Located in the Hunan province of China, Zhangjiajie is a popular tourist destination known for its breathtaking natural scenery, unique rock formations, and rich cultural heritage. The city has become a favorite among travelers and food enthusiasts alike, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences that cater to different tastes and budgets. In this article, we will explore the best places to eat in Zhangjiajie, from traditional Hunan cuisine to modern restaurants serving international flavors.
As the birthplace of Xiang cuisine, Zhangjiajie offers a unique gastronomic experience that is both spicy and savory. The city’s culinary scene is characterized by its use of local ingredients, such as chili peppers, garlic, and ginger, which add depth and complexity to its dishes. From traditional Hunan dishes like Dongpo pork and smoked duck to modern fusion cuisine, Zhangjiajie has something to offer for every food lover.
When planning a trip to Zhangjiajie, it’s essential to know where to eat to make the most of your culinary experience. In this article, we will guide you through the best restaurants, street food stalls, and local eateries in Zhangjiajie, highlighting their specialties, prices, and unique features. Whether you’re a foodie, a budget traveler, or a luxury seeker, we’ve got you covered.
The Best Restaurants in Zhangjiajie
Zhangjiajie is home to a wide range of restaurants serving various cuisines, from traditional Hunan to international flavors. Here are some of the best restaurants in Zhangjiajie, categorized by cuisine:
Traditional Hunan Cuisine
1. Xiangyuan Restaurant – Located in the heart of Zhangjiajie, Xiangyuan Restaurant is a must-visit for traditional Hunan cuisine. Try their signature dishes like Dongpo pork, smoked duck, and steamed fish in chili oil sauce.
2. Wulingyuan Restaurant – This restaurant is situated in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Their menu features a range of traditional Hunan dishes, including spicy chicken and pork belly.
International Cuisine
1. The Grand Hotel Restaurant – This luxurious restaurant is located in the Grand Hotel Zhangjiajie and serves international cuisine with a focus on seafood. Try their signature dishes like grilled lobster and seared scallops.
2. Café 88 – Located in the Zhangjiajie International Hotel, Café 88 offers a range of international dishes, including Western-style breakfast, Asian fusion cuisine, and traditional Hunan dishes.
Cafes and Bakeries
1. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf – This international coffee chain has a branch in Zhangjiajie, offering a range of coffee, tea, and baked goods. It’s a great place to relax and people-watch.
2. BreadTalk – This Singaporean bakery chain has a branch in Zhangjiajie, offering a range of freshly baked bread, pastries, and cakes. Try their signature items like the “BreadTalk” sandwich.
Street Food and Local Eateries
Zhangjiajie is famous for its street food, with vendors selling a range of snacks and dishes throughout the city. Here are some popular street food options:
Street Food Stalls
1. Stir-Fried Noodles – This popular street food stall is located in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area and serves stir-fried noodles with a range of toppings, including vegetables, meat, and seafood. (See Also: Where to Eat in Stratford Upon Avon? Top Recommendations)
2. Roasted Chestnuts – This street food stall is located in the Zhangjiajie Old Town and sells roasted chestnuts, a popular snack in China.
Local Eateries
1. Wulingyuan Local Restaurant – This local restaurant is located in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area and serves traditional Hunan dishes, including Dongpo pork and smoked duck.
2. Zhangjiajie Old Town Local Restaurant – This local restaurant is located in the Zhangjiajie Old Town and serves traditional Hunan dishes, including steamed fish in chili oil sauce and spicy chicken.
Markets and Food Courts
Zhangjiajie has several markets and food courts where you can try a range of local snacks and dishes. Here are some popular options:
Markets
1. Zhangjiajie Old Town Market – This market is located in the Zhangjiajie Old Town and sells a range of local snacks, including roasted chestnuts, stir-fried noodles, and traditional Hunan dishes.
2. Wulingyuan Market – This market is located in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area and sells a range of local snacks, including stir-fried noodles, roasted chestnuts, and traditional Hunan dishes.
