1. What are some popular local dishes to try in Zhangjiajie?
One popular local dish in Zhangjiajie is Tujia Shaozi, which translates to “Tujia Clay Pot Steamed Soup.” This hearty soup is made with wild vegetables, mushrooms, and meat simmered in a clay pot for several hours. Another popular dish is Tu’er Niang Sanxian, a stir-fry dish made with three treasures from the local Tujia cuisine: smoked pork, sour bamboo shoots, and dried tofu.Other local specialties include Bailiyun Bamboo Shoots (a type of crunchy and flavorful bamboo shoots), Wuling Chestnuts (small and sweet chestnuts grown in the Wuling Mountain area), and Trout Hotpot (a spicy fish hotpot made with locally-caught trout).
2. Are there any street foods or snacks I should try in Zhangjiajie?
Yes, there are many delicious street foods and snacks to try in Zhangjiajie! One popular snack is Li Bai Pork Ribs, which are marinated pork ribs coated with a sweet and spicy sauce. You can also try Qingyan Fried Rice Balls, which are small balls of glutinous rice filled with various savory ingredients like meat or vegetables and then deep-fried.
Other tasty options include Grilled Tofu Skewers (tofu cubes grilled on skewers and served with a dipping sauce), La Flamei (a type of flatbread filled with meat or vegetables), and Xiangxi Meat-Stuffed Dumplings (dumplings filled with juicy minced pork).
3. Is there any traditional tea culture in Zhangjiajie?
Yes, tea culture has a long history in Zhangjiajie as it is located near the famous Wuling Mountain tea plantation. The most popular type of tea produced here is green tea, specifically Xingyue Fragrant Tea. This tea has a special aroma and flavor due to the unique soil composition and climate of the region.
There are also many tea houses and shops in Zhangjiajie where you can taste and purchase different types of local tea. Some tea houses also offer traditional tea ceremonies, where expert tea masters demonstrate the art of brewing and serving tea.
2. Are there any must-visit restaurants for authentic Chinese cuisine in Zhangjiajie?
1. Xinyuan Restaurant: Known for its delicious Hunanese cuisine, this restaurant offers a wide selection of local dishes such as spicy smoked pork, steamed fish with chopped chili peppers, and stir-fried vegetables.
2. Tujia Flavor Restaurant: This popular eatery specializes in Tujia cuisine, known for its use of wild herbs and spices. Must-try dishes include braised meat with bamboo shoots and stir-fried fern with smoked bacon.
3. Zhangjiajie Chentianxiang Restaurant: Located near Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, this restaurant is known for its fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and traditional recipes. Their specialty dish is braised tofu with greens.
4. Wulingyuan Ta Liwei Farmhouse: Set in a beautiful rural setting, this farmhouse-style restaurant serves up authentic Tujia dishes made from organic ingredients. Don’t miss their honeyed wild mushrooms and stir-fried rice cakes.
5. Chef’s Table at Hangkongtiancheng Square: With stunning views of Tianmen Mountain, this upscale restaurant offers a modern twist on classic Hunanese dishes. Highlights include the crispy beef tenderloin and stir-fried river snails.
6. King chicken Sichuan Renjia Restaurant: For fans of spicy food, this restaurant is a must-visit. They specialize in Sichuan cuisine and are known for their delicious mapo tofu and hotpot options.
7. Baofeng Lake Dining Hall: Located inside Baofeng Lake Scenic Area, this restaurant offers both Chinese and Western dishes with an emphasis on local specialties such as steamed fish with pickled chilies and fried sticky rice balls.
8. Yuanjiajie Nature Restaurant: Nestled in the scenic village of Yuanjiajie, this restaurant boasts stunning views of the surrounding mountains while serving up tasty Tujia dishes like braised meat with dried radish.
9. Guo Pub Traditional Restaurant: This restaurant, housed in a historic Qing Dynasty building, offers a unique dining experience with its courtyard setting and traditional dishes such as stir-fried pork belly with peppers and steamed fish with preserved vegetables.
10. Zhangjiajie Tujia Grandmother’s Home: Located in the heart of Zhangjiajie City, this restaurant specializes in authentic Tujia cuisine served in a homey atmosphere. Recommended dishes include the spicy frog legs and stir-fried bitter melon.
