stir-fried with Sichuan peppercorns, dried chili peppers, and other spices. It is a popular appetizer or main dish in Chongqing.
3. Dan Dan Noodles: Also known as “dan dan mian,” this is a noodle dish made with spicy pork sauce, chili oil, and topped with scallions and peanuts. It’s a popular street food in Chongqing.
4. Chongqing Xiao Mian (Chongqing Noodle Soup): This soup consists of chewy noodles served in a rich broth made with beef or pork bones, Sichuan peppercorns, dried chili peppers, and other spices.
5. Steamed Fish with Pickled Mustard Greens (Suan Cai Yu): This dish features tender fish steamed in a flavorful broth made with pickled mustard greens and fermented black beans.
6. Duck Blood Soup (Ya Xue Tang): Although it may sound unconventional to some Western palates, this soup is a popular dish in Chongqing. It features coagulated duck blood cooked in a spicy broth along with tofu, mushrooms, and various herbs.
7. Ma Po Tofu: This classic Sichuan dish originated from Chongqing and consists of soft tofu cubes cooked in a spicy chili bean paste sauce with ground pork or beef.
8. Smoked Duck (Xiang Yan Ya): Another specialty from Chongqing is smoked duck marinated with a blend of spices and then slowly cooked to perfection.
9. Chongqing Liangfen (Chilled Noodles): This dish features chewy noodles made from mung bean starch, often served cold with a spicy and tangy dressing made from chili oil, vinegar, and garlic.
10. Chuan Cai: Chongqing also offers various other spicy and flavorful dishes under the umbrella term “chuan cai,” or Sichuan cuisine. These dishes often feature bold flavors from chili peppers, Sichuan peppercorns, garlic, ginger, and other aromatic spices.
2. Are there any specialty restaurants or local food markets in Chongqing?
Yes, there are several specialty restaurants and local food markets in Chongqing. Some popular options include:
1. Hotpot restaurants: Chongqing is known for its spicy and flavorful hotpot, so there are many specialized hotpot restaurants throughout the city.
2. Xiaomian (small noodle) shops: This is a local staple dish in Chongqing, featuring wheat noodles served in a rich and spicy broth. There are various small noodle shops all over the city that serve this dish.
3. Ciqikou Old Town: This ancient town has a bustling street market with vendors selling local snacks such as tofu pudding, glutinous rice balls, and fried quail eggs.
4. Jiaochangkou Night Market: Located in the downtown area, this night market offers a wide variety of local street food, including grilled skewers, stinky tofu, and spicy noodles.
5. Three Gorges Square Food Street: This outdoor food street features both traditional Chongqing dishes as well as international cuisine.
6. Hongyadong Food Street: Situated by the riverside, this food street has a more upscale atmosphere and offers a range of local specialties such as fish dishes and river snails.
7. Hongya Cave Cultural Complex: This complex consists of traditional architecture and also offers numerous restaurants serving authentic Sichuan cuisine.
Overall,Possible places to find specialty foods or restaurants in Chongqing include various old towns or cultural complexes, popular tourist areas such as Ciqikou or Hongyadong, as well as local night markets or food streets scattered throughout the city.
3. How is the street food scene in Chongqing? Any recommendations?
The street food scene in Chongqing is vibrant and diverse. There are many popular foods, such as hotpot, grilled skewers, douhua (silky tofu), baozi (steamed buns), and stinky tofu.
Some recommended street food spots in Chongqing include:
1. Yang Ren Jie Street Food Night Market: This lively night market is known for its authentic Chongqing hotpot and a wide variety of grilled skewers.
2. Jiefangbei Snack Street: Located in the bustling shopping district of Jiefangbei, this street offers delicious snacks like baozi, douhua, and Chinese-style pancakes.
3. Nanbin Road Food Street: This scenic riverside street is lined with food stalls selling traditional Chongqing specialties like dumplings, noodles, and fried rice cakes.
4. Huangjueping Mala Tang Street: This area is known for its spicy mala tang (hot pot broth) — a must-try dish in Chongqing!
5. Huoguo Baxian Alley: This narrow alleyway is lined with small restaurants offering various types of hotpot, from traditional to modern fusion styles.
