1. What are the top dining options near Qinhuangdao Shanhaiguan Great Wall?
1. Shanhaiguan Great Wall Restaurant
2. Laobian Dumpling Restaurant
3. Grandma’s Kitchen
4. Laochangyu Seafood Restaurant
5. Kaiyue Seafood Restaurant
6. Shanhaiguan Shizhuang Xiangsheng Snack Store
7. Din Tai Fung (famous for its xiaolongbao)
8. Yijuyuan Vegetarian Restaurant
9. Shanhaiguan-Shuzuoyingtai Resort Hotel (known for local seafood dishes)
10. Local street food vendors selling grilled seafood, traditional snacks and Chinese barbeque dishes.
2. Are there any traditional local foods that should not be missed when visiting this area?
There are several traditional local foods that should not be missed when visiting this area:
1. Cornbread – This is a staple food in the area and is often served as a side with meals.
2. Fried green tomatoes – These are made by slicing unripe tomatoes, battering them, and frying them until crispy. They are often served as an appetizer or side dish.
3. Biscuits and gravy – Biscuits made from scratch and topped with a creamy white gravy made from sausage drippings is a beloved dish in the area.
4. Barbecue ribs or pulled pork – Barbecue is a popular style of cooking in this region, and you can’t visit without trying some slow-cooked ribs or pulled pork.
5. Chess pie – A classic Southern dessert made with cornmeal, butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla. It has a rich custard-like filling and is usually served chilled.
6. Moonshine – While not technically a food, moonshine (a type of homemade whiskey) is deeply ingrained in the Appalachian culture and should be sampled while visiting the area.
7. Soup beans and cornbread – This simple yet hearty dish consists of dried beans cooked with ham hocks or bacon and served with cornbread.
8. Apple stack cake – This cake is a unique Appalachian treat made by stacking layers of spiced apple filling between thin layers of cake batter.
9. Venison stew – Hunting is a common activity in the region, making venison (deer meat) stew a popular dish for cold winter nights.
10. Chestnuts – The Appalachians were once known for their abundance of chestnut trees before they were decimated by disease. You can still find roasted chestnuts being sold at roadside stands during the fall season.
3. Are there any restaurants with a great view of the Great Wall?
Yes, there are several restaurants with a great view of the Great Wall. Some popular options include the Brickyard at Mutianyu, Schoolhouse Restaurant at Mutianyu, and Commune by The Great Wall at Badaling. These restaurants offer delicious food and stunning views of the Great Wall.
4. Who are the recommended chefs or restaurants for authentic Chinese cuisine in Qinhuangdao?
1. Yangchengren Restaurant: This restaurant specializes in traditional Shandong and Beijing-style Chinese dishes, known for their fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
2. Liujiayao Restaurant: Famous for its seafood, this restaurant offers delicious, authentic Chinese cuisine with a focus on the local specialties of Qinhuangdao.
3. Tianbao Seafood Restaurant: Another popular seafood spot, this restaurant offers a wide variety of fresh and tasty seafood dishes, including their famous spicy shrimp.
4. Fenglin Ge Vegetarian Restaurant: For those seeking a meatless option, this vegetarian restaurant serves up delicious and innovative vegetable-based dishes that are both healthy and flavorful.
5. Lijunyuan Roasted Duck Restaurant: This restaurant is known for their mouth-watering Peking duck, cooked to perfection in a traditional wood-fired oven.
6. Tianyi Chinese Cuisine: With a focus on Cantonese cuisine, this restaurant uses high-quality ingredients to create flavorful dishes such as steamed fish and roast pork belly.
7. Chen Jia Chicken Soup Restaurant: For an authentic taste of Chinese comfort food, head to this famous chicken soup spot which has been serving up delicious bowls for over 100 years.
8. Acqua Italian Restaurant at Aranya Resort Hotel: Though not traditionally Chinese cuisine, Acqua is highly recommended for its delicious Italian food with stunning ocean views.
9. Wei Quan Seafood Hotpot Villa Hotel: A popular destination for hotpot lovers, this restaurant features fresh seafood and premium hotpot ingredients served in an elegant setting.
