1. What are some popular local restaurants in Changchun that offer traditional Chinese cuisine?
Some popular local restaurants in Changchun that offer traditional Chinese cuisine include:1. Gongwangfu Restaurant: This restaurant is known for its Dongbei (Northeastern Chinese) cuisine, which includes dishes such as sautéed wild boar and braised lamb skewers.
2. Pipa Alley Restaurant: Located in a narrow alleyway, this restaurant specializes in Shandong cuisine, known for its bold flavors and use of seafood.
3. Qiu Xiang Yuan: This restaurant serves up classic Sichuan dishes such as mapo tofu and hot pot, known for their spicy and numbing flavors.
4. Huibao Chinese Restaurant: Known for its authentic Cantonese dishes, this restaurant offers a wide selection of dim sum and other Cantonese specialties.
5. Hengshan Restaurant: This restaurant showcases the flavors of Hunan province, famous for its fiery and fragrant dishes such as spicy crayfish and ma po eggplant.
6. Jiaxin Garden Restaurant: Located in a beautiful garden setting, this restaurant serves up traditional Hangzhou-style dishes like West Lake vinegar fish and dongpo pork.
7. Lianxiang Japanese BBQ Restaurant: While not traditional Chinese cuisine, this popular spot offers delicious Japanese-style BBQ using local ingredients.
8. Lanjia Farmhouse Cuisine: This rustic farmhouse offers a taste of rural Northeastern China with homecooked dishes like sour cabbage stew and smoked meats.
9.Peking Duck House: As the name suggests, this restaurant specializes in Beijing’s most famous dish – Peking duck – which is prepared according to traditional methods.
10. Donghuamen Night Market: For those looking to sample a variety of traditional Chinese snacks and street food, this night market offers a wide range of options from all over China in one location.
2. Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available at restaurants in Changchun?
Yes, there are many vegetarian and vegan options available at restaurants in Changchun. Some popular dishes include stir-fried vegetables, vegetable dumplings, tofu dishes, and various noodle dishes with vegetable toppings. Many restaurants also offer a separate menu specifically for vegetarian or vegan options. However, it is always best to check with the restaurant beforehand to ensure that they can accommodate dietary restrictions.
3. Can you recommend any must-try dishes from the local cuisine in Changchun?
Some must-try dishes from the local cuisine in Changchun include:
1. Jiaozi (dumplings): These are a staple in northeastern Chinese cuisine and can be filled with a variety of ingredients such as pork, beef, vegetables, or seafood.
2. Huntun (wontons): Similar to jiaozi but smaller in size and often served in a clear broth.
3. Ladao hot pot: This is a type of spicy hot pot that is popular in Changchun, with various types of meat and vegetables cooked in a spicy broth.
4. Nanguo pear stewed chicken: A traditional dish made with tender chicken stewed together with sweet Nanguo pears for a unique and flavorful combination.
5. Bingtang Hulu (candied hawthorn on a stick): A popular snack made by coating candied hawthorn fruits on skewers, creating a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors.
6. Chuanchuanxiang (skewers): Various meats, vegetables, and seafood are skewered and cooked over an open grill for a delicious street food experience.
7. Fried corn cakes: These crispy corn cakes are a popular snack in Changchun, often sold at street stalls or small shops.
8. Yangroumian (mutton noodles): Made by mixing hand-stretched noodles with tender chunks of lamb meat cooked in flavorful broth.
9. He Jiaozi (river snail dumplings): Another type of dumpling commonly found in Changchun, with a unique filling of chopped river snails mixed with minced pork or beef.
10. Qingzheng Zhu Dingbao (steamed buns with mixed stuffing): These steamed buns are filled with different types of stuffing such as pork, mushrooms, and cabbage, making each one unique and delicious.
4. Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants in Changchun?
As of 2021, there are no Michelin-starred restaurants in Changchun. However, there are several high-end restaurants in the city that offer excellent cuisine and dining experiences.
5. How is the street food scene in Changchun? Is it safe to eat from street vendors?
The street food scene in Changchun is very popular and diverse. There are many street vendors selling a variety of foods, such as grilled kebabs, dumplings, noodles, pancakes, and more. It is generally safe to eat from street vendors if they have a clean and hygienic appearance. However, it is always a good idea to use caution when eating any type of street food.
6. Are there any specialty food markets or districts in Changchun where one can try a variety of local snacks and dishes?
Yes, there are several specialty food markets and districts in Changchun where one can try a variety of local snacks and dishes. Some popular options include:
1. Changchun Food Street: Located in the central area of the city, this street is lined with various food stalls and vendors selling a variety of local snacks and dishes.
