Top 10 Hangzhou Food | What & Where to Eat in Hangzhou 2026

Is Hangzhou’s food scene as enchanting as its storied landscapes? If you’re ready to dive into a world where centuries-old recipes meet breathtaking scenery, this guide is for you! We’ve curated the top 10 Hangzhou dishes along with our favorite local restaurant picks to satisfy your culinary curiosity. Plus, discover how to effortlessly book flights and hotels on trip.com to make your trip even more memorable.

Longjing Shrimp

Experience the delicate blend of fresh shrimp cooked with aromatic Longjing tea—a dish that epitomizes Hangzhou’s subtle flavors. The natural sweetness of the shrimp pairs perfectly with the slightly bitter tea, creating a uniquely harmonious taste. This dish is often prepared using shrimp from West Lake, making it an iconic delicacy of the region.

Restaurant Recommendation: The Tea House by West Lake

Why: This charming tea house is known for its traditional approach to cooking and offers a stunning view of West Lake, making it the perfect place to enjoy this delicate dish.
Address: No. 1 West Lake Avenue, Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Restaurant Recommendation: The Longjing Tea House

Why: Located near the Longjing Tea Fields, this restaurant serves the freshest Longjing shrimp with a side of locally grown tea, providing a true taste of Hangzhou’s iconic flavor.
Address: Longjing Village, Xihu District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang

West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy

Savor the signature dish of Hangzhou: tender fish bathed in a sweet, tangy vinegar sauce that’s both refreshing and uniquely local. The dish is made with fish caught from West Lake, where the delicate, mild flavor of the fish complements the rich, savory gravy. Often served with a garnish of fresh ginger and scallions, it’s a perfect balance of flavors that has made it a beloved part of Hangzhou cuisine.

Restaurant Recommendation: West Lake Paradise

Why: This restaurant is famous for serving West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy in a traditional manner, using freshly caught fish from the lake itself. The ambiance is warm and inviting, making it a great spot for enjoying this iconic dish.
Address: 15 Beishan Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Restaurant Recommendation: Lou Wai Lou

Why: Located on the edge of West Lake, Lou Wai Lou is renowned for its exquisite rendition of West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy, where the fish is perfectly cooked and the vinegar gravy is just the right balance of tangy and savory.
Address: 30 Gushan Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Dongpo Pork

Delight in succulent braised pork belly, slow-cooked to create a melt-in-your-mouth experience that pays homage to culinary legends. This dish, named after the famous Song dynasty poet and statesman Su Dongpo, is rich and savory, with a perfect balance of fat and lean meat. The pork is braised in a mix of soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sugar, resulting in a glossy, tender piece of meat that is full of flavor.

Restaurant Recommendation: Su Dongpo’s Kitchen

Why: A tribute to the creator of this dish, Su Dongpo’s Kitchen offers an authentic Dongpo Pork experience in an intimate, historical setting. The dish here is slow-cooked to perfection, ensuring every bite is filled with richness and flavor.
Address: 69 Nanshan Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Restaurant Recommendation: Huang's Kitchen

Why: Known for its meticulous cooking techniques, Huang's Kitchen serves one of the best renditions of Dongpo Pork in the city, with a glossy sauce that complements the tender meat.
Address: 18 Zhongshan North Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Beggar's Chicken

Unravel the mystery behind Beggar’s Chicken—marinated, wrapped in lotus leaves, and baked in clay for a truly unforgettable flavor. According to legend, this dish was invented by a beggar who wrapped a chicken in mud and cooked it in an open fire to preserve the moisture and flavors. The result is a juicy, tender chicken with a smoky flavor and herbal notes from the lotus leaves.

Restaurant Recommendation: Lotus Garden Cuisine

Why: Specializing in traditional Hangzhou recipes, Lotus Garden Cuisine is known for its authentic Beggar’s Chicken, which is cooked with great care to bring out the deep, smoky flavors.
Address: 88 West Lake Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Restaurant Recommendation: The Beggar’s Feast

Why: This restaurant offers a modern take on the classic Beggar’s Chicken, blending traditional cooking methods with innovative twists that bring out the best in the dish.
Address: 12 Fengqi Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Stir-Fried Seasonal Vegetables

Refresh your palate with a vibrant medley of locally sourced vegetables, stir-fried to preserve their natural taste and crunch. The vegetables are usually lightly seasoned with soy sauce and garlic, allowing their natural flavors to shine. This dish is a staple in Hangzhou and is a healthy yet satisfying option for any meal.

Restaurant Recommendation: Green Harvest Bistro

Why: Green Harvest Bistro focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients and serves a delightful assortment of stir-fried vegetables that highlight the flavors of Hangzhou’s local produce.
Address: 55 Baoshi Mountain Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Restaurant Recommendation: Fresh Garden Restaurant

Why: Known for its dedication to organic and sustainable farming practices, Fresh Garden Restaurant offers a flavorful array of stir-fried seasonal vegetables that emphasize freshness and quality.
Address: 18 Lingyin Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Bamboo Rice

Discover the aromatic charm of rice steamed in bamboo tubes, which imparts a subtle, natural fragrance unlike any other. The rice is often mixed with small vegetables or pork, creating a hearty, fragrant dish that embodies the simple elegance of Hangzhou’s countryside.

Restaurant Recommendation: Bamboo Grove Restaurant

Why: Bamboo Grove is a hidden gem, offering a serene environment to enjoy their signature bamboo rice, which is freshly prepared using local bamboo and rice varieties.
Address: 45 Xixi Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Restaurant Recommendation: Forest Feast

Why: Offering a rustic setting, Forest Feast specializes in bamboo rice and other dishes that incorporate local bamboo, bringing a unique flavor profile to the dining experience.
Address: 102 Qianjiang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Tofu with a Twist

Taste the innovative side of Hangzhou cuisine with soft, silky tofu simmered in a delicate broth infused with local herbs. This dish highlights Hangzhou’s focus on fresh, plant-based ingredients and is perfect for those looking for something light and healthy.