3. Can you recommend any good places for vegetarian/vegan food in Zhangjiajie?
1. The Tree House Vegetarian Restaurant: Located near Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, this cozy restaurant offers a variety of delicious vegetarian dishes made with fresh local ingredients.
2. Tianzi Mountain Vegan Restaurant: This restaurant is known for its stunning views of Tianzi Mountain and serves up tasty vegan dishes such as tofu stir-fry, vegetable hotpot, and fried mushroom rolls.
3. Wulingyuan Plant-Based Cuisine: Situated in Wulingyuan Scenic Area, this vegetarian restaurant focuses on creating healthy and tasty plant-based dishes. Some popular items on their menu include pumpkin soup, spicy eggplant, and crispy tofu.
4. Hongqiao Golden Whisker Vegetarian Restaurant: This traditional Chinese Buddhist-style restaurant offers a wide range of vegetarian options including mock meat dishes, vegetable stir-fries, and noodle soups.
5. Yuanjiajie Vegetarian Restaurant: Located on the top of Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, this elevated restaurant offers stunning views while serving up tasty vegetarian dishes such as stir-fried mushrooms with chili peppers and braised tofu with black bean sauce.
6. Mu’s Garden Vegetarian Restaurant: A popular spot among locals and tourists alike, this charming restaurant serves up flavorful vegetarian delicacies such as mapo tofu, fried pumpkin with pine nuts, and vegetable dumplings.
7. Little Fairyland Vegetarian Restaurant: Nestled in the quaint village of Fenghuang Ancient Town, this cozy eatery offers a peaceful atmosphere to enjoy their delicious array of vegan and vegetarian dishes like spicy eggplant noodles and crispy cauliflower fingers.
8. Rongfeng Shange Vegetarian Restaurant: Known for its extensive menu of creative vegan dishes made with fresh local produce, this restaurant is located near Baofeng Lake and is a great option for those looking for a healthy meal in the area.
4. Is street food safe to eat in Zhangjiajie?
As with any type of street food, there are always potential risks. However, in general, street food vendors in Zhangjiajie have strict hygiene standards and the local government regularly conducts inspections to ensure safety. It is advised to choose cooked foods that are served hot and avoid raw or uncooked items. Additionally, make sure to only purchase from vendors who have a large number of customers or who are recommended by locals.
5. What is the best time of day for trying out local food options in Zhangjiajie?
The best time of day for trying out local food options in Zhangjiajie is during meal times, which are typically breakfast (7-9am), lunch (11:30am-1pm), and dinner (6-8pm). This is when local restaurants will have their freshest and most diverse array of dishes available. Keep in mind that some popular street food vendors may only operate during specific hours in the evening, so it is recommended to do some research beforehand or ask locals for recommendations on where to find the best food at certain times of day.
6. Are there any food markets or stalls worth visiting for a unique dining experience in Zhangjiajie?
Some popular food markets and stalls in Zhangjiajie that offer a unique dining experience are:– Zhangjiajie Tujia Folk Custom Park: This park features numerous food stalls selling traditional Tujia dishes such as stinky tofu, grilled fish, and local rice wine.
– Phoenix Ancient Town: The streets of this ancient town are lined with many food vendors offering authentic local snacks like grilled rice cakes, fried potato slices, and spicy rabbit head.
– Baofeng Lake Street: Along this street, you can find various local specialties like bamboo shoots, steamed buns stuffed with mountain vegetables, and stir-fried snails.
– Xibu Alley: This street is known for its variety of street food options like roasted lamb skewers, barbequed meat on a stick, and savory pancakes.
7. Can tourists easily find English menus in Zhangjiajie restaurants?
Yes, many restaurants in Zhangjiajie offer English menus for tourists. However, it may be helpful to have a translation app or basic knowledge of Chinese characters to ensure accurate ordering.
