1. What are the most popular local dishes in Dandong?
1. Korean-style Fried Chicken: Dandong is known for its deliciously crispy and juicy Korean-style fried chicken, typically served with a variety of dipping sauces.
2. Iron Pot Stewed Pork: This traditional dish features chunks of pork, mushrooms, and tofu cooked in a hot iron pot, resulting in a warm and flavorful meal.
3. Grilled Mantis Shrimp: These tiny freshwater shrimp are skewered and grilled to perfection, often seasoned with garlic or chili for added flavor.
4. Seafood Hotpot: Dandong’s location on the Yalu River makes it an ideal place for fresh seafood dishes. A seafood hotpot is a popular choice, featuring a variety of seafood cooked in a savory broth at the table.
5. Dumplings (Jiaozi): These handmade dumplings are a staple in Chinese cuisine, and Dandong’s version often includes flavorful fillings such as pork, shrimp, or vegetables.
6. Bibimbap: As a border city with North Korea, Dandong has many Korean influences in its cuisine. Bibimbap, a dish made with mixed rice and vegetables topped with egg and spicy sauce, is one example.
7. Sweet Potato Noodles (Gogumnalu Myeon): Another popular Korean-influenced dish in Dandong is gogumnalu myeon, which consists of sweet potato noodles mixed with vegetables and meat or seafood in a savory sauce.
8. Steamed Corn Pancakes: These fluffy pancakes are made from steamed cornmeal and can be accompanied by various toppings such as spicy meat or pickled vegetables.
9. Ginger-flavored Lamb: This signature dish features tender lamb meat cooked with ginger and spices for a fragrant and hearty meal.
10. Fishing Village Stew (Tunlou Guo): As Dandong is also known for its fishing industry, Tunlou Guo is a must-try dish that combines seafood such as fish, shrimp, and clams with vegetables and tofu in a flavorful broth.
2. Are there any must-try restaurants in Dandong for tourists?
1. Jin’an Dumpling Restaurant – Known for their delicious and authentic Chinese dumplings, this restaurant is a must-visit for foodies.
2. North Korean Restaurant – Located on the Yalu River, this unique restaurant offers North Korean cuisine and entertainment, providing a glimpse into the neighboring country’s culture and food.
3. Dan Xi Men Seafood Restaurant – This popular seafood spot serves up fresh catches from the Yellow Sea, including crab and squid dishes.
4. Xiang Gen Xu Pork Knuckle Restaurant – Specializing in spicy Sichuan-style pork knuckles, this restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
5. Dandong Fried Chicken Street – For a quick and tasty bite, head to this street lined with vendors selling different variations of crispy fried chicken.
6. Wanshunlai Shaobing Shop – A popular breakfast spot, this shop serves up freshly made shaobing (Chinese baked flatbread) filled with various savory fillings such as egg and vegetables.
7. Yaohua Noodle House – This family-owned noodle house has been serving up hand-pulled noodles since 1950 and is well-known for its hearty bowls of hot and flavorful noodles.
8. Tiantian Roasted Fish Restaurant – This restaurant specializes in roasted freshwater fish dishes, prepared in traditional Chinese clay ovens.
9. Zuojia Island Beer Town – Perfect for beer lovers, this brewery boasts an impressive selection of craft beers brewed on-site, accompanied by delicious bar snacks.
10.Eat Thoroughfare (Chi Man Tang) Restaurant – Located near the Dandong Railway Station, this modern restaurant serves up a variety of international dishes ranging from Italian to Thai cuisine.
