Hangzhou Winter Food Guide: Best Dishes to Try

When winter arrives in Hangzhou, the city transforms into a culinary wonderland. The crisp air, misty West Lake, and historic streets set the perfect stage for indulging in hearty, warming dishes. Whether you're a foodie traveler or simply looking to experience authentic Hangzhou flavors, this winter food guide will lead you to the most delicious bites the city has to offer.

Must-Try Hangzhou Winter Dishes

1. Dongpo Pork (东坡肉)

No visit to Hangzhou is complete without trying Dongpo Pork, a dish named after the famous Song Dynasty poet Su Dongpo. This melt-in-your-mouth braised pork belly is slow-cooked in soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sugar until it reaches a rich, caramelized perfection. Winter is the ideal time to enjoy this dish—its fatty richness provides warmth against the chilly weather.

Where to try: Lou Wai Lou (楼外楼) near West Lake is legendary for its Dongpo Pork.

2. Hangzhou Beggar’s Chicken (叫化鸡)

Wrapped in lotus leaves and baked in clay, Beggar’s Chicken is a fragrant, tender dish with a fascinating backstory. The slow-cooking process locks in moisture, making the chicken incredibly juicy—perfect for cold days. Breaking open the clay crust is part of the fun!

Where to try: Zhi Wei Guan (知味观) serves an excellent version of this dish.

3. West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy (西湖醋鱼)

A Hangzhou classic, this dish features tender freshwater fish (usually grass carp) smothered in a sweet-and-sour vinegar sauce. The tangy flavor cuts through the richness of other winter dishes, making it a refreshing yet comforting choice.

Where to try: Head to Grandma’s Home (外婆家) for a modern take on this traditional dish.

4. Hangzhou-style Rice Cakes (年糕)

Chewy, stir-fried rice cakes are a winter staple in Hangzhou. Often cooked with shredded pork, cabbage, and soy sauce, they provide a satisfying, carb-loaded warmth. Some versions include spicy flavors for extra heat.

Where to try: Street vendors around Hefang Street (河坊街) serve delicious, freshly made rice cakes.

5. Hot Pot with Bamboo Shoots (冬笋火锅)

Hangzhou’s winter bamboo shoots (冬笋) are tender and sweet, making them a prized ingredient. A hot pot featuring these bamboo shoots, along with mushrooms, tofu, and thinly sliced meat, is the ultimate communal winter meal.

Where to try: Hai Di Lao (海底捞) offers customizable hot pots, but local spots like Guo’s Hot Pot (郭氏火锅) provide a more authentic experience.

Winter Street Food & Snacks

1. Sweet Osmanthus Rice Wine Balls (桂花酒酿圆子)

This warm, sweet dessert soup is made with glutinous rice balls, fermented rice wine, and osmanthus flowers. The floral aroma and gentle sweetness make it a soothing treat after a day of exploring.

Where to try: Small dessert shops around West Lake, especially in the evening.

2. Roasted Chestnuts (糖炒栗子)

A winter street food favorite, roasted chestnuts are sold in paper cones by vendors all over the city. Their smoky, nutty flavor and warmth make them the perfect snack for chilly walks.

Where to try: Look for vendors near Wushan Square (吴山广场).

3. Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐)

Love it or hate it, stinky tofu is a bold Hangzhou street food experience. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, it’s often served with spicy sauce—great for warming up quickly.

Where to try: Hefang Street’s night market is the best place to try this pungent snack.

Best Winter Tea Experiences

1. Longjing Tea (龙井茶) with Local Snacks

Hangzhou’s famous Longjing tea is even more enjoyable in winter when paired with traditional snacks like sweet lotus root paste or sesame candies. Many teahouses near West Lake offer cozy seating with lake views.

Where to try: Meijiawu Tea Village (梅家坞) for an authentic farmhouse tea experience.

2. Ginger Tea (姜茶)

Locals swear by ginger tea to ward off winter colds. Made with fresh ginger, brown sugar, and sometimes red dates, it’s a spicy, invigoring drink.

Where to try: Small tea stalls in traditional markets like Wushan Night Market.

Where to Eat: Top Winter Dining Spots

1. West Lake Area

The lakeside is dotted with historic restaurants serving seasonal Hangzhou dishes. The view of misty West Lake in winter adds to the dining magic.

2. Hefang Street (河坊街)

This bustling pedestrian street is packed with food stalls, teahouses, and traditional snack vendors—ideal for a winter food crawl.

3. Xixi Wetland (西溪湿地)

Surrounded by serene waterways, restaurants here offer rustic Hangzhou dishes in a tranquil winter setting.

Winter in Hangzhou is not just about the scenery—it’s a feast for the senses. From slow-braised meats to steaming street snacks, the city’s culinary traditions make it a must-visit destination for food-loving travelers.