Street food Culture in China goes back thousands of years, shaped by dynastic trade, regional traditions, and everyday life. Today, we’ll highlight some of the best street foods to try in China, along with their locations and the stories behind them.
1. Jianbing (Chinese Breakfast Crepe) – Beijing, Tianjin
Jianbing dates back to the Shandong province during the Three Kingdoms period (220–280 AD). Legend has it that military strategists made quick crepes on iron griddles for soldiers without woks.
Made with mung bean or wheat flour batter, jianbing is filled with egg, scallions, crispy wonton, and sauce. It’s crisp, savory, and of course, tastes fantastic.
Where to try it:
- Street stalls in Beijing near universities and subway stations
- Morning food markets in Tianjin, where it’s considered a local specialty
2. Chuan’r (Grilled Meat Skewers) – Xi’an, Chengdu
Chuan’r, or skewered grilled meat, has roots in the cuisine of China’s Muslim Uyghur communities. Originally from Xinjiang, the skewers made their way east through Silk Road trade routes.
Traditionally, lamb is often made with beef, chicken, or vegetables, a cumin and chili flake coating, and grilled over hot coals.
Where to try it:
- Muslim Quarter, Xi’an – famous for its Silk Road-inspired food scene
- Chengdu’s Kuanzhai Alley – a street food hotspot in Sichuan
3. Shengjian Bao (Pan-Fried Pork Buns) – Shanghai
Created over a century ago in Shanghai, shengjian bao began as a quick breakfast sold to busy workers. Unlike steamed buns, these are pan-fried to achieve a crispy bottom and juicy, soup-filled center.
They’re made with pork, gelatinized broth (which melts into soup when cooked), and topped with sesame and scallions.
Where to try it:
- Yuyuan Garden area, Shanghai – a hub of traditional eateries
- French Concession bakeries for more local versions
4. Stinky Tofu (Chòu Dòufu) – Changsha, Nanjing
Stinky tofu originated in the Qing Dynasty. A scholar preserved his tofu in brine and later discovered its fermented aroma came with an unexpectedly delicious flavor.
With its strong scent and crispy shell, stinky tofu is a polarizing yet beloved local favorite. It’s usually deep-fried and served with garlic chili sauce.
Where to try it:
- Taiping Street, Changsha – where vendors fry it fresh to order
- Confucius Temple Night Market, Nanjing – one of the oldest night markets in China
5. Roujiamo (Chinese “Burger”) – Xi’an
Roujiamo may be one of the oldest sandwiches in the world, dating back to the Qin Dynasty over 2,000 years ago. The meat is slow-cooked with herbs, then stuffed into a flatbread known as “mo.”
Though it’s often compared to a burger, it’s closer to a pulled pork sandwich with rich, aromatic spices.
Where to try it:
- Xi’an’s Muslim Quarter – especially vendors making the bread fresh
- Street stalls in Shaanxi province, where it’s a local classic
6. Hot Pot Skewers (Mala Tang) – Chongqing, Sichuan
Mala Tang, meaning “numbing spicy soup,” was born on Chongqing’s docks in the 1980s. Workers would boil food on skewers in communal pots of spicy broth to warm up and stay full.
Now, the dish has grown into a staple. You choose your skewers—meats, tofu, lotus root, mushrooms—and dip them into broth made with Sichuan peppercorn and chili.
Where to try it:
- Chongqing street vendors near the river walkways
- Chengdu night markets, especially in residential neighborhoods
7. Bubble Tea (Nai Cha) – Nationwide
Although bubble tea originated in Taiwan in the 1980s, it gained widespread popularity across mainland China in the 2000s. What started as tea mixed with milk and chewy tapioca balls has evolved into endless variations featuring fruit, cheese foam, and boba in various textures.
Where to try it:
- HeyTea, CoCo, and Yi Dian Dian locations nationwide
- Independent shops in popular malls and pedestrian shopping zones
FAQ: Eating Street Food in China
Is it safe to eat street food in China?
Yes, especially from busy vendors where food is fresh. Look for places with high turnover and locals waiting in line.
What street food should I try in China if I’m not a fan of spicy food
Jianbing, shengjian bao, and roujiamo are great choices—savory without the heat.
Are there vegetarian-friendly street foods in China?
Yes. Look for scallion pancakes, vegetable dumplings, and tofu-based options, such as grilled tofu skewers or sweet soy milk.
Planning to Try Street Food in China? Don’t Forget Your Visa
Before you can enjoy the street food scene in China, you’ll need the proper visa. Most travelers visiting for tourism or short-term stays will need an L Visa (Tourist Visa). It typically allows you to stay in China for up to 30 days; however, processing requirements vary depending on your nationality and travel plans.
Common visa types for travelers:
- L Visa (Tourist Visa): For sightseeing, vacation, or visiting friends.
- M Visa (Business Visa): For business travel, trade fairs, and market visits.
- Q Visa or S Visa: If you’re visiting family members living in China.
Applying for a Chinese visa can feel overwhelming, especially if you don’t live near one of the five Chinese consulates in the U.S. That’s where the China Visa Department can help.
How the China Visa Department Can Help
The China Visa Department is a trusted visa courier service that works directly with the Chinese consulates.
- Step-by-step help with paperwork
- Virtual consultations to answer your questions
- Fast, secure submission to the appropriate consulate
- Help with both single-entry and multiple-entry visas
- Nationwide support—even if you don’t live near a consulate
Whether you’re planning a food-focused trip or a broader tour of China, we can guide you through the process and help ensure your visa is approved on time. Contact the China Visa Department to get started!