It’s important to note that some stalls may not have English menus or English-speaking staff, so it’s helpful to bring a local friend or use translation apps to communicate. It’s also a good idea to practice hygiene precautions when trying street food by choosing well-cooked dishes and avoiding uncooked vegetables or fruits.
4. Are there any vegetarian or vegan restaurants in Chongqing?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Chongqing. Some popular options include Vegetarian Health Square, Pure Lotus Vegetarian Restaurant, Happy Cow Vegan Restaurant, and Veggie Thread. Additionally, many regular restaurants in the city will have vegetarian options available on their menus.
5. What are the popular drinks/cocktails in Chongqing?
Some popular drinks and cocktails in Chongqing include:
1. Hot Pot Beer – A unique combination of beer and Sichuan peppercorn that is often served with hot pot meals.
2. Nine-Flower Tea – A traditional herbal tea made from nine different kinds of flower petals.
3. Baijiu – A strong liquor made from rice, sorghum or other grains, commonly enjoyed as a shot or mixed with soda or juice.
4. Dandan Noodle Cocktail – Inspired by the famous Chongqing dandan noodles, this cocktail combines chili-infused vodka with sesame and peanut flavors.
5. Juema Licha – Translating to “horse-racing pear”, this fruity cocktail is made with pear juice, lime, gin and topped with mint leaves for a refreshing taste.
6. Mao Tai Sour – A twist on the classic whiskey sour using China’s most famous baijiu, Mao Tai, along with lemon juice and egg white for a creamy texture.
7. Mango Passionfruit Mojito – With Chongqing’s tropical climate, it’s no surprise that this mojito variation has become popular, blending fresh mangoes and passionfruit with rum and mint leaves.
6. Is it safe to drink tap water and ice in restaurants in Chongqing?
It is generally safe to drink tap water in restaurants in Chongqing, but it is recommended to stick to bottled water if possible for safety purposes. Most restaurants also offer boiled water or tea as alternatives. Ice made from tap water may not be safe to consume, so it is best to avoid it or ask the restaurant staff about its source.
7. Any famous Chinese tea houses or teahouses with traditional performances in Chongqing?
1. Dazu Tea House – located in the Dazu Rock Carvings scenic area, this teahouse offers traditional Chinese tea ceremonies and performances.
2. Chongqing Sichuan Opera Theatre “Yuan” Teahouse – famous for its tea tasting and traditional Sichuan opera performances.
3. Yuxinou International Tea Culture Experience Center – a modern teahouse that combines tea culture with multimedia technology to provide an immersive experience.
4. Liugongyang Teahouse – known for its beautiful garden setting and regular traditional music and dance performances.
5. Shuangzi Teahouse – a popular spot for locals to enjoy tea while watching traditional Chinese puppet shows.
6. Donghuamen Classic Tea House – located by the Huanghua Lake, this teahouse features daily cultural performances such as face changing (Bian Lian) and guqin (Chinese zither) playing.
7. Ruyi Qicai Tea House – situated inside the famous Jiefangbei CBD, this teahouse offers regular performances of Chongqing folk music and dancing while serving a variety of local teas.
8. Is it possible to find Halal restaurants in Chongqing?
Yes, there are several Halal restaurants in Chongqing. Some popular options include:1. Muslim Restaurant: This restaurant serves authentic Chinese Halal dishes like lamb kebabs, beef noodles, and hand-pulled noodles. It is located at No. 26 Jiaochangkou Second Street, Yuzhong District.
2. Silk Road Mosque Restaurant: Located near the famous Yangtze River, this restaurant offers a variety of delicious Halal dishes including Xinjiang-style barbecue and traditional Uyghur cuisine.
3. Donglaishun Muslim Restaurant: Situated in the bustling Shangqing Temple area, this restaurant specializes in hot pot and also offers a variety of other Halal Chinese dishes.
4. Xinjiang Snack Street: This street is lined with numerous small stalls and restaurants selling authentic Uyghur snacks and dishes such as naan bread, shish kebabs, and cumin-flavored lamb skewers.
5. Istanbul Restaurant: A Turkish restaurant serving delicious Middle Eastern fare such as falafel, hummus, and kebabs. It is located on Nanbin Road in Nan’an District.
It’s always a good idea to double-check with the restaurant staff about their Halal certification or if they use any non-Halal ingredients before ordering.
