1. What are the must-try local dishes in Changsha?
1. Stinky Tofu: This local delicacy is an acquired taste for some, but a must-try for adventurous foodies. It is served fried with spicy sauce and can be found on almost every street corner in Changsha.
2. Spicy Crawfish: Changsha is known for its love of spicy food, and spicy crawfish is one of the most popular dishes in the city. The small freshwater lobsters are stir-fried with spices and often served on a bed of chilli peppers.
3. La Rou (Smoked Meat): This cured pork belly is a specialty in Hunan cuisine and a must-try in Changsha. It is traditionally smoked over tea leaves, giving it a unique smoky flavor.
4. Mao’s Braised Pork (Mao Shi Hong Shao Rou): This dish was reportedly one of Chairman Mao’s favorites and remains a beloved dish in Changsha. The succulent pork belly is braised in a rich sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, and spices.
5. Rice Noodles (Mifen): These thin rice noodles are a staple in Hunan cuisine and can be eaten for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. They are often served with various toppings such as shredded pork, pickled vegetables, eggs, and herbs.
6. Dong’an Chicken (Dong’an Jidui): This popular dish originated from the nearby county of Dong’an and consists of fried chicken pieces tossed in fragrant spices like Sichuan peppercorns, cayenne pepper, and ginger.
7. Fried Duck Neck (Ya Guai): A popular snack or appetizer in Changsha are crispy fried duck necks seasoned with salt and spices.
8. Bamboo Shoots with Smoked Meat (Zhacai Chaoshou): Another delicious dish featuring smoked meat is bamboo shoots cooked together with pickled vegetables in a rich gravy.
9. Fish Head Soup (Liang Ban Yu Tou): This refreshing soup is made from boiling fish heads, tofu, and vegetables in a flavorful broth. It is a popular dish in the summer months when the weather is hot and humid.
10. Changsha Rice Cake (Ya Chang Gao): These sticky rice cakes are a traditional snack in Changsha, often filled with sweet or savory fillings like red bean or pork. They are sold at street stalls and can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert.
2. Are there any vegetarian or vegan dining options in Changsha?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan dining options in Changsha. Some popular restaurants include:1. Senior Vegetarian Restaurant
Address: 268 Gaotangling Road, Yuhua District, Xiaoxiang Shopping Mall, Changsha
This restaurant offers a wide variety of vegetarian dishes with an emphasis on fresh and nutritious ingredients.
2. Pure Lotus Vegetarian Health Food Restaurant
Address: Floor 1-3, Bisheng Building, No. 209 Jiefang West Road, Furong District, Changsha
This restaurant specializes in creative and healthy vegetarian and vegan dishes using organic ingredients.
3. Yanjiyou Art Community
Address: F5B01 (near KFC), Kaiyuan Shopping Mall 113 Baisha Street Tianxin District, Changsha
This cafe-style restaurant serves vegan and vegetarian options including salads, sandwiches, smoothies and more.
4. Veggie Kolokakao Cafe & Restaurant
Address: Section A1055 Second Lot Zhongxing Life Garden Beiyuanwei Pozi Main Street Kaifu District,BaiBingQi Shao Street Crossroads North to Meilin Primary School Changsha
This cozy cafe offers a mix of Chinese and Western-style vegan cuisine along with coffee and desserts.
5. Green Common Vegetarian Restaurant
Address: Low Carbon Creative Center (#641), Liheng International Community North Yard Kaifu District,BaiBingQi Shao Street Crossroads North to Meilin Primary School Changsha
This modern restaurant features a plant-based menu with a focus on local produce and sustainable ingredients.
3. What is a popular and authentic restaurant for hot pot in Changsha?
Huo Gong Dian Hotpot Restaurant is a popular and authentic hot pot restaurant in Changsha. It offers a variety of traditional hot pot dishes, including spicy Sichuan-style and more mild Hunan-style options. The restaurant also has a unique DIY sauce bar where customers can create their own dipping sauces.
4. Is street food safe to eat in Changsha?
The safety of street food in Changsha varies. Some vendors may have good hygiene practices, while others may not. It is always best to exercise caution when eating street food and make sure the food is cooked and served hot. Avoid eating uncooked fruits and vegetables that may have been washed with contaminated water. It is also recommended to choose vendors with a higher turnover of customers, as this often indicates fresher and safer food options.
5. Where can I find the best dim sum in Changsha?
It is subjective to determine the best dim sum in Changsha as it depends on personal taste preferences. However, some popular restaurants known for their dim sum in Changsha include Chuan Shao Ma Yuan Restaurant, Gaodi Xiang Restaurant, and Tripod King Restaurant. It is recommended to read reviews and ask locals for recommendations to find the best fit for you.
