Hangzhou Food Guide 2026:
West Lake Views, Tea Houses & Refined Cuisine
Hangzhou is China's most elegant food city—where lakeside teahouses, delicate Jiangnan dishes, and world-famous Longjing tea create an unforgettable culinary experience.
Hangzhou at a Glance
Hangzhou is China's most romantic food destination. The city wraps around the iconic West Lake, and its cuisine reflects that beauty—refined, slightly sweet, and beautifully presented.
Jiangnan cuisine (江南菜) from this region is known for its delicate flavors, fresh ingredients, and artistic plating. This is Chinese food at its most sophisticated—perfect for travelers who prefer subtlety over spice.
This guide focuses on the classic Hangzhou dishes, lakeside dining, and the tea culture that makes this city truly special.
Why Hangzhou Belongs on Your 2026 Itinerary
Hangzhou ranks No.9 in our Top 10 Food Cities guide—here's why it's worth the trip.
1. Food with a view
Nowhere else in China combines scenery and cuisine so perfectly. Dine by West Lake, walk through willow-lined paths, and sip tea in century-old teahouses.
2. World-famous Longjing tea
Hangzhou produces China's most celebrated green tea. Visit tea villages, learn about tea culture, and taste Longjing at its freshest.
3. Gentle flavors for all palates
No spice shock here. Hangzhou food is subtle, slightly sweet, and beginner-friendly—ideal if you're new to Chinese cuisine or traveling with family.
4. Easy day trip from Shanghai
Just 45 minutes by high-speed rail from Shanghai. Perfect for a day trip or overnight escape from the big city.
Must-Eat Hangzhou Dishes
These three dishes define Hangzhou cuisine—each one tells a story.
West Lake Fish · 西湖醋鱼
Whole grass carp poached and served in a sweet and sour sauce. The fish must be silky and fresh, the sauce glossy and balanced. Named after the famous lake, this is Hangzhou's signature dish.
Dongpo Pork · 东坡肉
Cubes of pork belly braised for hours until meltingly tender, served in a clay pot. Named after the poet Su Dongpo who supposedly invented it. Rich, slightly sweet, and absolutely luscious.
Longjing Shrimp · 龙井虾仁
Fresh river shrimp wok-fried with Longjing tea leaves. The tea adds a subtle vegetal note and beautiful green color. Simple, elegant, and quintessentially Hangzhou.
Shortcut: 1 Day, 3 Essential Hangzhou Bites
- Morning: Tea and snacks at a lakeside teahouse
- Lunch: West Lake fish + Dongpo pork at Lou Wai Lou
- Afternoon: Longjing shrimp + seasonal vegetables
Where to Eat: Neighborhoods & Vibes
1. West Lake (西湖) Area — Scenic Dining
The most famous area. Historic restaurants like Lou Wai Lou offer lake views with classic Hangzhou dishes. Touristy but essential.
2. Hefang Street (河坊街) — Old Town Snacks
Historic pedestrian street with traditional snacks, medicine shops, and souvenir stores. Good for casual snacking and atmosphere.
3. Longjing Village (龙井村) — Tea & Countryside
Tea plantations in the hills above the city. Simple farm restaurants serve fresh tea and homestyle cooking with mountain views.
4. Wulin Square Area — Modern Hangzhou
Shopping district with modern restaurants and food courts. Good for contemporary Jiangnan cuisine and international options.
Lakeside restaurant menus in Chinese?
Traditional Hangzhou restaurants often have Chinese-only menus. Use Chinese Food Decoder to understand every elegant dish.
Tea Culture Guide
Hangzhou is the home of Longjing (Dragon Well) tea—China's most famous green tea:
Tea Experiences
- 🍃 Longjing Village — Visit the source. Tea farmers sell directly, and you can watch tea being processed.
- 🏯 Lakeside teahouses — Sit by West Lake with endless tea refills. The experience is as important as the tea.
- 🫖 Tea ceremony — Learn the proper way to brew and appreciate Longjing at cultural centers.
- 🌱 Spring harvest (明前茶) — Visit in March/April for the prized pre-Qingming harvest.
Pro Tip: Buying Tea
Be wary of "too good to be true" tea prices. Genuine Longjing is expensive. Buy from reputable shops or directly in Longjing Village, and taste before you buy.
48-Hour Eating Plan
Day 1: West Lake & Classics
- Morning: Walk around West Lake, tea at a lakeside teahouse
- Lunch: Lou Wai Lou for West Lake fish and Dongpo pork
- Afternoon: Explore Hefang Street, try local snacks
- Evening: Elegant dinner with seasonal Jiangnan dishes
Day 2: Tea Villages & Beyond
- Morning: Visit Longjing Village, buy tea, enjoy the scenery
- Lunch: Farm restaurant in the tea hills
- Afternoon: Return to city, explore modern Hangzhou
- Evening: High-speed rail back to Shanghai (or stay!)
Practical Tips
💳 Payment
WeChat Pay and Alipay everywhere. Hangzhou is one of China's most cashless cities.
🕐 Timing
Lunch: 11:30–13:30. Dinner: 17:30–20:30. West Lake restaurants get crowded on weekends—book ahead.
🗣️ Language
Limited English. Tourist areas are easier to navigate. Translation apps are essential.
🚇 Getting Around
Subway covers main areas. DiDi works well. West Lake area is best explored on foot or by bike.
Ready for Elegant Hangzhou Dining?
Download Chinese Food Decoder before your trip. Navigate lakeside restaurants with confidence.