Top Chengdu food and best restaurants, what and where to eat

Top food in Chengdu you must try

Chengdu is widely considered to be the culinary capital of China and is renowned for its spicy and flavorful Sichuan cuisine. Sichuan cuisine is characterized by its bold use of chili peppers, Sichuan peppercorns, garlic, ginger, and other aromatic spices, resulting in dishes that are both fragrant and fiery. Here are some of the most popular dishes and food items you should try in Chengdu:

Mapo Tofu - A famous Sichuan dish that features tofu cooked in a spicy chili and bean sauce, and minced pork.

Hot Pot - A communal dining experience that involves cooking raw meats and vegetables in a boiling pot of spicy broth, with options ranging from mild to extra-spicy.

Kung Pao Chicken - A stir-fried dish made with diced chicken, peanuts, and vegetables, seasoned with chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns.

Dan Dan Noodles - A noodle dish with a spicy and tangy sauce made with chili oil, Sichuan pepper, and vinegar, topped with minced pork, scallions, and peanuts.

Spicy Crayfish - Freshwater crayfish cooked in a spicy and fragrant chili sauce, a popular dish during the summer months.

Sichuan Hotpot Rabbit - Another popular hot pot item in Chengdu, featuring fresh rabbit meat cooked in spicy broth.

Tea-smoked Duck - A local specialty, duck meat is marinated in tea leaves and spices and smoked over wood, resulting in a tender and flavorful meat.

Sichuan Pickles - These pickles are made with a variety of vegetables, including cucumber, cabbage, and radish, pickled in chili oil and Sichuan peppercorns.

Chengdu is also home to many street food vendors, night markets, and food streets, where you can find a variety of local snacks and small dishes, such as dumplings, pancakes, and buns. Don't forget to try the local Sichuan-style breakfasts, such as savory rice porridge, soy milk, and steamed buns. With its rich culinary culture, Chengdu is a destination that offers a feast for the senses.

Best local restaurants in chengdu

Chengdu is known for its vibrant food scene, and there are many local restaurants in the city that are worth visiting. Here are a few recommendations for the best local restaurants in Chengdu:

Chen Mapo Tofu (陈麻婆豆腐) - This restaurant is famous for its mapo tofu, a spicy Sichuan dish made with soft tofu and minced meat. Chen Mapo Tofu has been serving this dish for over 100 years, and it's a must-try when in Chengdu.

Lao Ma Tou Hot Pot (老码头火锅) - Hot pot is a popular dish in Chengdu, and Lao Ma Tou is one of the best places to try it. The restaurant serves a variety of broths and meats, and the atmosphere is cozy and welcoming.

Huangcheng Laoma (皇城老妈) - Huangcheng Laoma is known for its authentic Sichuan dishes, including kung pao chicken, boiled fish, and dan dan noodles. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and reasonable prices.

Yu's Family Kitchen (俞家大院) - This restaurant is located in a traditional courtyard and serves a variety of Sichuan dishes, including sweet and sour pork and fried green beans. The atmosphere is charming and the food is delicious.

Shu Nine Incense Pot (蜀九香) - Another popular hot pot restaurant in Chengdu, Shu Nine Incense Pot is known for its spicy broth and fresh ingredients. The restaurant also serves a variety of other Sichuan dishes, including fried rice cakes and stir-fried beef with chili peppers.

These are just a few of the many great local restaurants in Chengdu. Whether you're looking for spicy Sichuan dishes or more traditional Chinese cuisine, you're sure to find something delicious in this city.