The Most Unique Street Foods in Guilin

Guilin, a city renowned for its breathtaking karst landscapes and serene Li River, is also a hidden gem for food lovers. While tourists flock here for the picturesque views, the local street food scene is equally captivating. From savory rice noodles to sweet glutinous treats, Guilin’s street food offers a delicious glimpse into the region’s culture. Here’s a deep dive into the most unique street foods you must try when visiting this culinary paradise.

Guilin Rice Noodles (Guilin Mifen)

No trip to Guilin is complete without savoring a bowl of Guilin Mifen (桂林米粉). This iconic dish is the city’s culinary crown jewel, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

What Makes It Special?

Unlike other rice noodles in China, Guilin Mifen has a distinct chewy texture and is served with a flavorful broth or dry-tossed (干捞). The noodles are made from locally sourced rice, giving them a fresh, slightly sweet taste.

Must-Try Variations

  • Luosifen (螺蛳粉): A spicy and sour version with river snails, pickled bamboo shoots, and chili oil.
  • Ganban Fen (干拌粉): Dry-tossed noodles with peanuts, pickled vegetables, and a rich soy-based sauce.

Where to Find It: Head to Chongshan Road or Zhengyang Pedestrian Street for the most authentic stalls.

Lipu Taro Loaf (Lipu Yumo)

A lesser-known but equally delightful snack is Lipu Yumo (荔浦芋头糕), a steamed taro cake originating from Lipu County near Guilin.

Why It Stands Out

Made from high-quality taro, this dish has a fluffy yet slightly sticky texture. It’s often paired with cured meats or drizzled with a sweet soy glaze.

Best Way to Enjoy It

  • Try it fresh from a street vendor, where it’s steamed on the spot.
  • Some stalls offer a crispy pan-fried version for extra texture.

Oil Tea (Youcha)

A traditional breakfast staple among the ethnic Yao and Dong communities, Youcha (油茶) is a savory, slightly bitter tea soup that’s both warming and energizing.

The Unique Preparation

Green tea leaves are stir-fried with oil, then boiled with water and seasoned with salt, fried rice, peanuts, and scallions.

Where to Sip It

Visit Longsheng Rice Terraces or local morning markets in Guilin for an authentic experience.

Stuffed Li River Snails (Lijiang Tianluo)

For the adventurous eater, Lijiang Tianluo (漓江田螺) is a must-try delicacy. These freshwater snails are stuffed with minced pork and spices, then simmered in a rich broth.

How to Eat Them

  • Use a toothpick to scoop out the tender meat.
  • Pair with a cold local beer for the perfect balance.

Sweet Osmanthus Cake (Guihua Gao)

Guilin is famous for its fragrant osmanthus flowers, and Guihua Gao (桂花糕) is a delicate dessert that captures their aroma.

What to Expect

This jelly-like cake is lightly sweetened and often served with honey or osmanthus syrup.

Best Places to Try It

  • Seven Star Park vendors
  • Night markets along Binjiang Road

Fermented Tofu (Choudoufu)

Love it or hate it, Choudoufu (臭豆腐) is a polarizing yet quintessential street food. Guilin’s version is less pungent than its Hunan counterpart but equally addictive.

How It’s Served

  • Deep-fried and topped with chili sauce and pickled radish.
  • Some vendors offer a fermented version with a stronger kick.

Conclusion-Free Exploration

Guilin’s street food is as diverse as its landscapes, offering everything from comforting noodles to bold, adventurous bites. Whether you’re strolling through night markets or grabbing a quick bite near the Li River, each dish tells a story of tradition and local flavor. So, pack your appetite and dive into Guilin’s unforgettable culinary scene!

Copyright Statement:

Author: Guilin Travel

Link: https://guilintravel.github.io/travel-blog/the-most-unique-street-foods-in-guilin-3108.htm

Source: Guilin Travel

The copyright of this article belongs to the author. Reproduction is not allowed without permission.