10 Must-Try Classic Dishes in Zhejiang: Local Favorites You Can't Miss!

When you're in Zhejiang, soaking up the beauty of the Jiangnan water towns is a must, but don't forget to treat yourself to the region's delicious cuisine! We've put together a list of the top 10 classic dishes that locals swear by. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you! Don't say we didn't warn you if you skip these culinary gems!

Longjing Shrimp is a celebrated dish hailing from Hangzhou, adored by food lovers both in China and around the globe. This delightful recipe combines fresh river shrimp with the unique flavor of green tea, creating a mouthwatering experience that keeps people coming back for more! The preparation starts by blanching the shrimp in boiling water until they're nearly cooked through. Next, they are swiftly stir-fried with Longjing tea and a bit of lard to lock in the flavors. The result? Shrimp that are crystal clear and infused with the enticing aroma of tea. It's a standout in Zhejiang cuisine and an absolute must-try!

Named after the famous Song Dynasty poet Su Shi, also known as "Dongpo," Dongpo Pork is a standout dish in Shaoxing cuisine. This delectable creation features pork belly that's diced and then braised to perfection with soy sauce, rice wine, rock sugar, and a blend of other seasonings. The result? A mouthwatering dish that's rich and full of flavor, with a tender texture that practically melts in your mouth. Despite its richness, it's not greasy and has a lovely hint of wine aroma, making it the perfect companion to a bowl of steaming rice!

Dating back to the Southern Song Dynasty, West Lake Vinegar Fish is a delightful dish made from fresh crucian carp cooked with vinegar. This culinary gem is celebrated for its sweet and sour taste that practically melts in your mouth with every bite. Traditionally, the fish is steamed first, and then it's topped with a fragrant mix of vinegar, sugar, and wine. This method ensures the fish stays tender and intact, while the vinegar flavor becomes beautifully mellow. Its refreshing taste makes it a perfect choice for a summer meal.

When it comes to breakfast in Hangzhou, Qian'er Chuan is a beloved favorite among the locals. Not only is it delicious, but it's also incredibly budget-friendly, costing just a few yuan to enjoy a satisfying meal! This tasty treat starts with a batter mixed with goodies like chives and dried shrimp, which is then poured onto a hot iron plate. The magic happens when various sauces are drizzled over it before it's folded up into a scrumptious Qian'er Chuan. Each bite delivers a delightful contrast of a crispy outside and a soft, savory inside—no wonder it's such a hit for breakfast in Hangzhou!

Have you ever heard of Song Sister Fish Soup? The story goes that this delightful dish was crafted by the wife of Han Shizhong, a famous general from the Southern Song Dynasty who battled against the Jurchens. This soup is a beautiful blend of fish soup and egg custard, made with fresh fish and eggs mixed into a smooth, creamy concoction. The result is a rich, flavorful soup with a silky, tender texture and a broth that hits the perfect balance of sweet and savory. It's a beloved taste of home for the people of Hangzhou, a comforting dish they've cherished since they were kids!

If you're a fan of braised pork dishes, you simply can't miss out on Shaoxing Lion's Head. Hailing from the Jiangsu and Zhejiang regions, this dish is a true classic. It all starts with finely chopped pork hind leg meat, which is mixed with a blend of seasonings. The secret to its unique texture lies in the hand-kneading process that makes the meat sticky. These large meatballs, shaped to resemble a lion's head, are then deep-fried at high heat to achieve a beautiful color. The final touch is simmering them in broth, allowing them to soak up all those delicious flavors. One bite and you'll experience a tender, juicy delight that's bursting with aroma!

If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly captures the essence of Thousand Island Lake, you have to try the Thousand Island Lake Fish Head. This culinary delight features a plump head fish, fresh from the lake, simmered to perfection with tomatoes, ginger, and scallions. The result? A broth that’s an irresistible mix of sour and spicy, with fish meat that’s tender and melts in your mouth. Just be mindful of the bones – take your time to enjoy each bite and savor the exquisite flavors!

Dating back to the Song Dynasty, Ningbo rice cake has been a beloved treat for over a thousand years. This delightful snack is crafted from premium glutinous rice, which is steamed, sliced into bite-sized pieces, and then fried to a perfect golden crisp. The result is a wonderful contrast of textures: a crunchy exterior with a soft, chewy interior. Its taste is subtly sweet, making it a perfect balance without being too rich. Locals love to enjoy rice cakes with hot soup or braised pork, especially during New Year celebrations, as they symbolize the hope for continuous prosperity. Moreover, Ningbo rice cakes are a cherished gift, often shared among friends and family.

If you're looking to try a beloved traditional treat, the Wenzhou fish cake is a must! This delightful dish starts with fresh fish like catfish or pomfret, which are finely minced and pounded until they reach the perfect texture. The fish is then mixed with sweet potato flour, sesame oil, and a few other secret ingredients, and shaped into chewy, springy fish balls. These fish balls are simmered in a rich, flavorful broth and topped with a fragrant soy sauce that's been infused with sautéed shallots. The result? An aroma that's simply irresistible and a taste that's even better!

If you’re a seafood lover, Zhoushan in Zhejiang is a paradise you must visit. Surrounded entirely by the sea, this place is famous for its fresh and bountiful seafood. Whether you prefer it steamed, braised, or sprinkled with salt and pepper, the seafood here is always cooked to perfection. Imagine savoring juicy and meaty hairy crabs, crispy and tender shrimp, and fresh, delicate fish. Zhoushan’s seafood is a culinary delight that you simply can’t afford to miss when you’re in Zhejiang!