China Food Guide for Travelers

Introduction

Chinese cuisine is one of the world’s most diverse and flavorful. Each region has its own specialties and cooking styles. This guide helps you explore China’s culinary delights.

Regional Cuisine

• Northern Cuisine: Wheat-based dishes, dumplings, Peking duck.
• Sichuan Cuisine: Spicy and numbing, mapo tofu, hot pot.
• Guangdong Cuisine: Fresh and delicate, dim sum, roasted meats.
• Jiangsu/Zhejiang Cuisine: Sweet and light, braised dishes, seafood.
• Hunan Cuisine: Spicy and sour, chili-based dishes.

Must-Try Dishes

• Peking Duck: Crispy skin, tender meat, served with pancakes.
• Hot Pot: Cook your own meat and vegetables in a flavorful broth.
• Dim Sum: Small bite-sized dishes, perfect for brunch.
• Mapo Tofu: Spicy tofu with minced pork from Sichuan.
• Xiaolongbao: Soup dumplings from Shanghai.
• Kung Pao Chicken: Spicy stir-fried chicken with peanuts.

Street Food

• Jianbing: Savory crepe with egg and toppings.
• Tanghulu: Candied fruit on a stick.
• Baozi: Steamed buns filled with meat or vegetables.
• Stinky Tofu: Fermented tofu with strong aroma.
• Chuanr: Grilled skewers, popular in northern China.

Dining Etiquette

• Seating: Elders or guests sit at the head of the table.
• Chopsticks: Don’t stick them upright in rice; don’t tap bowls.
• Toasting: Eyes should meet when toasting; younger people toast first.
• Tea: Pour tea for others before yourself; tap table to thank.
• Paying: Often fought over; the host usually pays.

Dining Tips

• Spicy Level: Ask for bu la (not spicy) if you can’t handle chili.
• Vegetarian Options: Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes.
• Street Food Safety: Choose stalls with long lines and fresh ingredients.
• Drinking Water: Bottled water is recommended; tap water is not drinkable.

Popular Beverages

• Chinese Tea: Green tea, oolong, black tea, chrysanthemum tea.
• Boba Tea: Milk tea with tapioca pearls, popular nationwide.
• Local Beers: Tsingtao, Yanjing, Harbin.
• Fruit Juices: Freshly squeezed juices available everywhere.

Last Updated: July 2026

Note: Food preferences vary by region. Explore local markets and street food for authentic experiences.