10. Lu Shi Homestay by Marriott Hotel Qinhuangdao Beidaihe Dolphin Bay Villas & Suites: This luxurious resort combines traditional Chinese culinary techniques with modern influences to create unique and delectable dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate.
5. Is there a specific dish or specialty that the region is known for?
Yes, Virginia is known for its famous pigmeat-based dishes such as Virginia ham and country ham. Other popular dishes include crab cakes made with Chesapeake Bay blue crabs, oyster stew, colonial-style peanut soup, and spoonbread. Additionally, the state is known for its abundant agriculture and produce, including apples (specifically in the Shenandoah Valley), peanuts, and sweet potatoes.
6. Are there any street food vendors near the Great Wall worth trying?
There are several street food vendors near the Great Wall that offer delicious and authentic Chinese dishes. Some popular options include grilled skewers of meats and vegetables, steamed buns filled with various fillings, fried noodles and dumplings, and hot pot. It is recommended to try these vendors at your own discretion and to make sure they have good hygiene practices before purchasing food from them.
7. Are there any specific dietary restrictions to keep in mind when dining in Qinhuangdao, such as vegetarian or halal options?
There are not many dietary restrictions to keep in mind when dining in Qinhuangdao. However, here are some things to note:
– Vegetarian options: While there may not be many dedicated vegetarian restaurants, most restaurants will have some vegetable-based dishes on their menu. Some popular options include baozi (steamed buns filled with vegetables), stir-fried green vegetables, and vegetable dumplings.
– Halal options: As a coastal city, Qinhuangdao is known for its seafood dishes. However, there are also several Muslim-owned restaurants that offer halal meat options. One of the most popular is Dong Fang Muslim Restaurant located near Beidaihe Railway Station.
– Other dietary restrictions: If you have any other dietary restrictions, it’s best to communicate them clearly with the server or chef at the restaurant you visit. Most establishments will be accommodating and can make adjustments to dishes if needed. It’s also helpful to bring a translation card or list of your specific dietary needs in Chinese to help with communication.
Overall, Qinhuangdao has a diverse range of cuisine options available and it should be fairly easy to find food that fits your dietary restrictions.
8. Can I find international cuisine in addition to local dishes in Qinhuangdao?
Yes, there are many restaurants in Qinhuangdao that serve a variety of international cuisines, such as Italian, Japanese, Korean, and Western-style dishes. There are also international hotel chains, such as Hilton and Sheraton, that offer a range of international dining options.
9. What are some budget-friendly dining options near the Great Wall?
1. Food stalls at Mutianyu Village: This is a popular spot for local snacks and dishes. You can find various grilled meats, noodles, and other traditional Chinese dishes at an affordable price.
2. Commune by the Great Wall: The restaurant at this boutique hotel offers a budget-friendly menu featuring Chinese and Western cuisine. It also has a stunning view of the Great Wall.
3. Cafes near Badaling entrance: There are several cafes near the entrance of Badaling section that offer budget-friendly meals and drinks. Some of them even have outdoor seating with a view of the wall.
4. Local restaurants in Gubeikou Village: This village serves as the base for many Great Wall hikes, and it has some affordable restaurants offering authentic Chinese dishes.
5. Food trucks at Jiankou: At Jiankou, one of the most picturesque sections of the wall, there are food trucks serving simple but delicious meals like dumplings, noodles, and BBQ skewers.
6. Restaurants near Jinshanling: There are many budget-friendly restaurants near Jinshanling serving traditional Northern Chinese cuisine like Peking duck, Mongolian hotpot, and more.
7. Street vendors in Huanghuacheng: This relatively untouched section of the wall has street vendors selling grilled meats on skewers, baozi (steamed buns), and other local snacks at reasonable prices.
8. Local markets in Jiayuguan: Jiayuguan is known for its night market where you can find affordable street food like kebabs, fried rice, stir-fried noodles among other things.
9. DIY picnics on the wall: Many sections allow visitors to bring their own food onto the wall for a picnic with a view. Pick up supplies from local markets or convenience stores nearby for a budget-friendly meal option.
