Chinese cuisine is incredibly diverse with 8 major regional traditions. This guide helps you navigate the flavors.
1. Sichuan Cuisine
Known for bold spicy flavors with Sichuan peppercorns. Famous dishes: Mapo Tofu, Kung Pao Chicken, Hot Pot.
2. Cantonese (Guangdong)
Light and fresh flavors, famous for dim sum. Dishes: Roast Duck, Steamed Fish, Har Gow dumplings.
3. Shandong Cuisine
Salty and crispy, known for seafood and soups. Dishes: Sweet and Sour Carp, Dezhou Chicken.
4. Jiangsu Cuisine
Sweet and delicate, beautiful presentation. Dishes: Sweet and Sour Squirrel Fish, Braised Pork Belly.
5. Fujian Cuisine
Light but flavorful, heavy use of umami. Dishes: Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, Oyster Omelet.
6. Zhejiang Cuisine
Fresh and fragrant, lots of bamboo shoots. Dishes: Dongpo Pork, West Lake Vinegar Fish.
7. Hunan Cuisine
Spicy and aromatic, dry heat vs Sichuan numbing. Dishes: Chairman Mao Red Braised Pork, Spicy Chicken.
8. Anhui Cuisine
Wild herbs and simple preparation. Dishes: Huangshan Braised Pigeon, Stink Tofu.
Food Delivery
Use Meituan or Ele.me apps for delivery. Most restaurants have picture menus. Average meal: 20-50 CNY.