3. Can you recommend any good vegetarian or vegan dining options in Dandong?
Some good vegetarian and vegan dining options in Dandong include:
1. Veggie Delight – a vegetarian restaurant with a variety of dishes including mock meat options.
2. Bean Sprouts Healthy Vegetarian Restaurant – offers authentic Chinese vegetarian cuisine.
3. Pure Lotus Organic Vegetarian Restaurant – specializes in organic and healthy plant-based dishes.
4. Happy Buddha Vegetarian Restaurant – serves up delicious, fresh vegan dishes.
5. Yummy Chinese Vegetarian Buffet – offers a wide selection of vegan and vegetarian options at a fixed price buffet.
6. Jiufu Jiali Taimu Lifestyle Vegetarian Restaurant – serves gourmet vegan dishes using high-quality ingredients.
Please note that some restaurants in China may still use MSG or non-vegan ingredients in their dishes, so it is always best to double check with the restaurant before ordering to ensure it fits your dietary preferences.
4. How is the street food scene in Dandong? Any must-try snacks or vendors?
The street food scene in Dandong is very vibrant and diverse. There are many street food stalls and vendors scattered throughout the city, offering a wide range of snacks and dishes at affordable prices. Some must-try snacks and vendors in Dandong include:
1. Spicy Grilled Squid: This popular late-night snack can be found at various street food stands along the Yalu River. It is a skewer of squid marinated in a spicy sauce and grilled to perfection.
2. Korean-style Potato Hot Dog: This unique twist on the classic hot dog is a favorite among locals. The hot dog is wrapped in layers of thinly sliced potatoes, deep-fried, and then topped with ketchup, mayo, mustard, and diced onions.
3. Fried Dumplings (Jiaozi): These traditional Chinese dumplings are a staple street food in Dandong. They are usually filled with pork or vegetable fillings and can be either steamed or fried.
4. Tangbing: This hearty pancake-like dish is made by pouring batter onto a griddle, adding toppings like meat, vegetables, cheese or eggs, and then folding it over to create a pocket. It is often served with various dipping sauces.
5. Korean-style Fried Chicken: With its proximity to North Korea, Dandong has a strong Korean influence on its street food scene. Korean-style fried chicken is incredibly popular here and comes in various flavors such as soy garlic, spicy, sweet & sour, etc.
6. Grilled Seafood Skewers: Along the riverfront area of Dandong, you’ll find numerous vendors selling fresh seafood skewers cooked right on the spot. Choices include scallops, shrimp, squid, fish balls, etc.
7. Shaobing (Chinese Flatbread): These savory flatbreads are commonly found on the streets of Dandong filled with various ingredients like meat or vegetables, and then grilled until crispy.
8. Egg Pancakes (Jianbing): This popular Chinese breakfast food is sold by street vendors all over Dandong. It’s made by pouring a thin layer of batter over an egg, adding scallions, cilantro, and a crispy fried wonton wrapper, and then folding it up like a burrito.
Overall, the street food scene in Dandong offers something for everyone, from classic Chinese snacks to Korean-influenced dishes. So don’t hesitate to try out different vendors and taste your way through this bustling city!
5. Is seafood a specialty in Dandong? Where can I find the best seafood dishes?
Yes, seafood is a specialty in Dandong. The city is located near the Yellow Sea and the Yalu River, making it a prime location for fresh, high-quality seafood.
Some of the best places to find delicious seafood dishes in Dandong include:
1. Xing Jie Seafood Market – This bustling market offers a wide variety of freshly caught seafood, including crab, shrimp, clams, and fish. Visitors can choose their own live seafood and have it cooked on-site at one of the many restaurants within the market.
2. Nansunzi Seafood Restaurant – Known for its signature dish of steamed scallops with garlic and vermicelli noodles, this restaurant also serves up other delicious seafood dishes such as grilled squid and fried shrimp cakes.
3. Laopai Seafood Restaurant – This popular restaurant offers a great selection of hot pot-style seafood dishes using only the freshest ingredients. The restaurant also has private dining rooms for a more intimate dining experience.
4. Korean Street (Yalujiang Road) – Along this street, you will find numerous Korean-style seafood restaurants serving up specialties like Grilled Yellow Croaker and Spicy Octopus Stir-Fry.
5. Banqiao Coastal Village – Known for its beautiful coastal views, this village is home to many seafood restaurants where visitors can enjoy fresh catches from local fishermen while taking in stunning views of the sea.
