Guilin, a city renowned for its breathtaking karst landscapes and serene Li River, is also a paradise for food lovers. Among its culinary treasures, Guilin mifen (Guilin rice noodles) stands out as a must-try dish. Thin, silky, and bursting with flavor, these noodles are a staple of local cuisine. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, here’s your ultimate guide to the best spots in Guilin to savor this iconic dish.
Before diving into the best places to try Guilin mifen, it’s worth understanding its cultural significance. Legend has it that the dish dates back over 2,300 years to the Qin Dynasty, when soldiers stationed in Guilin needed a portable, nutritious meal. The noodles were dried for easy transport and later rehydrated with hot broth. Today, the dish has evolved into a breakfast favorite, often served with pickled vegetables, peanuts, chili, and a choice of meats like luosifen (snail noodles) or niuroufen (beef noodles).
A household name in Guilin, Chongshan Rice Noodles is a chain with a reputation for consistency and quality. Their signature guilin yangshuo mifen features a rich, slow-cooked broth and tender slices of braised pork. The DIY condiment bar lets you customize your bowl with pickled bamboo shoots, fried soybeans, and chili oil. Pro tip: Arrive early—locals flock here for breakfast!
Tucked away in a bustling alley, Shiwei is a no-frills spot loved by purists. Their broth is lighter but deeply aromatic, made from pork bones and secret spices. The danzi mifen (dry-tossed noodles) is a standout, tossed with minced pork, garlic, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Pair it with a side of you tiao (fried dough sticks) for the ultimate combo.
For a modern twist, Minggui offers a sleek dining experience without compromising tradition. Their hongyou mifen (red oil noodles) packs a spicy punch, while the yuanzi mifen (meatball noodles) is a hearty option. Don’t miss their house-made chili sauce—it’s so good, many visitors buy jars to take home.
A favorite among locals, Lao Dongjiang is famous for its niurou mifen (beef noodles). The broth is simmered for hours with star anise and cinnamon, and the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender. The tiny shop fills up fast, so be prepared to share a table or take your bowl to go.
Vegetarians, rejoice! Aiyuan specializes in suzi mifen (vegetarian noodles), with a mushroom-based broth that’s surprisingly umami-rich. Their toppings include wood ear mushrooms, tofu skin, and crunchy peanuts. Even meat-eaters rave about the depth of flavor here.
For a lively experience, head to Zhengyang Pedestrian Street’s night market. Dozens of vendors serve Guilin mifen with a side of people-watching. Try the luosifen (snail noodles)—a pungent but addictive variation—or the ganban mifen (dry noodles) tossed with black bean paste.
Breakfast is Key
Locals swear by mifen as a morning ritual. The broth is freshest early in the day, and many shops sell out by noon.
Customize Your Bowl
Start with plain noodles, then add toppings like pickled vegetables, fried pork, or a poached egg. Chili oil is a must for heat lovers.
Slurp Loudly
It’s not rude—it’s a sign you’re enjoying the meal! The thinner the noodles, the louder the slurp.
Try the Dry Version First
Ganban mifen lets you appreciate the noodles’ texture before diving into the broth-based versions.
Guilin mifen has transcended its humble origins. It’s been featured in food documentaries, praised by celebrity chefs, and even inspired instant noodle versions (though nothing beats the real thing). In 2020, a viral TikTok trend showcased travelers attempting to eat the noodles without breaking them—a nod to their delicate texture.
For foodies planning a trip to Guilin, a mifen crawl is as essential as a Li River cruise. Each bowl tells a story of tradition, innovation, and the city’s unpretentious charm. So grab your chopsticks and dig in—the best way to taste Guilin is one slippery, savory bite at a time.
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Author: Guilin Travel
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