Nanjing Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Nanjing. Your complete guide to dining in Nanjing.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Nanjing! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Nanjing 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 Nanjing's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Nanjing like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Nanjing 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 Nanjing.
Lamiacasa Italian Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Nanjing with 4.5 stars from 11 reviews.
📍 14 Nan Xiu Cun, Gu Lou Qu, Nan Jing Shi, Jiang Su Sheng, China, 210008
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
AL-JANNAT Indian Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Nanjing with 4.8 stars from 43 reviews.
📍 3Q9H+58J, Shi Zi Qiao, Gu Lou Qu, Nan Jing Shi, Jiang Su Sheng, China, 210008
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Long Yin Shan Fang
Highly rated Chinese in Nanjing with 4.8 stars from 4 reviews.
📍 888 Shen Feng Lu, 888, Shang Fang Zhen, Jiang Ning Qu, Nan Jing Shi, Jiang Su Sheng, China, 211122
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Nanjing Dahui
Highly rated Chinese in Nanjing with 4.3 stars from 55 reviews.
📍 China, Jiang Su Sheng, Nan Jing Shi, Xuan Wu Qu, 新街口地区 Zhong Shan Lu, 18号德基广场1期7层 邮政编码: 210005
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Nanjing Food Stall
Highly rated Restaurant in Nanjing with 4.8 stars from 6 reviews.
📍 China, Jiang Su Sheng, Nan Jing Shi, Jiang Ning Qu, Zhu Shan Lu, 68号F4层 邮政编码: 211112
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Nanjing Sidewalk Snack Booth
Highly rated Chinese in Nanjing with 4.7 stars from 7 reviews.
📍 China, Nan Jing Shi, Xuan Wu Qu, CN 江苏省 南京市 玄武区 1912 街区A6 邮政编码: 210002
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Poets Restaurant & Lounge
Highly rated Restaurant in Nanjing with 4.8 stars from 9 reviews.
📍 2QWP+M26, Han Jia Xiang, 新街口地区 Xuan Wu Qu, Nan Jing Shi, Jiang Su Sheng, China, 210005
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Saizeriya Italian Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Nanjing with 4.4 stars from 16 reviews.
📍 China, Jiang Su Sheng, Nan Jing Shi, Bai Xia Qu, 新街口地区 Han Zhong Lu, 139号2层 邮政编码: 210005
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Jumeirah Nanjing Hotel
Highly rated International in Nanjing with 4.8 stars from 23 reviews.
📍 2 Yecheng Road, Jianye District, 建邺区南京市江苏省 China, 210019
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Secco Restaurant & Bar
Highly rated Restaurant in Nanjing with 4.7 stars from 7 reviews.
📍 14 Nan Xiu Cun, 建邺区 Nan Jing Shi, Jiang Su Sheng, China, 210009
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Muslim Maxiangxing Restaurant
Highly rated Chinese in Nanjing with 4.4 stars from 19 reviews.
📍 China, Nan Jing Shi, Gu Lou Qu, 江苏省南京市鼓楼区云南北路32号 邮政编码: 210009
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Sichuan Restaurant
Highly rated Chinese in Nanjing with 5 stars from 1 reviews.
📍 28 Zhao Shang Jie, Jiang Ning Qu, Nan Jing Shi, Jiang Su Sheng, China, 211106
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️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 Nanjing.
Confucius Temple Great Market
Highly rated International in Nanjing with 4.2 stars from 6 reviews.
📍 188 Ping Jiang Fu Lu, 夫子庙地区 Qin Huai Qu, Nan Jing Shi, Jiang Su Sheng, China, 210001
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Confucius Temple People's Market
Highly rated International in Nanjing with 4.8 stars from 15 reviews.
📍 China, Jiang Su Sheng, Nan Jing Shi, Qin Huai Qu, 夫子庙夫子庙景区步行街2Q9Q+FM7 邮政编码: 210004
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Wal-Mart
Highly rated International in Nanjing with 3.9 stars from 29 reviews.
📍 China, Jiang Su Sheng, Nan Jing Shi, 白下区新街口地区洪武路88号南京万达广场 邮政编码: 210005
- 🍽️Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Jinqiao Market
Highly rated International in Nanjing with 4 stars from 3 reviews.
📍 12 Jian Ning Lu, 中央门 Xia Guan Qu, Nan Jing Shi, Jiang Su Sheng, China, 210037
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Golden Eagle International Shopping Center
Highly rated International in Nanjing with 4.3 stars from 10 reviews.
📍 1 Zhu Jiang Lu, Xuan Wu Qu, Nan Jing Shi, Jiang Su Sheng, China, 210008
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Nanjing King-Lion Electronics Shopping Center
Highly rated International in Nanjing with 3 stars from 1 reviews.
