
Are you ready to dive into the vibrant and flavorful world of Nanjing’s food scene? Known for its rich culinary traditions and unique local flavors, Nanjing is a paradise for food lovers. Whether you’re a fan of spicy, savory, or sweet dishes, Nanjing has something to tantalize your taste buds. In this guide, we’ll take you through the top 10 must-try foods in Nanjing, with restaurant recommendations at the best local spots where you can enjoy them. We’ll also offer some practical travel tips and show you how easy it is to book your trip through Trip.com.
Top 10 Most Popular Foods in Nanjing
When you think of Nanjing, what comes to mind? The ancient city, historical landmarks, and of course, the food! From street snacks to fine dining, here’s a list of the 10 most popular dishes you absolutely can’t miss when in Nanjing, along with the best local spots to enjoy them.
1. Nanjing Salted Duck (盐水鸭)

A famous local dish with a delicate balance of salt and spice, Nanjing Salted Duck is tender, flavorful, and has been a part of local cuisine for centuries. It's often served with a little dipping sauce for that extra kick.
Where to eat:
- Da Pai Dang (大牌档): A well-known local chain offering traditional Nanjing flavors, including its iconic Salted Duck, served in the heart of the city.
- Jiangnan Salted Duck (江南盐水鸭): Located near the Confucius Temple, this place is a must-visit for the authentic taste of Nanjing’s famous duck.
2. Duck Blood Soup (鸭血粉丝汤)

Don’t let the name fool you! This hearty soup is a beloved street food in Nanjing. The rich, savory broth paired with silky duck blood, vermicelli noodles, and tofu makes for a warming, comforting meal.
Where to eat:
- Hao Li Fang (好利坊): Famous for its rich and comforting Duck Blood Soup, this restaurant has been serving generations of Nanjing locals.
- Laowei Duck Blood Soup (老魏鸭血粉丝汤): A favorite among locals and tourists alike, it offers an excellent version of this beloved dish with tender duck blood and savory broth.
3. Nanjing Braised Pork (金陵红烧肉)

Perfectly tender and braised to perfection, this dish is a must-try for anyone who loves a hearty meat dish. It's braised in a rich soy sauce base that imparts deep flavors.
Where to eat:
- Dazhong Lou (大中楼): A historic restaurant that specializes in classic Nanjing cuisine, including the rich and tender Braised Pork.
- Hua Sheng Lou (花生楼): Known for its mouth-watering braised meats, the pork here is served in a rich sauce that will have you coming back for more.
4. Chou Doufu (臭豆腐)

Known as “stinky tofu,” this snack has a strong aroma that might be intimidating at first, but once you take a bite, you'll understand why it's a favorite! Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, it's a perfect treat when walking around Nanjing’s night markets.
Where to eat:
- Xinjiekou Night Market (新街口夜市): For an authentic street-food experience, head to this bustling night market, where you can find vendors selling crispy Chou Doufu.
- Fu Jia Chou Doufu (福家臭豆腐): This long-established stand is famous for its crispy, golden, and aromatic stinky tofu that draws crowds every evening.
5. Tang Bao (汤包)

Nanjing's version of soup dumplings, these delicate dumplings are filled with a rich, flavorful broth. A perfect balance of chewy skin and savory soup, they’re a satisfying bite.
Where to eat:
- Zhiwei Guan (知味观): A Nanjing institution, Zhiwei Guan serves delicious Tang Bao, with a signature blend of soup and juicy pork filling.
- Zhu Yansheng Tang Bao (朱延生汤包): For an authentic taste of this local favorite, head to this long-standing restaurant, famous for its delicate soup dumplings.
6. Wonton Soup (云吞汤)

A comforting bowl of wontons in a light, flavorful broth, often enhanced with a sprinkle of pepper and soy sauce. Simple yet delicious, this dish is a go-to for any meal of the day.
Where to eat:
- Jinling Wonton (金陵云吞): A small but renowned spot known for its warm and comforting wonton soup, packed with delicate fillings and a flavorful broth.
- Hunan Wonton (湖南云吞): This local restaurant serves up a delicious and spicy twist on the classic wonton soup that you must try.
7. Beef Potstickers (牛肉锅贴)

Beef Potstickers are a delicious and crispy local delicacy, often served with a hot and savory dipping sauce. These crispy dumplings are filled with minced beef, garlic, and spices, offering a satisfying crunch on the outside and a juicy, flavorful bite on the inside. They are perfect for a quick snack or a meal on the go.
Where to eat:
- Nanjing Da Bao (南京大宝): Known for its crispy and juicy beef potstickers, this local eatery has been a favorite among Nanjing residents for years.
- Lao Mo Beef Potstickers (老莫牛肉锅贴): A long-standing restaurant offering perfectly fried potstickers filled with tender beef and aromatic seasoning.
8. Rice Cake with Red Bean Paste (红豆饼)

A sweet treat, often enjoyed as a dessert, that consists of soft rice cakes filled with sweet red bean paste.
Where to eat:
- Gu Lou Food Street (鼓楼小吃街): Head to this vibrant food street where you’ll find street vendors offering freshly made red bean rice cakes.
- Fang Shun Red Bean Cake (方顺红豆饼): A favorite among locals, this shop serves warm, soft rice cakes filled with sweet red bean paste.
9. Pi Du Mian (皮肚面)

