No visit to Chongqing is complete without a trip to Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street (解放碑步行街). As the city’s iconic landmark, Jiefangbei is not only a symbol of Chongqing’s cultural heritage but also a haven for food enthusiasts. From spicy noodles to famous hotpot, this bustling area offers a variety of authentic Chongqing flavors that keep both locals and visitors coming back for more. Here’s your essential guide to the must-try dishes around Jiefangbei.
1. Chongqing Noodles (重庆小面)
In the alleys of Jiefangbei, you’ll find numerous shops serving up Chongqing’s famous noodles, known for their bold, spicy flavors. A standout is Huashi Wanza Noodles (花市豌杂面), where firm, chewy noodles are topped with a flavorful broth that’s spiced with red chili oil, peanuts, and green onions. This dish is all about the layers of taste, from the heat of the chili oil to the crunch of the peanuts and the freshness of the green onions—a true delight for spice lovers.
2. Spicy and Sour Sweet Potato Noodles (酸辣粉)
Another Jiefangbei specialty is the spicy and sour sweet potato noodles from Haoyoulai (好又来酸辣粉). Made from handmade sweet potato starch noodles, these chewy, translucent strands are served in a tangy, spicy broth. Topped with crispy soybeans, savory minced meat, and a blend of spices, this dish offers a satisfying balance of textures and flavors, leaving a lingering heat on the palate that keeps you coming back for more.
3. Blood Curd Hot Pot (毛血旺)
At Shengtian Blood Curd Hot Pot (盛天毛血旺), you’ll find a dish that perfectly embodies Chongqing’s love for rich, spicy flavors. This hearty hot pot is packed with duck blood, tripe, and luncheon meat, all simmered in a vibrant red chili and Sichuan pepper broth. Each ingredient, from the tender duck blood to the crunchy tripe, soaks up the spicy broth, creating a mouthwatering combination that’s both fragrant and intense—a must for those who can handle the heat.
4. Spicy Fried Chicken (辣子鸡)
Yang Ji Longfu (杨记隆府) is renowned for its spicy fried chicken, a dish that pairs crispy, deep-fried chicken with an abundance of dried chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns. The small chicken pieces are golden and crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside. Tossed in fragrant spices, this dish has a potent, addictive heat that makes it one of Chongqing’s most celebrated offerings.
5. Mountain City Glutinous Rice Balls (山城汤圆)
For a bit of sweetness, head to Mountain City Tangyuan Old Street Snack Shop (山城汤圆老街小吃铺). Their glutinous rice balls, or tangyuan, are soft and chewy, with a sweet, fragrant filling. A particularly refreshing option in the summer is the icy tangyuan, which provides a cool, subtly sweet treat that’s perfect for hot days.
6. Hotpot (火锅)
Finally, no visit to Jiefangbei would be complete without savoring Chongqing’s famous hotpot. Among the popular choices is Pei Jie Hotpot (珮姐老火锅), where the unique décor and spicy, flavorful broth create an unforgettable dining experience. From fresh tripe to tender duck intestines and beef slices, each ingredient is cooked briefly to achieve a perfect texture. Known for its addictive flavors, this hotpot is a Chongqing classic that visitors can’t afford to miss.