Chengdu, the vibrant heart of Sichuan cuisine, is home to a variety of iconic restaurants that have served locals and visitors for decades. For food enthusiasts seeking the true taste of Sichuan, here’s a list of 8 timeless, well-established restaurants—each offering mouthwatering dishes that have stood the test of time. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned foodie, these restaurants are guaranteed to give you a true Sichuan dining experience that’s both delicious and affordable.
1. Yongle Restaurant (永乐饭店) – 35 Years of Tradition
A Chengdu classic, Yongle Restaurant (永乐饭店) has been serving up authentic Sichuan flavors for over three decades. Known for its perfect execution of traditional home-style dishes, it consistently ranks at the top of local food lists.
- Must-Try Dishes:
- Stir-Fried Pig’s Kidney (腰肝和炒) (1st place ranking)
- Meatball Soup (丸子汤) (1st place ranking)
- Kung Pao Chicken (宫保鸡丁) (1st place ranking)
- Douban Fish (豆瓣鱼)
- Glutinous Rice Ribs (糯米排骨) (1st place ranking)
- Address: 36 Xiao Jia He Middle Street (肖家河中街36号)
- Price Range: ¥60
2. Ji Mao Dian (鸡毛店) – 14 Years of Success
Currently one of the hottest restaurants in Chengdu, Ji Mao Dian (鸡毛店) has been a favorite for over a decade, often requiring a long wait due to its popularity. This cozy restaurant serves a range of affordable, tasty Sichuan dishes that are beloved by locals.
- Must-Try Dishes:
- Spicy Chicken (辣子鸡) (3rd place ranking)
- Guo Bian Mo (锅边馍) (Sichuan-style bread)
- Garlic Pork (蒜泥白肉) (3rd place ranking)
- Shredded Chicken Noodles (鸡丝凉面) (2nd place ranking)
- Green Pepper Fish (青椒鱼) (2nd place ranking)
- Address: 1 Jiangjun Street (将军街1号)
- Price Range: ¥70
3. Hongxing Restaurant (红杏酒家) – 27 Years of Excellence
Known as one of the best dining spots in the city, Hongxing Restaurant (红杏酒家) has served generations of locals. It’s considered the go-to place for a delicious meal in Chengdu, offering a variety of signature dishes.
- Must-Try Dishes:
- Red Apricot Chicken (红杏鸡)
- Steamed Pork with Rice Flour (粉蒸肉) (3rd place ranking)
- Garlic Shrimp (蒜香虾)
- Eel with Vermicelli (鳝段粉丝)
- Bean Soup Rice (豆汤饭)
- Douban Fish (豆瓣鱼)
- Address: 137 Ziwei East Road (紫薇东路137号)
- Price Range: ¥90
4. Chen Mapo Tofu (陈麻婆) – 160 Years of History
As one of the oldest and most famous restaurants in Chengdu, Chen Mapo Tofu (陈麻婆) invented the legendary Mapo Tofu dish. Established in 1860, it’s still a top choice for authentic Sichuan flavors, especially for its namesake dish.
- Must-Try Dishes:
- Mapo Tofu (麻婆豆腐) (1st place ranking)
- Kung Pao Chicken (宫保鸡丁) (3rd place ranking)
- Garlic Pork (蒜泥白肉)
- Couple’s Lung Slices (夫妻肺片)
- Huo Xiang Fish (藿香鱼)
- Address: 3 Tongsheng Road (同盛路3号)
- Price Range: ¥74
5. Ming Ting Restaurant (明婷饭店) – Since 1997
Once a humble “fly restaurant” that rose to fame, Ming Ting (明婷饭店) has been serving locals for more than 20 years. It’s famous for its hearty, no-nonsense Sichuan food and remains a popular spot for both regulars and newcomers.
- Must-Try Dishes:
- Crispy Pork with Rice Crust (锅巴肉片) (1st place ranking)
- Fish-flavored Crispy Eggplant (鱼香脆茄)
- Brain Tofu (脑花豆腐)
- Rabbit Head (霸王兔)
- Green Pepper Eel (青椒鳝丝)
- Address: 26 Caojia Alley (曹家巷26号)
- Price Range: ¥89
6. Tao Lin Restaurant (饕林餐厅) – Top Choice on Chunxi Road
Located on Chengdu’s bustling Chunxi Road, Tao Lin (饕林餐厅) is a must-visit for both the taste and ambiance. Known for its excellent service and flavor-packed dishes, it’s perfect for anyone looking to indulge in an authentic Sichuan meal.
- Must-Try Dishes:
- Spicy Chicken (辣子鸡) (2nd place ranking)
- Tao Lin Black Tofu (饕林黑豆腐)
- River Fish (河渡鱼)
- Fresh Pepper Rabbit (鲜椒兔)
- Twice-Cooked Pork (回锅肉) (1st place ranking)
- Address: 81 Xuedao Street (学道街81号)
- Price Range: ¥85
7. Furong Huang Garden Restaurant (芙蓉凰花园酒楼) – Classic Sichuan Dining
Furong Huang (芙蓉凰花园酒楼) is a beloved restaurant for generations of Chengdu locals. Known for its signature Sichuan dishes and being a past favorite of domestic and international guests, it offers a comfortable environment to enjoy the best of Sichuan cuisine.
- Must-Try Dishes:
- Kung Pao Chicken (宫保鸡丁) (2nd place ranking)
- Snowflake Chicken (雪花鸡淖)
- Peppery Liver (椒香肝尖)
- Crispy Pork with Rice Crust (锅巴肉片) (2nd place ranking)
- Salted Yellow Fried Gourd (咸黄炒小瓜)
- Address: 66 Guanghua Village Street (光华村街66号)
- Price Range: ¥108
8. Lu Ji Zheng Street Restaurant (卢记正街) – 42 Years of Tradition
A local favorite with a rich history, Lu Ji Zheng Street (卢记正街) has been serving Sichuan delicacies for over four decades. This Michelin-recognized gem is known for its outstanding dishes and warm atmosphere, making it a must-visit for anyone in Chengdu.
- Must-Try Dishes:
- Spicy Beef with Chili (辣子肥牛)
- Red-Braised Pork (红烧肉) (1st place ranking)
- Golden Chicken Feet with Fried Dough (黄金凤爪大油条)
- Iron Plate Tofu (铁板豆腐) (2nd place ranking)
- Kung Pao Tofu (宫保豆腐)
- Twice-Cooked Pork (回锅肉)
- Garlic Pork (蒜泥白肉)
- Address: 1 Yu Jie Alley (玉洁巷1号)
- Price Range: ¥112