What Are the Must-Try Snacks in Hangzhou? Where to Find Them

Hangzhou, a beautiful city located in eastern China, is renowned not only for its stunning scenery, such as the famous West Lake, but also for its rich culinary tradition. The city boasts a variety of delicious and unique snacks that will surely satisfy any food lover. From savory treats to sweet delights, Hangzhou’s local snacks reflect the city’s history and culture. If you are planning to visit Hangzhou, knowing where to find these mouthwatering dishes will enhance your travel experience.

Hangzhou’s food scene is diverse, offering both traditional dishes and modern variations. Many of the city’s snacks are centered around rice, noodles, and freshwater fish, reflecting the region's natural abundance. This article will introduce you to some of the most iconic snacks in Hangzhou, along with recommendations on where you can try them for an authentic experience.

1. Longjing Shrimp (Longjing Xia)

One of the most famous snacks in Hangzhou is Longjing Shrimp. This dish features fresh shrimp that is stir-fried with the famous Longjing tea (Dragon Well tea), which is grown in the hills surrounding Hangzhou. The shrimp is delicately flavored with the tea, which imparts a subtle, fragrant taste that is unique to the region. The Longjing tea leaves are often handpicked in the spring, adding to the freshness of the dish.

Where to Try Longjing Shrimp

You can find Longjing Shrimp at many upscale restaurants in Hangzhou, but for an authentic experience, head to Lou Wai Lou, a restaurant located near West Lake. This restaurant is famous for its classic Hangzhou dishes and offers a scenic view of the lake while you enjoy your meal. Another good option is Hangzhou Jiajiayue Restaurant, known for its emphasis on local, traditional cuisine.

2. Xiaolongbao (Steamed Soup Dumplings)

Xiaolongbao, or steamed soup dumplings, are a must-try snack when in Hangzhou. Unlike the more famous versions from Shanghai, the Hangzhou version is lighter and has a thinner skin, with just the right amount of soup inside. The dumplings are typically filled with a rich broth made from pork or crab, giving each bite a burst of flavor.

Where to Try Xiaolongbao

While you can find Xiaolongbao in many dumpling shops throughout Hangzhou, Da Niang Dumplings is a popular spot known for its delicious and affordable Xiaolongbao. For a more refined experience, visit Jiangnan Wok, a restaurant that serves gourmet versions of this beloved snack, often paired with Longjing tea.

3. Hangzhou Zongzi (Rice Dumplings)

A traditional snack in Hangzhou, Zongzi are glutinous rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves. They are typically filled with a variety of ingredients, such as pork, beans, or even sweet fillings like red bean paste. The sticky rice is steamed to perfection, and the filling is often savory and flavorful.

Where to Try Hangzhou Zongzi

To try authentic Hangzhou Zongzi, visit Wushan Night Market, one of the most famous food streets in Hangzhou. This market offers a wide variety of local snacks, including Zongzi. Alternatively, Hefang Street, a pedestrian-only street, is known for its traditional shops where you can sample freshly made rice dumplings.

4. Hangzhou-style Pancakes (Cong Bao)

Cong Bao, also known as Hangzhou-style pancakes, are savory pancakes made from scallions and a simple batter, pan-fried to crispy perfection. They are often served with a variety of dipping sauces, including soy sauce and vinegar, making them a popular street food snack in Hangzhou.

Where to Try Hangzhou-style Pancakes

The best place to sample Cong Bao is at Hefang Street, where vendors sell these pancakes fresh off the griddle. This area is famous for its old-fashioned food stalls, where you can enjoy the crispy, savory pancakes as a quick snack while walking around the historic street. Alternatively, Qinghefang Ancient Street is another great location to find Cong Bao.

5. Hangzhou Fried Tofu (Chao Doufu)

A beloved vegetarian snack in Hangzhou is Chao Doufu, or fried tofu. This dish features tofu that is lightly fried until crispy on the outside, while the inside remains soft and smooth. It is typically served with a tangy sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and a variety of seasonings, giving it a delicious balance of flavors.

