What Food To Try in Guilin and Food Prices

Rice Noodles - 米粉 (Mǐfěn) - These silky noodles made from rice flour are the heart of many Guilin dishes, often stir-fried or served in broth. They are a breakfast staple enjoyed with various toppings like peanuts and pickles, typically enjoyed in local noodle shops.

Beef Rice Rolls - 牛肉肠粉 (Niúròu chángfěn) - Soft rice rolls filled with tender beef and drizzled with sesame sauce create a comforting dish that locals adore. You’ll find these in bustling markets or street stalls, often eaten as a quick snack during lunch hours.

Guilin Rice Noodle Soup - 桂林米粉 (Guìlín mǐfěn) - A fragrant broth paired with fresh veggies, spices, and either beef or pork, all served on a bed of rice noodles creates a hearty main course meal. There's a charming local custom of customizing your soup at the counter, picking various toppings and spices.

Three-Flavor Pork - 三味肉 (Sān wèi ròu) - This dish features marinated pork, braised until tender and served with aromatic soy sauce and fresh herbs. It's a favorite for dinner with family, often savored slowly, sharing stories around the table.

Sweet and Sour Fish - 糖醋鱼 (Tángcù yú) - Crispy fish coated in a tangy sauce combining sweet and sour flavors is a popular dish for special occasions. It might surprise you to find pineapple in the mix, which adds a unique twist cherished by locals.

Seasonal Bamboo Shoots - 应季竹笋 (Yìngjì zhúsǔn) - Freshly picked bamboo shoots, stir-fried with garlic and chilies, highlight Guilin's seasonal bounty. These pops of freshness are best enjoyed in the spring, often grouped with rice for lunch or dinner, emphasizing the local preference for seasonal produce.

Spicy Fried Chicken Skewers - 辣味鸡肉串 (Là wèi jīròu chuàn) - Marinated and grilled chicken skewers with a generous sprinkle of spices make a fantastic street food option late at night. Locals love gathering around street vendors to chat while munching on these deliciously messy bites.

By the way, if you're dining with friends, it’s common to order a variety of dishes to share, so don't hesitate to mix and match!

Guilin Li River Tea - 桂林漓江茶 (fragrant green tea) - This refreshing green tea is made from young leaves harvested from the region's lush hills, often brewed with a hint of jasmine for aroma. Locals enjoy it in the afternoon while chatting at tea houses, usually accompanied by sunflower seeds for snacking.

Three-color Smoothie - 三色果汁 (layered fruit smoothie) - A vibrant blend of three fruits, commonly mango, kiwi, and strawberry, served chilled and layered for a colorful presentation. It's a popular choice on hot summer days at local markets, providing a refreshing burst of flavor. By the way, you might find it’s more enjoyable with a splash of lime juice—just ask!

Guilin Rice Wine - 桂林米酒 (sweet rice wine) - This traditional alcoholic drink is made from glutinous rice and is a bit sweeter than typical wines, often enjoyed warm or at room temperature. It’s common to share a cup during family gatherings or small celebrations, making it feel like a cozy experience rather than just a drink.

Sticky Rice Cake - 糯米糕 (soft, sweet cake) - Made from glutinous rice flour and filled with sweet red bean paste, this cake is steamed to achieve a soft texture. Often consumed during festivals or family gatherings, it's particularly special during the Lantern Festival when families prepare them together, making it not just a treat, but also a memorable event.

Mango Snow Ice - 芒果雪冰 (shaved ice dessert) - This delightful dessert consists of finely shaved ice topped with fresh mango chunks and sweetened condensed milk, creating a perfect cool treat in warm weather. It’s widely available in street stalls during the summer months, and locals particularly prefer enjoying it in the late afternoon post-lunch for a sweet pick-me-up.