Must-Try Dishes in Chongqing

Chongqing, located in southwestern China, is not just famous for its stunning scenery and bustling streets, but also for its distinct culinary heritage. Chongqing cuisine, or Yu cuisine, is a vital branch of Sichuan cuisine, known for its bold flavors characterized by "numbing," spicy, fresh, tender, and hot elements. The unique blend of flavors and cooking techniques has shaped a regional style with a strong cultural influence. For those looking to indulge in Chongqing’s culinary delights, here’s a guide to some must-eat dishes and the best places to enjoy them.

1. Chongqing Hotpot (重庆火锅)

No trip to Chongqing is complete without trying its iconic hotpot. Originating in the late Ming and early Qing dynasties, Chongqing hotpot was first developed by boatmen as a way to keep warm. What sets it apart from other regional variations, like Sichuan hotpot, is the use of a 60:40 blend of beef tallow and water, making the broth rich and intensely flavored. The broth is typically spiced with a heavy dose of numbing Sichuan peppercorns and fiery dried chilies, creating a bold, spicy flavor that fans of spicy food will love.

Recommended Restaurant:  Zhi Yan He Wharf Hotpot (纸盐河码头火锅) – Hongya Cave Branch  

Located near the iconic Hongya Cave, this hotpot restaurant offers an authentic experience with a scenic view. The traditional decor and proximity to popular landmarks make it a perfect spot for tourists.

• Address: 58 Cangbai Road, Jiefangbei, Chongqing
• Getting There: Accessible via Metro Lines 1 and 6 (Xiaoshizi Station) or Line 2 (Linjiangmen Station).

2. Chongqing Noodles (重庆小面)

Chongqing noodles, known as “Xiaomian,” are a favorite among locals and are available at nearly every corner. The most common version is a spicy, vegetarian noodle dish, though meat toppings can also be added. The noodles are springy and firm, served with a mouthwatering sauce made from oil, chili, and Sichuan peppercorns.

Recommended Restaurant:  Dong Xiaomian (董小面)  

Famous for its perfectly balanced chili oil and tantalizing flavor, Dong Xiaomian is a must-visit for noodle lovers. Many diners rave about its unforgettable spiciness.

• Address: Inside the underground passageway of Sanjiaobei, 29 Xiaoxin Street, Shapingba District
• Getting There: Bus routes 220, 237, and 260, stopping at Shapingba Sanjiaobei Station.

3. Ciqikou Crispy Twists (磁器口麻花)

Known as “Chen Mahua,” these crispy twists are the quintessential snack in Ciqikou, an ancient town near Chongqing. The mahua comes in various flavors, including spicy, savory, and sweet, with a crispy exterior and soft, chewy center.

Recommended Restaurant:  Chen Jianping Mahua (陈建平麻花)  

The most well-known brand in Ciqikou, Chen Jianping’s mahua is perfect for a souvenir or snack as you stroll through the ancient streets.

• Address: 60 Zheng Street, Ciqikou Ancient Town
• Getting There: Metro Line 1, Ciqikou Station, followed by a 10-minute walk.

4. Spicy and Sour Noodles (酸辣粉)

Originally from Sichuan, this dish has spread to many parts of China, but Chongqing's version stands out for its intense spiciness and sour kick. Made from sweet potato starch noodles, it is served in a tangy, spicy broth.

Recommended Restaurant:  Hao You Lai Sour Noodles (好又来酸辣粉) – Bayi Road Main Branch  

Located in Chongqing’s famous snack street, this small shop may look unassuming, but it attracts long lines of locals and tourists alike.

• Address: Bayi Road Snack Street, near Suning Plaza, Jiefangbei
• Getting There: Metro Line 1 or 2, Jiefangbei Station.

5. Wanzhou Grilled Fish (万州烤鱼)

Wanzhou grilled fish combines the techniques of grilling and boiling. The fish is marinated and grilled to perfection, then served in a spicy, bubbling broth. The crispy exterior contrasts with the tender, flavorful fish inside.

Recommended Restaurant:  Tan Ji Wang Wanzhou Grilled Fish (谭记王正宗万州烤鱼)  

Known as one of Chongqing’s top 10 grilled fish spots, this restaurant is praised for its perfectly grilled, juicy fish.

• Address: 92 North Street, Shapingba District
• Getting There: Easily accessible from Shapingba Station.

6. Qianjiang Chicken Giblets (黔江鸡杂)

This traditional dish, stir-fried with pickled chilies, ginger, and garlic, offers a burst of umami flavor. It’s a spicy, savory dish that will make your mouth water. It's best eaten with a side of vegetables, which soak up the flavorful sauce.

Recommended Restaurant:  Maozhuang First Ancient Town Chicken Giblets (茂庄第一家古镇鸡杂)  

Located in Ciqikou, this famous restaurant is credited with pioneering this regional delicacy. Be sure to order the spicy version!

• Address: 74–78 Zheng Street, Ciqikou Ancient Town
• Getting There: Metro Line 1 to Ciqikou Station.

7. Spring Water Chicken (泉水鸡)

Originating from the scenic Nanshan region, spring water chicken is cooked in pure, clean spring water, resulting in a tender, flavorful dish. Spicy, fragrant, and savory, this dish will leave you craving more.

Recommended Restaurant:  Zhulou Spring Water Chicken Restaurant (竹楼泉水鸡酒楼)  
Famous for its traditional preparation method, this restaurant serves up some of the best spring water chicken in the city.

• Address: 249 Chongwen Road, Huangjueya, Chongqing
• Getting There: Take Bus 384 to Caribe Water World Station.

8. Boiled Fish (水煮鱼)

Boiled fish is a staple of Chongqing’s “Jianghu” cuisine, known for its spicy, numbing flavors. The dish is prepared by boiling fresh fish in a spicy broth loaded with Sichuan peppercorns, creating an explosion of flavors in every bite.

Recommended Restaurant:  Yuxin Sichuan Cuisine (渝信川菜) – Nanbin Branch  

This restaurant offers panoramic views of the Yangtze River, adding a scenic backdrop to your meal.

• Address: 67 Nanbin Road
• Getting There: Bus routes 338, 353, or 375 to Xiaoyue Road Station.

9. Chongqing Spicy Chicken (辣子鸡)

Hailing from the streets of Gele Mountain, spicy chicken is known for its crispy texture and intense heat. The chicken is fried and then stir-fried with copious amounts of dried chilies and Sichuan peppercorns, making it a perfect dish for spice lovers.

Recommended Restaurant:  Yang Ji Long Fu (杨记隆府) – Jiefangbei Main Branch  
Combining traditional Chongqing décor with bold flavors, this restaurant serves up some of the best spicy chicken in the city.

• Address: 32 Linjiang Road, Jiefangbei
• Getting There: Metro Line 2 to Linjiangmen Station, or Lines 1 and 6 to Xiaoshizi Station.