6. Do any of the restaurants in Dandong offer traditional Korean cuisine due to its proximity to North Korea?
There are a few restaurants in Dandong that offer traditional Korean cuisine due to its proximity to North Korea. Some popular options include Mapo Kalguksu, Dak Galbi Restaurant, and Yule Korean Restaurant. These restaurants specialize in dishes such as kimchi, bibimbap, and korean BBQ.
7. Are there any restaurants that offer a view of the Yalu River while dining?
Yes, there are a few restaurants in the North Korean town of Sinuiju that offer a view of the Yalu River. These include:
1. Yusuksaeng Restaurant – This restaurant serves traditional Korean cuisine and offers views of the Yalu River from its outdoor seating area.
2. Ryongrim Pavilion – A popular seafood restaurant with a terrace overlooking the river.
3. Gaesung Club – Located on a hilltop, this restaurant offers panoramic views of the Yalu River and the surrounding area.
4. Jinpanzang Restaurant – Offers both indoor and outdoor seating options with views of the Yalu River.
5. Tongilbo Restaurant – Known for its hot pot dishes, this restaurant also offers views of the river from its second floor balcony seating.
Please note that access to these restaurants may be limited for tourists and advance reservations may be required.
8. Are there any local food markets or grocery stores where visitors can purchase fresh produce and ingredients to cook their own meals with?
Yes, there are several local food markets and grocery stores in Singapore where visitors can purchase fresh produce and ingredients. Some popular options include:
1. Tekka Centre: Located in Little India, Tekka Centre is a bustling market with a wide range of fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, seafood, and spices.
2. Chinatown Complex Market: This market has a section dedicated to fresh produce, offering a variety of local and imported fruits and vegetables.
3. FairPrice Finest: This supermarket chain offers a good selection of fresh produce, including organic options.
4. Cold Storage: Another popular supermarket chain that sells a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other ingredients.
5. RedMart: An online grocery store that delivers to most parts of Singapore, offering a wide selection of fresh produce and ingredients.
6. Wet Markets: These are traditional open-air markets scattered throughout the city where locals do their daily shopping for fresh produce.
7. PasarBella @ Suntec City: A gourmet food market with several stalls selling premium quality meats, seafood, fruits, vegetables, and other ingredients.
8. Little Farms: A specialty grocer that focuses on providing high-quality produce from around the world.
9. SuperNature: A health food supermarket that offers organic and natural products from trusted sources.
10. Real Food Grocer: An online grocer that specializes in healthy organic products such as fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts and more.
9. Are there any unique dining experiences, such as dinner cruises, available in Dandong?
Yes, there are several unique dining experiences available in Dandong, including:
1. Dinner cruise on the Yalu River: You can enjoy a delicious meal while cruising along the beautiful Yalu River and admiring the scenery of Dandong and North Korea.
2. Chinese-style hotpot dinner: Enjoy a quintessential Chinese dining experience by trying out the traditional hotpot, where you cook raw meats and vegetables in simmering broth.
3. Korean BBQ: As Dandong is located near the North Korean border, you can find many restaurants offering authentic Korean BBQ with a variety of marinated meats and side dishes.
4. Waterfront seafood restaurants: Dandong’s location near the Yellow Sea makes it famous for its fresh seafood offerings. Many restaurants located along the waterfront offer an array of seafood dishes to satisfy your taste buds.
5. The Great Wall Barbecue: This restaurant offers a unique dining concept by allowing guests to grill their own food on mini charcoal grills built into each table.
6. Themed cafes: Experience dining in a themed cafe, such as Hello Kitty or Alice in Wonderland themes, which are popular among locals in Dandong.
7. Street food tour: Explore Dandong’s bustling street food scene and sample various local delicacies such as steamed buns, skewers, and dumplings.
8. Traditional Chinese tea ceremony: This serene dining experience involves learning about different types of Chinese tea, their origins, and how to make and serve them properly while enjoying snacks like traditional mooncakes or sweet pastries.