8. Are international cuisines available in Zhangjiajie or mostly local Chinese food?
Both international cuisines and local Chinese food are available in Zhangjiajie. While there are plenty of restaurants that serve traditional Chinese dishes, there are also international options such as Mexican, Italian, Japanese, and Korean cuisine available throughout the city. Many hotels and upscale restaurants also offer a mix of both Chinese and international dishes on their menus. Visitors can easily find a variety of dining options to suit their preferences while visiting Zhangjiajie.
9. How would you describe the overall food scene and atmosphere in Zhangjiajie?
The overall food scene in Zhangjiajie is diverse and vibrant, with a variety of traditional Chinese dishes and international cuisine available. The atmosphere is relaxed and laid back, with many local restaurants offering a casual and welcoming environment. There are also some upscale restaurants that cater to tourists visiting the area. Overall, the food scene is constantly evolving and offers something for everyone.
10. Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known restaurants with amazing food in Zhangjiajie?
Some possible hidden gems or lesser-known restaurants with amazing food in Zhangjiajie could include:1. Fenghuang Ancient Town Food Street: Located at the ancient town of Fenghuang, this street is known for its diverse range of local dishes, such as spicy fish head soup and braised beef.
2. Baofeng Lake Restaurant: This restaurant offers a picturesque view of Baofeng Lake and serves delicious Hunanese dishes, including spicy tofu and stir-fried vegetables.
3. The Tasting Room: This small family-owned restaurant serves traditional local cuisine with a modern twist, using fresh ingredients from nearby villages.
4. The Phoenix House Restaurant: Set amidst lush greenery in a tranquil setting, this restaurant offers authentic flavors of Hunan cuisine, such as steamed fish with green pepper sauce and chili chicken.
5. Tujia Cuisine Restaurant: This cozy restaurant specializes in Tujia ethnic cuisine, featuring dishes like stir-fried pickled vegetables and braised pork belly.
6. Guiyang Mapo Mutton Hotpot Restaurant: For lovers of hotpot, this restaurant serves an excellent selection of spicy mutton broth paired with various meats and vegetables to cook in the pot.
7. The Top of Tianmen Mountain Restaurant: Situated on top of the famous Tianmen Mountain, this restaurant boasts breathtaking views while serving tasty local dishes such as spicy wild mushrooms and smoked sausage.
8. Zi Xing Hu Chinese Fast Food Chain: These fast-food chain stores offer quick bites like noodle soups and dumplings at affordable prices, perfect for a budget-friendly meal.
9. Three Sisters Vegetarian Restaurant: For those seeking vegetarian options, this small restaurant serves delicious meat-free dishes cooked with fresh produce from their own garden.
10. Cili Xin Mei Shi Chinese Cuisine Restaurant: Known for its warm hospitality and mouth-watering dishes such as crispy chicken feet and stewed pork belly with pickled vegetables, this restaurant is a must-visit for traditional Hunan cuisine.
11. What are the must-try local drinks or beverages in Zhangjiajie?
Some popular local drinks or beverages in Zhangjiajie include:1. Tuocha Tea: This is a type of fermented tea traditionally made by the Tujia ethnic minority. It has a distinct earthy flavor and is believed to have health benefits.
2. Soy Milk: A refreshing and nutritious drink usually served hot. It can be found in traditional breakfast places or street stalls.
3. Congou Tea: Also known as black tea, this is a popular type of tea in China and is often used for its medicinal properties.
4. Rice Wine: Made from fermented rice, this strong liquor is commonly enjoyed during celebrations and festivals.
5. Herbal Tea: Zhangjiajie is famous for its wild herbs, which are often used to make herbal teas with various health benefits.
6. Osmanthus Flower Tea: Made from dried osmanthus flowers, this fragrant tea has a sweet taste and is said to be good for digestion.
7. Fructus Crataegi Wine: This wine is made from hawthorn fruits and has a slightly sour taste with a fruity aroma.
8. Baijiu: A popular Chinese white spirit made from grain, usually served as an after-dinner drink at banquets or celebrations.
12. Is it common to tip at restaurants in Zhangjiajie, and if so, how much is appropriate?
Tipping is not a common practice in Zhangjiajie. In fact, many restaurants do not accept tips. It is appreciated but not expected. If you do choose to tip, a small amount (10% of the total bill) would be sufficient.
