Harbin's diverse food culture is waiting for you to explore! The city offers a unique culinary experience, influenced by both Russian and Chinese flavors. From hearty sausages to spicy stews, Harbin’s food scene is one you can’t miss. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 must-try dishes in Harbin and where to enjoy them!
Harbin Sausage (哈尔滨红肠)
Harbin sausage is a famous local delicacy, characterized by its smokiness and robust flavor. Made with a variety of meats, including pork and beef, it's typically served sliced and eaten with bread or enjoyed on its own as a quick snack.
Where to try it:
- Harbin Old Sausage Factory (哈尔滨老红肠店) – A popular spot known for its traditional recipe.
- Lao Ma’s Sausage Stall (老马红肠摊) – A local favorite for freshly grilled sausages.
Guo Bao Rou (锅包肉)
A crispy fried pork dish glazed in a sweet and sour sauce, Guo Bao Rou is one of Harbin’s most beloved dishes. Its crispy exterior and tender interior make it a crowd-pleaser, with the perfect balance of tanginess and sweetness.
Where to try it:
- Lao Wang Ji (老王记) – Known for making this dish to perfection.
- Harbin Restaurant (哈尔滨餐厅) – Offers a rich, flavorful version of this classic.
Iron Pot Stew (铁锅炖)
Iron Pot Stew is a traditional Northeastern dish that brings together a variety of meats, potatoes, and vegetables, all stewed together in a large, cast-iron pot. The result is a rich, savory stew that's perfect for Harbin’s chilly winters.
Where to try it:
- Dacheng Iron Pot Stew (大成铁锅炖) – A well-loved local restaurant specializing in this hearty dish.
- Lao Zhang Iron Pot Stew (老张铁锅炖) – Another great option for a warm, filling meal.
Northeast Spicy Hot Pot (东北麻辣烫)
This spicy hot pot dish is filled with various meats, vegetables, and tofu, all cooked in a spicy, flavorful broth. The combination of heat and flavor is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors.
Where to try it:
- Liang Ji Spicy Hot Pot (梁记麻辣烫) – Popular among locals for its variety of ingredients and bold flavors.
- Xiang Xiang Spicy Hot Pot (香香麻辣烫) – A go-to spot for those craving the perfect spicy kick.
Russian Bread (俄式面包)
Harbin’s Russian influences can be seen in its bread, which is often thick, soft, and hearty. Russian-style bread is commonly enjoyed with sausages, cheeses, and other local snacks.
Where to try it:
- Harbin Russian Bakery (哈尔滨俄式面包店) – Famous for its authentic Russian breads.
- Yelagin Russian Bakery (叶尔基俄式面包店) – A cozy spot serving freshly baked Russian-style loaves.
Chicken Stew with Mushrooms (小鸡炖蘑菇)
This hearty dish features tender chicken stewed with mushrooms, creating a savory, rich broth that’s perfect for the colder months. The mushrooms add an earthy flavor, complementing the tender chicken beautifully.
Where to try it:
- Chunxi Chicken Stew (春熙小鸡炖蘑菇) – A favorite spot for locals to enjoy this rustic dish.
- Liang’s Chicken Stew (梁家小鸡炖蘑菇) – Known for its rich and flavorful chicken stew.
Pork Stew with Vermicelli (猪肉炖粉条)
This classic dish features pork belly stewed with vermicelli noodles, making for a comforting, filling meal. The pork becomes tender and juicy, while the noodles soak up all the delicious broth.
Where to try it:
- Dongbei Family Restaurant (东北家常菜馆) – Famous for its home-style pork stew.
- Songhua River Restaurant (松花江餐厅) – Known for offering this traditional dish in a cozy setting.
Di San Xian (地三鲜)
A dish originating from the Northeast, Di San Xian features a combination of stir-fried potatoes, eggplant, and green peppers. It’s a simple but satisfying dish, cooked to perfection and packed with flavor.
Where to try it:
- Old Harbin Restaurant (老哈尔滨餐馆) – Serving up traditional Di San Xian with a homestyle twist.