2. Gongzhuling Food Market: This is a famous traditional food market in Changchun known for its wide range of local specialties such as Jiaozi (dumplings), Smoked Fish, Bing Fen (a kind of noodle dish), and more.
3. Jingyang Road Snack Street: This street is home to many small restaurants and vendors serving up delicious local dishes such as Spicy Stewed Pork, Fried Shrimp, Grilled Lamb Skewers, etc.
4. Songhuajiang Road Night Market: This bustling night market offers a great selection of street food including BBQ skewers, fried noodles, dumplings, fried squid, lamb kebabs, etc.
5. Yi Shuai Jie Food District: This district is home to many restaurants and eateries offering a variety of regional cuisine from different parts of China, as well as local specialties like Jilin Style Hot Pot.
6. Changchun International Agriculture Expo Park: This is a huge park featuring various agricultural exhibitions and also has many booths selling local foods and specialties from different provinces in China.
7. Is there a particular time of year when certain seasonal dishes are more readily available in Changchun?
Yes, in Changchun, certain dishes are more readily available during certain seasons. For example, during the hot summer months, you can find chilled wheat noodles (liangpi) and cold dishes like cucumber salad or spicy noodles (la mian) with vinegar and chili oil. During autumn, wild mushrooms are in season and often used in hot pot dishes. In winter, hearty stews made with lamb and root vegetables are popular, as well as hotpots filled with various meats and vegetables to warm up from the cold temperatures. During spring, fresh produce such as greens and bamboo shoots are used in stir-fry dishes or soups.
8. Are international dining options also available in Changchun, such as Western, Korean, or Japanese cuisine?
Yes, there are a variety of international dining options available in Changchun. Western cuisine, Korean cuisine, and Japanese cuisine can all be found in the city. Some popular restaurants that offer these types of cuisine include Outback Steakhouse (Australian), Taco Bell (Mexican), Vera Napoli Pizza and Pasta (Italian), and Seokuang Korean Restaurant.
9. What are some famous regional delicacies that can be found in Changchun and where can they be sampled?
1. Stewed Chicken with Maize from Erdao District: This hearty dish features tender chicken stewed with locally-grown maize, giving it a unique sweet and savory flavor. It can be sampled at local restaurants in Erdao District.
2. Kuancheng Borscht: This traditional Russian-style soup is a popular delicacy in Kuancheng District, home to many Russian immigrants. It is made with beef, potatoes, carrots, and other vegetables and can be found at restaurants specializing in Russian cuisine.
3. Spicy Tofu Banquet from Luyuan District: Luyuan District is known for its spicy tofu dishes, which feature slices of soft tofu cooked in a fiery red sauce made from dried red chilies, Sichuan peppercorns, and other spices. The dish can be found at many local restaurants.
4. Changbai Mountain Ginseng Chicken Soup: This nutritious soup is made with ginseng from Changbai Mountain, one of the most famous mountains in Jilin province. It is often served as a special dish at high-end restaurants in Changchun.
5. Harbin-style Grilled Skewers: These grilled skewers are a popular street food found throughout Changchun, inspired by the neighboring city of Harbin. They feature various meats on skewers grilled over an open flame and seasoned with cumin and chili flakes.
6. Noodle Banquet from Gongzhuling City: This iconic dish from Gongzhuling City consists of various types of hand-pulled noodles served in a hearty broth alongside meats such as pork belly or lamb. It can be sampled at local noodle shops or street vendors.
7. Korean-style Barbecue: Due to its close proximity to North Korea, Changchun has a large Korean population and offers delicious Korean-style barbecue dishes such as marinated grilled meat (galbi) and kimchi stew (kimchi jjigae). They can be found at Korean restaurants throughout the city.
8. Northeastern-style Dumplings: Changchun is famous for its dumplings, which are often larger and more filling than other regional styles. They are typically filled with pork and vegetables and can be found at local dumpling shops or street vendors.
9. Longtou Mountain Crayfish: As Changchun is located near Longtou Mountain, the city has an abundance of crayfish cooking methods to choose from, including spicy boiled crayfish, garlic roasted crayfish, and more. They can be found at many seafood restaurants throughout the city.
10. Do most restaurants accept credit cards, or is it better to have cash on hand when dining out in Changchun?
Most restaurants in Changchun accept credit cards, especially in popular areas and larger establishments. However, it is always a good idea to have cash on hand when dining out as some smaller or more traditional restaurants may not accept credit cards. It is also recommended to confirm payment methods with the restaurant beforehand if you are unsure.