13. Do any restaurants offer a scenic view while dining, such as overlooking the mountains or rivers of Zhangjiajie?
Yes, there are several restaurants in Zhangjiajie that offer scenic views while dining. Some options include:1. Sky Cafe at Tianmen Mountain: This restaurant is located on the top of Tianmen Mountain and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
2. Terrace Restaurant at Bailong Elevator: This revolving restaurant is perched on top of a cliff and offers breathtaking views of the nearby pillars and valleys.
3. Old House Hotel Restaurant: Located in Wulingyuan Scenic Area, this restaurant offers outdoor seating with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
4. Yuanjiajie Tea House: Situated in the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, this teahouse provides a tranquil setting with stunning views of the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain.
5. Rose Garden Restaurant: This rooftop restaurant overlooks the beautiful Baofeng Lake and serves traditional Chinese dishes alongside its scenic view.
6. Yingbin Xianglai Restaurant: Located on Phoenix Ancient Town Street, this restaurant offers open-air dining with views of the charming ancient town and its winding river.
7. Cliff Legend Restaurant: Situated near Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, this restaurant has a terrace overlooking the spectacular canyon and serves delicious local cuisine.
14. Are there any themed restaurants or unique dining experiences available in Zhangjiajie?
There are several themed restaurants and unique dining experiences available in Zhangjiajie, including:1. Avatar themed restaurant at Wulingyuan Scenic Area: This restaurant is inspired by the popular Avatar movie, with a surreal atmosphere and dishes named after characters and creatures from the film.
2. Xiang’e Mountain Tea Party Restaurant: Located on top of Tianmen Mountain, this restaurant offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and traditional Chinese tea ceremonies.
3. Wangshuizhai Wulong Village: This village offers a unique dining experience where guests can enjoy delicious local specialties while seated on bamboo rafts floating on a river.
4. Old House Restaurant: This restaurant is housed in a traditional Chinese courtyard-style building and serves authentic Hunan cuisine.
5. Tujia Folk Customs Park: This park features various themed restaurants where visitors can taste Tujia ethnic minority cuisine while being immersed in their culture and traditions.
6. Chongqing Bazi Pot Hotpot Restaurant: For an interactive dining experience, visit this hotpot restaurant where guests can cook their own food in a bubbling pot of spicy broth.
7. Zhangjiajie International Grand Canyon Glass Bridge Cafe: Located on the famous glass bridge, this cafe offers breathtaking views of the canyon while enjoying a cup of tea or coffee.
8. Dai Minority Village Dinner Show: At this dinner show, visitors can savor traditional Dai dishes while being entertained by cultural performances such as dance and music.
9. Glass Bottom Suspended Restaurant at Yuelu Mountain: This suspended restaurant offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience with its glass bottom floor providing stunning views of the mountain below.
10. Lu Shadow Puppetry Themed Hotel Restaurant: This hotel has a unique shadow puppetry theme throughout, including its restaurant where guests can watch live shadow puppet performances while enjoying their meal.
15. Can you recommend any budget-friendly yet delicious eateries in Zhangjiajie?
There are many budget-friendly eateries in Zhangjiajie serving delicious local cuisine. Some options include:1. TuPu Restaurant – Known for its clay pot dishes, this restaurant offers a wide variety of affordable options.
2. Shang Pin Snacks – A popular street food stall with a limited menu but great taste. Try their spicy beef noodles and fried tofu.
3. Xiaochi Street Food – This street food market has multiple stalls selling everything from grilled meats to dumplings and soups, all at budget-friendly prices.
4. Fenghuang Guoqiang Xunchu Restaurant – Located in the nearby town of Fenghuang, this restaurant offers generous portions of traditional Hunan dishes at affordable prices.
5. Qidu Liujia Xiaochi Xiangcun Cai – Another street food market with a wide selection of local snacks and small dishes to try.
6. Jiudian Mala Tang – This hot pot restaurant serves up an endless array of ingredients to cook in your own personal bubbling pot at budget-friendly prices.
7. Tianmen Laozihao Restaurant – A small family-owned restaurant serving up authentic Hunan cuisine at reasonable prices.