Where to Try Hangzhou Fried Tofu

One of the best places to try Chao Doufu is at Zhiwei Guan, a famous local restaurant that specializes in Hangzhou’s vegetarian dishes. Another excellent place is Laojiumen, which is known for serving traditional Hangzhou-style tofu dishes.

6. West Lake Vinegar Fish (Xi Hu Cu Yu)

West Lake Vinegar Fish is a dish made with fresh fish caught from West Lake itself. The fish is simmered in a sweet and sour vinegar sauce, giving it a tangy and savory flavor. This dish is one of the best representations of Hangzhou’s unique culinary style, which is known for its use of vinegar and sweet sauces.

Where to Try West Lake Vinegar Fish

If you want to try the most authentic West Lake Vinegar Fish, visit Lou Wai Lou, a well-known restaurant located by the lake. This spot is famous for serving high-quality, traditional dishes, including this famous fish. Zhiwei Guan is another option that offers this dish as part of its extensive menu of Hangzhou specialties.

7. Hangzhou Soup Noodles (Gan Si)

Gan Si, or Hangzhou-style soup noodles, are a popular snack, especially for breakfast. The noodles are served in a light, clear broth and topped with a variety of ingredients, such as minced pork, mushrooms, and vegetables. The dish is flavorful yet light, making it a perfect choice for a quick, satisfying meal.

Where to Try Hangzhou Soup Noodles

Head to Yuexiu Soup Noodle Shop, a popular local eatery that is known for its delicious and affordable soup noodles. For a more casual experience, visit Dongpo Noodle Shop, which serves a variety of noodle dishes, including Gan Si, that are popular with both locals and tourists alike.

8. Hangzhou Osmanthus Cake (Guihua Gao)

For those with a sweet tooth, Osmanthus Cake is a must-try snack in Hangzhou. Made from glutinous rice flour and infused with the fragrant flavor of osmanthus flowers, this cake has a delicate floral taste. It is typically served in small, bite-sized pieces and is a perfect snack for tea time.

Where to Try Hangzhou Osmanthus Cake

To try the best Guihua Gao, visit Hefang Street or Wushan Night Market, where local shops often sell these sweet treats. You can also find them in Hangzhou tea houses, which serve them alongside traditional teas like Longjing.

9. Hangzhou Rice Wine (Mi Jiu)

While not technically a snack, Hangzhou Rice Wine is an essential part of the local food scene. Made from glutinous rice, this sweet, slightly fermented beverage is often served as a warm drink. It pairs wonderfully with Hangzhou’s savory dishes and provides a perfect contrast to the rich flavors of the region’s snacks.

Where to Try Hangzhou Rice Wine

You can sample authentic Mi Jiu at Hangzhou tea houses or restaurants like Laojiumen, where the drink is often served as part of a traditional meal. Dongpo Restaurant is also a good place to try this local specialty, as it offers a selection of Hangzhou rice wines that you can pair with your meal.

10. Tea-flavored Sweet Snacks

Hangzhou is also known for its Longjing tea, and many local sweet snacks are infused with the flavor of this famous tea. Longjing tea-flavored cakes, cookies, and even ice cream can be found throughout the city. These treats offer a unique way to enjoy the signature flavor of the region’s most famous export.

Where to Try Tea-flavored Sweet Snacks

Head to Hangzhou Tea Museum, where you can not only learn about the history of Longjing tea but also sample various tea-flavored desserts. Hefang Street also has several stores offering Longjing tea-flavored snacks, providing a perfect souvenir for tea lovers.

Hangzhou offers a wealth of culinary delights, ranging from savory snacks like Xiaolongbao and Longjing Shrimp to sweet treats like Osmanthus Cake and Longjing tea-flavored desserts. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Hefang or enjoying a meal by West Lake, there is no shortage of delicious snacks to try. By visiting the recommended locations, you’ll not only experience the full range of Hangzhou's local flavors but also immerse yourself in the city's vibrant food culture. So, don’t miss out on these tasty bites when you’re in Hangzhou!