What Are the Culinary Delights of Guilin? Recommended Restaurants to Try

Guilin, located in southern China, is renowned for its breathtaking karst landscapes, but the city’s culinary scene is equally captivating. The food in Guilin is a reflection of its rich cultural history and geographical influences. Known for its unique flavors, Guilin offers a variety of dishes and snacks that you won’t find anywhere else. If you’re planning to visit, here’s an in-depth look at the must-try local specialties and where to find the best places to enjoy them.

1. Guilin Rice Noodles (Guilin Mifen)

Why It’s Special

Guilin rice noodles, or Guilin Mifen, are a staple of the local diet and a dish that truly defines the city’s culinary identity. The dish features smooth, chewy rice noodles served with a flavorful broth, topped with ingredients like pickled vegetables, peanuts, green onions, and thinly sliced meat. What sets it apart is the distinct sauce made with fermented soybeans and a variety of spices.

Best Places to Try Guilin Mifen

• Chongshan Rice Noodles: A well-known spot among locals, offering authentic Guilin rice noodles with a hearty broth.
• Wanjiafen: Famous for its fresh ingredients and customizable toppings.
• Lianhuan Rice Noodles: Known for its traditional preparation methods and rich, savory flavors.

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2. Beer Fish (Pijiu Yu)

Why It’s Special

Beer fish is one of the most iconic dishes from Yangshuo, a county near Guilin. It’s made by stir-frying fresh river fish (often carp) with beer, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and chili. The result is a tender, flavorful dish that perfectly balances sweet, sour, and spicy notes.

Best Places to Try Beer Fish

• Liu Sanjie Beer Fish Restaurant: A popular choice for tourists and locals alike, located in Yangshuo.
• Shuangjiang Beer Fish: Known for its use of locally brewed beer and high-quality fish.
• Giggling Tree: A restaurant in Yangshuo with a relaxed atmosphere and an excellent version of beer fish.

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3. Stuffed Snails (Yangshuo Tianluo)

Why It’s Special

Stuffed snails are a unique delicacy in Guilin, especially in the Yangshuo area. The snails are stuffed with a mixture of pork, spices, and herbs before being cooked. The flavors are bold and aromatic, making it a favorite for adventurous eaters.

Best Places to Try Stuffed Snails

• Riverside Restaurant: Located along the Li River, this spot offers authentic stuffed snails with stunning views.
• Yangshuo Night Market: A great place to sample this dish while enjoying the bustling atmosphere of the market.

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4. Lipu Taro Pork (Lipu Yutou Rou)

Why It’s Special

This dish originates from Lipu, a county near Guilin. It’s made by layering slices of taro and pork belly, then steaming them with a fermented bean paste. The result is a dish with tender textures and a rich, umami flavor.

Best Places to Try Lipu Taro Pork

• Meiyou Xian Restaurant: Renowned for its authentic preparation of Lipu taro pork.
• Shan Shui Jia Restaurant: A local favorite for traditional Guilin dishes, including this specialty.

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5. Guilin Osmanthus Cake (Guihua Gao)

Why It’s Special

Named after the fragrant osmanthus flowers found throughout Guilin, osmanthus cake is a sweet treat made with glutinous rice flour, sugar, and osmanthus syrup. It’s soft, chewy, and lightly fragrant, making it a popular dessert or snack.

Best Places to Try Osmanthus Cake

• Guihua Fang Bakery: Specializes in traditional osmanthus desserts.
• Guilin Night Market: Many vendors sell fresh osmanthus cakes alongside other local snacks.

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6. Oil Tea (You Cha)

Why It’s Special

Oil tea is a traditional beverage of the Dong ethnic minority, commonly found in rural areas around Guilin. Made by frying tea leaves with ginger, garlic, and oil before boiling them, the drink is both aromatic and energizing. It’s often served with puffed rice or peanuts.

Best Places to Try Oil Tea

• Dong Ethnic Minority Villages: For the most authentic experience, visit a village to enjoy oil tea made by locals.
• Ethnic Food Courts: Several restaurants in Guilin offer this unique drink.

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7. Sticky Rice Dumplings (Zongzi)

Why It’s Special

Guilin-style sticky rice dumplings are often filled with savory ingredients like pork, mushrooms, and chestnuts. Wrapped in bamboo leaves, these dumplings are steamed to perfection, offering a fragrant and satisfying meal.

Best Places to Try Zongzi

• Guilin Zongzi Restaurant: Famous for its wide variety of fillings.
• Street Vendors: You can find fresh zongzi in local markets and street food stalls.

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8. Hot Pot in Guilin

Why It’s Special

Hot pot is a popular dining option throughout China, and Guilin offers its own regional twist. The broth often includes local herbs and spices, and diners can choose from a wide array of meats, seafood, and vegetables to cook in it.

Best Places to Try Hot Pot

• Guilin Old Town Hot Pot: Offers a cozy atmosphere and a selection of local ingredients.
• Spicy Heaven Hot Pot: Known for its flavorful broths and fresh selections.

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9. Sweet Potato Noodles (Hongshu Fen)

Why It’s Special

Made from sweet potato starch, these translucent noodles are stir-fried or served in a spicy broth. They’re a popular street food and are often topped with peanuts, pickles, and a dash of vinegar.

Best Places to Try Sweet Potato Noodles

• Local Street Food Stalls: Found throughout Guilin, especially in night markets.
• Zhengyang Pedestrian Street: A hub for local snacks, including sweet potato noodles.

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10. Where to Find Guilin’s Best Night Markets

For food lovers, Guilin’s night markets are a treasure trove of local delicacies. Here are some of the best:

Zhengyang Pedestrian Street

This bustling street is lined with food vendors offering everything from Guilin Mifen to osmanthus cakes. It’s a lively spot to sample multiple dishes in one place.

Xicheng Pedestrian Street

Another popular area for street food, this market features a mix of traditional snacks and modern treats.

Yangshuo West Street

Known for its international vibe, West Street offers a mix of local Guilin dishes and Western cuisine, making it a favorite for travelers.

Guilin’s culinary scene is a feast for the senses, combining bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and unique preparation methods. Whether you’re enjoying a bowl of Guilin rice noodles at a local eatery or indulging in stuffed snails at a night market, there’s no shortage of delicious experiences to savor. Be sure to explore both the city and its surrounding areas to fully appreciate the diversity of Guilin’s food culture.