10. Are there any particular markets or food stalls where I can try a variety of local dishes?
Yes, you can visit markets such as the Chatuchak Weekend Market and the Or Tor Kor Market which have food stalls offering a variety of local dishes. You can also try street food at places like Yaowarat (Chinatown) and Khao San Road. Some malls in Bangkok, like Siam Paragon and CentralWorld, also have food courts with a wide selection of local dishes.
11. Can you recommend a good restaurant for a romantic dinner near the Great Wall?
Yes, the Brickyard at Mutianyu Great Wall is a highly recommended restaurant for a romantic dinner near the Great Wall. The restaurant offers stunning views of the wall and serves delicious traditional Chinese cuisine. It also has a peaceful and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a romantic evening. Reservations are recommended.
12. How do prices for meals compare between tourist areas and more local neighborhoods in Qinhuangdao?
Prices for meals may be higher in tourist areas compared to more local neighborhoods in Qinhuangdao. In tourist areas, restaurants and food vendors may cater to visitors and charge higher prices due to the demand. In more local neighborhoods, there may be a wider range of options for affordable meals, such as street food or smaller restaurants that cater to locals. However, it also depends on the specific location and type of establishment. Some popular local restaurants in tourist areas may offer affordable meals, while some upscale restaurants in local neighborhoods may have higher prices.
13. Is it common to tip at restaurants in this area? If so, what percentage is expected?
Yes, it is common to tip at restaurants in this area. A typical tip is around 15-20% of the total bill before taxes. However, you can adjust this depending on your level of satisfaction with the service you received.
14. Are reservations necessary at popular restaurants near the Great Wall?
Yes, reservations are recommended at popular restaurants near the Great Wall. These restaurants can get busy, especially during peak tourist seasons, so it’s best to call ahead and make a reservation to ensure you have a table.
15. How is seafood prepared and served in Qinhuangdao, since it is located on the coast?
In Qinhuangdao, seafood is a popular ingredient and is prepared in a variety of ways. Some common cooking methods include boiling, steaming, stir-frying, and grilling. Seafood is often served with a variety of sauces and seasonings, depending on the dish.
One popular dish in Qinhuangdao is stir-fried squid or shrimp with vegetables such as green peppers, onions, and carrots. Another popular dish is steamed fish with soy sauce and ginger.
Seafood can also be prepared in hotpots, where it is cooked in a flavorful broth along with other ingredients such as vegetables and tofu.
Aside from these traditional dishes, Qinhuangdao also offers more modern takes on seafood cuisine such as sushi and sashimi. Coastal restaurants may also offer fresh oysters, clams, and other shellfish for diners to enjoy.
No matter how it is prepared and served, seafood in Qinhuangdao is known for its freshness and delicious taste thanks to its proximity to the coast.
16. Are there any rooftop bars or restaurants with views of both the city and the Great Wall?
There are several rooftop bars and restaurants in Beijing that offer views of both the city and the Great Wall. Some options include:1) Atmosphere Bar at 30th floor, China World Summit Wing – Located in the Central Business District, this bar offers panoramic views of the city skyline and glimpses of the Great Wall in the distance.
2) Maggie’s Bar at The Opposite House – This rooftop bar provides a stunning view of the city along with a glimpse of the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall.
3) Pebble Coffee at Brickyard Retreat at Mutianyu Great Wall – This café has a terrace that overlooks the Mutianyu Great Wall, providing guests with both city and wall views.
4) Gili’s Terrace at Gubei Water Town – Located near Simatai Great Wall, this terrace allows visitors to dine while enjoying both mountain and water views as well as views of the lit-up wall at night.
5) China Grill at Park Hyatt Beijing – This restaurant on the 66th floor offers breathtaking views of both modern Beijing and distant sections of the Great Wall.
17 . What type of breakfast options are available around Shanhaiguan Great Wall, aside from traditional Chinese breakfast foods?
Some possible breakfast options around Shanhaiguan Great Wall include Western-style fare like eggs, toast, and pastries, as well as other Asian cuisines such as Korean and Japanese. Additionally, there may be cafes or convenience stores offering yogurt, cereal, fruit, and other quick grab-and-go options for breakfast.
18 . What are some unique or off-the-beaten-path food experiences to try in Qinhuangdao?
