1. What are some popular local dishes in Hangzhou?
Some popular local dishes in Hangzhou include:– West Lake Fish in Sweet and Sour Sauce: a braised fish dish with a sweet and sour sauce made from vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce.
– Dongpo Pork: a slow-cooked pork belly dish named after the Song dynasty poet Su Dongpo.
– Beggar’s Chicken: a whole chicken stuffed with herbs and wrapped in lotus leaf before being baked in clay.
– Longjing Shrimp: freshwater prawns cooked with longjing tea leaves for a delicate flavor.
– Fried Shrimps with Longjing Tea Leaves: shrimp stir-fried with longjing tea leaves for a fragrant and slightly bitter taste.
– Stewed Duck with Preserved Vegetables: duck stewed in a rich broth with preserved vegetables for a savory dish.
– Braised Bamboo Shoots: locally grown bamboo shoots braised in soy sauce, sugar, and spices.
– Lotus Root Soup: soup made from lotus roots, pork or chicken broth, and various herbs and spices.
– Wonton Soup: dumplings filled with pork or shrimp served in a clear broth.
2. How are these dishes unique to Hangzhou?
These dishes are unique to Hangzhou because they reflect the city’s location near West Lake and its historical ties to ancient Chinese dynasties. The use of local ingredients such as freshwater prawns, lotus roots, bamboo shoots, and longjing tea leaves adds to the distinct flavors of these dishes. Additionally, many of these dishes have been passed down through generations and have become part of the city’s culinary heritage.
2. Are there any vegetarian or vegan restaurants in the city?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan restaurants in the city. Some popular options include:– The Green Rabbit: This vegan restaurant offers a variety of plant-based dishes such as burgers, tacos, and salads.
– Supernatural Kitchen: Known for their colorful smoothie bowls and other vegan breakfast options.
– Rawlicious: Offers raw, organic, and vegan options including salads, soups, and desserts.
– Plant Matter Kitchen: A 100% plant-based restaurant offering dishes like mac and cheese, burritos, and pizzas made with fresh ingredients.
– Boon Burger: A popular spot for veggie burgers made with unique ingredients like falafel or quinoa patties.
3. Are there any farmers’ markets in the city?
There are several farmers’ markets throughout the city during the warmer months. Some popular ones include:
– Covent Garden Market: Open year-round on Saturdays with local produce and other artisanal goods.
– Western Fair Farmers’ & Artisans’ Market: Open year-round on Saturdays with local vendors selling produce, meats, baked goods, crafts, and more.
– Masonville Farmers’ Market: Open from mid-June to November on Thursdays with locally grown produce, flowers, plants, baked goods, and more.
– Horton Farmers’ Market: Open year-round on Saturdays with over 100 vendors selling local produce and handmade crafts.
– Argyle Farmers’ Market: Open year-round on Saturdays with a focus on featuring producers from within a 50km radius.
3. Where can one find the best traditional Chinese breakfast in Hangzhou?
There are several places in Hangzhou that are known for serving the best traditional Chinese breakfast. Some popular options include:
1. Fang Huang Restaurant – This restaurant, located near West Lake, is famous for its traditional Hangzhou style breakfast dishes such as you tiao (Chinese fried dough sticks) and soy milk.
2. Sheng Ji Cong You Bing – This street stall serves delicious cong you bing (scallion pancakes) and other local breakfast favorites.
3. Jiang Nan Hui Shi Yu Zhuang – This restaurant is known for its unique fusion of Cantonese and Hangzhou cuisines, serving a variety of traditional breakfast dishes like xiaolongbao (steamed soup dumplings) and dou jiang (soy milk).
4. Qi Nian Guo Zhuang – A popular chain in Hangzhou, this restaurant offers a wide selection of traditional Chinese breakfast items including steamed buns, rice rolls, and savory soy milk crackers.
5. Wan Dou Ya Market Food Street – Located in Wulin Square, this bustling food street has a variety of vendors selling classic Chinese breakfast items like dou hua (silken tofu pudding), guan tang bao (soup-filled steamed buns), and more.
4. How prevalent is street food in Hangzhou and what are some must-try options?
Street food is very common in Hangzhou, especially in popular tourist areas such as West Lake and Hefang Street. You can find a wide variety of options ranging from traditional Chinese dishes to international cuisines. Some must-try street food options in Hangzhou include steamed buns (baozi), stinky tofu, roasted sweet potatoes, dragon’s beard candy, and fried dumplings (sheng jian bao). It is also recommended to try some local specialties such as beggar’s chicken (a whole chicken stuffed with herbs and roasted in clay) and Longjing tea shrimp (shrimp cooked with the famous Longjing green tea).
