What Are the Most Famous Snack Streets in Guilin?

Guilin, a picturesque city known for its stunning limestone karsts and tranquil rivers, is not only a feast for the eyes but also a haven for food lovers. Its rich cultural heritage and the blending of various regional cuisines have led to the creation of vibrant food streets, where locals and tourists alike can indulge in unique and flavorful snacks. These snack streets are a must-visit for anyone wanting to explore the local food scene in depth. Here’s a guide to some of the best-known snack streets in Guilin, where you can experience the authentic flavors of this beautiful city.

1. Zhengyang Pedestrian Street

Overview

Zhengyang Pedestrian Street, located in the heart of Guilin’s city center, is one of the most famous spots for street food. Known for its bustling atmosphere, it offers a wide array of snacks and local delicacies, all within walking distance of key attractions such as Elephant Trunk Hill and the Reed Flute Cave. This street is perfect for those who want to dive right into the local culture, sampling snacks as they explore.

Signature Snacks

• Guilin Rice Noodles (Guilin Mifen): A dish that should be at the top of anyone’s list, the rice noodles in Guilin are served in a rich, savory broth and topped with various meats like pork or beef, fresh herbs, and chili.
• Chili Fried Tofu: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, this dish offers a spicy kick that is a local favorite.
• Deep-Fried Sweet Potatoes: A comforting snack, these crispy, golden fried sweet potatoes are both sweet and savory, often served hot and sprinkled with sesame seeds.
• Tangyuan: These glutinous rice balls filled with black sesame or red bean paste are often served as a dessert after a meal.

Why Visit?

The street is full of vibrant energy, especially in the evenings when it comes alive with food vendors. It’s the perfect place to take in the sights and sounds of the city while munching on authentic snacks.

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2. West Street (Xi Jie) in Yangshuo

Overview

Located in the town of Yangshuo, just outside of Guilin, West Street is known as one of the oldest and most famous streets in the region. This street combines both traditional Chinese and Western influences, and its food offerings reflect this fusion. You can find various stalls selling local snacks, international street food, and unique items you won’t find elsewhere.

Signature Snacks

• Beer Fish (Qingzhen Pijiu Yu): This famous dish consists of fish cooked with a combination of beer and a special blend of spices. The result is a flavorful and tender fish dish that locals love to serve alongside rice.
• Yangshuo Chopped Noodles: Unlike typical noodles, this dish features chopped noodles that are served with a variety of toppings, such as shredded pork, peanuts, and spicy sauce.
• Grilled Fish: Grilled over an open flame, this fish is flavored with a mix of spices and served with fresh vegetables. The smoky flavor is a treat for the taste buds.
• Fried Rice with Shrimp: A street food favorite, fried rice is often served with locally sourced shrimp and vegetables, making it both flavorful and filling.

Why Visit?

West Street offers a beautiful combination of cultural heritage, charming architecture, and food. It’s an excellent spot to try both traditional and modern takes on Chinese street food, especially for visitors who are also interested in exploring the scenic beauty of Yangshuo.

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3. Guihua Road Snack Street

Overview

Guihua Road, located near the central business district of Guilin, is another popular destination for food lovers. This street has gained popularity over the years for its traditional snacks and dishes, offering both indoor restaurants and street vendors. Guihua Road provides an authentic food experience that takes you deeper into the flavors of the region.

Signature Snacks

• Steamed Dumplings (Baozi): Filled with various ingredients like pork, vegetables, or even red bean paste for dessert, these dumplings are a satisfying snack that is perfect for a quick bite.
• Lijiang River Snails: A local specialty, these snails are cooked in a spicy broth with garlic and herbs, making for a flavorful and aromatic dish.
• Chinese Pancakes: Thin, crispy pancakes filled with egg, vegetables, and meat, this snack is a perfect on-the-go meal.
• Roasted Chestnuts: During colder months, roasted chestnuts are a popular snack, sold by street vendors along the road. These nuts are warm, sweet, and a great way to experience the cozy side of Guilin’s street food culture.

Why Visit?

Guihua Road offers an eclectic mix of street food and sit-down restaurants, catering to both tourists and locals. It’s the ideal place to enjoy an evening of casual dining and cultural exploration.

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4. Dongguan Night Market

Overview

Dongguan Night Market is one of the best places to visit in Guilin if you’re looking to enjoy an extensive selection of local and regional snacks in a lively, night-time atmosphere. This market is filled with vendors offering a wide variety of street food, from quick snacks to more substantial meals. Located near the Dongguan Bridge, the market is easy to find and perfect for an evening out.

Signature Snacks

• Grilled Skewers: One of the most popular types of food at the night market, grilled skewers come in many varieties, including chicken, beef, and lamb. The skewers are seasoned with spices and grilled to perfection.
• Fried Ice Cream: A dessert unlike anything you’ve experienced, fried ice cream is made by quickly frying a frozen ice cream ball and serving it with a crispy coating.
• Sweet Taro Cakes: These soft, chewy cakes made from taro root are a popular local dessert. They have a natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with tea.
• Beef Brisket Noodles: Served in a light broth with tender beef, these noodles are both savory and satisfying.

Why Visit?

The vibrant nighttime ambiance of Dongguan Night Market makes it a great place to explore local food while enjoying the lively atmosphere. It’s a perfect destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the night culture of Guilin.

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5. Longsheng Rice Terrace Snack Street

Overview

Located in the picturesque Longsheng Rice Terraces, this snack street offers visitors the chance to sample authentic snacks while exploring one of China’s most breathtaking natural landscapes. The Longsheng Rice Terrace Snack Street is smaller compared to other food streets in the city, but it provides an authentic experience and a taste of local delicacies.

Signature Snacks

• Rice Cake (Niangao): This sticky rice cake is often served with savory fillings such as pork or vegetables, providing a comforting and satisfying meal.
• Sour Soup Fish: A regional specialty, this dish consists of fish cooked in a sour, tangy broth made from pickled vegetables, perfect for those who enjoy a bold flavor.
• Bamboo Rice: Rice cooked in bamboo tubes, infusing it with a smoky, earthy flavor. It’s a unique dish that’s worth trying while in the area.

Why Visit?

The Longsheng Rice Terrace area offers not only beautiful views but also the opportunity to enjoy local snacks that are unique to the region. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy food while taking in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

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6. Xiangshan Street

Overview

Xiangshan Street, located close to the city center, is another popular destination for food lovers in Guilin. The street is filled with small food stalls and shops offering both traditional snacks and more modern twists on local cuisine.

Signature Snacks

• Mutton Stew: A hearty stew made with tender mutton and flavorful spices, perfect for a filling meal.
• Guilin Style Dumplings: These dumplings are often stuffed with minced pork, vegetables, or fish, and served with a dipping sauce made from soy and chili.
• Pickled Vegetables: A great side dish to complement the rich flavors of the local main courses, pickled vegetables are both tangy and refreshing.

Why Visit?

Xiangshan Street is a great place for food lovers looking to experience the diverse flavors of Guilin in a lively, relaxed setting. It’s an ideal spot to sample a variety of local dishes and enjoy the warmth of Guilin’s street food culture.

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Guilin’s food streets are a true reflection of the city’s cultural richness and culinary diversity. Whether you’re looking for traditional dishes like rice noodles and dumplings or want to try something new and unique, these food streets offer an unforgettable culinary journey. Exploring the streets and tasting the local snacks is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture while visiting this beautiful region.