11. What is the average price range for a meal at a restaurant in Changchun? Are there budget-friendly options for travelers on a tight budget?
The average price range for a meal at a restaurant in Changchun ranges from 30-100 CNY (approximately $4.50-$15 USD). However, there are also many budget-friendly options available for travelers on a tight budget, with meals costing around 10-20 CNY (approximately $1.50-$3 USD). These options may include street food vendors, small local eateries, and fast food chains.
12. Are there any rooftop or scenic view restaurants in Changchun that offer great dining experiences?
Yes, there are several rooftop and scenic view restaurants in Changchun that offer great dining experiences. Here are a few recommendations:
1. Sky Bar – located on the 47th floor of the Changchun International Trade Center, this bar offers panoramic views of the city while serving up international cuisine and cocktails.
2. Taotao Restaurant – situated on the 34th floor of Jilin Province Hotel, this restaurant offers stunning views of Nanhu Park and serves delicious Chinese dishes.
3. Jing Yue Puji Restaurant – located on the 14th floor of Wanda Vista Changchun Hotel, this restaurant boasts a spacious outdoor terrace with views of the city’s skyline. They specialize in traditional Cantonese cuisine.
4. Barbecue Restaurant at Northeast Lake Forest Resort – This unique restaurant is surrounded by nature and overlooks beautiful Northeast Lake. Guests can enjoy barbecue dishes while taking in the serene scenery.
5. Xihe Yuelai Seafood Restaurant – situated on Beidahuang Yuelai Green Ecological Bay, this restaurant offers spectacular views of the lake and serves fresh seafood dishes.
6. Aotou Food Street Rooftop Dining – located in downtown Changchun, this rooftop dining area has a selection of different restaurants to choose from, all offering picturesque city views from above.
13. What etiquette should one follow while dining out at a restaurant in Changchun?
1. Greet the staff: It is polite to greet the restaurant staff when you enter, as it shows respect and appreciation for their service.
2. Use chopsticks properly: If you are not familiar with using chopsticks, it is best to ask for a fork or spoon. If using chopsticks, do not point them at others or leave them standing upright in your food.
3. Wait for others to be served: In Chinese culture, it is considered rude to start eating before everyone has been served their food. Wait until everyone has their meal before beginning to eat.
4. Offer dishes to others: In China, it is customary to offer dishes and share food with others at the table. If someone offers you a dish, it is polite to accept and try a small portion.
5. Pace yourself: Do not finish your food too quickly as this can be seen as impolite or that you did not enjoy the meal.
6. Avoid wastage: It is considered impolite to waste food in Chinese culture. Only order what you can finish and do not leave large amounts of food on your plate.
7. Use a napkin/ tissue: Use a napkin or tissue when needed during the meal and place it in your lap when not in use.
8. Do not play with utensils or make noise: Playing with utensils or making unnecessary noise at the table can be considered impolite behavior.
9. Do not put bones on the table: When eating meat with bones, use a separate plate provided by the restaurant for discarding them rather than placing them on the table directly.
10. Ask before taking pictures: Taking photos of your food or the restaurant may be allowed but it is polite to ask permission from staff beforehand.
11. Paying the bill: In most cases, the eldest person at the table will pay for everyone’s meal as a sign of respect. If you invited someone, it is also proper etiquette to pay for their meal.
12. Thank the staff: After finishing your meal, it is polite to thank the staff for their service and express your satisfaction with the meal.
13. Leave a tip: While leaving a tip is not customary in China, some higher-end restaurants may add a service charge to the bill. If the service was exceptional, it is acceptable to leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation.
14. Is it common to tip at restaurants in Changchun? If so, what is the customary amount?
Tipping is not common in Changchun as it is not a part of Chinese culture. However, if you wish to leave a tip, a small amount of 5-10% can be given for exceptional service.
15. Can I find western-style fast food chains like McDonald’s or KFC in Changchun?
Yes, there are a few McDonald’s and KFC locations in Changchun. There are also other fast food chains like Pizza Hut, Subway, and Burger King in the city.
16.Speaking of drinks, what are some popular local beverages that one should try while visiting Changchun?
1. Dongbei Baijiu – a strong and colorless liquor made from grains such as sorghum, wheat, or barley.
2. Heilongjiang beer – often called the “king of beers” in Northeast China, this is a popular local beer that comes in different varieties such as black beer and white beer.