8. Wuling Shan Noodle House – Specializing in hand-pulled noodles, this casual eatery offers tasty and affordable noodle dishes.
9. Da Jia Le Restaurant – This popular restaurant offers regional specialties like spicy frog legs and tofu dishes at affordable prices.
10. Hunan Delicious Food House – A no-frills eatery that serves up delicious Hunan dishes including stir-fries, hot pots, and soups at budget-friendly prices.
16. How would you rate the hygiene and cleanliness of restaurants and street vendors in Zhangjiajie?
As an AI, I do not have personal experience, but based on information and customer reviews, the hygiene and cleanliness of restaurants and street vendors in Zhangjiajie vary. Some places maintain high standards of cleanliness while others may not be as clean. It is important for visitors to use their judgement and take precautions when choosing where to eat.
17. Are there any cultural or traditional performances that involve food/serving of dishes that are worth experiencing during a mealtime in Zhangjaijei?
Yes, there are several cultural and traditional performances in Zhangjiajie that involve food and serving of dishes during mealtime. Some popular examples include:
1. “Tujia Sisters’ Rice Bowl Dance”: This performance showcases the traditional Tujia culture, where sisters will dance with large bowls of rice on their heads while singing folk songs.
2. “Agricultural Culture Show”: This show features local farmers demonstrating their farming techniques and using traditional tools to prepare food.
3. “Charming West Hunan Evening Banquet”: During this banquet, guests can taste a variety of authentic Hunan dishes while enjoying traditional folk music performances.
4. “Baofeng Lake Fisherman’s Evening Banquet”: This is a unique experience where guests can enjoy a meal on a boat while cruising through the scenic Baofeng Lake, accompanied by traditional music and dances.
5. “Zhangjiajie Roast Boar Feast”: This feast showcases the traditional way of roasting wild boar in Zhangjiajie using bamboo poles over an open fire, accompanied by cultural performances such as fire breathing and drumming.
These performances usually take place during mealtime at local restaurants or at designated cultural performance venues. They offer visitors a chance to not only taste delicious local cuisine but also immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Zhangjiajie.
18.D oes delivery service exist for food options around tourist attractions or hotels in Zhangajijie?
Yes, there are delivery services available for food options around tourist attractions and hotels in Zhangjiajie. Many restaurants and food vendors offer delivery services through popular food delivery apps such as Meituan and Ele.me. In addition, some hotels also provide their own room service for guests.
19. What are all-time favorite dishes or restaurants in Zhangjiajie and why?
Some popular dishes or restaurants in Zhangjiajie are:
1. Tujia Flavoured Fish: This dish is made with fresh, locally caught fish that is marinated in a blend of spices and herbs before being cooked to perfection. It is a popular traditional Tujia dish in Zhangjiajie.
2. Old Street Restaurant: This restaurant is known for its authentic Hunan cuisine, especially their signature spicy dishes. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff.
3. Baofeng Lake Fish Soup: This soup is made with Baofeng Lake fish, which is known for its tender and flavorful meat. The soup also includes various vegetables and herbs, making it a nutritious and delicious meal.
4. Heaven Gate Restaurant: This restaurant offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains while serving delicious Chinese and Western dishes. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy the scenery while dining.
5. Mao’ershan Roast Duck: This dish is served at Tongxiangyuan Restaurant and is famous for its crispy skin and tender meat. It’s a must-try for duck lovers.
6. Golden Whip Stream Barbecue: This barbeque joint serves a variety of grilled meats, vegetables, and tofu skewers along the picturesque Golden Whip Stream, making it a favorite dining spot for tourists.
The common element among all these dishes/restaurants is their emphasis on using fresh local ingredients and showcasing the flavors of Hunan province. They provide an authentic taste of the region while also offering stunning views or unique experiences for diners.
20. Is it common to eat with chopsticks in Zhangjiajie, or are there also utensils available for tourists who may not be familiar with using them?
It is common to eat with chopsticks in Zhangjiajie among the locals. However, many restaurants catering to tourists also provide utensils such as forks and spoons for those who are not familiar with using chopsticks. It is always a good idea to ask the restaurant beforehand if they have utensils available.