A guide to local cuisine, dietary considerations, and safe dining practices.

Embrace Local Cuisine

One of the best ways to experience Chinese culture is through its food. Each region has its own specialties, cooking techniques, and flavor profiles. Here are some tips for diving into local cuisine:

  1. Be adventurous: Don’t shy away from unfamiliar dishes. You might discover a new favorite!
  2. Try street food: Street vendors often offer some of the most authentic and delicious local snacks. Look for busy stalls with high turnover – this usually indicates fresh, popular food.
  3. Ask for recommendations: Local residents or hotel staff can often point you towards hidden gems and must-try dishes.
  4. Regional specialties: Research the signature dishes of the areas you’re visiting. For example, try hot pot in Sichuan , dim sum in Guangdong , or hand-pulled noodles in Lanzhou .

For those with dietary restrictions or allergies, dining in China can seem daunting. Here are some strategies to help:

  1. Learn key phrases: Familiarize yourself with Mandarin phrases related to your dietary needs. For example:

    • “I’m vegetarian ” - “Wǒ chī sù” (我吃素)
    • “I’m allergic to peanuts” - “Wǒ duì huāshēng guòmǐn” (我对花生过敏)

  2. Use translation apps: Apps like Google Translate can help you communicate your needs.

  3. Carry a dietary card: Have a card with your dietary restrictions written in Chinese. Many hotels can help you prepare this.

  4. Research restaurant options: Look for restaurants that cater to specific dietary needs, especially in larger cities.

  5. Be specific: In China, “vegetarian” might still include dishes with fish or meat broth. Be clear about what you can and cannot eat.

Staying Hydrated Safely

Staying hydrated is crucial, especially if you’re exploring China during the warmer months. However, it’s important to be cautious about your water sources:

  1. Bottled water is your friend: Stick to bottled water, which is widely available and inexpensive.

  2. Boil it: If you’re staying somewhere long-term, consider boiling tap water for drinking. Most hotels provide electric kettles in rooms.

  3. Tea culture : Embrace China’s tea culture! Hot tea is served almost everywhere and is a safe (and delicious) way to stay hydrated.

Etiquette Tips

Understanding a few basic dining etiquettes can enhance your experience:

  1. Chopstick do’s and don’ts: Never stick your chopsticks upright in rice (this resembles incense sticks at funerals). Instead, rest them on your plate or the chopstick rest.

  2. Shared dishes: Most meals involve shared dishes in the center of the table. It’s polite to try a bit of everything.

  3. Toasting: If you’re drinking alcohol, it’s common to toast (“gānbēi” - 干杯) before drinking.

  4. Leaving a little: Unlike in some cultures, it’s not necessary to finish every last grain of rice. Leaving a small amount of food indicates you were satisfied with the meal.