6. Can you recommend a good restaurant for Hunan cuisine in Changsha?
One highly recommended restaurant for Hunan cuisine in Changsha is Huogongdian Restaurant. It is located near the Huangxing Road Pedestrian Street and has been in business since 1982, serving authentic Hunan dishes such as spicy stews, cured meats, and hotpots. The atmosphere is lively and the service is excellent, making it a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
7. Are there any foreign cuisine restaurants in Changsha, such as Italian or Japanese?
Yes, there are foreign cuisine restaurants in Changsha, such as Italian and Japanese restaurants. Some examples include:
1. La Vie en Rose (Italian)
Address: 4F, Bei Tai Plaza, No. 882 Wuyi Avenue, Furong District
2. Graziella Italian Restaurant
Address: No. 249 Yingbin Road, Yuhua District
3. Tasting Room (Japanese)
Address: No. 123 Nanmenkou Street, Tianxin District
4. Rakuichi Sushi (Japanese)
Address: No. 1-103-105 Building A Parkson North of Jinxing Square, No.489 Bayi Road.
5. Ume Japanese Restaurant
Address: G Floor of Daoyuan Hotel, No.8 East Xiangwan Road.
6. Kobe Teppanyaki (Japanese)
Address: G Floor of Aiwei Huachuang International Building Center Phase III, Xianjiahuapedestrian street West numeral.
7.Bistro Café & Oyster Bar (French Cuisine)
Address: G Floor of Intercontinental City Paradise Hotel Hankang Tower B1 Block , Hanxi Financial Area.He Long Jiang Bei Cai River Road.
Please note that these are just a few examples and there may be more foreign cuisine options available in Changsha.
8. Where is the best place to try stinky tofu in Changsha?
The best place to try stinky tofu in Changsha is at the Wenqinlou restaurant. This restaurant has been popular for its stinky tofu for many years and it is known for its unique flavor and texture. Other popular places to try stinky tofu in Changsha are the Pozi Street Stinky Tofu, Niuwangmiao Stinky Tofu, and Xiangjia Street Stinky Tofu.
9. Is it easy to find halal food options in Changsha?
Yes, it is relatively easy to find halal food options in Changsha. There are several restaurants and food stalls that serve halal dishes, especially in areas with a large Muslim population such as the Muslim Quarter and Kaifu District. Some popular halal dishes in Changsha include lamb kebabs, hand-pulled noodles, and roasted mutton. Additionally, many Chinese restaurants also offer halal options on their menu.
10. Are there any specialty food markets or street vendors that offer unique local delicacies?
There are several specialty food markets and street vendors throughout the Philippines that offer unique local delicacies. Some popular examples include:
1. Danggit Republic – a market in Cebu City that specializes in dried seafood, particularly danggit (rabbitfish).
2. Bicol Market – located in Quezon City, this market offers a variety of spicy Bicolano delicacies like laing (taro leaves cooked in coconut milk) and pinangat (fish cooked in taro leaves).
3. Pasalubong Centers – these can be found in many cities and towns across the country, offering a variety of local snacks and delicacies such as pili nuts, banana chips, dried mangoes, and more.
4. Balut Vendors – balut is a popular street food in the Philippines, consisting of boiled fertilized duck eggs. You can find balut vendors on the streets of Manila and other major cities.
5. Street-side Barbecue Stalls – often found during night markets or festivals, these stalls offer grilled meats on skewers such as pork barbecue, chicken intestines (isaw), and chicken feet (adidas).
6. Buko Pie Vendors – buko pie is a popular dessert made with young coconut meat and custard filling. You can find it being sold by vendors along highways or at local markets.
7. Kakanin Stands – kakanin are traditional Filipino desserts made from glutinous rice or root crops such as cassava or purple yam. You can find them being sold by street vendors along with other snacks like turon (banana rolls) and palitaw (glutinous rice cakes).
8. Suman Stands – suman is a type of steamed rice cake wrapped in leaves such as banana or coconut. You can find them being sold by street vendors, especially during the Christmas season.
9. Taho Vendors – taho is a popular Filipino breakfast snack made with soft tofu, syrup, and tapioca pearls. You can find it being sold by vendors on the streets in the morning.
10. La Paz Batchoy Vendors – La Paz Batchoy is a noodle soup dish that originated from Iloilo City. You can find it being sold by street vendors or small eateries called batchoyan serving the famous noodle soup.