9. Can you recommend any rooftop restaurants or dining spots with a view of the city?
1. The Rock Bar at Ayana Resort and Spa, Bali, Indonesia
2. Breeze Restaurant at The Scarlet Singapore, Singapore
3. Le Jardin at Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit, Thailand
4. Top of the Mark at the InterContinental San Francisco, USA
5. Sirocco at Lebua State Tower, Bangkok, Thailand
6. Roof Garden Restaurant at Hotel Raphael Rome, Italy
7. Vertigo at Banyan Tree Bangkok, Thailand
8. 360 Grill at Millennium Hilton Bangkok, Thailand
9. 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar in New York City, USA
10. Alto Vino at JW Marriott Hotel Pune, India
10. How about authentic Sichuan hotpot? Any good places to try it?
There are many good places to try authentic Sichuan hotpot. Here are a few:
1. Little Sheep Mongolian Hotpot – This popular chain restaurant offers hotpot with various spice levels and a wide selection of meats, vegetables, and broth options.
2. Chengdu Taste – Known for their fiery Sichuan cuisine, this restaurant offers both traditional and modern takes on hotpot dishes.
3. Hai Di Lao – Another well-known chain that serves high-quality hotpot with excellent service and an extensive menu.
4. Yu’s Chinese Cuisine – This family-owned restaurant serves authentic and flavorful Sichuan hotpot with homemade sauces and spice blends.
5. Spicy City – A local favorite for its spicy, tongue-numbing hotpot broth and fresh ingredients.
Remember to be cautious when ordering as some dishes may be too spicy for some people’s taste buds!
11. Is there a local specialty dish that you can’t find anywhere else but Chongqing?
Yes, there are a few local specialty dishes that can only be found in Chongqing:
1. Hotpot: Chongqing is famous for its spicy and numbing hotpot, made with Sichuan peppercorns and various meats, vegetables, and other ingredients.
2. Xiaomian noodles: These thin, chewy noodles are served in a spicy broth with various toppings such as peanuts, chili oil, and pickled mustard greens.
3. Lamb kebabs: Unlike other regions in China where lamb is typically stir-fried or braised, Chongqing’s lamb kebabs are grilled over charcoal and seasoned with cumin and chili powder.
4. Sour and spicy fish: This dish features chunks of freshwater fish cooked in a tangy and spicy broth made with pickled mustard greens, chili peppers, vinegar, and Sichuan spices.
5. Jiangtuan fish: Similar to the sour and spicy fish dish, this specialty from Chongqing uses a different type of freshwater fish called jiaotuan that has a unique savory flavor.
6. Fried tofu skin rolls: Tofu skin is thinly sliced and rolled up with various fillings such as pork, mushroom, or vegetables before being deep-fried to create crispy rolls.
7. Spicy fried chicken: This dish uses small pieces of chicken that are marinated in a mix of soy sauce, fermented bean paste, ginger, garlic, and chili sauce before being deep-fried to perfection.
8. Shaokao (BBQ): Popular street food all over China but particularly prevalent in Chongqing where you can find vendors selling all sorts of skewers of meat, vegetables, tofu, and more.
9. Shaomai (steamed dumplings): These dumplings have a thin skin stuffed with minced meat (usually pork) and shaped like little baskets before being steamed to perfection.
10. Baobao meatballs: These fried meatballs are a popular snack in Chongqing and are made with a crispy exterior and a juicy filling of pork, bamboo shoots, and spices.
11. Pearls in chili oil: A unique appetizer that consists of slippery pearls made from mung bean starch served in a spicy chili oil sauce.
12. Are there any food tours or cooking classes available to try out traditional local cuisine in Chongqing?
Yes, there are several food tours and cooking classes available in Chongqing that allow you to try out traditional local cuisine. Some popular options include the Chongqing Hotpot Food Tour, the Street Food Tour in Ciqikou Old Town, and the Chongqing Cooking Class at a Local’s Home. These activities typically include visits to local markets, hands-on cooking classes, and opportunities to taste a variety of dishes such as hotpot, spicy noodles, and Sichuan-style dishes. You can also find some cooking classes offered through Airbnb Experiences or through local tour companies.
