Nanjing’s Signature Cuisine

• Restaurants to Experience in Nanjing
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  Jiangnan Zao Chinese Restaurant

  The only restaurant in Nanjing to hold the prestigious Black Pearl Two-Diamond Award for eight consecutive years, Jiangnan Zao offers an elegant and comfortable dining atmosphere with refined style. It stays true to its philosophy of preserving traditional Jiangnan flavors and passing down classic home-style dishes. Here, guests enjoy authentic Huaiyang cuisine alongside local specialties. It’s also one of Nanjing’s most iconic and popular spots for food lovers and social media check-ins.

  Address:

  1st Floor, Shangri-La Hotel, 329 Zhongyang Road, Gulou District

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  Jiangsu Restaurant

  Founded in 1946 as Fuxing Restaurant, this historic venue gave birth to some of the most representative “Republic of China era” dishes. Over time, it has become a symbol of Nanjing’s culinary heritage. Known for its meticulous ingredient selection and precise cooking techniques, Jiangsu Restaurant is beloved by government officials, business leaders, scholars, cultural figures, and foreign diplomats alike—many affectionately call it “Xiaolou” (Little Building).

  Address:

  255-1 Jianning Road, near Daqiao Hotel, Gulou District

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  Jinling Hotel · Meiyuan Restaurant

  Located on the second floor of Jinling Hotel, Meiyuan is designed with a unique Ming and Qing dynasty aesthetic, themed around the elegant plum blossom (“mei”). The restaurant combines the concept of “medicine and food sharing the same origin,” carefully selecting premium ingredients. Meiyuan presents Jinling cuisine with fresh, delicate flavors that are rich yet never overpowering.

  Address:

  2nd Floor, Jinling Building, 2 Hanzhong Road, Gulou District

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  Nanjing Dapai Dang

  Established in 1994, Nanjing Dapai Dang is a classic restaurant brand showcasing the city’s unique culinary style. While honoring the rich folk flavors of old Nanjing, it also embraces innovation and refinement. Serving hundreds of traditional snacks, farm-fresh vegetables, and hearty home-cooked dishes, the restaurant offers authentic tastes in an atmosphere filled with classical Chinese folk charm and elegant décor.

  Address:

  48 Dashiba Street, Qinhuai District (Fuzimiao Pingjiangfu Branch)

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  Wanqinglou Gourmet Pavilion

  Established in 1987, Wanqinglou is nestled along the scenic Qinhuai River, just steps away from the iconic Dacheng Hall at Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao). Specializing in the famous Qinhuai Eight Delicacies, this restaurant offers a serene and elegant atmosphere—a quiet retreat amid the bustling city. All snacks are handmade, and every dish is crafted with great care to ensure authentic flavors.

  Address:

  No. 1 Gongyuan West Street, Qinhuai District

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  Republic Red Mansion (Minguo Hong Gongguan)

  Designed in the architectural style of the Republic of China era, Republic Red Mansion immerses guests in a rich, nostalgic atmosphere. Its signature dishes include Jiang Gong Lion’s Head Meatballs, Premier’s Savory Chicken, and Meiling Porridge, offering a delicious taste of history.

  Address:

  Building 3, Hong Gongguan, 1912 Commercial Street, No. 56 Taiping North Road, Xuanwu District

• Local Flavors: Must-Try Snacks in Nanjing
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  Qinhuai Eight Delicacies (Qinhuai Ba Jue)

  A delicious variety of specialties awaits you, such as the crispy crab shell biscuits and dried shredded squid from Yongheyuan; the savory beef potstickers and beef soup from Jiang Youji; and the colorful five-flavor cakes and fragrant osmanthus-filled glutinous rice balls from Lianhu Cake Shop. With a perfect balance of meat and vegetarian options, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
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  Jinling Salted Duck

  With a long history and famed as “the best duck dish in Jinling,” Jinling Salted Duck is a true local treasure. Its tender, pale skin is rich but not greasy, boasting fresh, fragrant, and succulent flavors that delight every palate.
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  Duck Blood Vermicelli Soup

  A signature Nanjing snack made from duck blood, liver, and intestines simmered in rich duck broth with delicate vermicelli noodles. This vibrant and flavorful dish is beloved throughout China for its fresh, savory taste and satisfying texture.
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  Tangbao

  A must-try specialty in Nanjing is Tangbao, a soup-filled dumpling with a thin skin, juicy meat, and flavorful broth. To enjoy it, sip the hot soup first, then taste the dumpling. Nanjing Tangbao is known for being light, not greasy, with a subtle sweetness.
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  Beef Potstickers (Niurou Guotie)

  Golden and crispy on the outside, these potstickers are packed with juicy, flavorful beef. With every bite, a burst of savory broth spills out. Dip them in spicy chili oil and fragrant vinegar—the classic way Nanjing locals love to enjoy them.
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  Pig Tripe Noodles (Pidu Mian)

  Served in a light, slightly thickened bone broth, the noodles have the perfect tender-chewy texture. The pig tripe is delightfully chewy, and the generous toppings make this dish utterly irresistible.
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  Plum Blossom Cake (Meihua Gao)

  A traditional Nanjing treat, these charming little cakes are served in small paper cups shaped like plum blossoms. Soft, chewy, and sweetly fragrant, they’re as delightful to eat as they are to look at.
• Nanjing’s Vibrant Food Streets
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  Mingwalang Food Street

  Located in the heart of Xin Jie Kou, Mingwalang Food Street is a well-known culinary destination. Whether it’s upscale restaurants, traditional teahouses, or cozy street food stalls tucked in alleys, every spot draws a steady crowd of eager food lovers.
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  Fengfulu Street

  Step out of Xin Jie Kou Metro Station Exit 15, walk past Huanya Plaza, and turn onto Fengfulu Street. The irresistible aromas of Zhangji Pancakes, Acai’s savory crepes, egg burgers, and more fill the air, creating a lively atmosphere that keeps the street buzzing.
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  Kexiang Lane

  From Taiping South Road on the west to the third and fourth alleys on the east, Kexiang Lane is lined with bustling eateries where crowds gather to enjoy authentic local flavors. This vibrant stretch is often called one of Nanjing’s most authentic “windows” into the city’s lively street life and food culture.
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  Hongmiao Food Street

  For many locals, Hongmiao Food Street ranks as the No.1 spot for great eats. Known for its affordable prices and generous portions, it holds a special place in Nanjing’s rich and diverse culinary scene.
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  Chanandajie Street

  Chanandajie Street preserves the down-to-earth spirit and original flavors unique to Nanjing. Here, the city’s warmth, everyday hustle, and vibrant street life come alive in full color.