- Northeast Kitchen (东北小厨房) – A beloved place for local comfort food.
Snow-Covered Red Bean Paste (雪衣豆沙)
This sweet treat consists of a layer of red bean paste wrapped in a thin, soft layer of dough and coated in a light, snowy white coating. It’s perfect for those who enjoy sweet, savory desserts.
Where to try it:
- Harbin Dessert Shop (哈尔滨甜品店) – Known for its authentic and fresh snow-covered red bean paste.
- Yue Ji Dessert House (粤记甜品铺) – A cozy spot to try this unique Harbin dessert.
Fried Ice Cream (油炸冰棍)
A unique treat that’s perfect for both hot summer days and chilly winter nights. Fried ice cream is coated in a crispy batter and fried quickly, giving you a warm, crunchy exterior with a cold, creamy inside.
Where to try it:
- Zhongyang Street Street Food Stalls (中央大街小吃摊) – This bustling street is the best place to enjoy fried ice cream.
- Ice Cream Corner (冰激凌角) – A popular spot for locals and tourists alike to try this fun dessert.
Harbin Travel Guide: What to Know Before You Go
What’s the Best Time to Visit Harbin?
Harbin is most famous for its ice and snow festival in the winter, where you can witness breathtaking ice sculptures and enjoy winter sports. If you’re planning to visit during the colder months, be prepared for temperatures as low as -20°C. Alternatively, the summer months (May to August) are more temperate and ideal for exploring the city and trying the local foods.
What Should I Wear in Harbin?
During winter, pack plenty of warm layers, thermal clothing, and insulated boots. If you're visiting in spring or summer, the weather will be milder, so lighter clothing should be fine, but always bring a jacket for the cooler evenings.
How to Get Around Harbin?
Harbin has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and taxis. The Harbin Taiping International Airport offers connections to major cities across China. You can also use ride-hailing apps to get around comfortably.
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Harbin Hotel Recommendations
Need a cozy place to stay? Trip.com offers the best hotel deals in Harbin, from luxury stays to budget-friendly accommodations. Check out top-rated hotels:
Harbin Hotels
5 star
Good5386 Reviews
Harbin Central Avenue/Saint Sophia Cathedral/The Memorial Tower of Fig Harbin|3.67km from city center
Facilities: An older luxury hotel, but generally well-maintained. The bathroom is a bit small and cramped.
Cleanliness: Decent.
Environment: Excellent location right by the Songhua River with expansive views, including the Ice and Snow World. A subway station is a convenient 3-minute walk away.
Service: A bit inconsistent.
(1) While checking in at the lobby, the staff didn't manage the queue well, leading to my check-in being forcibly interrupted and interjected by a stranger.
(2) I checked in around 7 PM that evening, dropped my luggage in the room, and went out for dinner. I returned to the room at 10 PM. Upon entering, I immediately noticed the room was cold, despite the air conditioning being set to the highest temperature (35°C) and maximum fan speed. Hotel maintenance was dispatched. The engineer checked the vent and claimed the temperature was normal, stating the room was cold because a window hadn't been closed tightly (leaving a small gap). I pointed out that in other hotels in Harbin with similar central heating, the rooms remained warm even with an open window, suggesting it wasn't due to a window not being fully closed. The engineer still insisted it was the window and left after locking it. However, the room's heating clearly had an issue, with the indoor temperature only reaching 18-19°C. This resulted in me having to switch rooms close to 11 PM, with all my belongings already unpacked.
