Chongqing Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Chongqing. Your complete guide to dining in Chongqing.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Chongqing! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Chongqing has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Chongqing's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Chongqing like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Chongqing offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
- Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
- Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
- Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere
Must-Try Restaurants
From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Chongqing.
Huangfu Fat Beef Slices
Highly rated Restaurant in Chongqing with 5 stars from 1 reviews.
📍 China, Chong Qing Shi, Yong Chuan Qu, Hong He Da Dao, 106号天秀锦地四期 邮政编码: 402171
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Yi Er Gu Bai Muslim Chongqing Hotpot
Highly rated Chinese in Chongqing with 4.8 stars from 22 reviews.
📍 China, Chong Qing Shi, Yu Zhong Qu, CN 重庆市 渝中区 中兴路 9 9号附5号 邮政编码: 400010
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Chongqing Cygnet Sichuan Cuisine Restaurant
Highly rated Chinese in Chongqing with 5 stars from 3 reviews.
📍 58 Cang Bai Lu, Yu Zhong Qu, Chong Qing Shi, China, 400011
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
InterContinental Hotel Chongqing Yaxuan Chinese Food Restaurant
Highly rated Chinese in Chongqing with 4.8 stars from 5 reviews.
📍 101 Min Zu Lu, 解放碑商圈 Yu Zhong Qu, Chong Qing Shi, China, 400010
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Le Meridien Chongqing, Nan'an
Highly rated International in Chongqing with 4.3 stars from 97 reviews.
📍 10 Jiangnan Avenue, 四公里南岸区重庆市 China, 400060
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Zhou Shi Xiong Da Dao Yao Pian Hot Pot
Highly rated Chinese in Chongqing with 4.8 stars from 12 reviews.
📍 China, Chong Qing Shi, Yu Zhong Qu, CN 重庆市 渝中区 较场口民生路 9 9号附1号 邮政编码: 400010
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Zhushi Pangzi Lan Hot Pot
Highly rated Chinese in Chongqing with 4.1 stars from 12 reviews.
📍 2 Lin Jiang Lu, Yu Zhong Qu, Chong Qing Shi, China, 400011
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Chongqing Marriott Hotel
Highly rated International in Chongqing with 4.4 stars from 67 reviews.
📍 No 9 Yanyu Road, Nan'an District, 南岸区重庆市 China, 400060
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Chongqing Hot Pot
Highly rated Restaurant in Chongqing with 5 stars from 2 reviews.
📍 China, Chong Qing Shi, Fu Ling Qu, Feng Yang Da Dao, 13号附5 邮政编码: 408138
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Chongqing Noodle Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Chongqing with 4.7 stars from 3 reviews.
📍 HG7X+VH2, Zhong Shan Si Lu, Daxigou, Yu Zhong Qu, Chong Qing Shi, China, 400015
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Westin Chongqing Liberation Square
Highly rated International in Chongqing with 4.5 stars from 97 reviews.
📍 222 Xin Hua Lu, Yu Zhong Qu, Chong Qing Shi, China, 400010
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Shen Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Chongqing with 5 stars from 1 reviews.
📍 China, Chong Qing Shi, Yu Zhong Qu, 188, Min Zu Lu, 188号69楼丽思瑞酒店 邮政编码: 400011
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Street Food & Food Markets
Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Chongqing.
Jiaochangkou Night Market
Highly rated Restaurant in Chongqing with 4.4 stars from 20 reviews. Quick service for those on the go.
📍 China, Chong Qing Shi, Yu Zhong Qu, 183, 西南方向40米 邮政编码: 400012
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Chongqing.
Chongqing Haochi Street
Highly rated Chinese in Chongqing with 4.3 stars from 66 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Jiaochangkou Night Market
Highly rated Restaurant in Chongqing with 4.4 stars from 20 reviews. Quick service for those on the go.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
PI Pa Yuan Shi Wei Fresh Hotpot
Highly rated Chinese in Chongqing with 4.2 stars from 33 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
重庆小天鹅
Highly rated Restaurant in Chongqing with 3.9 stars from 10 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Ciqikou, Chongqing
Highly rated International in Chongqing with 4.3 stars from 815 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Shiweixian Hot Pot
Highly rated Chinese in Chongqing with 4.2 stars from 37 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Chongqing.