Pi Du Mian, or Beef Tripe Noodles, is a quintessential Nanjing comfort food. This dish features a light, flavorful broth, chewy wheat noodles, and thinly sliced beef tripe, making it a beloved staple for locals. The beef tripe adds a soft, tender texture, perfectly complementing the rich, aromatic broth. It's a great dish to enjoy any time of the day, especially when you're craving something warm and hearty.
Where to eat:
- Fang Yuan Pi Du Mian (方圆皮肚面): This humble but popular eatery specializes in the city’s famous Pi Du Mian, served in a savory broth with tender beef tripe and chewy noodles.
- Xiang Man Lou (香满楼): Located in the heart of the city, this spot serves one of the best versions of Pi Du Mian, offering a rich and flavorful broth with a perfectly balanced mix of ingredients.
10. Nanjing Sweet Osmanthus Cake (桂花糕)

A beautifully fragrant dessert, this soft, jelly-like cake is infused with osmanthus flowers and is a popular snack in the fall.
Where to eat:
- Nanxi Yujie (南溪玉街): This charming bakery specializes in sweet treats, including their signature Osmanthus Cake, which is aromatic and soft.
- Jiangnan Traditional Sweets (江南传统甜品): A popular dessert shop in Nanjing, where you can try the famous Sweet Osmanthus Cake, perfect for an afternoon snack.
The Best Food Markets in Nanjing

Nanjing’s food markets are a must-visit for any food lover. They are vibrant hubs where you can sample street food, local snacks, and discover the true flavors of the city. Here are three of the best:
1. Fuzimiao Night Market (夫子庙夜市)
One of the most famous markets in Nanjing, located near the historical Confucius Temple. It’s a perfect blend of culture and food, with stalls offering local delicacies like duck blood soup, stinky tofu, and sweet osmanthus cake. The atmosphere here is lively, especially in the evenings when the area is beautifully lit up, making it a perfect place for both sightseeing and eating.
2. Xinjiekou Food Street (新街口小吃街)
Located in the heart of Nanjing’s commercial district, Xinjiekou Food Street offers an exciting variety of local street foods and snacks. From spicy noodles to crispy fried rice cakes, this food street is popular with both locals and tourists. It’s a great spot to grab a quick bite and experience Nanjing’s urban food culture in a bustling setting.
Nanjing Travel Guide: Tips for Visiting

Transportation in Nanjing
Getting around Nanjing is relatively easy with a variety of transportation options. The city’s public transit system includes buses and a well-connected metro network, making it convenient to reach all the major food spots. You can also take a taxi or Didi (China's version of Uber) to travel more comfortably.
For those traveling from abroad, Nanjing Lukou International Airport is the main international gateway to the city, with flights connecting to major global hubs.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Nanjing experiences all four seasons, making it an attractive destination year-round.
- Spring (March-May): Mild temperatures, perfect for sightseeing.
- Summer (June-August): Hot and humid, so make sure to stay hydrated and wear light clothing.
- Autumn (September-November): This is perhaps the best time to visit, with comfortable temperatures and the beautiful changing of leaves.
- Winter (December-February): Cold, but still manageable for those who love winter activities.
Make sure to pack accordingly and enjoy the fresh air while sampling the city’s tasty treats!
Book Your Trip with Trip.com
Nanjing is waiting for you! Booking your trip is easy with Trip.com, where you can find great deals on flights, hotels, and more. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, Trip.com offers you everything you need to plan your perfect journey.
Recommended Flights to Nanjing
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Nanjing Hotel Recommendations
Looking for a place to stay in Nanjing? Trip.com offers a wide selection of hotels in Nanjing, ranging from budget options to luxurious accommodations. Whether you want to stay near the city center to explore the food scene or in a quieter area for some relaxation, you’ll find the perfect hotel to suit your preferences.
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FAQs about Nanjing Food
What is the most famous dish in Nanjing?
The most famous dish in Nanjing is Salted Duck (盐水鸭). This tender duck is traditionally marinated in a special salty brine and then cooked to perfection. It’s a dish with a long history and is a must-try for anyone visiting the city.What should I try for breakfast in Nanjing?
For a traditional Nanjing breakfast, you should try Xiao Long Bao (小笼包), steamed dumplings filled with rich broth and tender pork. Another breakfast favorite is Doufu Nao (豆腐脑), a savory tofu dish often served with chili sauce, soy sauce, and pickled vegetables.Is Nanjing food spicy?
Nanjing food is generally not as spicy as other regions like Sichuan, but some dishes do have a mild spice. Duck blood soup (鸭血粉丝汤) and Sichuan hotpot (川味火锅) can have some heat, but the spice levels are usually manageable for most visitors.Where can I find street food in Nanjing?
Nanjing’s Fuzimiao Night Market (夫子庙夜市) and Xinjiekou Food Street (新街口小吃街) are two of the best places to find street food. Here, you can try local favorites like Chou Doufu (臭豆腐), Tang Bao (汤包), and Nanjing-style skewers. These markets are perfect for sampling a wide range of delicious, authentic Nanjing snacks.Are there vegetarian options in Nanjing?
Yes, there are vegetarian options in Nanjing, although meat features prominently in local cuisine. Some dishes that are naturally vegetarian include Nanjing-style noodles (酱油炒面), Jiangnan-style dumplings (江南水饺), and various types of stir-fried vegetables. You can also find vegetarian restaurants in the city, especially in areas like Xinjiekou and the Confucius Temple area.What’s the best time to visit Nanjing for food?
Nanjing’s food scene can be enjoyed year-round, but autumn (September-November) is particularly special. Not only is the weather comfortable, but it's also harvest season for some of the city's signature ingredients, such as osmanthus flowers—a key ingredient in desserts like Sweet Osmanthus Cake (桂花糕).
