Ciqikou Ancient Town in Chongqing is not only known for its rich history and scenic beauty but also its incredible variety of local foods. The food street is bustling with vendors offering a wide selection of delicious and unique snacks that are sure to satisfy every food lover. If you’re planning to visit this charming town, don’t miss out on these tasty delights. This guide will walk you through the best food spots in Ciqikou, making your culinary journey unforgettable.
- Location: Ciqikou Ancient Town, Shapingba District, Chongqing
- Opening Hours: All day long
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Transport: Take Line 1 of the Chongqing Light Rail and get off at Ciqikou Station (磁器口站), Exit 1
Ciqikou Food Guide: Where to Eat and What to Try
1. Chen Mahua (陈麻花)
Chen Mahua is an iconic snack in Chongqing. With a history of being a must-try for visitors to Ciqikou, this crispy, crunchy treat is loved by people of all ages. It comes in a variety of flavors, each offering a unique twist. Expect to see long queues, especially during peak times. It’s an irresistible snack that’s perfect for enjoying while exploring the town.
Price: 15 RMB per jin (500g)
Location: 60, Zhongjie, Ciqikou
2. Huashengyuan Spicy Broad Beans (华生园怪味胡豆)
Spicy broad beans are a favorite local snack with a variety of flavors. Huashengyuan’s version stands out with its durian-flavored beans, adding an exciting and unexpected twist. The beans are crispy and perfectly balanced between sweet and spicy. They’re addictive, so be careful not to eat too much!
Price: 20 RMB per serving
Location: 81, Zhongjie, Ciqikou (near No. 1)
3. Ba Village Handmade Rice Cakes (巴村人手工糍粑)
If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss Ba Village’s handmade rice cakes. Soft and chewy, these rice cakes are made using traditional methods. You can watch the craftsmen prepare them in front of you. They come in a variety of flavors, with some crispy stone plate rice cakes also available. The texture is simply irresistible!
Price: Around 10 RMB per serving
Location: 120, Zhongjie, Ciqikou
4. Brother Zhou’s Chongqing Hotpot (周师兄重庆火锅)
Experience authentic Chongqing hotpot at Brother Zhou’s restaurant. With its bold and aromatic beef oil-based broth, this hotpot offers a tantalizing taste that’s guaranteed to leave you craving more. The menu features colorful ingredients like tripe, crispy pork, and flavorful sausages, all cooked in the spicy, numbing broth.
Price: 50-60 RMB per person
Location: 1, Backstreet, Ciqikou (Micitong Road)
5. Hotpot Base (火锅底料)
Chongqing is famous for its beef oil hotpot base, and in Ciqikou, you can find many shops making this rich, fragrant broth fresh on-site. Watch as the chefs skillfully stir-fry the ingredients, and take home some of this handmade base to recreate the experience at home. A great souvenir for anyone who loves hotpot!
Price: 25.9 RMB per jin (500g)
Recommended Shop: Yufuxi Handmade Stir-Fried Hotpot Base
6. Baicaoquan Orange Candy (百草全橘红老工坊)
This old workshop is famous for its honey orange candies, which make a delightful snack or gift. The sweet and tangy flavor is a treat for the taste buds. You can also find a variety of dried fruits and other preserved snacks here, which are perfect for those wanting a taste of local specialties.
Price: 18.8 RMB per serving
Location: 91, Xingfu Street, Ciqikou
7. Gesang Jia Yogurt (格桑家酸奶)
For something refreshing and different, try Gesang Jia’s authentic Tibetan-style yogurt. The yogurt is thick, rich, and creamy, with a floral fragrance from osmanthus syrup, making it a delightful treat for those seeking a lighter snack. It’s perfect for an afternoon break while exploring Ciqikou.
Price: 25 RMB per serving
Location: 81, Hengjie, Ciqikou Ancient Town
8. Zhuangyun Lou Sichuan Cuisine (转运楼川菜)
For a truly immersive cultural experience, head to Zhuangyun Lou, where you can enjoy Sichuan cuisine while watching a live performance. This restaurant combines delicious local dishes with traditional tea-drinking and opera performances, giving you a taste of both Chongqing’s cuisine and culture.
Price: 68 RMB for tea, 168 RMB for a two-person meal
Location: Ciqikou Ancient Town