best shopping for local delicacies in Jiangsu

The Best Shopping for Local Delicacies in Jiangsu

Exploring a new destination is always an exciting adventure, and one of the best ways to truly experience a place is through its food. In the picturesque province of Jiangsu, located on the eastern coast of China, the culinary scene is a delight for food lovers. From mouth-watering dumplings to delicate pastries, Jiangsu is a haven for those seeking authentic local delicacies. And what better way to bring a piece of this culinary paradise back home with you than by shopping for these delectable treats? Here are some of the best places to shop for local delicacies in Jiangsu.

Nanjing Confucius Temple Market (Fuzi Miao)

The Nanjing Confucius Temple Market, also known as Fuzi Miao, is a vibrant hub of activity and the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local food culture. Here, you'll find a wide variety of local delicacies to tantalize your taste buds. Don't miss the chance to try the famous Nanjing salted duck, a succulent and flavorful specialty of the region. You can also indulge in steamed buns, sweet treats like osmanthus cake, and savory snacks like onion pancakes. The market is bustling with energy, and the aromas wafting through the air are simply irresistible.

Suzhou Ancient Street (Pingjiang Road)

Suzhou, known as the "Venice of the East," is not only famous for its stunning gardens but also for its delightful street food. Take a stroll down the ancient street of Pingjiang Road, and you'll be greeted by a myriad of food stalls and shops selling local delicacies. If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to try the renowned Biluochun Tea Cake, a delicate pastry made from the finest green tea leaves. Other must-try treats include Suzhou-style mooncakes, glutinous rice dumplings, and sesame candy. The picturesque surroundings of Pingjiang Road make the whole experience even more charming.

Wuxi Nanchang Street Snack Street

If you're a street food enthusiast, then a visit to the Nanchang Street Snack Street in Wuxi is a must. This bustling street is lined with vendors selling a wide array of local delicacies that will leave you spoilt for choice. One of the highlights here is the Wuxi spareribs, a mouth-watering dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. Don't forget to try the juicy xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and the iconic Wuxi fried glutinous rice balls. As you stroll along the street, you'll find yourself surrounded by the tantalizing aromas of grilled skewers, pan-fried buns, and braised snacks.

Yangzhou Slender West Lake Night Market

For a truly immersive and lively food experience, head to the Slender West Lake Night Market in Yangzhou. This vibrant night market is a food lover's paradise, offering an incredible variety of snacks and delicacies. Start your culinary journey with Yangzhou fried rice, a fragrant and flavorful dish that is internationally renowned. As you explore further, you'll discover stalls selling local favorites like stinky tofu, sesame noodles, and crispy fried shrimp. For those with a sweet tooth, don't miss the chance to sample authentic Yangzhou-style fried pastries and tangyuan (glutinous rice balls in sweet soup).

Where to Buy Local Delicacies

While the above-mentioned markets and streets are fantastic for experiencing the local food culture, there are also several places where you can purchase local delicacies to take home as souvenirs. One popular option is the Nanjing Qinghuai Road Food Market, a bustling market where you'll find a wide variety of local foods, including preserved fruits, dried meats, and traditional Chinese snacks. Additionally, for a more upscale shopping experience, the famous Xinjiekou area in Nanjing offers gourmet food stores and specialty shops where you can find high-quality local delicacies.

Visiting these markets and streets is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a window into the rich culinary heritage of Jiangsu. So, next time you're planning a trip to this beautiful province, be sure to carve out some time for exploring the local food scene and shopping for these delectable treats. Your taste buds will thank you!

Tags： Shopping Guide