9. Folklore performances during dinner: Some restaurants in Dandong offer cultural performances such as traditional folk dances or acrobatic shows during dinner time to enhance your dining experience.
10. How accessible are Western food options in Dandong? Are there any good pizza or burger places?
There are several Western food options in Dandong, including pizza and burger places. Some popular choices include Pizza Hut, KFC, and McDonald’s. There are also smaller local restaurants that serve Western-style food, such as Italian and American cuisine. However, these options may not be as readily available or of the same quality as in larger cities. It is recommended to do some research or ask for local recommendations for the best options.
11. Can you recommend any hidden gem eateries that may not be well-known by tourists but are popular among locals for their delicious food and atmosphere?
1. Sundowner – a cozy pub-style restaurant known for its unique cocktails and delicious wood-fired pizzas.
2. The Wolfe Pit – a family-owned barbecue joint that serves up mouth-watering ribs, pulled pork, and brisket.
3. The Bluebird Bistro – a farm-to-table restaurant with a charming atmosphere and delectable dishes made from fresh, local ingredients.
4. The Rieger – a historic speakeasy-style restaurant that offers creative seasonal dishes and handcrafted cocktails.
5. FüLou – a traditional Lebanese restaurant hidden in an unassuming strip mall, serving up some of the best shawarma and falafel in the city.
6. Julian – an intimate French brasserie offering refined cuisine and an extensive wine list.
7. Banksia – a cozy Australian cafe serving up savory pies, hearty breakfasts, and delicious coffee.
8. Fat Matt’s Vortex – this dive bar is famous for its decadent deep-fried burgers and tater tots that locals swear by.
9. Elsa’s Ethiopian Restaurant – tucked away in Kansas City’s diverse South Hyde Park neighborhood, this family-run spot serves up authentic Ethiopian cuisine.
10. Urban Cafe – for a taste of modern American comfort food, head to this hip eatery known for its creative sandwiches and brunch offerings.
11. Happy Gillis Café & Hangout – this unpretentious breakfast joint serves up locally-sourced dishes like biscuits and gravy, quiche, and granola bowls in a friendly, communal setting.
12. Are there any famous local desserts or sweets that I should try while visiting Dandong?
Some famous local desserts and sweets to try while visiting Dandong include:1. Mandu (Korean-style dumplings) – a popular snack in Dandong due to its proximity to North Korea.
2. Ginseng honey cake – a specialty of Dandong made with ginseng, honey, and glutinous rice flour.
3. Maple cakes – small pancakes filled with red bean paste or peanuts and drizzled with maple syrup.
4. Qing Tuan (Green Rice Ball) – a traditional dessert made with glutinous rice and filled with red bean paste, rolled in crushed leaves for flavor.
5. Baobing (Shaved ice) – a refreshing treat made from shaved ice topped with fresh fruit, condensed milk, and sweet red bean paste.
6. Yu Mi Baozi (Steamed corn buns) – steamed buns filled with sweetened mashed corn and served as a breakfast or snack item.
7. Suan La Fen (Sour and spicy potato noodles) – a spicy street food dish made with potato starch noodles, pickled vegetables, chili sauce, and other toppings.
8. Tang Huo Shao Bing (Sugar cotton candy on sugar pancake) – a unique sweet treat where cotton candy is placed on top of a sugar-coated fried pancake.
9. Korean-style rice cakes – various types of sticky rice cakes filled or topped with red bean paste, fruit fillings, or nuts.
10. Butter pear cake – a popular savory pastry filled with mashed butter pears mixed with sugar and nuts.
11. Black sesame rolls – crispy rolls made from black sesame seeds and sugar wrapped in rice paper.
12. Sweet peanut soup – warm soup-like dish made from slow-cooked peanuts seasoned with honey or brown sugar.
13. How do I find authentic Chinese cuisine in Dandong? Any tips for avoiding tourist traps and finding genuine local restaurants?
1. Research before you go: Before visiting Dandong, do some research on the local cuisine and popular dishes to get an idea of what to look for when searching for authentic restaurants.