(3) Regarding situation (2), the duty manager and staff who assisted with the room change that night were all very friendly and helpful. However, the hotel did not proactively offer any compensation for the trouble caused. Subsequently, upon my request, I was given a cup of coffee. As the party at fault, the hotel's response to the inconvenience and trouble caused to the customer seemed to lack sincerity.From$123
Very Good2975 Reviews
Harbin Railway Station/Gogol Street/The first affiliated hospital of H Harbin|1.34km from city center
This stay was fantastic! The lobby is beautifully decorated, very elegant and grand. The location is absolutely perfect; there's a Metro Line 2 right outside the door, making it super convenient to get to attractions like Central Street and the Ice and Snow World. The facilities are comprehensive, and the cleanliness is definitely up to par. The bedding was soft, ensuring a great night's sleep. The front desk staff were very welcoming; their floral vests had a festive Northeastern charm. They even proactively helped me arrange a courier service for my luggage. The breakfast buffet was plentiful with a wide variety of dishes. I'd definitely come back again! 🎉From$69
Outstanding3135 Reviews
Harbin Ice And Snow World/The Sun Island Harbin|8.36km from city center
The room was quite warm, and the twin room was very convenient as the two beds could be pushed together, which is great when traveling with kids. The buffet was also delicious, especially the desserts – I've never had such good desserts at a buffet before. Plus, they offer a free shuttle directly to the main scenic spots, which is incredibly handy. The outdoor scenery is also excellent; the panoramic king room offers a night view of the Ice and Snow World, just make sure you don't book the wrong one.From$118
Very Good2024 Reviews
Harbin Ice And Snow World/The Sun Island Harbin|9.89km from city center
Spent New Year's Eve at the JW Marriott Hotel Harbin! The hotel's location is truly excellent, just a 5-10 minute drive from the Ice and Snow World, Polar Park, and Siberian Tiger Park. All the amenities provided are of very high quality. Plus, when I checked in, the front desk attendant gave me a room on a high floor with a fantastic view – I could see the Ice and Snow World in the distance, and the Ferris wheel at night, which was so romantic! This made my entire four-day stay incredibly enjoyable. The breakfast selection was very rich, with many local specialties. The housekeeping staff were incredibly responsive and accommodating to all requests. A special thanks also to the patient and enthusiastic pandemic prevention staff member. Highly recommended!From$127
Outstanding5508 Reviews
International Exhibition Center/Provincial Government Harbin|3.51km from city center
The hotel was clean and tidy. I stayed here for three days and had a new, unique experience each day. Harbin in winter is truly romantic, offering a feeling that no other city can. I think everyone can relate to this: when you're happy with your accommodation, you naturally have a better time exploring. Their butler service was incredibly attentive, showing genuine care both before and after check-in. The bedding was soft and comfortable, and the room was kept very clean. Five stars for them!From$70
Gym
Outstanding1072 Reviews
Harbin Railway Station/Gogol Street/The first affiliated hospital of H Harbin|1.39km from city center
Excellent location. Harbin Railway Station is a convenient 10-minute walk via Jingxiao Street, and St. Iver Church and the Orphanage are right next door. Subway Line 2 is just a 5-minute walk away. Central Street and Saint Sophia Cathedral are a pleasant 20-minute-plus stroll, perfect for an after-dinner walk. Inside, the rain shower offered excellent water pressure, the pillows were incredibly comfortable, and the TV even had a sleep timer. For an even more perfect stay, I'd suggest a hairdryer that doesn't require constant button-holding and the removal of the deposit requirement.From$89
Excellent5630 Reviews
Harbin Central Avenue/Saint Sophia Cathedral/The Memorial Tower of Fig Harbin|2.14km from city center
Staying at the Mercure Harbin Central Street Sophia during my trip to Harbin was absolutely the right choice! I'm extremely satisfied!
🌟 Convenient Location:
Just two blocks ahead is Central Street, leading directly to the Madieer Ice Cream Shop and the popular Russian restaurant Tados, about a 5-minute walk.
One block behind is St. Sophia Cathedral and Daoli Vegetable Market, perfect for both dining and sightseeing, also a 5-8 minute walk.
If you want to visit the Red Brick Morning Market, it's about a 12-minute walk. In the morning, you can also pass through Central Street before the crowds, which offers a unique charm.
Harbin weather can be quite cold, so being able to easily return to the hotel to rest and recharge when tired is incredibly important, and this hotel's location is perfect for that!
