Guangzhou Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience

Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Guangzhou. Your complete guide to dining in Guangzhou.

ByFun Around Me Team
5 min read

Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Guangzhou! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Guangzhou 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 Guangzhou's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Guangzhou like a true food lover.

Key Takeaways

  • Guangzhou 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 Guangzhou.

Mercato

Highly rated Restaurant in Guangzhou with 4.5 stars from 58 reviews.

📍 China, L802 Tian He Qu, CN 广东省 广州市 天河区 珠江东路 6 6号K11购物艺术中心8楼 邮政编码: 510623

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Dagefan

Highly rated Chinese in Guangzhou with 4.6 stars from 111 reviews.

📍 68 Xi Hu Lu, Yue Xiu Qu, Guang Zhou Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 510115

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine

1920 Restaurant and Bar

Highly rated Restaurant in Guangzhou with 4.6 stars from 34 reviews.

📍 China, Guang Dong Sheng, Guang Zhou Shi, Tian He Qu, Hai Qing Lu, 广粤天地72-78 邮政编码: 510627

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Shangdian

Highly rated Restaurant in Guangzhou with 4.8 stars from 46 reviews.

📍 484F+MF3, Bin Jiang Dong Lu, Hai Zhu Qu, Guang Zhou Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 510310

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Bandidos Mexican Cantina

Highly rated Mexican in Guangzhou with 4.9 stars from 130 reviews.

📍 105 Hua Xun Jie, 珠江新城 Tian He Qu, Guang Zhou Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 510627

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Mexican cuisine

Bosphorus Turkish Restaurant

Highly rated Restaurant in Guangzhou with 4.4 stars from 770 reviews.

📍 304 Huan Shi Zhong Lu, Yue Xiu Qu, Guang Zhou Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 510045

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience

Tiger Prawn Vietnamese Restaurant

Highly rated Vietnamese in Guangzhou with 4.6 stars from 277 reviews.

📍 548 Hui Fu Dong Lu, Yue Xiu Qu, Guang Zhou Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 510115

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Vietnamese cuisine

Bingsheng Seafood Restaurant

Highly rated Restaurant in Guangzhou with 4.6 stars from 78 reviews.

📍 33 Dong Xiao Lu, Hai Zhu Qu, Guang Zhou Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 510230

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Guangzhou Restaurant

Highly rated Chinese in Guangzhou with 4.1 stars from 177 reviews.

📍 2 Wen Chang Nan Lu, 上下九地区 Li Wan Qu, Guang Zhou Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 510140

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine

Liufuji

Highly rated Chinese in Guangzhou with 4.7 stars from 20 reviews.

📍 45 Wen De Lu, Yue Xiu Qu, Guang Zhou Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 510115

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Bingsheng Taste

Highly rated Chinese in Guangzhou with 4.3 stars from 151 reviews.

📍 168 Tian He Dong Lu, Tian He Qu, Guang Zhou Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 510620

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine

Taotaoju

Highly rated Chinese in Guangzhou with 4.3 stars from 110 reviews.

📍 China, Guang Dong Sheng, Guang Zhou Shi, Yue Xiu Qu, 168, Bei Jing Lu, 168号7层粤海仰忠汇 邮政编码: 510115

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine

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 Guangzhou.

Guangzhou Baima Costume Market

Highly rated International in Guangzhou with 4.4 stars from 534 reviews.

📍 16 Zhan Nan Lu, Yue Xiu Qu, Guang Zhou Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 510499

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Wangshengtang Wangjiao Jieshi

Highly rated International in Guangzhou with 4.4 stars from 417 reviews.

📍 China, Guang Dong Sheng, Guang Zhou Shi, Yue Xiu Qu, 后街562W+PHC 邮政编码: 510499

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Shengxian Dashatou Second-Hand Trade Market

Highly rated International in Guangzhou with 4.4 stars from 100 reviews.

📍 2 Lv Yin Lu, Yue Xiu Qu, Guang Zhou Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 510100

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Yide Road Wholesale Markets

Highly rated International in Guangzhou with 4.5 stars from 24 reviews.

📍 Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, China, 510030

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

黄沙水产交易市场

Highly rated International in Guangzhou with 4.2 stars from 100 reviews.

📍 11 Huang Sha Da Dao, Li Wan Qu, Guang Zhou Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 510150

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Luoxi Food Street

Highly rated International in Guangzhou with 4 stars from 36 reviews.

