Exploring the culinary delights of Guangzhou is like stepping into a paradise of bold flavors, delicate textures, and dishes steeped in tradition. Known as the birthplace of Cantonese cuisine, Guangzhou offers a variety of delicious eats that capture the essence of Chinese street food and fine dining alike.

This guide takes you through some of the must-try dishes in the city and the best spots to find them. From world-famous dim sum to unique local treats, we’ve got the scoop on where to eat and how much you can expect to spend.

1. Start with the Essentials: Dim Sum Delights

When in Guangzhou, dim sum is an absolute must. Dim sum here is litteraly a way of life, enjoyed with family, friends, and cups of tea. Top dim sum spots include the historic Guangzhou Restaurant, known for its traditional shrimp dumplings and steamed buns, with prices around ¥200 per person. For a luxury twist, the White Swan Hotel offers an upscale dim sum experience, serving unique items like truffle siu mai in a picturesque riverside setting for approximately ¥300 per person. For a more casual all-day option, head to Dim Dou Dak, where you can enjoy dim sum favorites like crispy rice noodle rolls for around ¥100 per person.

2. Savor Some Street Food Classics

Guangzhou’s street food scene is vibrant and varied, offering snacks that locals have enjoyed for generations. A must-try is double-skin milk (shuang pi nai), a silky-smooth dessert made from milk and egg whites, layered to perfection. Visit the Nanxin Milk Store in Xia Jiu Road to try this sweet treat for about ¥15. Another favorite is chang fen (rice rolls), delicate sheets of rice noodles filled with your choice of shrimp, meat, or vegetables. Yinji Changfen Restaurant is a go-to for these rice rolls, and each serving costs around ¥20.

3. Noodle Heaven: Try Wonton Noodles

A hearty bowl of wonton noodles makes for a perfect breakfast or quick meal. Traditional wonton noodles in Guangzhou come with wontons filled with shrimp or meat in a savory broth, usually served with a side of noodles. You’ll find them in abundance on Shangxia Jiu Pedestrian Street or Renmin Road, where small eateries serve up these bowls for about ¥30. The combination of springy noodles, flavorful broth, and tender wontons is simple but soul-satisfying.

4. Sweet and Savory: The Legendary Egg Tart

Egg tarts, inspired by the Portuguese pastel de nata, are a sweet staple in Guangzhou. With a creamy egg custard center encased in a flaky crust, these pastries are popular in teahouses and bakeries throughout the city. Grab one at Panxi Restaurant or Guangzhou Restaurant for around ¥10 each. Be sure to try both the classic Cantonese-style and the slightly caramelized Portuguese variation to see which you prefer.

EPIC Guangzhou food adventure ft. cheap & local places!

Video by Blondie in China

5. For the Adventurous: Century Egg Porridge

If you’re up for trying something unique, century egg porridge is a delicacy with a reputation. Made with pieces of fermented egg, this dish is a savory experience known for its distinctive, slightly earthy flavor. You’ll find it at most dim sum spots, including Guangzhou Restaurant, where you can get a bowl for around ¥35. Though the taste might be bold, it’s a classic dish locals swear by and an adventurous way to get a taste of traditional Cantonese cuisine.

6. Don’t Miss the Claypot Rice

For a comforting meal, claypot rice is a local staple. Cooked in a traditional clay pot, the rice absorbs flavors from toppings like preserved meats or fresh vegetables, creating a delicious, crispy bottom layer. Minji Baozaifan is a well-loved spot for claypot rice, where a bowl goes for about ¥40. This dish is particularly popular during cooler months and is perfect for filling up after a day of exploring.

Guangzhou’s food scene is full of surprises, so take time to explore and savor these local flavors. From dim sum spreads to street-side treats, there’s something for every palate and budget. One final tip: bring cash and arrive early for popular spots, especially on weekends. And remember, Guangzhou's culinary treasures await. Get ready to dig in, and don’t miss out on a single bite!