3. Harbin ice wine – made from grapes that have been left to freeze on the vine, this sweet and rich wine is a popular choice during winter months.
4. Sour plum juice – a refreshing drink made from fermented sour plums, it is sweet, tangy, and often served with a hint of ginger.
5. Suansunzi tea – also known as “sour plum tea,” this beverage is made by steeping dried suansunzi (sour plums) in hot water. It is believed to aid digestion and has a unique tart flavor.
6. Qindao salted sparkling water – originated in Qindao city but widely available in Changchun, this lightly carbonated mineral water contains added salt for a unique taste.
7. Mingqian tea – a type of green tea that is grown exclusively in Jilin province and harvested before the Qingming Festival (April 5th).
8. Jinghua pomegranate juice – made from locally grown pomegranates, this juice is known for its health benefits and distinct flavor.
9. Beihetan spring water – sourced from an underground spring near Beihetan forest park, this natural mineral water is believed to have medicinal properties and can be found in many restaurants and stores.
10. Ginger milk curd – a popular dessert drink made with freshly squeezed ginger juice mixed with hot milk until it curdles into silky smooth texture.
17.Are there any famous local dessert shops or bakeries around town for those with a sweet tooth?
Yes, there are several famous dessert shops and bakeries in town! Some popular options include:
1. The Cheesecake Factory
2. Magnolia Bakery
3. Sprinkles Cupcakes
4. Dylan’s Candy Bar
5. Serendipity 3
6. Baked by Melissa
7. Levain Bakery
8. Milk Bar
9. Eileen’s Special Cheesecake
10. Dominique Ansel Bakery
18.How accessible are halal options for Muslim travelers in Changchun?
Halal options for Muslim travelers in Changchun are fairly accessible. There is a small but growing Muslim population in the city, and as a result, there are several halal restaurants and markets scattered throughout the city. These establishments cater to the dietary restrictions of Muslim travelers with halal meats and other dishes. Additionally, many hotels and tourist attractions are aware of halal needs and may offer halal food options upon request. However, it is recommended that Muslim travelers do their own research or seek recommendations from local mosques or the Changchun Islamic Association to ensure they find suitable halal options during their stay.
19.What are some unique dining experiences that can be found in Changchun, such as themed restaurants or dinner shows?
1. Ice and Snow World Restaurant: This unique restaurant is located inside an indoor amusement park made entirely of ice and snow. Diners can enjoy their meal in a frosty setting surrounded by elaborate ice sculptures.
2. Changchun Movie Wonderland Restaurant: This themed restaurant pays homage to the city’s film industry through its decor and menu items. Diners can also watch classic Chinese films while enjoying their meal.
3. Mao Zedong Themed Restaurant: This restaurant features a Mao Zedong theme, with portraits of the Chinese leader lining the walls and a menu full of dishes that he reportedly enjoyed.
4. Xiao Da Ren BBQ Buffet: This popular spot offers all-you-can-eat barbecue cooked on portable grills at each table. The DIY dining experience is made even more fun with live music performances throughout the evening.
5. Shangri-La Tea Garden Restaurant: Experience traditional Chinese tea culture at this tranquil garden-style restaurant, where diners can sample a variety of high-quality teas and learn about different brewing techniques.
6. Qianlong Imperial Cuisine Restaurant: This elegant restaurant serves up dishes inspired by the Qing Dynasty, incorporating traditional cooking methods and ingredients from royal recipes.
7. Jindi Thai Cooking School & Restaurant: Not just a place to eat, Jindi offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn how to cook authentic Thai dishes taught by experienced chefs before enjoying their creations in the restaurant.
8. River Night Cruise Dinner: Enjoy Chinese cuisine while cruising along the Songhua River at night, taking in stunning views of Changchun city lights from the water.
9. Martial Arts Dinner Show: Get entertained by skilled martial artists performing impressive stunts while feasting on delicious local specialties at this dinner show venue.
10.Beer Street Food Streets: If you’re looking for a casual dining experience, head to one of Changchun’s famous Beer Streets where you can grab some cold beer and sample a variety of mouth-watering local street food.
20.How is the overall cleanliness and hygiene standard of restaurants in Changchun?
The overall cleanliness and hygiene standard of restaurants in Changchun is generally good. Most restaurants follow strict hygiene regulations and have regular inspections to ensure food safety. However, there may be some small restaurants or street vendors that may not meet the same standards, so it is always best to use caution and choose reputable establishments for meals. It is also recommended to check online reviews or ask locals for recommendations for the cleanest and most hygienic restaurants in the area.