1. What are the must-try local dishes in Datong?
– Blended Noodles (Daoxiang Mian)– Sautéed Pork with Ground Yellow Millet
– Five-Spice Fried Lamb Skewers
– Buckwheat Noodles (Jiu Niang Mian)
– Steamed Dumplings (Shui Jiao)
2. What are the best restaurants in Datong?
Some popular restaurants in Datong include:
– Fulinmen Restaurant – known for its local dishes and traditional wooden interior
– Luyuan Vegetarian Restaurant – offers a variety of vegetarian dishes
– Xueyuan Ju Restaurant – known for its hot pot and barbecue dishes
– Fenglin Garden Restaurant – serves traditional Shanxi cuisine with a beautiful garden atmosphere
– Xiangshanlou Restaurant – popular for its roasted duck and other local delicacies
3. Are there any street food markets or night markets in Datong?
Yes, there are several street food markets and night markets in Datong, some of which include:
– Yungang Night Market: located near the Yungang Grottoes, this market offers a variety of street food such as grilled meats, noodles, and local snacks.
– Wanhua Snack Street: known for its steamed buns filled with pork and pickled vegetables.
– Shuncheng Street Food Market: offers a wide range of local dishes including Braised Pork Noodle Soup, Lamb Skewers, and Fried Flatbread.
4. What are the must-dos in Datong?
Some popular things to do in Datong include:
– Visit the Yungang Grottoes: These ancient Buddhist caves contain over 51,000 statues dating back to the 5th century.
– Explore the Hanging Temple: This unique temple is built into a cliff and stands on stilts.
– Walk along the city walls: Dating back to the Ming Dynasty, these walls provide a great view of the city.
– Visit the Nine Dragon Screen: This impressive screen is made of glazed tiles and depicts nine different dragons.
– Hike to Mount Hengshan: One of China’s Five Great Mountains, this hike offers beautiful views and a chance to visit ancient temples.
5. What are the best souvenirs to buy in Datong?
Some popular souvenirs to buy in Datong include:
– Yungang Grottoes Miniatures – replicas of the statues from the Yungang Grottoes
– Handmade Paper Cuttings – traditional Chinese art form often depicting cultural symbols and scenes
– Calligraphy Brushes and Ink Stones – traditional writing supplies used in Chinese calligraphy
– Shanxi Vinegar – famous for its rich flavor, it is commonly used in Chinese cuisine
– Local Crafts – wooden carvings, porcelain, and silk products are popular crafts in Datong.
2. Are there any famous restaurants or street food stalls in Datong?
1. Dongyue Temple Vegetarian Restaurant – located inside the famous Dongyue Temple, this restaurant serves delicious vegetarian dishes that are popular among tourists and locals alike.
2. Baolai Beef Noodle – a famous street food stall known for its flavorful beef noodle soup made with traditional local spices.
3. Jin San Ren Jia Dumpling Restaurant – serving up a variety of dumplings, this restaurant is known for its traditional flavors and friendly service.
4. Xinglong Street BBQ – a popular street food spot offering grilled skewers of various meats, vegetables, and seafood.
5. Qian Zhou Roast Whole Sheep – a must-try dish in Datong, this restaurant specializes in slow-roasted whole sheep served with various side dishes.
6. Guo Yufeng Shaomai – known for their juicy and flavorful shaomai (steamed dumplings), this small eatery has been a local favorite for decades.
7. Bianbian Iced Milk Drink – a popular dessert spot serving refreshing iced milk drinks topped with various toppings such as fruit, jelly, and boba pearls.
8. Zhen Ding Fried Chicken – originating from Taiwan, this fried chicken chain has gained popularity in Datong for its crispy and flavorful fried chicken dishes.
9. Niuniu Yangrou Tangbao (Beef Soup Dumplings) – another popular street food item in Datong, these soup-filled dumplings are incredibly satisfying and perfect for a cold day.