2. Ask locals for recommendations: Locals are the best source of information when it comes to finding authentic restaurants. Ask your hotel staff or people you meet in Dandong for their favorite places to eat.
3. Look for busy, popular restaurants: A good indication of a restaurant’s authenticity is if it is bustling with locals. Avoid places that seem empty or full of tourists.
4. Check online reviews: Read reviews from other travelers or food bloggers on websites like TripAdvisor or Yelp to get an idea of which restaurants locals recommend.
5. Explore street food: Street food is a great way to experience authentic Chinese cuisine in its most unadulterated form. Look for stalls with long lines and different varieties of food on offer.
6. Venture off the beaten path: Popular tourist areas may have more expensive and less authentic restaurants compared to local neighborhoods. Explore further away from these areas to find hidden gems.
7. Avoid menus with pictures: If a menu has pictures of every dish, it is usually a sign that the restaurant caters more towards tourists than locals.
8. Learn some basic Mandarin phrases: Knowing a few phrases in Mandarin can help you communicate with restaurant staff and make it easier to order dishes that aren’t on the menu.
9. Look for specialty dishes: Each region in China has its own speciality dishes, so look out for them in local restaurants as they are likely to be more authentic.
10. Try new foods: Don’t be afraid to try new dishes that you haven’t heard of before – they may turn out to be some of the most flavorful and authentic dishes in Dandong!
11. Visit traditional markets: Traditional markets are not only great places to buy produce and ingredients but also to find local food stalls and street vendors serving up authentic dishes.
12. Go during busy mealtimes: The busiest times for meals in China are usually 7-8pm for dinner and 12-1pm for lunch. By going during these times, you can see where the locals are eating.
13. Trust your gut: At the end of the day, trust your instincts when it comes to finding authentic Chinese cuisine in Dandong. If a restaurant feels touristy or inauthentic, move on to the next one.
14. Is it safe for visitors to drink tap water at restaurants in Dandong, or is it better to stick with bottled water and other beverages?
According to the CDC and other sources, tap water in Dandong is not safe for drinking. It is recommended to stick with bottled water or other beverages that are sealed.
15. How is the pricing for food and drinks overall in Dandong? Is it expensive compared to other cities in China?
The pricing for food and drinks in Dandong is generally considered affordable compared to other cities in China. In local restaurants and street vendors, a simple meal can cost around 15-20 yuan (approximately $3 USD). For more upscale dining options or Western-style food, prices may be slightly higher. Prices for drinks are also relatively inexpensive, with a bottle of water costing around 2-3 yuan (less than $1 USD) and a beer costing around 5-10 yuan (less than $2 USD). Overall, Dandong is known for its affordable food and drink options.
16. What kind of breakfast options are available in Dandong? Are there bakeries, cafes, street-side vendors or traditional breakfast spots offering noodle soups and dumplings available early morning near hotels as well as outside areas close to train stations.
There are a few breakfast options available in Dandong, including bakeries, cafes, and traditional breakfast spots. Some common breakfast dishes include noodle soups, dumplings, and steamed buns. These options can be found near hotels and train stations as well as on the street from street-side vendors and traditional food stalls. Some popular places to try for breakfast in Dandong include Hwae Seok Buffet (a Korean-style buffet), Chi Maihong Donkey Hotel (known for their donkey meat sandwiches), and Dahebei Sausage Restaurant (famous for their grilled sausages).
17. How easy is it to find vegetarian or vegan options in Dandong? Are there specific restaurants that cater to these dietary needs?
Knowing that many Koreans travel to Dandong, there are some restaurants that offer vegetarian or vegan options. However, they may not be as common as in other cities. It might be helpful to research beforehand and look for specific restaurants that cater to these dietary needs. Some popular options include Loving Hut, a global chain of vegan restaurants, and Green Lotus Vegetarian Restaurant.Additionally, it is possible to find suitable dishes at traditional Chinese restaurants by communicating your dietary requirements with the staff. Be prepared to inquire about the ingredients used in each dish and ask for substitutions if needed. Keep in mind that some local dishes may use animal-based broths or sauces, so it’s essential to clarify before ordering.