5. Are there any restaurants that specialize in regional cuisine from other parts of China?
There are many restaurants that specialize in regional cuisine from other parts of China. Some examples include:
1. Szechuan Cuisine: This type of cuisine is known for its spicy dishes, such as mapo tofu and kung pao chicken. Popular restaurants that serve Szechuan cuisine include Spicy and Tasty in New York City and Chengdu Taste in Los Angeles.
2. Cantonese Cuisine: This type of cuisine originated from the Guangdong province and is known for its fresh seafood and delicate flavors. Popular restaurants that serve Cantonese cuisine include Hakkasan in London and The Chairman in Hong Kong.
3. Shanghainese Cuisine: This cuisine is characterized by its sweet and savory flavors, as well as the use of pickled vegetables. Popular restaurants that serve Shanghainese cuisine include Din Tai Fung in Taipei and Locanda del Corso in Beijing.
4. Hunan Cuisine: Similar to Szechuan cuisine, Hunan cuisine is also known for its spicy dishes but with a focus on more sour and tangy flavors. Popular restaurants that serve Hunan cuisine include Gourmet Dumpling House in Boston and Yimi Szechuan Restaurant in San Francisco.
5. Xinjiang Cuisine: This type of cuisine comes from the Xinjiang region which has influences from both Central Asia and Chinese cooking styles. Popular dishes include lamb kebabs, hand-pulled noodles, and cumin-spiced dishes. Popular restaurants that serve Xinjiang cuisine include Silk Road Kitchen in Istanbul and Barbeque Nation in Delhi.
6. What are the most renowned fine dining options in Hangzhou?
Some of the most renowned fine dining options in Hangzhou include:1. Grandma’s Home
2. Le Sommelier
3. Pu Tuo Zen Vegetarian Restaurant
4. Kai Yue Restaurant
5. The Vineyard at Haihua Hotel
6. Lou Wai Lou
7. Madam Goose
8. J-House Japanese Restaurant
9. Hubin 28 Lakeside Western Restaurant
10. Zhi Wei Guan (Impression West Lake)
7. Which neighborhoods or areas have the highest concentration of restaurants and dining options?
It is difficult to determine the exact neighborhoods or areas with the highest concentration of restaurants and dining options as it varies depending on personal preferences and demographics. However, some areas that are known for their diverse and extensive dining options include:
1. Downtown Manhattan: With its bustling streets and diverse population, Downtown Manhattan is home to a wide variety of restaurants offering cuisines from around the world.
2. Chinatown: This neighborhood is famous for its authentic Chinese food, as well as a mix of other Asian cuisines such as Vietnamese, Malaysian and Thai.
3. Williamsburg, Brooklyn: This trendy neighborhood offers a unique blend of traditional and modern dining options, ranging from hip cafes to upscale restaurants.
4. Astoria, Queens: Known as a melting pot of cultures, Astoria has a great selection of Greek, Middle Eastern and Italian eateries.
5. Hell’s Kitchen: This neighborhood has undergone a culinary resurgence in recent years, with a multitude of new restaurants offering everything from classic American fare to international fusion cuisine.
6. Park Slope, Brooklyn: Along with its picturesque brownstone homes, Park Slope boasts an array of popular eateries, including farm-to-table restaurants and trendy brunch spots.
7. Jackson Heights, Queens: With a large immigrant population from South Asia and Latin America, Jackson Heights is known for its authentic Indian and South American cuisine.
Keep in mind that these are just some examples and there are countless other neighborhoods in New York City with excellent dining options. It’s always worth exploring different areas to discover new favorite restaurants!
8. Is there a particular food market or district that is worth visiting for its diversity of offerings?
One food market that is worth visiting for its diversity of offerings is the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, Turkey. This historic market is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, with over 4,000 shops selling everything from traditional Turkish dishes to international cuisine, as well as spices, sweets, and other local specialties. Visitors can also find a variety of street food vendors offering snacks such as grilled meat kebabs, stuffed pastries, and seafood sandwiches. The Grand Bazaar offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the diverse flavors of Turkish cuisine in one central location.