📍 China, Guang Dong Sheng, Guang Zhou Shi, Pan Yu Qu, 北环路27WW+QC3 邮政编码: 511430

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Guangzhou Street Night Market

Highly rated International in Guangzhou with 4.1 stars from 15241 reviews.

📍 Guangzhou St, Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan 108

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Shahe clothing wholesale market in the third breakout

Highly rated International in Guangzhou with 4.1 stars from 38 reviews.

📍 China, Guang Dong Sheng, Guang Zhou Shi, Tian He Qu, 濂泉路15号 邮政编码: 510075

  • 🍽️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 Guangzhou.

Cafes & Bakeries

Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Guangzhou.

LOCKCHUCKCOFFEE

Highly rated Cafe in Guangzhou with 4.9 stars from 57 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 101-6, 犀牛尾村越秀区广州市广东省 China, 510400

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Apf. Kafe

Highly rated Cafe in Guangzhou with 5 stars from 25 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 40 Hua Kang Jie, Tian He Qu, Guang Zhou Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 510620

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Starbucks Coffee

Highly rated Cafe in Guangzhou with 4.2 stars from 178 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 China, Guang Dong Sheng, Guang Zhou Shi, Li Wan Qu, 沙面 Sha Mian Da Jie, 50号-52号 邮政编码: 510130

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Yongqingfang

Highly rated Chinese in Guangzhou with 4.5 stars from 199 reviews.

📍 China, Guang Dong Sheng, Guang Zhou Shi, Li Wan Qu, 43, 西南方向190米 邮政编码: 510150

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine

Kafelaku Coffee

Highly rated Cafe in Guangzhou with 4.2 stars from 31 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 1 Sha Mian Da Jie, 沙面 Li Wan Qu, Guang Zhou Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 510130

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Yuyuan Coffee

Highly rated Cafe in Guangzhou with 4.8 stars from 6 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 48HG+C59, Ti Yu Xi Heng Jie, 天河中心 Tian He Qu, Guang Zhou Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 510620

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Starbucks Coffee

Highly rated Cafe in Guangzhou with 4.6 stars from 15 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 China, Guang Dong Sheng, Guang Zhou Shi, Tian He Qu, Lin He Xi Lu, 161号中泰国际广场1 楼105号铺 邮政编码: 510507

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Starbucks Coffee

Highly rated Cafe in Guangzhou with 4.4 stars from 21 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

📍 Tianhe District, Guangzhou, China, 510620

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Local Specialties & Signature Dishes

Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Guangzhou.

Signature Dish

A must-try Guangzhou 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 Guangzhou 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 Guangzhou 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 Guangzhou 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 Guangzhou 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 Guangzhou 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 Guangzhou 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 Guangzhou 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 Guangzhou 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 Guangzhou 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 Guangzhou.

Hill Bar

Highly rated Bar in Guangzhou with 4.1 stars from 28 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

📍 367 Huan Shi Dong Lu, 环市东路沿线 Yue Xiu Qu, Guang Zhou Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 510098

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Party Pier Plaza

Highly rated International in Guangzhou with 4.6 stars from 199 reviews.

📍 485R+283, Yue Jiang Xi Lu, Hai Zhu Qu, Guang Zhou Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 510308

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Sofitel Guangzhou Sunrich Paris No.8 Pub

Highly rated Bar in Guangzhou with 4.4 stars from 38 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

📍 China, Guang Dong Sheng, Guang Zhou Shi, Tian He Qu, Guang Zhou Da Dao Zhong, 988号广州圣丰索菲特大酒店8层 邮政编码: 510075

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Jojo's Riverside

Highly rated Restaurant in Guangzhou with 4.4 stars from 34 reviews.

📍 B11 Yue Jiang Xi Lu, Hai Zhu Qu, Guang Zhou Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 510308

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

田野西餐厅

Highly rated Bar in Guangzhou with 4.4 stars from 21 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

📍 38 Hua Le Lu, Yue Xiu Qu, Guang Zhou Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 510060

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

191 Space

Highly rated Bar in Guangzhou with 4.2 stars from 17 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

📍 191 Guang Zhou Da Dao Zhong, Yue Xiu Qu, Guang Zhou Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 510600

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️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

Guangzhou'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 Guangzhou 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

Guangzhou 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 Guangzhou 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 Guangzhou 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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