How to Use These City Guides
These pages explain what to look for in each city rather than publishing a static “best restaurants” list. Restaurant names, hours, branches, and prices change quickly; regional specialties change much more slowly. Pick the city, learn its signature style, then use a current local listing service to choose an open restaurant with recent reviews.
A Reliable Ordering Plan for First-Time Visitors
- Choose the house broth or regional specialty. In Chengdu or Chongqing, ask for a lower spice level than you normally order; mala combines chili heat with numbing peppercorn.
- Order two signature plates. The city guide names the items that define the local style, from sliced lamb in Beijing to fresh-cut beef in Shantou.
- Add balance. Choose mushrooms or greens, one tofu item, and a starch for the final round.
- Confirm cooking instructions. Servers may cook precision items for you. If they take over the chopsticks, watch the timing and follow their lead.
Useful Chinese phrases
微辣 (wēi là) — mildly spicy
鸳鸯锅 (yuān yāng guō) — divided pot
不吃辣 (bù chī là) — I do not eat spicy food
请帮我煮 (qǐng bāng wǒ zhǔ) — please help me cook this
Before you sit down
Check recent photos for the menu and broth options. Confirm whether the restaurant accepts your payment method, whether a queue number is required, and whether the quoted price includes broth, sauce-bar, and table charges.