10. Da Hua Zhang Lao Hotpot – an upscale hotpot restaurant known for its high-quality ingredients and delicious broths.
3. How is the overall dining scene in Datong?
The overall dining scene in Datong is varied and diverse, with a mix of local traditional Chinese cuisine and international options. There are many restaurants, food stalls, and street vendors offering a range of dishes to suit different tastes and budgets.
Datong is known for its local specialty dishes such as roasted lamb, braised beef noodles, and various wheat-based snacks. These can be found at small local eateries or more upscale restaurants.
There are also plenty of international options available, including Western fast food chains, Korean BBQ, Japanese sushi, and more upscale Western-style restaurants.
In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards trendy cafes and dessert shops in Datong, offering a modern twist on traditional Chinese flavors.
Overall, the dining scene in Datong offers a wide variety of choices for locals and travelers alike.
4. Is it easy to find vegetarian or vegan options in Datong?
Vegetarian and vegan options can be found in Datong, but they may not be as readily available as in larger cities. Some local restaurants may offer vegetable-based dishes, but they may also use meat or animal products in their cooking. Vegetarian and vegan restaurants are not common, but there are a few options available. It is recommended to do some research beforehand or ask for recommendations from locals or your hotel. With that said, traditional Chinese cuisine often includes a variety of vegetable dishes that can be enjoyed by vegetarians and vegans.
5. Are there any recommended restaurants for budget travelers in Datong?
Some recommended budget-friendly restaurants in Datong include:1. Dongpo Restaurant: Known for its traditional Chinese dishes and affordable prices.
2. Yudai Bridge Noodle Restaurant: Specializes in various noodle dishes with generous portions for a great value.
3. Nanmen Lao Tze Café: A popular spot among locals for its tasty and cheap street-style food.
4. Xing An Hui Restaurant: Serves authentic Shanxi cuisine at reasonable prices.
5. Dian Ran Ju (The Lamp Pavilion) Restaurant: Offers a mix of Chinese and Western dishes at affordable prices.
6. KFC, McDonald’s, and other fast food chains can also be found throughout Datong for a quick and budget-friendly meal.
Overall, street food is also a great option for budget travelers in Datong as it offers a variety of options at low prices.
6. What is the most popular type of cuisine in Datong?
The most popular type of cuisine in Datong is traditional Chinese cuisine. Some local specialties include Datong crispy sweets, noodle dishes, and lamb dishes.
7. Can I find international food options in Datong?
Yes, there are a few international food options in Datong. Some popular choices include McDonald’s, KFC, Pizza Hut, and Starbucks. There are also some restaurants that offer dishes from other countries such as Japanese sushi, Korean barbecue, and Italian pasta. Additionally, there are some expat-owned cafes and restaurants that serve western-style food.
8. Is street food safe to eat in Datong?
The safety of street food in Datong depends on where you buy it and how it is handled. It is generally safe to eat if you see many locals eating there, as they tend to know which vendors have good and safe food. Look for vendors who cook the food fresh in front of you and avoid raw or undercooked meats. Use your own discretion when choosing street food vendors, and if unsure, opt for more established restaurants with proper hygiene practices.
10. Are there any rooftop restaurants with a view in Datong?
Yes, there is one rooftop restaurant with a view in Datong – the Sahm Yook Maru Korean Barbecue Restaurant located on the 5th floor of the Beiyuan Shopping Mall. The rooftop offers a panoramic view of the city while you can enjoy authentic Korean barbecue and other dishes.
11. How do I navigate the language barrier while ordering at a local restaurant?
1. Use a translation app: Download a translation app on your phone, such as Google Translate, to help you communicate with the restaurant staff. You can type or speak your order in your language and have it translated into the local language.
2. Learn basic phrases: Before traveling to a new country, take some time to learn basic phrases such as “hello,” “please,” “thank you,” and common food-related words like “menu” and “water.” This will make it easier for you to navigate the menu and communicate with the staff.
3. Point at pictures: Many restaurants have pictures of their dishes either on the menu or displayed on the walls. If you can’t communicate your order, simply point at the picture of the dish you want.
4. Bring a menu with pictures: If possible, try to get hold of an English menu with pictures before entering a local restaurant. This will help you understand what is being served and make it easier for you to choose your dish.
