Chongqing Food Tour: A Spicy Culinary Adventure

Chongqing is not just a city of mountains and rivers—it's a food paradise where every bite packs a punch of fiery, numbing, and aromatic flavors. Famous for its Sichuan peppercorns and chili-laden dishes, Chongqing offers some of China’s most exciting street food, hotpot experiences, and hidden culinary gems.

If you're planning a Chongqing food tour, here’s everything you need to know—from must-try dishes to the best food streets and recommended foodie itineraries.

Must-Try Chongqing Dishes

1. Chongqing Hotpot (重庆火锅)
   • The king of Chongqing cuisine, this fiery, numbing broth is loaded with chili oil and Sichuan peppercorns.
   • Must-order ingredients: beef tripe (毛肚 mao du), duck blood (鸭血 ya xue), and huanghou (黄喉 yellow throat, a type of cartilage).
   • Best spots: Xiaolongkan Hotpot (小龙坎), Da Long Yi Hotpot (大龙燚), or locals' favorite—Zeng Laoyao Hotpot (珮姐老火锅).
2. Chongqing Xiao Mian (重庆小面)
   • A simple but addictive noodle dish with a spicy, savory broth, topped with peanuts and minced pork.
   • Best place to try: Qin Yun Xiao Mian (秦云老太婆摊摊面), a famous chain with authentic flavors.
3. Suan La Fen (酸辣粉 - Hot & Sour Sweet Potato Noodles)
   • A street food staple—chewy glass noodles in a tangy, spicy broth with vinegar and chili.
   • Best at: Hao Chi Jie (好吃街) food street or small vendors near Ciqikou.
4. La Zi Ji (辣子鸡 - Spicy Fried Chicken)
   • Crispy chicken chunks buried in a mountain of dried chilies and Sichuan peppercorns.
   • Try it at: Yang’s Fried Chicken (杨记隆府) or local Sichuan restaurants.
5. Jiang Dou Hua (豆花 - Tofu Pudding)
   • A milder break from the spice—soft tofu served with savory or sweet toppings.
   • Best enjoyed at: breakfast stalls or local markets.

Best Food Streets in Chongqing

1. Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street (解放碑步行街)
   • The heart of Chongqing’s food scene, packed with luxury hotpot chains, snack stalls, and dessert shops.
   • Must-try: Sour Spicy Rice Noodles (酸辣粉) at Haochi Jie (好吃街).
2. Ciqikou Ancient Town (磁器口古镇)
   • A historic snack haven with traditional Chongqing treats like Chen Ma Po Tofu (陈麻花) and spicy rabbit heads.
3. Nanbin Road (南滨路)
   • A scenic riverside dining strip with upscale hotpot restaurants and night views of the Yangtze.
4. Bayi Road Snack Street (八一路好吃街)
   • A local favorite for quick bites like grilled skewers, stinky tofu, and sweet glutinous rice balls.

Recommended Chongqing Food Tour Itineraries

1. Half-Day Spicy Food Crawl (For Brave Eaters!)

• Morning: Start with Chongqing Xiao Mian (spicy noodles) at Qin Yun Xiao Mian.
• Noon: Explore Ciqikou Ancient Town, sampling spicy rabbit heads and sweet glutinous cakes.
• Evening: Dive into Chongqing Hotpot at Xiaolongkan or a hidden local spot.

2. Full-Day Food & Culture Tour

• Morning: Breakfast with Dou Hua (tofu pudding) and steamed buns at a local market.
• Afternoon: Visit Hongya Cave, then snack on Suan La Fen at Haochi Jie.
• Evening: Enjoy La Zi Ji (spicy chicken) and beer at a riverside restaurant on Nanbin Road.

Tips for Your Chongqing Food Adventure

✅ Spice tolerance? Ask for "wei la" (微辣 - mild spice) if you're not used to extreme heat.
✅ Best time to eat? Hotpot is best enjoyed at dinner, while street snacks are great all day.
✅ Cash or mobile pay? Most places accept WeChat Pay/Alipay, but small vendors may prefer cash.

A Chongqing food tour is a flavor-packed journey through China’s spiciest city. From mouth-numbing hotpot to street-side noodle bowls, every bite tells a story of bold flavors and rich culinary traditions.