13. Where can I find the best dumplings (jiaozi) in Chongqing?
There are many popular places to find delicious dumplings (jiaozi) in Chongqing. Some recommended options include:
1. Xiaomianren Dumpling Restaurant: This restaurant is known for its wide variety of handmade dumplings filled with fresh ingredients.
2. Xi Shi Jiaozi: This small eatery is popular for its juicy and flavorful dumplings, including vegetarian options.
3. Qin Ma’s Steamed Dumpling Shop: Located near Sichuan Museum, this shop offers steamed jiaozi stuffed with various fillings such as pork, beef, and vegetables.
4. Jiefu Xiao Shiguan: Known for its classic Chongqing-style spicy dumplings called “dumplings in hot oil,” this restaurant also serves a variety of other tasty jiaozi options.
5. Xianshengjia Dumpling House: This chain restaurant offers delicious traditional boiled dumplings with a range of fillings, including pork, shrimp, and mushroom.
6. Lanqianguo Dried Beef Dumplings: As the name suggests, these dumplings are filled with dried beef (yukou rou) and served either steamed or fried for a unique flavor.
7. Dadui Dumpling Restaurant: Located in the bustling Chaotianmen area, this restaurant has been serving handmade dumplings since 1915 and is popular among locals for its authentic taste.
8. Huang Jinyu Fried Rice Rolls & Jiaozi King: In addition to their signature fried rice rolls, this street stall also serves mouthwatering fried and boiled jiaozi with various fillings at an affordable price.
14. Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants in Chongqing worth trying out?
There are three Michelin-starred restaurants in Chongqing worth trying out:
1. Yu Zhi Lan: This restaurant is known for its unique blend of Sichuan and Cantonese cuisine, and has been awarded two Michelin stars.
2. Green Tea Restaurant: This vegetarian restaurant has been given one Michelin star for its creative dishes and use of fresh ingredients.
3. Le Du Gong: This restaurant serves modern Chinese cuisine and has also received one Michelin star for their innovative dishes and elegant presentation.
15. Do locals have any specific dining customs or traditions that are unique to Chongqing?
One unique dining custom in Chongqing is the famous “hot pot” meal. This involves a large pot of simmering broth placed in the center of a table, with various raw meats, vegetables, and other ingredients for diners to cook and eat at their own pace. It is considered a social and communal eating experience, as everyone shares the same pot and cooks their own food.
Another tradition is the “stinky tofu” dish, often sold by street vendors. The fermented tofu has a strong odor but is considered a local delicacy by many Chongqing residents. It is typically served with spicy sauce or other condiments.
In some restaurants in Chongqing, it is also common to have separate menus for different types of dishes, such as hot and cold dishes or dry and saucy dishes. This allows customers to mix and match their meals according to their preference.
Finally, it is customary for diners in Chongqing to toast each other with glasses of baijiu (a traditional Chinese liquor) before beginning the meal. This is seen as a way to show respect and build camaraderie among friends or colleagues dining together.
16. What is the typical cost for a meal at a mid-range restaurant for two people?
The typical cost for a meal at a mid-range restaurant for two people usually ranges from $30 to $60, depending on the location and type of cuisine.
17. How does the food culture differ between the different districts of Chongqing?
The food culture in Chongqing is heavily influenced by the city’s location and history. As a mountainous region with a humid climate, Chongqing has a rich and diverse cuisine that reflects its geographic features. The food culture also varies between different districts within the city, showcasing unique flavors and specialties.1. Yuzhong District – This district is located in the heart of Chongqing and is known for its spicy Sichuan-style cuisine. The most famous dish from this district is hot pot, made with spicy broth, various meats, vegetables, and other ingredients.
2. Nan’an District – Located on the south bank of Jialing River, this district is known for its freshwater fish dishes such as sturgeon and carp. It also has a strong emphasis on Cantonese-style cooking and seafood.
3. Jiangbei District – This district is situated on the north bank of Yangtze River, where you can find local specialties such as river snails cooked in a spicy broth. Other popular dishes include steamed mandarin fish, duck hotpot, and boiled beef slices.
4. Shapingba District – A university town with many students from different regions of China, this district offers a wide variety of regional cuisines including Hunan, Sichuan, Xinjiang, and Guizhou styles.
5. Jiulongpo District – This district is famous for its street food scene with many local snacks and small restaurants offering affordable yet delicious dishes such as dumplings, wontons, fried rice noodles, and grilled skewers.