📍 2QXX+7WQ, Xu Jia Xiang, 珠江路 Xuan Wu Qu, Nan Jing Shi, Jiang Su Sheng, China, 210002
- 🍽️Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Deji Plaza
Highly rated International in Nanjing with 4.5 stars from 114 reviews.
📍 18 Zhong Shan Lu, 新街口 Xuan Wu Qu, Nan Jing Shi, Jiang Su Sheng, China, 210005
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Carrefour
Highly rated International in Nanjing with 4.7 stars from 3 reviews.
📍 7 Da Qiao Nan Lu, Gu Lou Qu, Nan Jing Shi, Jiang Su Sheng, China, 210015
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Nanjing.
Nanjing Confucius Temple-The Qinhuai River Scenic Area
Highly rated International in Nanjing with 4.6 stars from 156 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
Nanjing Food Stall
Highly rated Restaurant in Nanjing with 4.8 stars from 6 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
Qinwei Rice Noodles
Highly rated Chinese in Nanjing with 5 stars from 1 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
Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum
Highly rated International in Nanjing with 4.4 stars from 365 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
Kung Fu Snack
Highly rated Chinese in Nanjing with 5 stars from 1 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
Qinhuai River
Highly rated International in Nanjing with 4.4 stars from 151 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 Nanjing.
Maan Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Nanjing with 4.9 stars from 8 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 72 Tai Ping Bei Lu, 南京１９１２街 Xuan Wu Qu, Nan Jing Shi, Jiang Su Sheng, China, 210002
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Laomendong
Highly rated International in Nanjing with 4.5 stars from 52 reviews.
📍 China, Nan Jing Shi, 与 Jian Zi Xiang, 箍桶巷交汇处 邮政编码: 210004
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Sculpting in Time Cafe
Highly rated Cafe in Nanjing with 4.3 stars from 25 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 47 Han Kou Lu, Gu Lou Qu, Nan Jing Shi, Jiang Su Sheng, China, 210008
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street
Highly rated International in Nanjing with 4.5 stars from 1813 reviews.
📍 6FMF+VXJ, Nan Jing Lu Bu Xing Jie, Huang Pu Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200001
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Mojo Cafe
Highly rated Cafe in Nanjing with 4.4 stars from 9 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 505 Nan Jing Dong Lu, 南京路 Huang Pu Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200001
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Jumeirah Nanjing Hotel
Highly rated International in Nanjing with 4.8 stars from 23 reviews.
📍 2 Yecheng Road, Jianye District, 建邺区南京市江苏省 China, 210019
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Manner Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Nanjing with 4.4 stars from 42 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Shang Hai Bai Yu Lan Guang Chang, 1层588 Dong Chang Zhi Lu, 588, Hong Kou Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200086
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Maan Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Nanjing with 5 stars from 1 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 3Q3P+P67, Xue Jia Xiang, Xuan Wu Qu, Nan Jing Shi, Jiang Su Sheng, China, 210093
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Nanjing.
Signature Dish
A must-try Nanjing 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 Nanjing 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 Nanjing 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 Nanjing 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 Nanjing 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 Nanjing 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 Nanjing 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 Nanjing 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 Nanjing 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 Nanjing 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 Nanjing.
Chaoren Chamber
Highly rated Bar in Nanjing with 5 stars from 1 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 China, Jiang Su Sheng, Nan Jing Shi, Xuan Wu Qu, 南京１９１２街 Chang Jiang Hou Jie, 2-1号1912第15幢 邮政编码: 210002
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Nanjing King Pub
Highly rated Bar in Nanjing with 5 stars from 1 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 China, Jiang Su Sheng, Nan Jing Shi, Pu Kou Qu, Jiang Shan Lu, 江山路老浦口1914商业街6-2号 邮政编码: 210031
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
CRAFT BEER
Highly rated Bar in Nanjing with 4.8 stars from 4 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 China, Jiang Su Sheng, Nan Jing Shi, Gu Lou Qu, Shang Hai Lu, 南秀村 20号 邮政编码: 210093
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Make Belgium Premium Brews Pub
Highly rated Bar in Nanjing with 4.6 stars from 5 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 China, Jiang Su Sheng, Nan Jing Shi, Gu Lou Qu, 新街口地区 Hua Qiao Lu, 81号-2 邮政编码: 210008
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Master Gao Craft Brew Garden
Highly rated Bar in Nanjing with 4.6 stars from 10 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 2QWW+26P, Tai Ping Bei Lu, 南京１９１２街 Xuan Wu Qu, Nan Jing Shi, Jiang Su Sheng, China, 210002
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
UNA Club
Highly rated Bar in Nanjing with 4 stars from 4 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 2QWX+96H, Dong Jian Dao, 南京１９１２街 Xuan Wu Qu, Nan Jing Shi, Jiang Su Sheng, China, 210002
- 🍽️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
Nanjing'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 Nanjing 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
Nanjing 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 Nanjing 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 Nanjing 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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