Unforgettable Dining Experiences in Hangzhou’s Most Atmospheric Restaurants

First Michelin Guide Hangzhou 2023 Has Brought Well-Deserved Recognition To The City’s Exceptional Restaurants

Hangzhou‘s unique blend of tradition and innovation is reflected in its local delicacies, which offer an authentic taste experience. Travelers seeking a memorable dining adventure will find ample options, from the Michelin Star establishments with their outstanding culinary offerings to the Bib Gourmand eateries showcasing affordable excellence. Combined with the city’s picturesque beauty, historical landmarks, and vibrant food markets, Hangzhou is an ideal destination for fine dining enthusiasts and explorers alike.

The Michelin Guide Hangzhou has arrived, showcasing the city’s vibrant culinary scene and recognizing its outstanding restaurants. With a selection of 51 establishments, including six awarded One Michelin Star and twelve earning the Bib Gourmand distinction, Hangzhou has become a must-visit destination for fine dining enthusiasts. This article aims to provide motivation for travelers to embark on a special trip to Hangzhou, highlighting the cuisine, restaurants, and the city’s top tourist destinations.

Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang province, boasts a unique charm that stems from its long history and rich heritage. The culinary culture in Hangzhou is a fusion of tradition and modernity, resulting in a tantalizing array of local delicacies. These dishes offer an authentic taste experience, while flavors and ingredients from surrounding provinces inspire innovative approaches in the city’s kitchens.

Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guides, expressed deep admiration for Hangzhou’s culinary scene and the chefs’ seasonal approach to creating and presenting dishes. The city’s restaurant scene is not only growing in quantity but also in quality, with a dazzling variety of options to cater to different tastes. The arrival of the Michelin Guide in Hangzhou is expected to further boost the city’s hospitality industry, fostering positive and healthy growth.

Among the Michelin Guide selection, the Michelin Stars distinguish the restaurants with exceptional culinary offerings. The first edition of the Michelin Guide Hangzhou awarded six restaurants with One Michelin Star, recognizing them as the best in the city. Let’s delve into a few of these remarkable establishments.

Ambré Ciel Restaurant, led by Chef Alan Yu, offers an atmospheric dining experience. The restaurant’s fixed-price menu features French-inspired dishes infused with subtle Chinese twists. The secluded tables, enveloped by heavily textured stone walls, provide an intimate setting for an unforgettable meal.

Guiyu Restaurant, nestled in an osmanthus forest, entices diners with its sleek and elegant ambiance. The earthy aroma of black tea mingles with the tantalizing scent of tea-smoked specialties, such as crispy chicken. The menu showcases Zhejiang classics made with seasonal ingredients from across the country. An absolute must-try is the river fish prepared with dried bamboo shoots, as well as the captivating tea ceremony offered at each table upon request.

Jie Xiang Lou Restaurant, located in a bamboo forest, exudes a serene and enchanting atmosphere. This restaurant presents Jiangnan dishes infused with modern Western techniques. The appetizer platter, featuring a variety of signature dishes like a vegetarian beggar’s purse, pork jowl with caviar, marinated goose liver, and smoked fish terrine, provides a comprehensive taste of the culinary delights offered.

These are just a few examples of the One Michelin Star restaurants in Hangzhou. Each establishment has its own unique character, atmosphere, and culinary approach, making them worthy of a special trip to the city.

In addition to the Michelin Star restaurants, Hangzhou’s culinary landscape also includes twelve establishments awarded the Bib Gourmand distinction. These restaurants offer excellent food at affordable prices, with a standard three-course meal costing approximately RMB 300 per guest or less. Most of the Bib Gourmand list features eateries specializing in Hangzhou cuisine and noodles, allowing diners to sample local homemade dishes and regional delicacies without breaking the bank.

Hangzhou’s gastronomic offerings extend beyond the Michelin-recognized restaurants. The city is home to 33 premium establishments representing ten different cooking styles, showcasing the diversity of Hangzhou and Zhejiang’s culinary traditions. Visitors can explore popular cooking styles from other provinces, including Teochew and Cantonese cuisine, as well as innovative and contemporary Chinese options.

When visiting Hangzhou, it’s not only the culinary delights that will captivate you. The city is renowned for its picturesque beauty and top tourist destinations. West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit attraction. Its serene waters, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic landscapes, have inspired countless poets and artists throughout history. A boat ride on the lake is an enchanting experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in Hangzhou’s natural splendor.

Another iconic landmark is the Six Harmonies Pagoda, an ancient structure dating back to the 10th century. Climbing to the top rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the Qiantang River and the surrounding area. The Lingyin Temple, one of the largest Buddhist temples in China, is another significant cultural and historical site in Hangzhou, featuring magnificent architecture and tranquil gardens.

Hangzhou’s vibrant food markets, such as the Qinghefang Ancient Street and Hefang Street, offer a chance to explore local street food and experience the bustling atmosphere. These markets are a feast for the senses, with enticing aromas, colorful displays of fresh produce, and a wide array of snacks and delicacies to tempt your taste buds.