🌟 Hotel Service:
The service was incredibly thoughtful and attentive! The front desk staff were all very enthusiastic, generous with complimentary souvenirs, and went out of their way to meet our needs, always considering things from a traveler's perspective. The breakfast was rich and varied, with fresh food and freshly squeezed juices – you can really eat your fill and eat well! The housekeeping aunties were also warm and polite. I ordered water for the room, expecting a wait, but it arrived in less than a minute! The hotel has robots that can deliver takeout to your room, so you can enjoy popular hot dishes without leaving. The room was perfectly equipped with a humidifier, air purifier, and earplugs – attention to detail was exceptional!
If I come to Harbin again, I will definitely choose Mercure Hotel. This experience truly exceeded the price, and I'll be recommending this hotel to my friends! 😚From$88
466 Reviews
Harbin Railway Station/Gogol Street/The first affiliated hospital of H Harbin|1.55km from city center
The hotel is just a five minute walk from the nearest metro station. The street the hotel is on is a little dilapidated (at least in late April) but has its own charm.
My room was comfortable and a good size for a solo traveler.
The buffet breakfast was big and the selections changed a but every day. I was there during the Labour holiday do there were many guests, and the staff replenished the different dishes often.
I didn't use the laundry room but I took a look... Currently only one washing machine is in service.
The finally, all the staff were friendly and helpful.From$43
Excellent3697 Reviews
Harbin Central Avenue/Saint Sophia Cathedral/The Memorial Tower of Fig Harbin|3km from city center
The hotel is tucked away on Tongjiang Street, just behind Central Avenue, about an 8-10 minute walk away. The location is excellent, with St. Sophia Church, Stalin Park, the Songhua River, and Parkson Shopping Center all nearby! It's an absolutely fantastic spot. There are also plenty of supermarkets and restaurants around. I highly recommend the 'Tie Guo Dun' (iron pot stew) next door – specifically the 'xiaoguo hubing' (small pot stew with pancakes) – which was a recommendation from the hotel's front desk staff. For a 'Southern potato' like me, the flavor might be a little strong, but it's really good! The chicken feet were so tender they melted in your mouth.
From the lobby to the rooms, there's a faint floral scent. For a family trip, the room size is perfectly adequate for a family of three. Details like toothbrushes and shampoo are all provided, and if you need anything, just call the front desk and they'll bring it right away – the service is superb! The rooms are never cold; the temperature is just right for sleeping at night! It was my first time experiencing the heating system here in Northeast China, and it was very comfortable!
For breakfast, we had the hotel's in-house breakfast, which is Russian cuisine on the first floor. We chose the fried noodles, and the noodles had a perfect texture. Everyone should give it a try! The hotel staff described it as 'New Chinese Russian cuisine'! It was my first time trying it and it was delicious!! Arriving in Harbin, I immediately felt the snow falling! Very lucky! I took so many photos of the snowy scenery!From$186
Excellent1704 Reviews
Harbin Ice And Snow World/The Sun Island Harbin|9.72km from city center
The front desk lady warmly served tea, and the room was impeccably clean, allowing for a pressure-free deep sleep. The bathroom had a wet/dry separation, the toiletries were of high quality, and thoughtful amenities like a tea set and tea bags were provided. The breakfast offered a rich and varied mix of Western and Chinese options that never repeated. The 24-hour laundry room and robot room service were incredibly practical. Every staff member greeted guests with a smile and was responsive to every request, making for a truly warm and considerate experience. Whether for a business trip or leisure travel, it's a comforting haven that I've come to cherish. It has become my top choice for accommodation, and I will definitely be back!From$65
Swimming pool
Very Good4119 Reviews
Harbin Ice And Snow World/The Sun Island Harbin|11.46km from city center
