Shenzhen Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Shenzhen. Your complete guide to dining in Shenzhen.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Shenzhen! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Shenzhen 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 Shenzhen's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Shenzhen like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Shenzhen 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 Shenzhen.
Tequila Coyote's Mexican Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Shenzhen with 4.9 stars from 152 reviews.
📍 20-21 Tai Zi Lu, 20, Nan Shan Qu, Shen Zhen Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 518060
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Ensue
Highly rated Restaurant in Shenzhen with 4.8 stars from 12 reviews.
📍 China, Guang Dong Sheng, Shen Zhen Shi, Fu Tian Qu, 福田ＣＢＤ福田香格里拉大酒店 邮政编码: 518046
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Jingzhifang
Highly rated Chinese in Shenzhen with 4.7 stars from 22 reviews.
📍 China, Shen Zhen Shi, Nan Shan Qu, 14, Wen Chang Nan Jie, 14号CN 广东省 深圳市 南山区 香山东街 邮政编码: 518074
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Mandarin Oriental Shenzhen
Highly rated International in Shenzhen with 5 stars from 49 reviews.
📍 Block A UpperHills No, 5001 Huang Gang Lu, Fu Tian Qu, Shen Zhen Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 518026
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Gaga Chef
Highly rated Restaurant in Shenzhen with 5 stars from 8 reviews.
📍 China, Shen Zhen Shi, Nan Shan Qu, CN 广东省 深圳市 南山区 深南大道 9668 9668号万象天地NL110 邮政编码: 518058
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Huayueting
Highly rated Chinese in Shenzhen with 4.3 stars from 35 reviews.
📍 China, Shen Zhen Shi, Fu Tian Qu, 中心城CN 广东省 深圳市 福田区 益田路 5033 5033PAFC MALL6层N606/607 邮政编码: 518017
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
翠园JADE GARDEN
Highly rated Chinese in Shenzhen with 4.8 stars from 17 reviews.
📍 9028 Shen Nan Da Dao, Nan Shan Qu, Shen Zhen Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 518058
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Bus grill
Highly rated Restaurant in Shenzhen with 4.3 stars from 92 reviews.
📍 China, Shen Zhen Shi, Fu Tian Qu, 福田ＣＢＤ Min Tian Lu, No.134, 135-D, North Yard Block 邮政编码: 518048
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Belle Epoque French Cuisine
Highly rated French in Shenzhen with 4.7 stars from 3 reviews.
📍 China, Guang Dong Sheng, Shen Zhen Shi, Luo Hu Qu, Bao An Nan Lu, 万象城2层299
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic French cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Fanlou
Highly rated Restaurant in Shenzhen with 4.5 stars from 99 reviews. Quick service for those on the go.
📍 118-7 Zhen Hua Lu, 118, Fu Tian Qu, Shen Zhen Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 518037
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Paletto意大利餐厅
Highly rated Restaurant in Shenzhen with 4.4 stars from 13 reviews.
📍 中心城 Futian District, Shenzhen, China, 518046
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Chaotaixuan
Highly rated Chinese in Shenzhen with 5 stars from 1 reviews.
📍 China, Guang Dong Sheng, Shen Zhen Shi, Fu Tian Qu, 福田ＣＢＤ Yi Tian Lu, 6009号新世界中心 邮政编码: 518026
- 🍽️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 Shenzhen.
COCO Park
Highly rated International in Shenzhen with 4.3 stars from 824 reviews.
📍 268 Fu Hua San Lu, 中心城 Fu Tian Qu, Shen Zhen Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 518020
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Shekou Market
Highly rated International in Shenzhen with 4 stars from 39 reviews.
📍 FWPH+F85, Yu Cun Nan Lu, Nanyou, Nan Shan Qu, Shen Zhen Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 518060
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Huaqiangbei Commercial Street
Highly rated International in Shenzhen with 4.5 stars from 102 reviews.
📍 G3RP+9MG, Hua Qiang Bei Lu, Fu Tian Qu, Shen Zhen Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 518000
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Shekou Old Street
Highly rated International in Shenzhen with 5 stars from 2 reviews.
