Nestled in the stunning landscape of Guilin, Xingping Ancient Town is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the palate. With its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking scenery, the town offers an array of dining options that showcase the unique flavors of the region. From traditional dishes to modern culinary creations, visitors can indulge in a variety of local specialties that reflect the heart of Guangxi cuisine. In this guide, we will explore some of the top restaurants in Xingping Ancient Town, highlighting their signature dishes and what makes each one a must-visit during your stay.
1. Jixiang Restaurant (吉祥菜馆)
- Signature Dishes: Guobaorou (锅包肉), Vinegar Shredded Potatoes (醋溜土豆丝), Xingping Stir-fried Pork (兴坪小炒肉), Bamboo Tube Chicken (竹筒鸡)
- Why Visit: Jixiang Restaurant has garnered praise for its authentic northeastern flavors combined with local dishes. The Guobaorou features a crispy exterior and tender meat, making it a crowd favorite. The Vinegar Shredded Potatoes are refreshingly tangy, while the Xingping Stir-fried Pork is hearty and flavorful. The Bamboo Tube Chicken stands out for its rich broth and succulent meat. Additionally, the warm hospitality of the owner adds to the dining experience, making it a perfect spot for travelers looking to enjoy a hearty meal in a cozy environment.
- Address: 70 Xin Street, Xingping Ancient Town
2. Songjian Lijiang Fish Restaurant (松涧漓岸鱼餐吧)
- Signature Dishes: Beer Bone Fish (啤酒骨鱼), Lotus Leaf Beggar’s Chicken (荷叶叫花鸡), Ginger Scallion Shrimp (姜葱虾)
- Why Visit: This restaurant is known for its unique dishes and elegant atmosphere, attracting many visitors. The Beer Bone Fish is tender and spicy, while the Lotus Leaf Beggar’s Chicken combines fragrant lotus leaves with juicy chicken. The Ginger Scallion Shrimp features fresh river shrimp stir-fried with ginger and scallions, offering a delicious taste of local seafood. The decor reflects the local culture, making it an ideal spot to savor Lijiang cuisine while enjoying views of the ancient town.
- Address: Near Xingping Ancient Town / Yangshuo High-Speed Railway Station
3. Ancient Town Farmhouse Restaurant (古镇农家菜馆)
- Signature Dishes: Taro Braised Ribs (香芋焖排骨), Steamed Hairtail Fish (清蒸毛骨鱼), Yellow Braised Chicken (黄焖鸡)
- Why Visit: Conveniently located near the entrance of the ancient town, this farmhouse restaurant focuses on hearty, farm-style cooking. The Taro Braised Ribs are tender and flavorful, while the Steamed Hairtail Fish preserves the freshness of the fish. The Yellow Braised Chicken is fragrant and succulent. With friendly service and affordable prices, it’s a great place for tourists to experience local home-cooked meals.
- Address: 151 Xin Street, Xingping Town, Guilin City (30 meters into the ancient town from the entrance bus station)
4. Laojiefang (老街坊)
- Signature Dishes: Oil Tea (油茶), Eighteen Stuffed Dishes (十八酿)
- Why Visit: Located in the old street of the ancient town, Laojiefang boasts a rustic and elegant atmosphere. Their menu focuses on traditional Xingping delicacies, such as the fragrant Oil Tea, known for its warming properties, and the Eighteen Stuffed Dishes, which feature a variety of unique flavors. The attentive service and moderate pricing make this restaurant a perfect spot for tourists to immerse themselves in local culture and cuisine.
- Address: Old Street, Xingping Ancient Town
5. Lijiang Renjia (漓江人家)
- Signature Dishes: Lijiang Beer Fish (漓江啤酒鱼), Lijiang Snail Rice Noodles (漓江螺蛳粉)
- Why Visit: Situated by the banks of the Li River, Lijiang Renjia offers stunning views alongside its delightful dishes. The Lijiang Beer Fish is made from fresh local fish, ensuring a crispy exterior and tender meat. The Lijiang Snail Rice Noodles are known for their spicy and sour flavor, a favorite among visitors. The restaurant features a comfortable and elegant environment with excellent service, making it a prime location for tasting the flavors of the Li River.
- Address: By the Li River, Xingping Ancient Town
6. Laomatou Restaurant (老码头酒家)
- Signature Dishes: Oil Tea Chicken (油茶鸡), Songhua Sugar (松花糖)
- Why Visit: Laomadong is located near the old pier of the ancient town, offering a peaceful and beautiful setting. Specializing in local snacks like Oil Tea Chicken, which is tender and flavorful, and crispy Songhua Sugar, this restaurant is perfect for tourists wanting to try authentic local flavors. They also serve various other dishes and beverages, providing a well-rounded dining experience amidst the scenic beauty of Xingping.
- Address: Near the old pier of Xingping Ancient Town
7. Yujiale (渔家乐)
- Signature Dishes: Grouper Hotpot (斑鱼火锅), Fresh River Shrimp (漓江鲜虾)
- Why Visit: Situated by the Li River, Yujiale focuses on seafood and fresh river dishes. The Grouper Hotpot features tender fish cooked in a flavorful broth, while the Fresh River Shrimp is known for its freshness and delicious taste. The restaurant also offers a range of local specialties and beverages at reasonable prices, making it an ideal choice for visitors wanting to sample fresh aquatic delicacies.
- Address: By the Li River, Xingping Ancient Town
8. Old Street Taste (老街味道)
- Signature Dishes: Fenli (粉利), Rice Noodles (米粉)
- Why Visit: Located on the old street, Old Street Taste exudes a nostalgic and warm ambiance. The menu features traditional local snacks, including colorful and flavorful Fenli, and fragrant Rice Noodles. The restaurant offers a selection of local dishes and drinks, making it an excellent place for visitors to indulge in local snacks and experience the charm of the ancient town.
- Address: Old Street, Xingping Ancient Town
9. Ancient Town Kitchen (古镇小厨)
- Signature Dishes: Yellow Braised Duck (黄焖鸭), Spicy Tofu (麻辣豆腐)
- Why Visit: Located in the town center, Ancient Town Kitchen boasts a diverse menu. The Yellow Braised Duck is tender and flavorful, while the Spicy Tofu offers a delightful kick. The restaurant is known for its friendly service and affordable prices, making it a great place for tourists to taste local dishes and enjoy the atmosphere of Xingping.
- Address: Center of Xingping Ancient Town
10. Golden Roast Goose Beer Fish (金牌烧鹅啤酒鱼)
- Signature Dishes: Golden Roast Goose (金牌烧鹅), Beer Fish (啤酒鱼)
- Why Visit: This restaurant is highly acclaimed for its signature dishes, including the crispy, juicy Golden Roast Goose and the Beer Fish, which uses live fish cooked to perfection with a secret sauce. The menu also features bamboo rice, stir-fried beef with bamboo shoots, and refreshing fruit drinks. It’s a popular spot for visitors wanting to savor local flavors while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the ancient town.
- Address: Near Old Street, Xingping Ancient Town (just a few hundred meters from the famous 20 RMB photo spot)