Huangshan Airport: The Best Local Eats Near the Terminal

Traveling through Huangshan Airport (TXN) isn’t just about catching flights—it’s an opportunity to dive into the rich culinary culture of Anhui Province. Whether you’re arriving, departing, or just passing through, the area around the airport offers a treasure trove of authentic local flavors. From savory street snacks to sit-down restaurants serving time-honored dishes, here’s your guide to the best eats near the terminal.

Must-Try Anhui Dishes Near Huangshan Airport

Anhui cuisine (Huizhou cuisine) is one of China’s Eight Great Culinary Traditions, known for its rustic yet sophisticated flavors. Here are the dishes you shouldn’t miss:

1. Stinky Tofu (Chou Doufu)

Love it or hate it, this fermented tofu is a regional specialty. Crispy on the outside and creamy inside, it’s often served with a spicy sauce. Look for small stalls near the airport’s entrance—the stronger the aroma, the better the taste!

2. Steamed Hairy Tofu (Maodoufu)

A milder cousin of stinky tofu, this dish gets its name from the fuzzy mold that develops during fermentation. Steamed with chili and garlic, it’s a must-try for adventurous foodies.

3. Braised Mandarin Fish (Hongshao Guiyu)

Anhui’s rivers supply fresh fish, and this dish—slow-cooked in soy sauce, bamboo shoots, and mushrooms—showcases the province’s love for earthy, umami-rich flavors.

Top Restaurants Within 10 Minutes of the Airport

1. Xiangmanlou (Fragrant Charm Restaurant)

Distance: 8-minute drive
This spot is a favorite among locals for its authentic Huizhou fare. Must-orders include:
- Stewed Pork with Bamboo Shoots (Zhutong Shao Rou): Tender pork belly braised with wild bamboo shoots.
- Li Hongzhang Hotchpotch (Li Hongzhang Za Hui): A hearty stew with seafood, tofu, and cured meats.

2. Huangshan Snack Street

Distance: 5-minute walk from terminal
A bustling alley lined with vendors selling:
- Shao Bing (Baked Sesame Flatbread): Crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, often stuffed with pickled vegetables.
- Tangtuan (Glutinous Rice Balls): Sweet or savory fillings wrapped in chewy rice dough.

3. Yunhai Restaurant

Distance: 10-minute drive
Perched on a hill with airport views, this place excels in:
- Yellow Mountain Wild Herbs Salad: Fresh greens foraged from the mountains.
- Stone-Grilled Tofu: Cooked at your table on a hot stone slab.

Quick Bites for Travelers in a Hurry

If you’re short on time, these airport-adjacent options won’t disappoint:

1. Terminal 1 Food Court

• Anhui Noodle Soup: A simple but satisfying bowl with hand-pulled noodles and slow-cooked broth.
• Jianbing (Savory Crepes): A grab-and-go breakfast staple.

2. 24-Hour Dumpling Spot (Jiaozi Wang)

Distance: 3-minute walk
Steamed or fried, these dumplings are packed with pork, chives, or seasonal veggies. Perfect for late-night arrivals.

Insider Tips for Food Hunting

• Timing Matters: Many small eateries close by 8 PM, so plan early dinners.
• Cash is King: Street vendors rarely accept mobile payments.
• Spice Levels: Ask for “wei la” (mild) or “te la” (extra spicy) when ordering.

Pair Your Meal with Local Drinks

• Huizhou Rice Wine: Sweet and lightly fermented, best served warm.
• Taiping Houkui Tea: A rare green tea from Huangshan’s slopes—ideal for digestion after a heavy meal.

Final Bites Before Takeoff

Don’t leave without trying Huangshan Sesame Candy or Qimen Black Tea Chocolate—souvenirs that taste like the region. Many shops near the terminal sell them pre-packaged for travel.

Whether you’ve got hours or minutes to spare, the area around Huangshan Airport is a gateway to Anhui’s culinary soul. From smoky street snacks to refined regional classics, every bite tells a story of mountains, rivers, and centuries of tradition.