Zhengzhou Henan, China Travel Guide
Henan cuisine (豫菜, Yùcài) is one of the eight major cuisines of China.
It has historical influence from the imperial court, focusing on soups, wheat-based dishes, and a balance of salty or spicy and mildly spicy flavors.
Chopsticks are the standard utensil for dining.
Guests often serve themselves from communal dishes placed in the center of the table.
Tipping is generally not expected in restaurants.
Lamb stewed noodles, featuring wide, hand-pulled noodles in a rich lamb broth, with slices of lamb, vermicelli, kelp, and dried tofu.
Widely available at local noodle shops throughout the city.
Wheat noodles steamed and stir-fried with meat (often pork) and vegetables, then stewed in a savory sauce.
A hearty and flavorful local staple.
Famous from Daokou a village in Henan, this is a flavorful, tender, whole roasted chicken.
Find it in specialty shops.
Local Baijiu (白酒), strong liquor, and local beers (e.g., Tsingtao, Henan brands) are common. Herbal teas, soy milk, and bottled juices are also available.
Tangyuan (glutinous rice balls with sweet fillings), and various steamed buns (包子, bāozi) with sweet or savory fillings.
Luxury hotels, like the JW Marriott's Man Ho Chinese Restaurant, feature fine dining.
Numerous options for local Henan dishes, other Chinese regional cuisines, and some international choices.
Abundant street food stalls and small family-run restaurants are found throughout the city.
Wet markets provide fresh produce and local snacks.
atmosphere.
Modern food courts in shopping malls offer a variety of options.
Convenient and air-conditioned comfort.
From local favorites to overseas fare.
Don't miss the street food scene.
Food courts are widespread.
Explore different dining styles.
"Wo chi su" (I am vegetarian), "Bu yao rou" (Meat-free).
Make use of these phrases for clarity.
"Bu yao yu" (No fish).
Communicate clearly about ingredients.
Use translation apps or pre-written cards to communicate your dietary restrictions clearly.
Seek out specialized restaurants like Halal or Buddhist vegetarian establishments.
Explore Zhengzhou's food culture through engaging experiences.
These activities may be available through specialized local tour operators.
Explore local eateries and markets with a knowledgeable guide.
Local food festivals are held periodically, especially around harvest times or national holidays.
Information might be localized and mainly in Chinese.
Wet markets provide fresh produce and local snacks.
Explore for an authentic culinary experience.
Distinct variations exist in other Henan cities, like Kaifeng and Luoyang, offering more refined imperial cuisine or elaborate "water banquets."
Enjoy Mooncakes during Mid-Autumn Festival, Zongzi during Dragon Boat Festival, and dumplings for Chinese New Year celebrations.
While cooking classes and food tours may not be as widely advertised as in major tourist cities, they offer one-of-a-kind insights into Zhengzhou's food culture.
