What Food To Try in Wuhan and Food Prices

Doupi - Tofu Pudding (savory and hearty) - Silky-soft tofu served with shredded pork and mushrooms, often topped with savory soy sauce. Locals usually enjoy this comforting dish for breakfast, paired with a warm bowl of rice.

Guan Diao - Wuhan Noodles (thick rice noodles) - Chewy rice noodles served in a rich broth, often with beef brisket or other proteins, garnished with fresh herbs. This is a popular lunch option, and I learned the hard way that many locals prefer it extra spicy—don't shy away from the chili oil!

Hot Dry Noodles - Reganmian (distinctive noodle dish) - Tasty sesame oil noodles served with chopped scallions and pickled vegetables, often accompanied by a hard-boiled egg. It's the quintessential dish for breakfast, and people grab it on the go from street vendors.

Yang Rou Paomo - Mutton Crumbled Bread Soup (soulful comfort) - A robust mutton soup served with crumbled bread, giving it a delightful texture. It's traditionally enjoyed for lunch or dinner, especially on cooler days, bringing family and friends together.

Wuhan Spicy Duck Neck - Banjiao (bold flavors) - Braised duck neck infused with spicy and aromatic flavors, often shared among friends over cold beers. Locals love to snack on this during late-night gatherings, and it's surprisingly filling despite being street food.

Red Braised Pork Belly - Hong Shao Rou (rich and tender) - Savory braised pork belly cooked with soy sauce and spices until tender, served with fluffy steamed buns. Best enjoyed during family dinners, this dish really showcases the region's love for bold flavors.

Chilled Steamed Dumplings - Liangjiao (refreshing bite) - Light, chilled dumplings filled with seasoned vegetables, typically enjoyed during the hot summer months. This dish is perfect for lunch or a light dinner, providing a refreshing contrast to richer meals.

Three Cup Chicken - Sanbeiji (herbal aroma) - Chicken slow-cooked in sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice wine until aromatic and tender. Traditionally consumed during communal dinners, it brings people together over its delightful herbal flavors.

Milk Tea - 奶茶 (creamy black tea) - This is a beloved blend of strong black tea mixed with milk and sometimes flavored with sugar and spices. You'll find locals savoring it at cafes or tea houses throughout the day, especially in the late afternoon as a refreshing pick-me-up.

WuHan Beer - 武汉啤酒 (local lager) - A light, crisp beer made with locally-sourced barley and hops, known for its easy drinkability. It's commonly enjoyed with friends in lively outdoor settings, particularly during summer evenings when the city comes alive.

Scorpion Cake - 蜈蚣饼 (sweet pastry) - A delightful pastry filled with red bean paste that gives it a unique sweetness and chewy texture. Often enjoyed during festivals, it's not uncommon to see vendors selling them on bustling street corners, especially during the Lantern Festival.

Shaved Ice - 刨冰 (frozen dessert) - A popular treat made from finely shaved ice topped with various sweet syrups and fresh fruits, served cold for ultimate refreshment. Great for a hot day, it's often sold by street vendors, and you'll see families gathered around to cool off.

Dragon Fruit Juice - 火龙果汁 (bright smoothie) - A vibrant smoothie made primarily from fresh dragon fruit blended to a silky smooth texture, often enjoyed as a cold refreshment. It’s especially popular in the summer months, with locals grabbing it at juice stands near parks or during weekend strolls. By the way, don't be surprised if you see it on breakfast menus too!