ChinaFood and Drink

For the Chinese, eating and food preparation is an integral part of life—some say it is even their national shared love. Chinese cuisine is unique and diverse, featuring an unmatched variety of dishes. China is famed for everything from sizzling wok dishes to hot pot, and dim sum. It is quite possible to eat your way through China, never dining on the same dish twice. Historically, prevalent staples in Chinese cuisine included more rice based dishes from the fertile soil in southern China, and wheat crops to make dumplings and noodles in the north.

Make sure to take the opportunity to try traditional dishes when you are in China, especially regionally specific cuisine. Given the historic availability of local ingredients, and location based climates, there is much variation in dishes from province to province. Cantonese cuisine is renowned for its use of meats, wok stir fries, and dim sum. Bold flavours of chili, garlic, and the spicy Sichuan (Szechuan) pepper define Sichuan dishes. Conversely, from the northern coastal province of Shandong, seafood and soup is predominant. While visiting, dine out at local spots and immerse yourself in the diverse cuisine. It is an integral part of experiencing China's vibrant culture!

What is China's traditional cuisine?

Dating back thousands of years, traditional Chinese hot pot, also known as steamboat, is a communal dining experience. A selection of thinly sliced meats, chopped vegetables, dumplings, and even thick noodles are laid out on a table, waiting for you to individually cook them in a pot of simmering spiced broth. Once finished cooking, you transfer the items to your individual plate, adorn it with condiments, and dig in to enjoy. 

If you are a meat lover, you are in for a treat. Peking duck is a famous dish featuring roasted duck with a golden crust skin, and served with pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce. If you are into chicken, try Kung Pao Chicken, a Sichuan-style dish made from diced chicken, peanuts, and vegetables and topped with chili peppers that pack the heat.

Traditionally filled with pork and jelly, xiaolóngbāo, otherwise known as soup dumplings, were created in the Shanghai region, and are a must try. After being steamed in bamboo baskets, these delicate dumplings end up with a soup-like filling. They're served with large spoons that feature an extra deep siding to ensure every drop of delicious liquid makes it to your mouth. 

For quick bites, try Jianbing and Roujiamo. Jianbing is a Chinese crêpe filled with eggs and savoury sauces. Roujiamo is a Chinese hamburger stuffed with meat, typically pork.

What is dining etiquette in China?

In China, communal, group dining is most common. It is thought that eating good food together can help to bring harmony and closeness to families, and other relationships. You may notice that dining tables are most frequently round, representing unity. The coveted seat of honour faces the entrance to the room, and is reserved for the elder person or the host. It is tradition to start a meal with a toast, after which the host will start eating first, and all diners at the table will follow after. All dishes should be served using the appropriate utensils, never grab food with your personal chopsticks. After you have started eating, if you need a break, place your chopsticks on the rest provided, never leave them sticking out of your bowl. Making noises such as slurping at a dining table is ill advised. Leave a bit of food in the bowl to indicate you are done eating and that you're not interested in another serving.

What is drinking etiquette in China?

Celebrations and socializing with alcohol is commonplace in China. There is even a Chinese saying that roughly translates to “a party is incomplete without alcohol!” Use both hands to receive or give your cup, and prepare for ganbei, or cheers, along with glasses clinking. Toast first to the eldest person at the table and place your glass lower than them to demonstrate humility. Don’t be surprised if the host attempts to push more drinks on you, it is a gesture of kindness. While consuming alcohol into the wee hours of the night is common, plan for politeness and moderation, as overindulgence is frowned upon.

China’s most popular spirit is Baijiu, made from grains such as sorghum. It’s consumed regularly, especially during important events. Wine, beer and other liquors are also popular choices. Popular non-alcoholic drinks in China are tea and soy milk. China has a diverse tea culture that includes various types of tea, like green and black tea. Soy milk is a popular non-alcoholic beverage made from soaking and grinding soya beans.

Does China cater to dietary restrictions?

It is less common in China to find people who have food allergies or dietary restrictions. For this reason, the awareness and ability to accommodate is sometimes less than ideal. Mainstays of Chinese cuisine include meat, wheat, soy, nuts, sesame, all of which are common allergens. 

Halal meals and dining options are plentiful, though vegetarian or vegan meals can be challenging to source due to the prolific use of meat proteins in many dishes. That said, travellers report success in finding vegetarian spots near Buddhist temples, in thanks to their dietary practices. 

Finding gluten-free dining options is possible, but there is limited knowledge surrounding the need for no cross contamination. Condiments, such as wheat containing soy sauce, are used liberally. Sauces commonly have hidden ingredients that can be an issue for allergens and dietary restrictions. 

Many cities feature international cuisine restaurants, or hotel restaurants, which may more commonly accommodate dietary restrictions, plan to do some research beforehand.

What do meals typically cost in China?

The meal pricing in China is so varied and you can find dining at all price points. Cities tend to have higher pricing at restaurants, especially in Beijing and Shanghai. If you are up for exploring, restaurant prices in travellers centric spots tend to be more expensive than local neighbourhood favourites. Inexpensive lunch plate options can typically be found ranging from $5-8 per person, and street food options for $2-4 per item. High end fine dining is widely available and costs between $100-140 per person, whereas mid range restaurant or buffet can be found for between $30-40 per person.