1. Dried Seafood Market – Qinhuangdao is known for its abundant seafood and the Dried Seafood Market is a great place to try unique dried seafood products, such as sea cucumber, scallops on the shell, and dried squid.2. Hailanchun – This local restaurant specializes in serving traditional Manchu cuisine, including dishes made with wild game like deer and pheasant.
3. Yan Shan Mao Jia Restaurant – Located on a remote island near Qinhuangdao, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience by serving fresh seafood dishes cooked using traditional farming techniques.
4. Zhan Qiao Fish Steamed In Beer – A popular dish in Qinhuangdao that involves steaming fish with beer and herbs for a flavorful and tender result.
5. Qinglong Man Tou (Steamed Buns) – These steamed buns are a specialty of Qinglong County in Qinhuangdao and are typically filled with juicy pork or mushroom filling.
6. Butterfly Shrimp – An uncommon delicacy in many parts of China, butterfly shrimp can be found at restaurants along the coast of Qinhuangdao. The shrimp is opened up before being dredged in batter and fried until crispy.
7. Cold Noodles – Don’t let the name deceive you, Cold Noodles (Liang Mian) are actually warm noodles served with savory sauces like sesame paste or chili oil, making it a perfect summer dish.
8. Red Bean Porridge – A traditional dessert in Qinhuangdao made with red beans cooked into a porridge-like consistency and topped with sweet fruit or nuts.
9. Grilled Lamb Kebabs – Popular throughout China, but especially delicious in coastal cities like Qinhuangdao where lamb has ample pastures to graze on. Look out for street food vendors selling grilled lamb skewers seasoned with cumin and other spices.
10.Amber Wines – Qinhuangdao is renowned for its amber wines, made by fermenting wild fruits and honey. Visitors can taste these unique wines at local wineries or purchase a bottle to bring back home.
19 . How late do most restaurants stay open around the area of Shanhaiguan Great Wall?
Most restaurants around Shanhaiguan Great Wall stay open until 9 or 10 PM. However, some may close earlier during weekdays and open later on weekends. It is best to check with individual restaurants for their specific operating hours.
20 . Do you have any personal recommendations for must-try dishes or restaurants in Qinhuangdao?
1. Grilled Seafood at Yin Hai Zi Restaurant: Known for its delicious seafood cooked over a charcoal grill, this restaurant is a must-visit for seafood lovers.
2. Steamed Crab at Xing Yuan Lou: This famous local dish features fresh local crabs steamed with ginger and garlic, creating a mouthwatering flavor.
3. Shrimp Dumplings at Hai Niao Ren Jia: This restaurant serves up the best shrimp dumplings in town, filled with juicy shrimp and served in a flavorful broth.
4. Seafood Hot Pot at Ming Yue Island: A popular spot for locals, this restaurant offers a wide variety of fresh seafood to cook in their signature hot pot broth.
5. Braised Pork Belly at Fu Qui Men: Slow-cooked to perfection, this dish features tender pork belly in a flavorful sauce and is a classic comfort food in the region.
6. Sweet Sesame Walnut Tofu at Tian Shi Feng Wei Guan: For those looking for a vegetarian option, this restaurant serves up a delicious sesame walnut tofu that is both healthy and tasty.
7. Roast Duck at Hong Shao Qing Rouchao Jiuzhuang: Enjoy perfectly crispy roast duck with mouthwatering skin at this popular restaurant known for their expertly roasted meats.
8. Grilled Lamb Skewers at Kai Tai Shan Mutton City: For meat lovers, these grilled lamb skewers are an absolute must-try, featuring tender chunks of lamb marinated in spices and grilled to perfection.
9. Hand-Pulled Noodles Dulayuan Shaomian at Qinhuangdao Jie Fang Bei Lu Wu Suan La Fen Dian: A beloved dish among locals, this noodle dish features hand-pulled noodles served with spicy broth and various toppings such as pickled vegetables and minced meat.
10. Roasted Whole Fish at Xia Qing Cheng Seafood Restaurant: This upscale seafood restaurant is known for their perfectly roasted whole fish, seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices for a burst of flavor.