📍 FWPH+72V, She Kou Lao Jie, Nanyou, Nan Shan Qu, Shen Zhen Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 518060
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Luohu Commercial City
Highly rated International in Shenzhen with 3.7 stars from 540 reviews.
📍 Closed Area, Hong Kong
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Shenzhen Buji Agricultural Products Center Wholesale Market
Highly rated International in Shenzhen with 5 stars from 2 reviews.
📍 1019 Bu Ji Lu, Luo Hu Qu, Shen Zhen Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 518024
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Shuiwei 1368
Highly rated International in Shenzhen with 4.3 stars from 18 reviews.
📍 China, Guang Dong Sheng, Shen Zhen Shi, Fu Tian Qu, 1 东南方向100米
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Haijixing Futian Nongpi Market
Highly rated International in Shenzhen with 3.7 stars from 7 reviews.
📍 H27P+JR9, Mei Shan Jie, Fu Tian Qu, Shen Zhen Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 518034
- 🍽️Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Shenzhen.
Tequila Coyote's Mexican Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Shenzhen with 4.9 stars from 152 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 Shenzhen.
Good Day Coffee Co.
Highly rated Cafe in Shenzhen with 4.8 stars from 90 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Hong Kong, Kam Tin, Good Day Coffee城門新村23A號地舖
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
COCO Park
Highly rated International in Shenzhen with 4.3 stars from 824 reviews.
📍 268 Fu Hua San Lu, 中心城 Fu Tian Qu, Shen Zhen Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 518020
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Treeoo cafe
Highly rated Cafe in Shenzhen with 4.8 stars from 46 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Lin Fat Building, Fung Kwan St, Yuen Long, Hong Kong
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Giraffe Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Shenzhen with 4.8 stars from 37 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 8號 Kau Hui Chik St, Tai Po, Hong Kong
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Two-and-a-Half Street
Highly rated Cafe in Shenzhen with 4.7 stars from 241 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 1 David Ln, Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Halfway Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Shenzhen with 4.5 stars from 1256 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 26號 Upper Lascar Row, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
The mixc mall
Highly rated International in Shenzhen with 4.7 stars from 41 reviews.
📍 GW8W+JF3, Nanshan, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China, 518064
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Good Day Coffee Co.
Highly rated Cafe in Shenzhen with 4.8 stars from 159 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 25B Man Ying St, Jordan, Hong Kong
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Shenzhen.
Signature Dish
A must-try Shenzhen 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 Shenzhen 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 Shenzhen 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 Shenzhen 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 Shenzhen 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 Shenzhen 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 Shenzhen 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 Shenzhen 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 Shenzhen 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 Shenzhen 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 Shenzhen.
The Peat
Highly rated Bar in Shenzhen with 4.8 stars from 13 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 G2JC+6WJ, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China, 518041
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Terrace Bar
Highly rated Bar in Shenzhen with 4.7 stars from 30 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 FWP6+J7R, Nanyou, Nanshan, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China, 518060
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Mo Bar - Mandarin Oriental, Shenzhen
Highly rated Bar in Shenzhen with 4.9 stars from 7 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 A座, 79楼, 深业上城, 5001 Huang Gang Lu, Fu Tian Qu, Shen Zhen Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 518026
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Zazoo
Highly rated Bar in Shenzhen with 5 stars from 10 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 China, 区 Fu Tian Qu, 中心城 Gou Wu Gong Yuan Di Tie Shang Ye Jie, C CN 广东省 深圳市 邮政编码: 518046
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Coco Park Bar Street
Highly rated International in Shenzhen with 4.6 stars from 14 reviews.
📍 China, Guang Dong Sheng, Shen Zhen Shi, Fu Tian Qu, 福田ＣＢＤ中心二路G3M3+CWW 邮政编码: 518017
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Brew Shenzhen
Highly rated Bar in Shenzhen with 4 stars from 32 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 China, 广东省深圳市福田区福田ＣＢＤG3M5+QV5 邮政编码: 518046
- 🍽️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
Shenzhen'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 Shenzhen 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
Shenzhen 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 Shenzhen 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 Shenzhen 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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