Staying at Harbin Olguya was a wonderful experience, and I'd like to extend a special thanks to Jennie for her exceptional and thoughtful service! From the moment I checked in, she meticulously explained the hotel's Ewenki cultural features and room benefits, and then kindly arranged a comfortable room for me. She even proactively reminded me of the best times for reindeer interaction and enjoying the panoramic views. Her patience and professionalism were evident throughout. Any request I had was promptly addressed; deliveries and inquiries were handled with such care and thoughtfulness, making my trip truly heartwarming. The hotel's forest-inspired ambiance perfectly complements its attentive service, and Jennie's professional touch made the experience even better. Next time I'm in Harbin, I'll definitely choose Olguya again, and I look forward to experiencing that same warm service!From$208
Outstanding959 Reviews
Harbin Ice And Snow World/The Sun Island Harbin|10.18km from city center
The room is clean. Fruits are delivered in the evening. It is very convenient to go shopping at MixC. It is close to the subway station. There is a large parking lot. The breakfast is rich in variety. The facilities are complete. The service is also great. 025 I will choose this place again when I come to Harbin for business.From$53
Outstanding2869 Reviews
Harbin Railway West Station/ Wanda Plaza Harbin|7.27km from city center
the hotel was great value for the price and has a few excellent points. Location is easy to get to the airport and ok for the winter attractions. Rooms are nice, though are showing their age. The facilities (gym/pool) we decided to avoid; they don't offer the resort or relaxation of other five star hotels. Food was consistently good and the club lounge is easily one of the best decors I've found. The service was consistently good from checkin especially. I would stay here again if Im in Harbin, but I would stress that I have allergies to try and get a real smoke-free room (our bathroom....)From$92
Outstanding1256 Reviews
Harbin Ice And Snow World/The Sun Island Harbin|15.44km from city center
This hotel is phenomenal! We had two rooms & our big party just loved every bit of our stay. From the absolutely amazing spa & hot springs to the restaurants & the convenient main entrance parking as well as the great location, everything was to our liking. We particularly enjoyed the rooms with the bathtubs (which is recommended as a private spa with your family & kids). IMO, the amazing spa & hot springs here are the best in Harbin & the hotel is also located right next to an outlet mall with lots of shopping & eats. It's especially great for people who drive because it's easy to get to all the major attractions from here via car. We loved this hotel & we will stay again next time we visit Harbin.From$83
648 Reviews
Qunli New Area/Harbin Music Park Harbin|7.52km from city center
The environment of this hotel is really great! The location is super good, there is a subway station right outside, and there are restaurants, supermarkets and so on nearby. The lady at the front desk was also very enthusiastic and helped us plan the route, making us feel particularly warm and comfortable😊. The room is spacious and bright, and the scenery on the balcony is even more beautiful! I strongly recommend booking~From$38
Breakfast
Good895 Reviews
Harbin Railway Station/Gogol Street/The first affiliated hospital of H Harbin|0.76km from city center
Facilities: Well-equipped.
Cleanliness: The room had no peculiar smell, clean and tidy.
Environment: There's a morning market nearby.
Service: The front desk service was excellent; staff even delivered takeout to the room.
Overall highly recommended, a top choice for business trips or travel.From$36
Excellent15942 Reviews
Harbin Central Avenue/Saint Sophia Cathedral/The Memorial Tower of Fig Harbin|3.1km from city center
The warmth of Harbin truly embraced us right from our first stop! Check-in was an absolute delight; they showered us with so many thoughtful gifts, I almost felt my own hand warmers were overkill because what they provided was so comprehensive and considerate. They even put our IDs in adorable cardholders. After a day out, we returned to find welcome fruits and a special bowl of *youtiao mian* (fried dough twist noodles). My partner, a Northeasterner who often lives away from home, was incredibly excited, saying it had been ages since he'd had it – he was truly satisfied. The location is also fantastic, within walking distance of Central Street and Hongzhuan Street Morning Market. On our first day, the snowman outside the hotel lost an eye, but by the next day, it had been fixed! When we checked out, they even gave us some local dried blueberries. Honestly, this has been the most thoughtful and attentive hotel experience I've had in all my travels across the country.From$192