5. Ask for recommendations: If all else fails, don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations from the staff or other customers. They may be able to suggest popular dishes or even translate for you.
6. Show pictures: If there’s a specific dish you are looking for but can’t find it on the menu, show a picture of it on your phone or bring a picture with you. The staff may be able to point out the dish on their menu or recommend a similar one.
7. Be open-minded: Embrace new flavors and ingredients that may be different from what you are used to in your own culture. Don’t hesitate to try something new and different from what’s familiar.
8. Use non-verbal communication: Sometimes simple hand gestures or facial expressions can convey what words cannot. Use them in combination with basic words/phrases to get your message across.
9. Carry a phrasebook/DIY language guide: A pocket-sized phrasebook or a DIY language guide (with common phrases and words) can come in handy while communicating at local restaurants.
10. Be patient and polite: Remember to be patient and polite while trying to communicate with the staff. They may not understand your language, but a friendly attitude can go a long way in bridging the communication gap.
11. Smile and laugh: Lastly, don’t take yourself too seriously and remember to smile and laugh through any miscommunications. It’s all part of the traveling experience!
12. Are there any food markets or supermarkets to buy local ingredients from?
Yes, there are many food markets and supermarkets in at least 78 countries around the world. Some popular ones include:– La Boqueria in Barcelona, Spain
– Pike Place Market in Seattle, USA
– Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo, Japan
– Borough Market in London, England
– Central Market in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
These markets often sell a variety of local ingredients such as fruits, vegetables, meats, seafood, and spices. Supermarkets such as Tesco (UK), Carrefour (France), and Walmart (USA) also stock a wide range of local and international ingredients for purchase. It is always recommended to support local businesses and farmers by buying from smaller markets or directly from producers if possible.
13. Can you suggest some hidden gem restaurants or eateries in Datong?
1. Huozhou Mini Restaurant: This small and unassuming restaurant offers delicious and authentic Shanxi cuisine at affordable prices.
2. Da Tong Family Restaurant: A family-run eatery that serves traditional home-style dishes using locally sourced ingredients.
3. Lao Zhang Dumpling House: Known for its handmade dumplings, this humble restaurant is a must-visit for those craving tasty and affordable Chinese snacks.
4. No Name Noodle Shop: Tucked away in a narrow alley, this noodle shop is a hidden gem for its flavorful hand-pulled noodles and comforting soups.
5. Yunjinghong Tea House: This cozy tea house not only offers a wide variety of high-quality teas but also serves tasty homemade desserts and snacks.
6. Chongqing Hotpot: For an authentic Sichuan dining experience, head to this hidden hot pot restaurant where locals go for their spicy fix.
7. Ruiji Supermarket Cafe: This quirky cafe inside a supermarket offers delicious and unique fusion dishes at budget-friendly prices.
8. Datong Muslim Food Street: Located in the heart of the city, this bustling street is lined with various Muslim restaurants serving flavorful halal dishes.
9. Wang’s Spring Pancake Stall: A local favorite, this small stall serves savory spring pancakes stuffed with different fillings like eggs, veggies, and meat.
10. Jiaoyu Country Style Restaurant: Set in a quiet courtyard, this rustic restaurant specializes in hearty homestyle dishes made with fresh local produce.
11. Guoyu Zhai Vegetarian Restaurant: Delight your taste buds with flavorsome vegetarian fare at this traditional Buddhist restaurant tucked away from the busy streets.
12. Baiyue Vegetarian Restaurant: Another great option for vegetarians, this elegant restaurant offers creative twists on vegetarian dishes using seasonal ingredients.
13. Quanyuelin Restaurant: Housed in an old Qing dynasty courtyard, this charming restaurant serves traditional Shanxi dishes in a cozy and romantic setting.
14. What is the best time of day to visit street food vendors?
The best time of day to visit street food vendors depends on personal preference and the type of food you are looking for. Some people prefer to go in the evening when there is more variety and the atmosphere is livelier. Others prefer going during lunchtime when vendors are just setting up and the food is fresh. It also depends on the location – some areas may have more active street food scenes during certain times of day, so it’s worth doing some research beforehand. Ultimately, it’s best to visit street food vendors when they are busiest as this indicates that their food is in high demand and likely to be delicious.