11. What are some popular snacks or desserts to try while visiting Changsha?
Some popular snacks and desserts to try while visiting Changsha include:
1. Stinky Tofu (Chou Doufu) – a must-try for adventurous eaters, this fermented tofu dish has a strong odor but is a beloved Changsha snack.
2. Steamed Rice Cake (Wufangzhai) – a soft and fluffy rice cake usually served with sweet red bean paste or savory fillings like meat or vegetables.
3. Sweet Osmanthus Cake (Guihua Gao) – a traditional dessert made with osmanthus flower and glutinous rice flour, giving it a unique floral flavor.
4. Kaiping Steamed Dumplings (Kaiping Shaojiao) – a type of dumpling filled with pork, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots, named after the city where they originated.
5. Spicy Soup Noodles (Ma La Tang) – a popular street food dish consisting of noodles in a spicy broth with various meats and vegetables.
6. Deep-Fried Wontons (Tianpi Wonton) – wontons stuffed with pork and shrimp, coated in sticky rice flour and deep-fried until crispy.
7. Silver Thread Rolls (Fengfen Noodles) – thin, thread-like noodles served either hot or cold and often topped with chili oil, peanuts, scallions, and other toppings.
8. Lotus Seed Dessert Soup (Lianzi Tang) – a warm dessert soup made with lotus seeds, rock sugar, and sometimes other ingredients like red beans or sticky rice balls.
9. Rose-flavored Dairy Dessert (Mei Zi You Jiang Ju Zhi Canying) – a local dairy dessert flavored with rose petals and created in Changsha in the 1960s.
10. A Bing (Rice Cake Wrapped in Pan Fried Egg Wrap)- another street food specialty featuring pan-fried egg wraps stuffed with sticky rice cakes and various fillings like vegetables or meat.
11. Vendors in Changsha also offer a variety of fruit on sticks, such as mango, watermelon, and pineapple, sprinkled with seasoning or sugar for a sweet and tangy snack.
12. Can you suggest a good place to have breakfast in the city?
Sure! One great option is The Breakfast Club, which has locations in various parts of the city. They offer a variety of breakfast dishes including pancakes, omelettes, and avocado toast. Another popular spot is Bill’s, known for their delicious breakfast benedicts and freshly squeezed juices. For a more traditional New York experience, you can try Russ & Daughters Café which serves classic bagels and lox.
13. How does dining etiquette differ from Western countries?
Dining etiquette in non-Western countries can vary significantly from Western countries. Some key differences may include:
1. Seating arrangements: In many non-Western cultures, the head of the household or the guest of honor is typically seated at the head of the table, while others are seated around them according to their social status. In Western dining etiquette, seating arrangements are usually more flexible and decided upon by the host or based on personal preference.
2. Use of utensils: In many Eastern cultures, chopsticks or hands are used for eating rather than forks and knives. Even in countries where utensils are used, they may have different shapes and sizes compared to Western counterparts.
3. Sharing food: In some cultures, it is customary to share dishes communally rather than having individual plates for each person. This means that guests should only take a small amount of food from shared dishes to avoid appearing greedy.
4. Drinking customs: In some non-Western cultures, it is considered impolite to pour your own drink; instead, you should pour for others before serving yourself. Also, drinking customs may differ – for example, in Japan it is polite to wait until everyone has been served before beginning to drink.
5. Eating with hands: In some Middle Eastern and South Asian cultures, eating with hands is common practice. If you are not familiar with this custom, it is important to observe and learn proper techniques before attempting yourself.
6. Burping or slurping: In some Southeast Asian countries like Thailand or China, it is considered acceptable and even a compliment to burp after finishing your meal as a sign of satisfaction. Similarly, slurping noodles or soup in these countries shows appreciation for the dish.
7. Using toothpicks: Using toothpicks at the table can be seen as rude or impolite in some non-Western countries because it implies that there was something stuck between your teeth during the meal.
Overall, dining etiquette in non-Western countries is often more formal and structured compared to Western countries. It is important to be observant of your surroundings and follow the lead of your host or other guests to ensure that you are respecting the local customs and traditions.
14. Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants or high-end dining options in Changsha?
Yes, there are several Michelin-starred restaurants and high-end dining options in Changsha. Some popular choices include:1. Yue Long Men Restaurant (One Star): Known for their Cantonese cuisine and creative dishes, this restaurant is housed in a stunning traditional Chinese building.
2. Shang Palace (One Star): Located in the Shangri-La Hotel, this restaurant serves upscale Cantonese and Hunanese dishes.
3. Maple House by Premium Ingredient (One Star): Offering modern takes on traditional Hunan cuisine, this restaurant has a trendy atmosphere and a rooftop terrace.
