Whether you’re soaking in the imperial glamour of cutting-edge Beijing, chasing glimmers of romance through lyrical Hangzhou, or roaming the dreamy canal streets of Suzhou, you can’t escape the tantalising sights, sounds, aromas, and flavours of China’s diverse gastronomic scene. Here are some enticing Chinese dishes you can’t overlook.

Baozi a un restaurant japonés de Xàbia
Joanbanjo, Baozi a un restaurant japonés de Xàbia, CC BY-SA 4.0

Ban Mian

Choosing the best noodles in China is a slippery slope as there are so many phenomenal variations, from classic Chow Mein stir-fried to perfection with fresh veggies and diced meat and herb-infused Biang Biang ‘belt’ noodles from the Shaanxi province to the succulent umami Cantonese speciality of Beef Chow Fun. However, if you’re out on a prowl through the quaintly picturesque canal districts of Suzhou, you can’t afford to miss the flavour-packed Ban Mian noodle soup, made of anchovy stock, Sichuan peppers, soy sauce, meat, mushrooms, and pak choi, known for its addictive aftertaste.

Baozi

For something light, nutritious, and deliciously snackable, you can’t go wrong with the bao bun; the Chinese equivalent of a bagel but steamed until it’s soft and pliant, stuffed with juicy marinated meat and veggies. If you’re looking for sophisticated furnished apartments in Suzhou proffering prime access to its foodie havens, venture no further than the likes of Ascott Midtown Suzhou.

Squirrel Fish

This swoon-worthy sweet and sour Mandarin Fish is a Suzhou delicacy, which is crispy on the outside, meltingly soft on the inside, and doused with lashings of flavoursome reddish-orange sauce.

Scallion Pancakes

For an all-you-can-eat street food munchable, you won’t regret trying out the crunchy and delicious Chinese pancake made from flaky, spiced, deep-fried dough with a lip-smacking sweet chili dip.