Chengdu, honored as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, is the birthplace of Sichuan cuisine, one of China’s most iconic and flavorful culinary traditions. Its cuisine is famous for málà (numbing and spicy), thanks to Sichuan peppercorns and chili oils, but the richness goes far beyond heat. From classic dishes like hotpot and mapo tofu to over 24 recognized traditional snacks, Chengdu's food culture is deeply rooted in history and everyday life. With teahouses, night markets, and “fly” restaurants (hidden gems loved by locals), it’s a paradise for foodies. With our private food tour, your guide will lead you beyond tourist menus—into backstreets and family-run eateries—ensuring an authentic and safe tasting adventure.

A well-planned Chengdu food tour should include:

Hotpot: Choose a fiery broth (or twin-flavor) and dip beef, duck blood, lotus root, or bamboo shoots.

Mapo Tofu: Silken tofu with fermented bean paste, chili oil, and minced pork.

Dan Dan Noodles: A classic snack of spicy, nutty sauce over springy noodles.

Chongqing Chicken: Crispy chicken tossed with heaps of dried chilies and peppercorns.

Sweet Water Noodles: Thick noodles with sweet, garlicky, spicy sauce.

Zhong Dumplings: Pork dumplings in sweetened garlic chili oil.

Rabbit Head: A Chengdu street-food icon for the adventurous.

Your private guide can help you sample these in trusted eateries and even customize your tasting list based on your preferences and dietary needs.

Not at all! While spice is central to Sichuan cuisine, there’s also a wide range of mild, sweet, and umami-rich dishes. Try:

Yu Xiang Rou Si: Sweet-sour shredded pork (no fish despite the name).

Kung Pao Chicken: Savory and slightly sweet with peanuts and chilies.

Bo Bo Chicken: Cold chicken skewers in sesame-garlic sauce.

Steamed Rice Cakes and glutinous desserts for something sweet.

Most restaurants can adjust spice levels—simply ask your guide to request “wei là” (mild) or “bù là” (no spice) in Mandarin.

The city has endless hotpot options—from chains to hidden gems. Popular places include:

Haidilao: Known for excellent service and beginner-friendly options.

Long Sen Yuan: Traditional broths and wide ingredient selection.

Shu Daxia: A theatrical dining experience with dramatic decor.

Chunxi Road’s alleys: Where locals go after dark.

Your private guide can recommend and reserve non-touristy hotpot spots, help you pick ingredients, and even guide you on how to dip and eat properly—no guesswork!

Sichuan pepper (huajiao) is not a chili, but a dried berry that creates a tingling, numbing effect—often described as electric or citrusy. It’s essential in dishes like shui zhu yú (boiled spicy fish) or dry-fried string beans. It doesn’t "burn" but may surprise first-timers. Your guide will introduce you to well-balanced dishes to help you experience this unique flavor comfortably.

Chengdu’s streets are bursting with flavor:

Jinli Ancient Street: Tourist-friendly with classics like fried skewers and Zhangfei beef.

Kuanzhai Alley: Upscale snack stalls in historical courtyards.

Yulin South Road: A locals’ hotspot for spicy crayfish and barbecue.

Shiba Taoyuan Night Market: Authentic, lively, and open late.

With our private tour, your guide will lead you through clean, trusted stalls, explain each dish, and help avoid food safety risks.

Yes—especially with a bit of guidance:

Choose high-turnover stalls (fresher food).

Prioritize hot, cooked-to-order items like noodles, skewers, or dumplings.

Avoid raw salads and ice cubes.

Our guide helps you navigate food hygiene and local etiquette, making it safe and enjoyable to eat like a local.

Absolutely! We can arrange hands-on cooking classes, such as:

Sichuan Cuisine Museum (Pixian): Learn to make doubanjiang and classic dishes.

Downtown studios: Try making mapo tofu, kung pao chicken, or dumplings with a local chef.

Market tours + cooking sessions via Airbnb-style experiences.

Classes usually include recipe cards, ingredients, and guidance in English. Your guide will assist with translation and recommendations.

Pairings help balance the spice:

Baijiu: Strong Chinese liquor; try local brands like Luzhou Laojiao.

Suanmeitang: Sour plum juice, perfect for hotpot.

Jasmine or Green Tea: Offered in teahouses and great with oily dishes.

Local craft beers: Chengdu Pale Ale, Yulin Beer—light and refreshing.

Our guide can recommend local teahouses or arrange a tea-tasting session to complement your food journey.

Top picks include:

Pixian Doubanjiang: The soul of Sichuan cooking.

Vacuum-packed Sichuan Peppercorns: For home cooking.

Chili Crisp: Lao Gan Ma or boutique versions.

Preserved Mustard Root (Zhacai): Add to noodles or congee.

Panda-shaped snacks: Cute, spicy, and popular gifts.

Your guide can help you find authentic, high-quality products in trusted shops or local markets.

Definitely! Chengdu is accommodating to all diets.

Vegetarian: Try Wenshu Monastery's vegetarian restaurant—mock meats, tofu, and seasonal vegetables.

Halal: Visit the Muslim Quarter near Huangcheng Mosque for beef noodles, lamb skewers, and baked bread.

Vegan Hotpot: Choose clear mushroom broths and tofu-based ingredients at popular chains.

Your guide will help screen menus, communicate dietary needs, and ensure safe and satisfying meals for everyone.