Food Courts
1. Zhangjiajie International Hotel Food Court – This food court is located in the Zhangjiajie International Hotel and offers a range of international dishes, including Western-style breakfast, Asian fusion cuisine, and traditional Hunan dishes.
2. Grand Hotel Zhangjiajie Food Court – This food court is located in the Grand Hotel Zhangjiajie and offers a range of international dishes, including Western-style breakfast, Asian fusion cuisine, and traditional Hunan dishes.
Food Safety and Hygiene
When eating at street food stalls or local eateries, it’s essential to prioritize food safety and hygiene. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:
Food Safety Tips
1. Choose stalls with a high turnover of customers – This indicates that the food is fresh and popular.
2. Look for stalls with a clean and organized environment – This suggests that the vendor takes food safety and hygiene seriously. (See Also: Where to Eat in Sooke Bc? – Foodie Guide)
3. Try to avoid stalls with a strong smell of oil or grease – This can indicate that the food is not fresh.
4. Be cautious of stalls with a large number of flies or other insects – This can indicate poor food handling and storage practices.
Hygiene Tips
Recap of the Best Places to Eat in Zhangjiajie
Based on our research, here are some of the best places to eat in Zhangjiajie, categorized by cuisine:
Traditional Hunan Cuisine
1. Xiangyuan Restaurant – Located in the heart of Zhangjiajie, Xiangyuan Restaurant is a must-visit for traditional Hunan cuisine.
2. Wulingyuan Restaurant – This restaurant is situated in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
International Cuisine
1. The Grand Hotel Restaurant – This luxurious restaurant is located in the Grand Hotel Zhangjiajie and serves international cuisine with a focus on seafood.
2. Café 88 – Located in the Zhangjiajie International Hotel, Café 88 offers a range of international dishes, including Western-style breakfast, Asian fusion cuisine, and traditional Hunan dishes.
Cafes and Bakeries
1. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf – This international coffee chain has a branch in Zhangjiajie, offering a range of coffee, tea, and baked goods.
2. BreadTalk – This Singaporean bakery chain has a branch in Zhangjiajie, offering a range of freshly baked bread, pastries, and cakes.
Street Food and Local Eateries
1. Stir-Fried Noodles – This popular street food stall is located in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area and serves stir-fried noodles with a range of toppings. (See Also: Where to Eat in Naoussa Paros? Top Dining Spots)
2. Wulingyuan Local Restaurant – This local restaurant is located in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area and serves traditional Hunan dishes.
Markets and Food Courts
1. Zhangjiajie Old Town Market – This market is located in the Zhangjiajie Old Town and sells a range of local snacks, including roasted chestnuts and traditional Hunan dishes.
2. Zhangjiajie International Hotel Food Court – This food court is located in the Zhangjiajie International Hotel and offers a range of international dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where can I find the best traditional Hunan cuisine in Zhangjiajie?
Xiangyuan Restaurant and Wulingyuan Restaurant are two of the best places to try traditional Hunan cuisine in Zhangjiajie. Both restaurants offer a range of authentic dishes, including Dongpo pork and smoked duck.
What are some popular street food options in Zhangjiajie?
Stir-fried noodles, roasted chestnuts, and traditional Hunan dishes are some of the most popular street food options in Zhangjiajie. You can find these options at street food stalls and local eateries throughout the city.
Are there any international restaurants in Zhangjiajie?
Yes, there are several international restaurants in Zhangjiajie, including The Grand Hotel Restaurant and Café 88. These restaurants offer a range of international dishes, including Western-style breakfast and Asian fusion cuisine.
Can I find vegetarian and vegan options in Zhangjiajie?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan options in Zhangjiajie, including at some of the international restaurants and local eateries. However, options may be limited, so it’s a good idea to research ahead of time to find suitable options.
What are some tips for eating safely in Zhangjiajie?
When eating at street food stalls or local eateries, choose stalls with a high turnover of customers, look for stalls with a clean and organized environment, and avoid stalls with a strong smell of oil or grease. It’s also a good idea to eat at stalls with a large number of flies or other insects.