15. Can you recommend any places for breakfast or brunch in Datong?
1. Shanxi Datong Hotel: This hotel offers a traditional Chinese breakfast with various options including steamed buns, dumplings, and noodle dishes.
2. Zhang Mama Breakfast Crepe Shop: Known for their savory and sweet crepes, this shop serves up delicious breakfast options perfect for brunch.
3. Shanxi Noodle House: This local restaurant specializes in Shanxi-style noodles such as dao xiao mian (knife-cut noodles) and biang biang mian (wide hand-pulled noodles).
4. KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken): If you’re looking for a quick Western-style breakfast option, KFC serves breakfast sandwiches, pancakes, and hash browns.
5. Starbucks: For those who prefer a Western chain for their morning pick-me-up, Starbucks has several locations in Datong serving coffee and pastries.
6. Dadong Market Street Food Stalls: Along Dadong Market Street, you can find various street food stalls serving up local favorites such as galette (thin buckwheat flour crepes) and jianbing (Chinese savory pancake).
7. Golden Lily Restaurant at Yungang International Hotel: This restaurant offers a buffet-style breakfast with both traditional Chinese dishes and Western options.
8. McDonald’s: Another Western fast food option for breakfast, McDonald’s offers classic breakfast items such as McMuffins and hotcakes.
9. Shangdujian Hotel Restaurant: Located in the Shangdujian Hotel, this restaurant serves up traditional Chinese dishes for breakfast including congee (rice porridge), fried dough sticks, and soy milk.
10. Kaiyuan Shopping Mall Food Court: The food court at this popular shopping mall has many different vendors offering various types of Chinese breakfast foods to choose from.
11. Seven-Eleven Convenience Stores: For a quick grab-and-go option, Seven-Eleven convenience stores offer pre-made baozi (steamed buns) and other breakfast items.
12. Wanchenghu Hutong Muslim Food Street: This bustling street is lined with various Muslim food stalls selling delicious breakfast options such as roasted lamb skewers and fried dough twists.
13. Cuiyunyuan Restaurant: This restaurant serves up traditional Shanxi cuisine, including breakfast dishes like mian pian (flour noodles) and fried dumplings.
14. Pizza Hut: For a different take on breakfast, Pizza Hut has a breakfast menu with options like egg and bacon pizza and toast sandwiches.
15. Sofitel Luxury Hotel Datong’s Art 8 Cafe: Located in the Sofitel hotel, this cafe offers a Western-style buffet breakfast with a wide selection of dishes to choose from.
16. How are the prices for dining out compared to other cities in China?
The prices for dining out in different cities in China may vary, but generally they are considered to be relatively affordable compared to other international cities. In major cities like Beijing and Shanghai, the average cost for a meal at a mid-range restaurant is around 50-60 RMB ($7-9 USD) per person. Compared to more developed countries like the United States or European countries, dining out in China can be significantly cheaper. However, depending on the type of cuisine and location, prices can also be higher in certain areas. For example, dining in upscale restaurants or trendy areas may cost more than traditional local eateries. Overall, most people in China find dining out to be affordable and accessible for daily meals.
17. Are there any specialty dishes or unique foods that are specific to Datong?
There are several specialty dishes and unique foods that are specific to Datong. These include:1. Datong Roast Duck – This local delicacy is known for its crispy skin and succulent meat.
2. Fried Datong Noodles – These noodles are made from thick wheat-flour dough and can be found at street vendors and small local restaurants.
3. Black Pi Dan (Preserved Duck Eggs) – A popular snack in Datong, these eggs are marinated in a mixture of clay, salt, ash, and rice hulls to give them a dark color and savory taste.
4. Huazi Mian (Buckwheat Noodles) – A traditional dish in the Datong area, buckwheat noodles are served cold with a variety of toppings such as shredded bamboo shoots, cucumbers, and chili oil.
