What is Chengdu Famous for Food? Discover the Top 10 Must-Try Dishes

Chengdu, recognized as a “City of Gastronomy” by UNESCO, is a dream destination for food lovers worldwide. If you’re wondering what is Chengdu famous for food, the answer lies in its bold, spicy, and aromatic Sichuan cuisine. From fiery hot pot to mouth-numbing snacks, the city offers an unforgettable culinary adventure. Here’s a curated list of the top 10 must-try foods in Chengdu to help you explore what makes this city a food paradise—perfect whether you’re on a chengdu day trip or a longer stay.

1. Pork Intestine & Vermicelli in Spicy Soup (肥肠酸辣粉, Féicháng Suānlàfěn)

A beloved Chengdu street snack, this dish features chewy sweet potato noodles served in a tangy and spicy broth with tender braised pork intestines. It’s aromatic, satisfying, and often enjoyed with a side of guokui (a type of baked flatbread). Whether from a street stall or a time-honored restaurant, it’s a local favorite and a delicious insight into what is Chengdu like for foodies.

2. Dandan Noodles (担担面, Dàndàn Miàn)

A signature noodle dish from Sichuan, Dandan Noodles are served with minced pork, chili oil, crushed peanuts, and a hint of sesame paste. The thin, springy noodles carry rich, savory, and mildly spicy flavors—a true taste of what Chengdu is famous for food.

3. Skewer Hot Pot (串串香, Chuànchuàn Xiāng)

Also known as Chuanchuan Xiang, this DIY-style hot pot lets you skewer ingredients like beef, tripe, or mushrooms and cook them in a simmering spicy broth. Enjoy it with a dry spice dip or a sesame oil and garlic mix. It’s a social and flexible dining experience popular both day and night, and a fun group activity to include in your chengdu travel itinerary.

4. Maoxuewang (毛血旺, Máoxuěwàng)

A hearty and spicy stew made with duck blood curd, tripe, pork intestine, and luncheon meat in a numbingly hot broth. The combination of tender and crunchy textures makes it a comforting yet bold dish, perfect with a bowl of rice.

5. Mapo Tofu (麻婆豆腐, Mápó Dòufu)

Famous across the globe, Mapo Tofu embodies the essence of Sichuan cuisine: má (numbing) and là (spicy). Soft tofu and minced beef are cooked in a flavorful sauce with chili bean paste and Sichuan peppercorns. It’s creamy, spicy, and incredibly satisfying.

6. Sliced Beef in Chili Sauce (夫妻肺片, Fūqī Fěipiàn)

Despite its name (“Husband and Wife Lung Slices”), this popular cold dish contains no lungs. It’s made with thinly sliced beef, tripe, or tongue, tossed in chili oil, Sichuan pepper, and peanuts. The result is refreshing, savory, and mildly spicy.

7. Spicy Rabbit Head (兔头, Tùtóu)

A Chengdu night snack classic, rabbit head is braised in a spicy or five-spice broth. The meat is firm, and the brain is soft and rich. Don’t be intimidated by its look—it’s flavorful and fun to eat, and a classic part of things to do in chengdu at night. Just follow the locals: split it open, taste the tongue, and savor the brain.

8. Sichuan Cured Meat (四川腊肉, Sìchuān Làròu)

This smoked and air-dried pork has a deep red color and a salty, smoky taste. It can be steamed and eaten as is or stir-fried with vegetables. A staple in local households, especially during winter.

9. Hot Pot (火锅, Huǒguō)

Chengdu is famous for its hot pot—a bubbling, spicy broth often made with beef tallow. Diners cook a variety of ingredients such as thinly sliced meat, tripe, and vegetables. Pair it with a cooling oil dip to balance the heat. Great for groups and a must for anyone researching what to do in Chengdu, some restaurants also offer individual pots.

10. Crispy Fried Pork (小酥肉, Xiǎo Sūròu)

These bite-sized pork strips are coated in batter, fried until golden, and sprinkled with Sichuan pepper. Crispy outside and juicy inside, they can be eaten as a snack or added to hot pot. Specialty shops and hot pot restaurants often serve the best versions.

Helpful Tips for Your Chengdu Food Tour:

You can request mild spice levels—just ask for wēilà (微辣).

Popular restaurants often have long queues; try visiting during off-peak hours. If you’re looking for the best chengdu itinerary, be sure to include both popular spots and hidden gems.

Cool down the heat with a bowl of bingfen (iced jelly) or a glass of soy milk.

If you’re still wondering, is Chengdu worth visiting? The food scene alone makes it a resounding yes! We hope this guide helps you explore what Chengdu is famous for food and enjoy every bite of your unforgettable chengdu trip! For more detailed planning, check out our chengdu itinerary and chengdu itinerary step-by-step guides.