6. Dadukou District – Located in the western part of Chongqing near Dazu Rock Carvings UNESCO World Heritage Site, this district specializes in dishes made with local produce such as mushrooms, bamboo shoots, tofu skin rolls stuffed with pork filling.
7. Beibei District – Known as the “Land of Hot Springs”, Beibei boasts a food culture that is a fusion of spicy Sichuan flavors and fresh seafood from the nearby Jialing River. Popular dishes in this district include Chongqing noodles, spicy river snails, and braised fish.
8. Banan District – This district is located in the southwestern part of Chongqing and is famous for its spicy and sour cuisine influenced by neighboring Guizhou province. Local specialties include sour soup, pickled vegetables, and smoked meats.
9. Wansheng District – With a high elevation and a cooler climate than other districts, Wansheng’s food culture is characterized by hearty and warming dishes such as braised pork belly with preserved vegetables, hotpots, and roasted chestnuts.
10. Qianjiang District – This district is situated along the Yangtze River bordering Hubei province, resulting in a blend of Sichuan and Hubei cuisines. Must-try dishes here include steamed fish head with green pepper sauce, red-braised pork belly, and crispy beef bites.
Overall, each district in Chongqing offers its own unique culinary experience, making it a paradise for food lovers. The common thread among all these districts is the spicy flavors which reflect Chongqing’s reputation as the “Spice Capital” of China.
18. Are there any hidden gems for cheap eats or late-night snacks in Chongqing?
1. “Laoma Mozhu” – This late-night skewer joint in Jiefangbei area is extremely popular among locals for its tasty and affordable grilled skewers.
2. “Xi’ermen Jianbing” – A small street vendor near the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University where you can grab a delicious and authentic Chongqing-style jianbing (pancake) for only 5 RMB.
3. “Zhanglao Guotie” – This tiny hole-in-the-wall restaurant in Shapingba serves some of the best pan-fried dumplings (known as guotie or pot stickers) in town at very reasonable prices.
4. “Shi Da Qiao Ye Mian” – Located near a bridge in Yuzhong District, this small restaurant specializes in hand-pulled noodles with various toppings starting at less than 10 RMB.
5. “Qixiang Suanla Fen” – This humble shop claims to make the best suan la fen (spicy and sour rice noodle soup) in the city for only 6 RMB per bowl.
6. “Yangji Tianshi Laiwang” – A popular local late-night eatery that serves fresh and cheap fried rice dishes to satisfy any late-night cravings.
7. “Hulu Xiang Hotpot” – Known for their affordable hotpot dishes, this chain has multiple locations throughout the city serving tasty hotpot sets starting from around 30 RMB per person.
8. “Chengdu Ma La Tang” – This chain offers customizable ma la tang (spicy hot pot) meals at very low prices, perfect for a quick pick-me-up snack.
9. “Ban Du Candy” – A hidden gem located near Banan library, famous for its handmade candies with unique flavors like wasabi, sesame, green tea and more priced at only 2-3 RMB per bag.
10. “Langzhong Fried Rice” – This street vendor near Yangjiaping Metro Station serves up delicious, made-to-order fried rice for only 8 RMB per plate. On weekends, there is often a long queue of customers waiting to try this popular spot.
19.Do you recommend trying out any foods from the street markets, such as stinky tofu or grilled squid on sticks?
It ultimately depends on your personal preferences and tolerance for adventurous foods. Stinky tofu is a popular snack in Taiwan, but may be an acquired taste for some due to its strong smell. Grilled squid on sticks is also a common street food, and can be quite delicious if prepared well. If you’re feeling daring, give these foods a try – just make sure they are cooked properly to avoid any potential food safety concerns. Ultimately, the best way to experience Taiwan’s street food scene is to try a little bit of everything and see what you like!
20.Can non-Chinese speakers easily navigate menus and order food at local restaurants in Chongqing?
It may be difficult for non-Chinese speakers to navigate menus and order food at local restaurants in Chongqing. While some restaurants may have menus with pictures or English translations, many local eateries may only have menus in Chinese. Additionally, the wait staff at these restaurants may not speak English, which could make communication challenging. It is recommended to either bring a translation app or a friend who can speak Chinese when dining at these local restaurants in Chongqing.