9. Can you recommend any local food tours or cooking classes for tourists to experience the local cuisine up close?
Sure, here are a few options for food tours and cooking classes in various cities around the world: 1. Bangkok, Thailand: Thai Cooking Class at The Market Experience – this half-day class takes you to a local market to shop for fresh ingredients before heading back to a beautiful riverside kitchen to learn how to cook traditional Thai dishes.
2. New Orleans, USA: New Orleans Food Tour – this 3-hour walking tour takes you through the famous French Quarter to sample iconic New Orleans foods like po’boys, gumbo, beignets, and more.
3. Tokyo, Japan: Tsukiji Fish Market Food Tour and Sushi-Making Class – experience the hustle and bustle of Tokyo’s famous fish market and then learn how to make sushi from a professional chef.
4. Paris, France: Gourmet Chocolate Tour and Workshop – take a delicious tour of Parisian chocolate shops before trying your hand at making your own treats with a workshop led by a master chocolatier.
5. Buenos Aires, Argentina: Argentinean Steaks and Wine Tasting Tour – discover the best spots in Buenos Aires for an authentic asado (Argentinean-style barbecue) while sampling different cuts of meat and sipping on local wines.
6. Marrakech, Morocco: Moroccan Cooking Class at La Maison Arabe – learn how to make traditional Moroccan dishes like tagine and couscous in this luxurious riad-turned-cooking school.
7. Istanbul, Turkey: Istanbul Culinary Walks – explore Istanbul’s colorful neighborhoods while sampling street food and learning about Turkish cuisine from passionate food guides.
8. Melbourne, Australia: Melbourne Hidden Laneways & Arcades Walking Tour with Lunch – discover Melbourne’s hidden gems through its architecture and street art while stopping along the way for tastings at local cafes and bakeries.
9. Lima, Peru: Peruvian Ceviche Cooking Class – delve into the world of Peruvian cuisine with a hands-on class focused on the country’s famous ceviche, followed by a traditional lunch.
10. Cape Town, South Africa: Bo-Kaap Cooking Experience – immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary culture of Cape Town’s Malay Quarter with a cooking lesson and meal in a local home.
10. What are some popular spots for a relaxing afternoon tea or coffee break in Hangzhou?
1. West Lake
2. Hefang Street
3. Wushan Square
4. Cheng Huang Ge (City God Pavilion)
5. Hubin Pedestrian Street
6. Xixi Wetland Park
7. Chongyi Church (Chapel of Our Lady of Lourdes)
8. Baopu Taoist Temple
9. China National Tea Museum
10.Tianyi Pavilion
11. Are there any notable Michelin-starred restaurants in the city?
Yes, there are several notable Michelin-starred restaurants in the city. Some of these include:
1. The French Laundry – This restaurant has been awarded three Michelin stars and is known for its farm-to-table cuisine and exquisite tasting menus.
2. Quince – Located in the Pacific Heights neighborhood, this restaurant has also been awarded three Michelin stars for its contemporary Californian cuisine.
3. Saison – Another three-starred restaurant, Saison is known for its high-end, seasonal tasting menus using locally sourced ingredients.
4. Atelier Crenn – This two-starred restaurant offers fine dining with a focus on artistic presentation and innovative dishes.
5. Benu – Awarded two Michelin stars, Benu offers a fusion of Korean and Chinese cuisine with a modern twist.
6. Lazy Bear – This unique dining experience offers communal seating and a rotating menu featuring inventive dishes that have earned it two Michelin stars.
7. Acquerello – This one-starred Italian fine dining restaurant has been serving up elegant dishes for over 30 years.
8. Rich Table – A one-starred neighborhood gem, Rich Table serves up creative New American cuisine with a constantly changing menu.
9. Lord Stanley – Another one-starred spot, Lord Stanley offers refined European-inspired dishes using local ingredients.
10. Kusakabe – The only Michelin-starred sushi restaurant in the city, Kusakabe features traditional omakase menus showcasing fresh fish from Japan and California waters.
12. What is the typical cost range for meals at different types of dining establishments in Hangzhou, from street stalls to upscale restaurants?
The cost for meals at different types of dining establishments in Hangzhou can vary greatly. Here is a general cost range for each type:
1. Street stalls: Usually around 5-20 RMB per meal.
2. Local eateries/small restaurants (known as “dai pai dong” or “xiaochi”): Around 20-50 RMB per meal.
3. Mid-range restaurants: Approximately 50-100 RMB per meal.
4. Chain restaurants/fast food: Depending on the chain, meals can range from 20-70 RMB per person.
5. Upscale restaurants: Prices vary greatly depending on the restaurant, but expect to pay 200-500 RMB per person at an upscale establishment.