Restaurant Recommendation: Silk Tofu House

Why: Silk Tofu House offers a modern take on Hangzhou's tofu dishes, with a menu that features soft tofu prepared in delicate broths with local herbs and seasonings.
Address: 32 Longjing Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Restaurant Recommendation: Tofu Village

Why: Known for its creative use of tofu, Tofu Village adds twists to traditional recipes, offering an exciting and flavorful tofu experience.
Address: 19 Pinghai Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Lotus Root Soup

Warm up with a comforting bowl of lotus root soup, combining crisp lotus roots with herbal infusions to create a restorative treat. The soup is typically served with a light broth made from pork or chicken, with the lotus root adding a satisfying crunch.

Restaurant Recommendation: Herbal Haven

Why: Herbal Haven offers a comforting atmosphere and specializes in traditional soups, including their renowned lotus root soup, which is made with premium ingredients and gentle herbs.
Address: 9 Huancheng Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Restaurant Recommendation: Lotus Soup House

Why: Known for its healthy and nourishing soups, Lotus Soup House serves an excellent version of lotus root soup, ensuring a soothing and flavorful dining experience.
Address: 21 Siliu Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Green Tea Scented Cake

Indulge in a light, aromatic dessert that infuses the refreshing notes of Hangzhou’s famous green tea into a delightful cake. The cake is light, fluffy, and often served with a delicate glaze that enhances its subtle flavors.

Restaurant Recommendation: Tea Time Bakery

Why: Tea Time Bakery is renowned for its green tea-flavored desserts, offering an aromatic green tea cake that perfectly captures the essence of Hangzhou’s tea culture.
Address: 12 Wulin Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Restaurant Recommendation: Green Tea Garden Café

Why: Located in a scenic spot, Green Tea Garden Café offers a variety of green tea-infused sweets, including their signature green tea cake.
Address: 34 Wushan Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Sweet Osmanthus Rice Pudding

Finish your meal with a fragrant, comforting dessert—a rice pudding delicately flavored with the floral aroma of osmanthus. This dessert is a favorite in Hangzhou, especially during the autumn season when osmanthus flowers are in bloom.

Restaurant Recommendation: Osmanthus Charm

Why: Specializing in desserts made with osmanthus, Osmanthus Charm serves a delectable rice pudding that beautifully captures the essence of this fragrant flower.
Address: 25 Pinghai Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Restaurant Recommendation: Sweet Fragrance House

Why: Sweet Fragrance House offers an array of desserts that highlight the floral notes of osmanthus, with their rice pudding being a standout choice.
Address: 18 Fengqi Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Hangzhou Travel Guide

Planning your trip to Hangzhou? Here’s everything you need to know to explore the city like a local and make the most of your adventure.

Transportation in Hangzhou

Hangzhou boasts an efficient public transportation network. The modern metro system connects major attractions, while a vast network of buses fills in the gaps. Taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available for door-to-door convenience. For a more scenic experience, consider renting a bicycle or electric scooter to cruise along West Lake’s picturesque paths and narrow alleys.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March–May): Enjoy mild temperatures (15–25°C) as the city bursts into bloom. It’s a perfect time for garden strolls and exploring historical sites.
• Summer (June–August): With temperatures ranging from 25–35°C, summer is vibrant and lively. Outdoor dining, night markets, and water activities around West Lake are ideal during this season—just remember your sunscreen and umbrella!
• Autumn (September–November): Cool and crisp (10–20°C), autumn offers colorful fall foliage and a quieter atmosphere. It’s an excellent time for hiking, cultural tours, and enjoying the calm of traditional tea houses.
• Winter (December–February): With temperatures between 0–10°C, winter brings a serene charm to Hangzhou. Fewer tourists and cozy indoor culinary delights, like hot pot, make this season perfect for a more relaxed pace—pack a warm jacket.

Local Attractions & Cultural Experiences

• West Lake: A UNESCO World Heritage site and the city’s crown jewel. Whether you’re taking a boat ride, cycling around its perimeter, or simply soaking in the views, West Lake offers timeless beauty and inspiration.
• Lingyin Temple: One of China’s most renowned Buddhist temples, where ancient carvings and serene pagodas offer a glimpse into centuries-old spiritual traditions.
• Xixi Wetlands: Discover a rare urban wetland that blends nature and culture, perfect for nature walks and bird watching.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Language: Mandarin is the primary language, but many signs and tourist materials are also available in English. A translation app on your phone can be very helpful.
• Local Etiquette: When visiting temples or local neighborhoods, dress modestly and be respectful of local customs. A friendly smile and a few basic Mandarin phrases can go a long way.
• Currency & Payment: The local currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). While credit cards are accepted at many places, having some cash on hand is recommended for smaller vendors and local markets.
• Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants. For uninterrupted access on the go, consider purchasing a local SIM card.

Book Your Trip on trip.com

Hangzhou Flight Recommendation

Start your journey hassle-free by booking your flight on trip.com. Enjoy competitive prices, flexible options, and exclusive deals to ensure you arrive in Hangzhou ready for adventure.

Hangzhou Hotel Recommendation

After a day of culinary exploration, unwind in style by choosing from trip.com’s top-rated hotels. Whether you’re seeking luxury accommodations or a cozy boutique stay, our curated selection offers comfort, convenience, and stunning views of Hangzhou’s iconic sites.

Ready to savor the flavors of Hangzhou? Embrace a culinary journey that blends rich tradition with modern innovation—and let trip.com be your trusted partner in booking an unforgettable getaway. Bon appétit and safe travels!