Very Good722 Reviews
Harbin Central Avenue/Saint Sophia Cathedral/The Memorial Tower of Fig Harbin|2.08km from city center
The room layout is compact, but it was very clean with no strange odors. The bathroom has a separate wet and dry area, which I really liked. I'd definitely choose this place again next time. Even though the room faced the street, it wasn't noisy at all thanks to the excellent soundproofing of the windows. Highly recommended!From$49
Very Good1570 Reviews
Harbin Ice And Snow World/The Sun Island Harbin|9.06km from city center
This was my first visit to this hotel. The parking lot is very spacious. The moment I stepped inside, the atmosphere was lovely. The lobby boasts a comfortable reading area with plush sofas, and they offered complimentary chrysanthemum and red date tea. The service quality was excellent. I also appreciated the pleasant aroma diffusing throughout the hotel. After checking in, my room was very nice, and they even have a gym and a laundry room available. My overall experience here was fantastic, far exceeding my expectations. What's more, it offers the best value for money in the area. I am extremely satisfied.From$35
1196 Reviews
Jiangbei University Town/Harbinbei Railway Station Harbin|15.83km from city center
Five-star review! The hygiene was excellent, and the environment was great. It's super convenient for getting around, very close to the subway. Our check-in experience was fantastic. My friend and I came for a trip and definitely didn't pick the wrong hotel. The bed was really soft, and the room was spacious and bright. There's even an amusement park within the resort, so if you get tired of staying in the hotel, you can go wander around – it's all very interesting. The entire park has a European castle architectural style, which is beautiful and perfect for photos. Plus, all the staff were wonderful, with very friendly service. There's also a shuttle bus within the park, making it easy to get around. The breakfast was incredibly rich and awesome! We even happened to catch a newly opened venue within the park and went to check it out – it was so dreamy and huge, you could even do cosplay! It was amazing. No matter where you went, the staff were always super nice. 👍From$76
Harbin Flight Deals
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JFK02:3549h 55m3 stopsHRB16:30New York - Harbin|Wed, Mar 18|Philippine AirlinesUS$403US$56428% off28% offUS$564US$403
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FAQs about Harbin food
What makes Harbin cuisine unique?
Harbin cuisine is renowned for its blend of Chinese and Russian influences. This fusion creates distinctive dishes featuring hearty stews, smoked meats, and bold flavors that perfectly suit the region’s cold climate.What are some must-try dishes in Harbin?
Some of the top recommendations include: Harbin Sausage (哈尔滨红肠): A smoked, flavor-packed sausage. Guo Bao Rou (锅包肉): Crispy, sweet and sour pork that delights the palate. Iron Pot Stew (铁锅炖): A comforting, hearty stew perfect for winter. Northeast Spicy Hot Pot (东北麻辣烫): A fiery broth loaded with meats and vegetables. Russian Bread (俄式面包): Soft, hearty bread with a unique cultural twist. Chicken Stew with Mushrooms (小鸡炖蘑菇): A savory, rustic favorite. Pork Stew with Vermicelli (猪肉炖粉条): Tender pork and noodles in a rich broth. Di San Xian (地三鲜): A stir-fry of potatoes, eggplant, and green peppers. Snow-Covered Red Bean Paste (雪衣豆沙): A sweet treat with a delicate texture. Fried Ice Cream (油炸冰棍): A playful dessert with a crunchy exterior and cool interior.Where can I experience authentic Harbin food?
Authentic Harbin food is best enjoyed at local restaurants and bustling street food stalls. Look for well-known spots such as the Harbin Old Sausage Factory, Lao Wang Ji for Guo Bao Rou, and the vibrant street food scene along Zhongyang Street.How spicy is Harbin cuisine?
Harbin’s food varies in spiciness. While dishes like Northeast Spicy Hot Pot offer a fiery kick, many other dishes—such as Chicken Stew with Mushrooms and Russian Bread—are more mild. Most eateries can adjust the spice level to suit your taste.When is the best time to visit Harbin for its food?
Harbin is famous for its winter charm, especially during the Ice and Snow Festival when hearty, warming dishes are a must. However, the city’s culinary delights can be enjoyed all year round, with each season offering its own unique specialties.