Top 10 Must-Try Chinese Street Foods for Travelers

Top 10 Must-Try Chinese Street Foods for Travelers

China is a paradise for street food lovers, offering a wide range of flavors, textures, and aromas. From spicy and savory to sweet and crispy, the country's street food culture is an essential experience for any traveler. If you're visiting China, here are ten must-try street foods that showcase the nation's rich culinary diversity.

1. Mala Tang (Spicy Hot Pot Skewers) – Sichuan & Chongqing

Mala Tang is a popular street food that originated in Sichuan and Chongqing. It consists of skewered meats, seafood, and vegetables cooked in a spicy, numbing broth made with Sichuan peppercorns and chili oil. This dish is perfect for those who love bold flavors and a tingling sensation on the tongue.

2. Stinky Tofu – Changsha & Shaoxing

A famous and polarizing snack, stinky tofu has a strong fermented aroma but a surprisingly delicious taste. Deep-fried until crispy on the outside and soft inside, it is usually served with chili sauce, pickled vegetables, and garlic. You can find the best versions in Changsha, Shaoxing, and Taipei.

3. Lamb Skewers – Inner Mongolia & Xinjiang

Grilled lamb skewers, or "chuanr," are one of China's most beloved street snacks, especially in Xinjiang. The skewers are marinated with cumin, chili powder, and other spices, then grilled over open flames, giving them a smoky and flavorful taste.

4. Suan La Fen (Hot & Sour Noodles) – Sichuan, Chongqing & Guizhou

This spicy and sour noodle dish is a staple of Sichuan and Chongqing street food culture. Made with chewy sweet potato noodles, chili oil, vinegar, and pickled vegetables, it is a mouthwatering combination of heat, tanginess, and umami flavors.

5. Rou Jia Mo (Chinese Burger) – Shaanxi

Known as "Chinese hamburgers," Rou Jia Mo consists of slow-cooked, flavorful meat stuffed inside a crispy, freshly baked flatbread. The most famous version comes from Xi’an, featuring shredded braised pork that melts in your mouth.

6. Iron Plate Squid – Street Stalls Across China

A common sight at seaside night markets, iron plate squid is cooked on a sizzling grill with soy sauce, garlic, and chili flakes. The result is a tender yet slightly crispy dish bursting with umami flavor.

7. Fried Chicken Strips – Street Stalls Across China

A modern favorite among young food lovers, fried chicken strips are crispy, golden-brown snacks that can be found in night markets and street stalls all over China. These tender, juicy chicken strips are seasoned with various spices and often served with dipping sauces, making them a perfect on-the-go snack.

8. Liangpi (Cold Skin Noodles) – Shaanxi & Qinghai

Liangpi is a refreshing cold noodle dish made from wheat or rice flour. Often served with garlic, vinegar, chili oil, and cucumber, it has a smooth and chewy texture that makes it a popular summer treat.

9. Shui Jian Bao (Pan-Fried Soup Dumplings) – Shanghai

Sheng Jian Bao are crispy-bottomed dumplings filled with juicy pork and a rich, flavorful broth. Originally from Shanghai, these dumplings are pan-fried to perfection and topped with sesame seeds and scallions.

10. Jianbing Guozi (Savory Pancake Roll) – Tianjin

Jianbing Guozi is a famous street food originating from Tianjin. Made with a thin pancake filled with egg, crispy fried dough, scallions, and savory sauces, it is a satisfying and flavorful breakfast option loved by locals and tourists alike.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're a fan of spicy, savory, or sweet flavors, China's street food scene has something for everyone. These ten street foods are not only delicious but also offer a glimpse into the country's rich food culture. When traveling in China, don't miss the opportunity to explore local night markets and street stalls to enjoy these iconic dishes!