Chinese street food is some of the best in the world. It's cheap, delicious and everywhere. Here's what to try on your trip.
Must-Try Street Foods
Jianbing (η ι₯Ό) β Chinese Crepe
A savory crepe made from mung bean batter, filled with egg, crispy crackers, lettuce and sauces. It's the most popular breakfast street food in northern China. Cost: 8-15 RMB.
Baozi (ε ε) β Steamed Buns
Fluffy steamed buns filled with pork, vegetables or sweet bean paste. Available at every corner in the morning. Cost: 2-5 RMB each.
Yang Rou Chuan (ηΎθδΈ²) β Lamb Skewers
Grilled lamb skewers seasoned with cumin and chili powder. A specialty of Xinjiang cuisine, found at night markets everywhere. Cost: 3-10 RMB per skewer.
Chou Doufu (θθ±θ ) β Stinky Tofu
Deep-fried fermented tofu that smells terrible but tastes amazing. Don't judge it by the smell β give it a try! Cost: 10-20 RMB.
Tanghulu (η³θ«θ¦) β Candied Hawthorn Sticks
Skewered fruits dipped in hardened sugar syrup. The classic Beijing street snack, sweet and tart. Cost: 10-15 RMB.
Roujiamo (θε€Ήι¦ ) β Chinese Hamburger
Chopped meat (usually pork) stuffed in a flatbread. Often called the Chinese hamburger. Cost: 8-15 RMB.
Where to Find Street Food
- Night markets β every city has them, best variety
- Breakfast stalls β near subway stations and markets (6-9 AM)
- Food streets β Wangfujing in Beijing, Yuyuan in Shanghai
- Temple fairs β especially during Chinese New Year
How to Order Without Speaking Chinese
- Point and smile β universal language
- Use your phone β show a photo of what you want
- Watch what locals order β if there's a line, it's good
- Bring cash β some stalls don't accept foreign cards
Food Safety Tips
- Look for busy stalls β high turnover means fresh food
- Watch it being cooked β hot and freshly made is safest
- Avoid raw foods β stick to cooked, hot dishes
- Drink bottled water β never tap water
- Peel fruits yourself β don't eat pre-peeled fruit from stalls
Pair With Great Restaurants
Street food is for snacking. For proper meals, check our Beijing restaurant guide for the best restaurants tourists should try.
And if you want a truly memorable food experience, try Peking Duck β China's most famous dish.
Make sure you have reliable internet to find the best street food spots and translate menus. For restaurant bookings and food tours, contact us on WhatsApp.