Huangshan’s Best Restaurants for a Taste of the Culture

Nestled among the misty peaks and ancient villages of Anhui Province, Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) is not just a paradise for hikers and photographers—it’s also a culinary gem. The region’s cuisine, known as Huizhou cuisine (or Huicai), is a delicious reflection of its history, landscapes, and traditions. From rustic farmhouse eateries to elegant teahouse restaurants, here’s where to savor the flavors of Huangshan while immersing yourself in its rich culture.

The Essence of Huizhou Cuisine

Huizhou cuisine is one of China’s eight major culinary traditions, characterized by its emphasis on wild ingredients, slow-cooking techniques, and bold, earthy flavors. Many dishes are prepared using age-old methods, such as braising in clay pots or smoking over pine wood. Key ingredients include bamboo shoots, wild herbs, freshwater fish, and huangshan maofeng tea, which often finds its way into both dishes and drinks.

Must-Try Dishes

• Stinky Mandarin Fish (Chou Guiyu): Fermented for days, this iconic dish has a pungent aroma but a surprisingly delicate, savory taste.
• Huangshan Braised Pigeon: Tender and aromatic, cooked with soy sauce, ginger, and local spices.
• Bamboo Shoots with Ham (Sunjian Shao Rou): A simple yet flavorful dish showcasing the region’s fresh produce.
• Huizhou Smoked Tofu: Firm tofu smoked over tea leaves and pine needles, served with chili sauce.

Top Restaurants to Experience Huangshan’s Culture

1. Laojie Diyilou (Old Street First Floor)

Located in Tunxi Old Street, this restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The rustic wooden interiors and traditional decor transport diners back to ancient Huizhou.

Signature Dishes:
- Steamed Stone Frog with Ham
- Braised Pork Belly with Chestnuts

Why Visit?
The restaurant often hosts live performances of Huangmei Opera, a local art form, making it a cultural and culinary experience.

2. Mingyue Restaurant

Perched near the foothills of Huangshan, Mingyue offers stunning mountain views alongside its authentic Huizhou dishes. The menu changes seasonally to highlight the freshest local ingredients.

Signature Dishes:
- Wild Vegetable Soup
- Tea-Smoked Duck

Why Visit?
The chefs use traditional charcoal stoves for cooking, infusing dishes with a distinct smoky flavor.

3. Xidi Renjia

Situated in the UNESCO-listed Xidi Village, this family-run restaurant serves homestyle meals in a 300-year-old ancestral house. The courtyard setting adds to the charm.

Signature Dishes:
- Steamed Fish with Pickled Vegetables
- Glutinous Rice Stuffed with Red Bean Paste (Hongdou Gao)

Why Visit?
After your meal, explore Xidi’s ancient alleyways and learn about Huizhou’s architectural heritage.

4. Hongcun Lakeview Restaurant

Overlooking the picturesque Moon Pond in Hongcun Village, this spot is perfect for a leisurely lunch. The menu features dishes inspired by centuries-old recipes.

Signature Dishes:
- Stir-Fried Wild Mushrooms
- Sweet Osmanthus Cake

Why Visit?
The restaurant’s terrace offers one of the best views in Hongcun, especially at sunset.

5. Huizhou Gourmet Street (Tunxi Night Market)

For a more casual experience, head to Tunxi’s bustling night market. Street vendors serve up local snacks like shao bing (sesame cakes) and jianbing (savory crepes).

Must-Try Street Foods:
- Grilled Stinky Tofu
- Sweet Rice Wine Balls (Jiu Niang Yuanzi)

Why Visit?
It’s a lively way to mingle with locals and taste a variety of flavors in one go.

Pairing Food with Huangshan’s Tea Culture

No visit to Huangshan is complete without sampling its world-famous teas. Many restaurants offer tea-pairing menus or host traditional tea ceremonies.

Best Teas to Try:

• Huangshan Maofeng: A light, floral green tea grown in the mountain’s misty climate.
• Keemun Black Tea: A robust, aromatic tea often served with smoked dishes.

Where to Sip:

• Taoyuan Teahouse: A serene spot in Tangkou Town, perfect for unwinding after a hike.
• Huizhou Tea Museum: Learn about tea history while tasting rare blends.

Tips for Dining Like a Local

• Embrace the Slow Pace: Meals in Huizhou are meant to be savored, not rushed.
• Ask for Seasonal Specials: Chefs take pride in using fresh, local ingredients.
• Try the Pickles: Huizhou’s fermented vegetables are a staple side dish.

Whether you’re dining in a centuries-old village or a modern tea house, Huangshan’s restaurants offer more than just food—they’re a gateway to the region’s soul.