5. Datong Paihuaji (Honey Locust Cake) – This dessert is made from honey locust flowers that are cooked until they become soft and sticky, then formed into small cakes.
6. Albino Deep-Fried Tofu – A specialty of the Huayan Temple in Datong, this dish features deep-fried tofu covered with a spicy sauce made from vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, chili powder, and chopped green onion.
7. Yanggao Xiangzi Meat Pie – Hailing from the neighboring county of Yanggao, this pastry-like dish is filled with meat that has been cooked with various seasonings such as cumin and chili powder before being baked in an oven.
18 18 18.What drinks should I try while visiting Datong?
Some popular drinks to try while visiting Datong include:1. Fenjiu – a type of Chinese white wine made from sorghum, known for its strong and distinctive flavor.
2. Datong Yellow River Ice Beer – a local beer brand that is light and refreshing, perfect for hot summer days.
3. Plum juice – a popular traditional drink made from plums, usually served chilled as a refreshing beverage.
4. Flower tea – Datong is known for its beautiful flower fields, so it’s worth trying some locally grown flower teas such as rose, chrysanthemum, or jasmine.
5. Milk tea (nai cha) – a creamy and sweet tea drink that has become very popular in China in recent years.
6. Tongba – a traditional Tibetan alcoholic beverage made from fermented millet. It is usually served warm and has a unique taste and texture.
7. Kefir – a fermented milk drink that originated in Russia but has become popular in China as well. It has a tangy flavor and is believed to have health benefits.
8. Yangge Da Hong Pao Tea – a type of oolong tea with a strong roasted aroma and smooth taste, cultivated in the nearby Wuyi Mountain region.
9. Silver grass wine (yin mian jiu) – an alcoholic beverage made from silver grass, which is a type of ornamental grass common in Inner Mongolia and parts of northern China.
10. Date juice (zao ji) – made from fresh dates, this sweet and fruity juice is believed to have various health benefits according to traditional Chinese medicine.
Overall, Datong offers a wide variety of interesting drinks to try that reflect the city’s history and culture. Don’t be afraid to be adventurous and try something new!
19 .19.Is street food allowed inside tourist attractions such as Yungang Grottoes or Huayan Monastery?
It is not allowed to bring in outside food or drinks inside tourist attractions such as Yungang Grottoes or Huayan Monastery. These places typically have designated areas for eating and drinking, and visitors are expected to purchase food and drinks from those designated areas. This is to maintain cleanliness and preserve the historical sites.
20.What is considered a polite gesture when dining out at a restaurant in China as a foreigner?
As a language model AI, I do not have personal experiences but I can provide you an answer based on cultural norms and customs.
1. Say “ni hao” (hello) or “ni hao ma?” (how are you?) to greet the waiter/waitress when they approach your table.
2. Allow the oldest person in your group to order first, as this is a sign of respect for elders.
3. Do not start eating until the host or eldest person at the table has started eating.
4. When using chopsticks, do not point them at anyone or wave them around excessively.
5. If you cannot use chopsticks, you can politely ask for a fork and knife instead.
6. It is considered polite to leave some food on your plate as finishing everything may imply that you were not given enough food or that you are still hungry.
7. If someone pours you a drink, it is customary to reciprocate by pouring their drink as well.
8. It is polite to offer a toast before drinking if dining with Chinese colleagues or friends.
9. Do not stick your chopsticks upright in your rice bowl as it resembles joss sticks used for funerals.
10. Burping or making loud noises while eating is considered impolite in Chinese culture.
11. Do not tip in restaurants in China as it is not part of the local custom.
12. Instead of saying “thank you,” express your appreciation by saying “xie xie” (thank you) when the bill is presented.
13. Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics and religion during meals, especially if dining with locals.
14. If sharing food with others, use the provided serving utensils instead of using your own chopsticks to take food from common dishes.
15. When finished with your meal, place your chopsticks neatly on top of your bowl or on a chopstick rest if provided.
Overall, using basic greetings, showing respect for elders and Chinese customs, and being mindful of your dining etiquette are considered polite gestures when dining out in China as a foreigner.