18. Are credit/debit cards accepted in Dandong?
Credit/debit cards are not widely accepted in Dandong. Cash is still the preferred method of payment, especially at smaller establishments like street vendors or local markets. However, major hotels and larger stores may accept credit cards from international brands such as Visa or Mastercard.
It is recommended to carry enough cash when traveling to Dandong and exchange currency at banks or authorized money exchange counters within the city. ATMs are available but may have limited availability and charges applied by both your bank and the local bank providing the service.
19. Is it necessary to know Mandarin or any other languages when visiting Dandong?
Yes, knowing Mandarin will be helpful when visiting Dandong as it is the most commonly spoken language in China, including Dandong. While some people may speak English in tourist areas, it is not widespread throughout the city.
Learning some basic Mandarin phrases can also be beneficial when asking for directions or ordering food at local establishments. Additionally, learning some key Korean phrases could also come in handy since there is a significant Korean population in Dandong due to its proximity to North Korea.
20. How common are scams targeting tourists in Dandong?
Scams targeting tourists are not very common in Dandong, but it is always essential to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially in busy tourist areas.
Some common scams to be aware of include inflated prices for souvenirs or other goods, fake tour packages, and overcharging for taxi rides. It is recommended to research common scams beforehand and always double-check prices before purchasing anything.
If you encounter any suspicious activity or feel uncomfortable, it is best to trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation. Additionally, contacting local authorities can also help ensure your safety while traveling in Dandong.
18. Can you recommend any rooftop restaurants or bars with views of the city?
1. The Rock Bar – Located in the Ayana Resort in Bali, this restaurant offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
2. At.mosphere – Located on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, this restaurant offers breathtaking views of the city.
3. SkyBar – Located on the 33rd floor of Traders Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, this rooftop bar offers panoramic views of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers.
4. The Roof Restaurant & Lounge – Located on top of the Hotel Icon in Hong Kong, this rooftop restaurant boasts spectacular views of Victoria Harbour.
5. La Pergola Terrace – Located at Belmond Hotel Caruso in Italy’s Amalfi Coast, this rooftop dining experience overlooks the picturesque coastline.
6. TORCH Doha Shisha Terrace – Located at The Torch Doha in Qatar, this terrace offers stunning views of the city skyline and serves a variety of shisha flavors.
7. Topo Lounge – Located on top of Lisbon’s multi-level parking garage Martim Moniz, this bar features stunning views overlooking Lisbon’s historic center.
8. East Bar & Grill – Located on top of Sir Stamford Raffles Hotel in Singapore, this restaurant offers breathtaking views of Marina Bay and Singapore’s skyline.
9. Felix Rooftop Restaurant & Oyster Bar – Located on top of The Peninsula Hong Kong, this restaurant offers magnificent views over Victoria Harbour and Kowloon.
10. The Press Lounge – Located above Ink48 hotel in New York City, this rooftop bar offers stunning views over Manhattan’s Hudson River and skyline.
19. Is it possible to take a food tour in Dandong and try out a variety of local dishes and street food?
Yes, there are various food tours available in Dandong that offer the opportunity to try out local dishes and street food. These tours often take visitors to popular local eateries and markets where they can sample a variety of traditional dishes and snacks. Some tour packages also include cooking classes or visits to homes of local families to experience authentic home-cooked meals. It is recommended to do some research and book a reputable food tour company for the best and safest experience.
20. What is the signature dish of Dandong that I must try during my visit?
The signature dish of Dandong is “Braised Corned Beef.” It is a popular local dish made with tender pieces of corned beef cooked in a savory sauce. Other recommended dishes to try in Dandong include traditional Korean-style barbecue, fresh seafood from the Yalu River, and spicy regional specialties like “Dandong Hotpot” and “Braised Spicy Fried Chicken.”