Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province, is famous not only for its breathtaking West Lake but also for its refined culinary traditions. As one of China’s eight great regional cuisines, Hangzhou cuisine (浙菜) emphasizes fresh ingredients, delicate flavors, and artistic presentation. This guide highlights the best restaurants in Hangzhou, from time-honored establishments to modern fusion spots.
1. Traditional Hangzhou Cuisine
A. Lou Wai Lou (楼外楼) – The Most Famous
📍 Location: No. 30, Gushan Road (near West Lake)
💰 Price Range: ¥150-300 per person
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes:
- West Lake Vinegar Fish (西湖醋鱼) – Sweet and sour braised grass carp
- Dongpo Pork (东坡肉) – Slow-braised pork belly named after poet Su Dongpo
- Shrimp with Longjing Tea (龙井虾仁) – Fresh shrimp stir-fried with premium tea leaves
Why Visit? Established in 1848, this historic restaurant has hosted Chinese leaders and foreign dignitaries. The lakeside view adds to the dining experience.
B. Zhi Wei Guan (知味观) – Best for Dim Sum & Snacks
📍 Locations: Multiple branches (including Hefang Street)
💰 Price Range: ¥50-150 per person
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes:
- Cat Ear Noodles (猫耳朵) – Shell-shaped pasta in savory broth
- Beggar’s Chicken (叫化鸡) – Chicken baked in lotus leaves
- Hangzhou-style Xiaolongbao (小笼包)
Why Visit? A great place to sample affordable local snacks in a casual setting.
2. Modern & Fusion Restaurants
A. Jin Sha (金沙厅) – Luxury Dining at Four Seasons
📍 Location: Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou
💰 Price Range: ¥500-1,000 per person
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes:
- Braised Abalone with Black Truffle
- Crispy Duck with Foie Gras
- Hangzhou-style Lobster
Why Visit? Michelin-starred fine dining with a contemporary twist on Zhejiang cuisine.
B. Xixi Wetland Rama Club (西溪湿地罗玛俱乐部) – Scenic Lakeside Dining
📍 Location: Inside Xixi Wetland Park
💰 Price Range: ¥300-600 per person
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes:
- Tea-Smoked Duck (茶熏鸭)
- Bamboo Shoot Stew (笋干老鸭煲)
Why Visit? A peaceful retreat with traditional architecture and seasonal dishes.
3. Hidden Gems & Local Favorites
A. Grandma’s Restaurant (外婆家) – Affordable & Popular
📍 Locations: Multiple branches (including Hubin Yintai)
💰 Price Range: ¥60-120 per person
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes:
- Braised Pork Belly with Preserved Vegetables (梅干菜扣肉)
- Stir-Fried Rice Cakes with Egg (蛋炒年糕)
Why Visit? A beloved chain offering homestyle Hangzhou dishes at wallet-friendly prices.
B. Green Tea Restaurant (绿茶) – Trendy & Budget-Friendly
📍 Locations: Multiple branches (including West Lake)
💰 Price Range: ¥70-150 per person
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes:
- Bread with Ice Cream (面包诱惑) – A sweet, crispy dessert
- Fish Head with Tofu (鱼头豆腐)
Why Visit? A youthful vibe with creative takes on classic dishes.
4. Vegetarian & Tea House Dining
A. Lingyin Vegetarian Restaurant (灵隐素斋) – Temple Cuisine
📍 Location: Inside Lingyin Temple
💰 Price Range: ¥80-150 per person
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes:
- Mushroom “Goose” (素鹅) – Tofu skin wrapped around mushrooms
- Lotus Root Stuffed with Glutinous Rice (糯米藕)
Why Visit? A serene vegetarian dining experience in a Buddhist temple setting.
B. 1921湖景餐厅 (1921 Lakeside Restaurant) – Tea & Cuisine Pairing
📍 Location: Near West Lake
💰 Price Range: ¥200-400 per person
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes:
- Longjing Tea-Infused Dishes
- Steamed Crab with Huadiao Wine (花雕醉蟹)
Why Visit? A refined tea house offering dishes cooked with Hangzhou’s famous Longjing tea.
5. Street Food & Markets
A. Hefang Street (河坊街) – Snack Paradise
🍢 Must-Try Street Eats:
- Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐) – Fermented tofu fried crispy
- Sugao (酥糕) – Sweet glutinous rice cakes
- Congyou Bing (葱油饼) – Scallion pancakes
B. Wushan Night Market (吴山夜市) – Local Night Bites
🍡 Best Picks:
- Grilled Squid (烤鱿鱼)
- Jianbing (煎饼) – Savory Chinese crepes
6. Dining Tips for Visitors
✔ Reservations – Book ahead for Lou Wai Lou and Jin Sha (especially on weekends).
✔ Peak Hours – Lunch (11:30 AM–1 PM) and dinner (5:30–7:30 PM) can be crowded.
✔ Payment – Most places accept Alipay/WeChat Pay; carry some cash for small vendors.
Final Thoughts
From centuries-old banquets to trendy fusion eateries, Hangzhou’s dining scene offers something for every palate. Whether you’re savoring Dongpo Pork by West Lake or exploring street food alleys, each meal tells a story of Hangzhou’s rich culinary heritage.
Have a favorite Hangzhou dish? Share your recommendations in the comments!