Overall, meals in Hangzhou tend to be cheaper compared to other major cities in China. However, prices can also vary depending on location and popularity of a particular establishment.
13. Is it customary to tip at restaurants in Hangzhou, and if so, how much is expected?
Tipping is not a common practice in China and is not expected at restaurants in Hangzhou. Some upscale restaurants may automatically add a 10% service fee to the bill, but this is not a tip for the server and does not need to be supplemented. If you feel inclined to leave a small tip, rounding up the bill or leaving loose change is sufficient.
14. What are some popular haunts for late night eats or drinks in Hangzhou?
Some popular options for late night eats and drinks in Hangzhou include:– Jiebai Night Market, known for its variety of street food and drinks
– Nanshan Road Food Street, a bustling area with many food vendors and small bars
– Wushan Night Market, offering a mix of local delicacies and international cuisine
– Lan Kwai Fong, a popular bar street with live music and a vibrant atmosphere
– Hubin Pedestrian Street, lined with cafes, restaurants, and bars open until late at night.
15. Are there any rooftop bars or restaurants with scenic views of the city?
Yes, there are several rooftop bars and restaurants with scenic views of the city. Some popular options include:
1. 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar: Located on the 20th floor of a building in Midtown, this rooftop bar offers stunning views of the Empire State Building and the city skyline.
2. The Press Lounge: This rooftop bar at the Ink48 Hotel offers panoramic views of the Hudson River, Midtown, and the Empire State Building.
3. The Ides at Wythe Hotel: This trendy rooftop bar in Brooklyn offers views of downtown Manhattan and the Manhattan Bridge.
4. Westlight at The William Vale: This rooftop bar in Williamsburg has sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn.
5. Top of the Strand: Located atop the Marriott Vacation Club Pulse hotel, this rooftop bar offers views of Times Square and Midtown.
6. Refinery Rooftop: Situated atop the Refinery Hotel in Midtown, this stylish rooftop bar offers beautiful views of the Empire State Building.
7. Haven Rooftop: This quaint rooftop bar on top of The Sanctuary Hotel in Midtown boasts breathtaking views of Times Square and Midtown skyscrapers.
8. Mr. Purple at Hotel Indigo Lower East Side: This trendy rooftop bar has unobstructed views of Lower Manhattan and beyond.
9. Gallow Green at McKittrick Hotel: This enchanting rooftop garden features string lights and cozy seating areas with stunning views of Chelsea and the High Line park.
10. Upstairs at The Kimberly: Located on top of The Kimberly hotel in Midtown, this elegant rooftop lounge offers views of Chrysler Building and nearby landmarks.
16. How does traditional Chinese cuisine differ from Western-style Chinese food commonly found overseas?
Traditional Chinese cuisine is significantly different from Western-style Chinese food commonly found overseas. Some key differences include:
1. Ingredients: Traditional Chinese cuisine relies heavily on fresh, local ingredients such as vegetables, seafood, and meat. In contrast, Western-style Chinese food often uses ingredients that are not traditionally used in Chinese cooking, such as dairy products.
2. Cooking methods: Traditional Chinese cuisine places a strong emphasis on balance and harmony of flavors and textures. It typically involves techniques such as steaming, stir-frying, and braising to preserve the natural taste of the ingredients. Western-style Chinese food, on the other hand, often includes deep-frying and heavy sauces that can mask the original flavors of the ingredients.
3. Regional variations: China is a large country with diverse regional cuisines, each with its unique specialties and cooking styles. Traditional Chinese cuisine reflects this diversity, whereas Western-style Chinese food tends to combine elements from different regions or adapt dishes for a foreign palate.
4. Serving style: In traditional Chinese cuisine, dishes are often served family-style where everyone shares from communal serving plates. This promotes socializing and creates a sense of community during meals. In contrast, Western-style Chinese food typically serves individual portions.
5. Spices and seasoning: While both styles of cooking use spices and seasonings for flavoring, traditional Chinese cuisine tends to use a wider variety of herbs like star anise, cinnamon, Sichuan peppercorn, and cilantro for depth of flavor rather than relying on heavier sauces.
