What Food To Try in Guangzhou and Food Prices

Congee - 粥 (rice porridge) - Silky rice porridge often served with pickled vegetables, century egg, and pork floss. Locals enjoy it for breakfast, typically slurping away at small local shops.

Chao Fan - 炒饭 (fried rice) - Fluffy rice stir-fried with seasonal vegetables, eggs, and often shrimp or chicken, all tossed in a savory soy sauce. It’s a popular lunch choice, often found at small eateries where you’ll see tables filled with office workers.

Char Siu - 叉烧 (BBQ pork) - Tender, caramelized pork marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, served thinly sliced with rice. Many locals eat it for dinner, frequently visiting local BBQ shops that hang the meat in the window.

Dumplings - 饺子 (filled dumplings) - Delicate dumplings stuffed with minced pork and chives, boiled or pan-fried to a golden crisp. You’ll find them in restaurants bustling with families, especially during the winter months.

Stinky Tofu - 臭豆腐 (fermented tofu) - Crispy on the outside and soft inside, served with a spicy dipping sauce. It's a beloved street food find, particularly at night markets where people go to snack, though the smell can surprise the uninitiated.

White Lotus Seed Soup - 莲子汤 (sweet soup) - A light, sweet soup made with lotus seeds, often enjoyed as a refreshing dessert. Locals love this comforting dish during the hot summer months, often eaten after a heavy meal.

Chicken Feet - 凤爪 (dim sum dish) - Braised chicken feet simmered in a rich black bean sauce, served hot and sticky. Commonly enjoyed during dim sum brunch, it's a favorite of adventurous locals who don’t shy away from trying every part of the chicken.

Pork and Vegetable Rice Rolls - 肠粉 (steamed rice noodle rolls) - Silky rice noodles filled with pork and fresh greens, drizzled with soy sauce. They’re typically consumed for breakfast or as a light snack, best enjoyed at street stalls with the morning rush.

Yin Yeung - 凝香 (milk tea and coffee mix) - A rich blend of silky milk tea and strong, aromatic coffee, typically served hot or over ice. It's a popular choice for breakfast or afternoon tea, especially among local workers seeking a pick-me-up during long workdays.

Jin Jin - 鳳城雪花 (snowflake dessert) - This is a fluffy, icy dessert, often flavored with fruit syrups or condensed milk, creating a light and refreshing treat. Commonly enjoyed during sweltering summer months, it's especially popular at street stalls near parks, perfect for cooling off while strolling.

Huangjiu - 黃酒 (yellow rice wine) - A fragrant, lightly sweet rice wine made from glutinous rice, it's enjoyed warm and often sipped during gatherings or festive occasions. Often paired with savory snacks, it provides a warming sensation, making it a favorite during cooler evenings.

Egg Tarts - 蛋撻 (flaky pastry dessert) - These little delights feature a buttery, flaky crust filled with a sweet, creamy custard that melts in your mouth. They're typically found in bakeries and are a go-to treat for breakfast or snack time – just be wary of the common mistake of assuming there's only one egg tart style; there’s a delightful variety to try!

Gongfu Cha - 功夫茶 (traditional tea ceremony) - A special tea served in beautifully crafted small cups, often using high-quality leaves like Tieguanyin. Traditionally enjoyed in leisurely family gatherings, locals appreciate the ritual of brewing and sharing, making it a relaxing afternoon pastime. By the way, don’t rush it – the slower, the better!