4. Jiangnan Spring Restaurant (Two Stars): This elegant restaurant serves elaborate Huaiyang cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood.
5. 66 Old Kitchen (Two Stars): Specializing in Hunan cuisine, this restaurant serves innovative and beautifully presented dishes in a stylish setting.
6. Baiwei Cuisine (Three Stars): Housed in a historic building, this restaurant offers high-end Sichuan cuisine with a focus on spicy flavors.
It’s worth noting that the Michelin guide only covers establishments within central Changsha. There may be additional upscale dining options located outside of the city center.
15. What local ingredients are commonly used in Hunanese cuisine?
Hunanese cuisine uses a variety of local ingredients, including:
1. Scallions – commonly used as a seasoning or garnish in many dishes.
2. Peppers (especially chili peppers) – highly important in Hunanese cuisine to provide spiciness and flavor.
3. Soybeans – used to make soy sauce, tofu, and other soy-based products.
4. Rice – the staple grain of Hunanese cuisine, often steamed or stir-fried with other ingredients.
5. Garlic – frequently used for its pungent flavor in marinades and sauces.
6. Ginger – adds a spicy and slightly sweet flavor to dishes.
7. Tofu – a staple protein source made from soybeans and used in many vegetarian dishes.
8. Lotus root – a popular vegetable often pickled or stir-fried with other ingredients.
9. Shiitake mushrooms – adds an earthy umami flavor to dishes.
10. Cabbage – commonly used in soups, stir-fries, and pickled dishes.
11. Chinese five-spice powder – a blend of spices including star anise, cloves, fennel seeds, Sichuan peppercorns, and cinnamon that is added to many Hunanese dishes for depth of flavor.
12. Black bean sauce – made from fermented black beans and often paired with meat or fish dishes.
13. Peanut oil- commonly used for frying due to its high smoke point and nutty flavor.
14. Sichuan peppercorns – adds a numbing spiciness unique to Hunanese cuisine when eaten with chili peppers
15. Preserved vegetables (pickled mustard greens) – commonly used as a tangy ingredient in soups or stir-fry dishes
16. Is it necessary to make reservations at restaurants, or can you walk-in without a reservation?
It is always a good idea to make reservations at restaurants, especially for popular or busy establishments. However, many restaurants also accept walk-in customers and may be able to accommodate you without a reservation, especially if you are willing to wait for a bit of time. It would be best to call ahead or check the restaurant’s website for their specific policy on reservations.
17. Are there any rooftop bars or restaurants with a view of the city?
Yes, there are several rooftop bars and restaurants with views of the city. Some popular options include 1 Rooftop Garden & Bar, Westlight, and The Press Lounge.
18. How late do restaurants typically stay open for dinner service?
It varies by location, but most restaurants typically stay open for dinner service until around 9 or 10pm. Some restaurants in larger cities may stay open later, while others in smaller towns or rural areas may close earlier. It is always best to check the specific restaurant’s hours before planning to dine there.
19. Is tipping expected at restaurants and if so, what is an appropriate amount?
Tipping at restaurants is generally expected in the United States. The appropriate amount for a tip is typically 15-20% of the total bill. However, it is always best to check if a gratuity has already been included in the bill or if there is a suggested gratuity amount. In some high-end restaurants, a tip of 20% or more may be expected. If you receive exceptional service, it is considered polite to leave a larger tip as a gesture of appreciation.
20. Are there any food tours available that showcase the best of local cuisine in Changsha?
Yes, there are several food tours available in Changsha that showcase the best of local cuisine. Some recommended tours include:
1. Hunan Foodie Tour: This tour takes you on a culinary journey through Changsha’s most famous local dishes such as spicy hot pot, stinky tofu, and steamed fish head. You will also visit traditional food markets and sample snacks from street vendors.
2. Evening Food Tour: This tour is perfect for those who want to experience Changsha’s vibrant night market culture and try a variety of delicious snacks, barbecue, and desserts.
3. Old Changsha Food Tour: This tour focuses on traditional Changsha dishes with a visit to historic restaurants that have been serving authentic local cuisine for decades.
4. Farm-to-Table Food Tour: For an immersive experience, this tour takes you to a local farm where you can pick fresh ingredients and then learn how to cook them into traditional Hunan dishes with a local chef.
5. Vegetarian Food Tour: If you’re looking for vegetarian options, this tour will take you to some of the best vegetarian restaurants in Changsha where you can sample meat-free versions of popular local dishes.
These food tours are usually led by knowledgeable guides who can provide insights into the history and culture behind each dish. They also offer a great opportunity to meet fellow foodies and make new friends while indulging in the best of Changsha’s cuisine.