6. Sweetness level: Traditional Chinese cuisine typically balances sweet flavors with savory or spicy ones for a well-rounded taste experience. Western-style Chinese food may be more heavily seasoned with sugar or syrups to cater to local preferences.
7. Healthiness: Traditional Chinese cuisine generally emphasizes fresh ingredients cooked in a way that retains their nutritional value and benefits for health-conscious individuals. On the other hand, Western-style Chinese food often uses unhealthy cooking techniques and added ingredients that may be high in calories, fat, and sodium.
17. Are there any unique dining experiences offered in Hangzhou such as eating by a picturesque lake or inside an old temple?
Yes, there are several unique dining experiences offered in Hangzhou, including:
1. Lakeside Dining: One of the most popular dining experiences in Hangzhou is to enjoy a meal by the picturesque West Lake. Many restaurants around the lake offer outdoor seating with stunning views of the water and surrounding mountains.
2. Tea House Dining: As a renowned tea-producing region, Hangzhou also offers many opportunities to dine in traditional tea houses. These establishments not only serve delicious food but also provide a cultural experience as guests can learn about the history and customs of Chinese tea culture.
3. Temple Cuisine: Some old temples in Hangzhou now serve as restaurant venues offering authentic vegetarian dishes prepared according to ancient recipes. This allows diners to not only taste delicious food but also get a glimpse into traditional Buddhist cuisine.
4. River Cruise Dining: Take a dinner cruise on the scenic Grand Canal which winds through the city, passing by historic sites and lush greenery while enjoying local delicacies on board.
5. Wukang Road Food Street: This street is lined with many small restaurants serving unique local specialties such as Beggar’s Chicken, Dongpo Pork and Longjing Shrimp amidst charming traditional architecture.
6.Mountain Top Dining: Some restaurants are located atop scenic mountains surrounding Hangzhou, offering panoramic views of the city while indulging in delectable dishes made from fresh locally sourced ingredients.
18 .Besides traditional Chinese cuisine, are there any international cuisines that are well represented in the city?
Yes, there are many international cuisines that are well represented in the city. Some of the popular ones include Japanese, Korean, Italian, French, Thai, Indian and American cuisine. There are also many fusion restaurants that offer a mix of different world cuisines.
19 .What can I expect from a typical breakfast, lunch, and dinner at a local eatery or restaurant?
Breakfast:
– A typical breakfast at a local eatery or restaurant may consist of options such as eggs (scrambled, fried, omelette), bacon or sausage, toast or English muffins, pancakes or waffles, and hash browns. There may also be options for healthier choices like oatmeal, yogurt parfaits, or avocado toast.
– Some restaurants may have special breakfast dishes such as breakfast burritos, crepes, or french toast.
– Coffee, tea, juice and sometimes mimosas or bloody marys are common drink options.
Lunch:
– For lunch you can expect a variety of sandwiches (like BLTs or deli meats), soups (such as chicken noodle or tomato), and salads (Caesar salad being a popular option).
– Some restaurants may offer hot lunch specials such as burgers, pasta dishes, or tacos.
– Many places will also offer vegetarian/vegan options for sandwiches and salads.
Dinner:
– Dinner at a local restaurant will often include an appetizer course with options like nachos, wings, or spinach dip.
– Main entrees could include steak/chicken/fish with various sides like mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
– Pasta dishes are also common dinner menu items.
Overall:
– Local eateries often source ingredients locally/seasonally so the menu may vary depending on those factors.
– Most menus now include dietary restrictions so modified versions of these meals can generally be accommodated.
20 .Are food allergies and dietary restrictions commonly accommodated by restaurants in Hangzhou, and is it necessary to communicate these beforehand?
Food allergies and dietary restrictions are not commonly accommodated by restaurants in Hangzhou, as the city is known for its traditional Chinese cuisine which may contain ingredients that some individuals may be allergic to. However, a growing number of international restaurants and cafes in Hangzhou do offer options for those with food allergies or dietary restrictions.It is always recommended to communicate your food allergies or dietary restrictions beforehand when making reservations at a restaurant, as it allows them to prepare alternative options for you. It is also important to clearly communicate your allergies or restrictions when ordering food at the restaurant, so the staff can ensure your meal is safe for you to consume. Some restaurants may also have menus specifically tailored for those with food allergies or dietary restrictions, so it is worth asking about this option when making reservations.