Ruoshui Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Chongqing with 5 stars from 4 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 66 Da Xi Gou He Jie, 66, Yu Zhong Qu, Chong Qing Shi, China, 400015
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Longmenhao Old Street
Highly rated International in Chongqing with 4.7 stars from 80 reviews.
📍 China, Chong Qing Shi, Nan An Qu, 140, 西北方向130米 邮政编码: 400012
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Ciqikou, Chongqing
Highly rated International in Chongqing with 4.3 stars from 815 reviews.
📍 Shapingba District, China, 400038
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Charlie Brown Cafe
Highly rated Cafe in Chongqing with 5 stars from 1 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 GGQ6+687, Da Ping Zheng Jie, Yu Zhong Qu, Chong Qing Shi, China, 400016
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Secret Garden
Highly rated Cafe in Chongqing with 5 stars from 1 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 11 Yu Song Yi Zhi Lu, 11, Yu Bei Qu, Chong Qing Shi, China, 401147
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Corner Cafe & Bistro
Highly rated Cafe in Chongqing with 5 stars from 1 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 HH5H+V64, Jiang Jia Xiang, 解放碑商圈 Yu Zhong Qu, Chong Qing Shi, China, 400011
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
真锅咖啡
Highly rated Cafe in Chongqing with 4.7 stars from 3 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Sai Ge Er Guo Ji Da Sha, 28 Wu Si Lu, Yu Zhong Qu, Chong Qing Shi, China, 400010
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Three Natural Bridges
Highly rated International in Chongqing with 4.8 stars from 227 reviews.
📍 CQHW+95R, Wulong District, China, 408513
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Chongqing.
Signature Dish
A must-try Chongqing specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Local Delicacy
This beloved Chongqing dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Traditional Recipe
Experience the authentic taste of Chongqing with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Street Food Favorite
Discover why this Chongqing specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Regional Specialty
This iconic Chongqing creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Seasonal Treat
A Chongqing classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Classic Comfort Food
A must-try Chongqing specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Modern Fusion
This beloved Chongqing dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Artisanal Product
Experience the authentic taste of Chongqing with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Heritage Recipe
Discover why this Chongqing specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Bars & Nightlife
Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Chongqing.
Kongpingzi Jiaoyou Pub
Highly rated Bar in Chongqing with 4.5 stars from 2 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 5 Bei Cheng Tian Jie, Jiang Bei Qu, Chong Qing Shi, China, 401147
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Commune
Highly rated Bar in Chongqing with 4.8 stars from 6 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 China, Chong Qing Shi, Jiang Bei Qu, CN 重庆市 江北区 鎏嘉码头A区 184 184号附10号 邮政编码: 400025
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Soho Bar
Highly rated Bar in Chongqing with 5 stars from 1 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 China, Chong Qing Shi, Wan Zhou Qu, 176, 正西方向60米 邮政编码: 404140
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Chongqing Forest Music Pub
Highly rated Bar in Chongqing with 5 stars from 1 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 China, Chong Qing Shi, Yu Zhong Qu, CN 重庆市 渝中区 88 洪崖洞民俗风貌旅游区 邮政编码: 400011
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Flavor Lounge
Highly rated International in Chongqing with 5 stars from 5 reviews.
📍 China, Chong Qing Shi, Yu Zhong Qu, 较场口 邮政编码: 400012
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Mansion Impression Bar
Highly rated Bar in Chongqing with 4.5 stars from 2 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 China, Chong Qing Shi, Yu Zhong Qu, 解放碑商圈瓷器街HH3G+F48 邮政编码: 400012
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Essential Tips
- 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
- 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
- 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
- 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
- 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
- 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
- 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
- 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
- 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
- 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Chongqing's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.
Average Price
Dining costs in Chongqing vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Chongqing is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.
For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.
Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.
Most restaurants in Chongqing offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.
Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Chongqing specifically.
Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.
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