best local food tours in Zhejiang

Discover the Best Local Food Tours in Zhejiang

When you think of Zhejiang, one of the first things that might come to mind is its vibrant and diverse culinary scene. As a province in eastern China, Zhejiang is known for its fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and unique cooking techniques. To truly immerse yourself in the local food culture, why not embark on a food tour? In this article, we will explore some of the best food tours in Zhejiang that will allow you to indulge in the region's delectable cuisine while also experiencing its rich history and culture.

A Taste of Hangzhou

If you're a food lover visiting Zhejiang, Hangzhou is a destination you shouldn't miss. This picturesque city is famous for its West Lake and its legendary Longjing tea, but its food scene is equally remarkable. A food tour in Hangzhou will take you on a culinary adventure through its bustling markets and charming alleyways. You'll have the opportunity to savor local delicacies like beggar's chicken, Dongpo pork, and silky-smooth West Lake fish in vinegar sauce. Don't forget to try Hangzhou's iconic dessert, the lotus root starch soup!

Pro tip: To fully appreciate the flavors and techniques behind Hangzhou cuisine, consider joining a cooking class during your food tour. You'll learn how to recreate some traditional dishes at home and impress your friends with your newfound culinary skills.

Culinary Delights in Ningbo

Ningbo, another city in Zhejiang, boasts a distinctive culinary heritage shaped by its proximity to the coast. Seafood lovers will be in heaven here, as Ningbo is known for its fresh and bountiful seafood offerings. A food tour in Ningbo will introduce you to mouthwatering dishes such as steamed fish, braised crab, and fried squid. The city is also famous for its unique take on dumplings, so make sure to try the local specialty - Tangbao, a soup-filled dumpling bursting with flavor.

Pro tip: If you're looking for a truly immersive experience, consider visiting Ningbo during its annual seafood festival. You'll get the chance to indulge in a wide variety of seafood dishes and witness the culinary prowess of local chefs.

Exploring the Flavors of Wenzhou

Wenzhou, located in the southeastern part of Zhejiang, is a city with a rich food culture influenced by its coastal and mountainous surroundings. The local cuisine here is characterized by its bold and spicy flavors. A food tour in Wenzhou will take you on a delicious journey where you can try dishes like braised eel, fried yellow croaker, and Wenzhou-style noodles. If you're feeling adventurous, don't miss the chance to taste the famous "Dragon's Beard Candy," a delicate sweet treat that melts in your mouth.

Pro tip: To truly appreciate Wenzhou's cuisine, venture beyond the city's restaurants and explore its street food scene. The city's vibrant night markets offer a plethora of snacks and bites that will satisfy any cravings you may have.

Uncovering Local Flavors in Taizhou

If you're looking for a food tour that takes you off the beaten path, Taizhou should be on your radar. This lesser-known city in Zhejiang is home to a plethora of hidden culinary gems. From street food stalls serving up mouthwatering steamed buns and stinky tofu to local restaurants offering hearty dishes like buttered shrimp and braised duck, Taizhou has something to satisfy every palate. Don't forget to sample the city's famous river snails cooked in a variety of styles!

Pro tip: To make the most of your food tour in Taizhou, consider exploring the city by bike. This will allow you to navigate its narrow streets and discover hidden food spots that you might otherwise miss.

The Feast Continues in Zhejiang

Zhejiang is undoubtedly a culinary paradise waiting to be explored. Whether you choose to indulge in Hangzhou's delicate flavors, Ningbo's seafood bounty, Wenzhou's bold spice, or Taizhou's hidden gems, you're in for a treat. Each city in Zhejiang has its own unique culinary traditions, and a food tour is the perfect way to uncover them. So put on your stretchy pants, grab your chopsticks, and embark on a culinary adventure through the flavors of Zhejiang!

Tags： Adventure Activities