Chengdu is a city that thrives on its rich culinary history, where century-old restaurants have stood the test of time, offering both traditional flavors and local charm. These renowned establishments, many of which have branched out into chains, provide a taste of authentic Sichuan cuisine—from small eats to full-course meals. Whether you’re seeking spicy, savory dishes or delightful snacks, Chengdu’s century-old restaurants are sure to impress.
1. Chen Mapo Tofu (陈麻婆豆腐) – Founded in 1862
A true legend in Sichuan cuisine, Chen Mapo Tofu (陈麻婆豆腐) is the birthplace of the famous Mapo Tofu. This restaurant, established in the Qing Dynasty, remains a top choice for those seeking authentic Sichuan flavors. Known for its robust, spicy dishes, this eatery has perfected the art of Sichuan cuisine over generations.
- Must-Try Dishes:
- Mapo Tofu (麻婆豆腐)
- Couple’s Lung Slices (夫妻肺片)
- Special Maoxuewang (毛血旺)
- Squirrel Fish (松鼠鱼)
- Average Price: ¥75 per person
- Address: 10-12 Qinghua Road (青华路10号附10-12号)
- Operating Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
2. Zhong Shui Jiao (钟水饺) – Since 1896
Zhong Shui Jiao (钟水饺) is one of Chengdu’s oldest and most beloved snack spots, offering a unique, flavorful take on dumplings and traditional Sichuan snacks. Established in 1896, it’s been serving locals and visitors alike with its rich, red chili oil-infused water dumplings and a variety of other classic snacks.
- Must-Try Dishes:
- Zhong Shui Jiao (钟水饺)
- Long Chao Shou (龙抄手)
- Egg Pancake (蛋烘糕)
- Sweet Water Noodles (甜水面)
- Average Price: ¥30 per person
- Address: 12 Shaocheng Road, People’s Park, Ziwige (少城路12号人民公园内紫薇阁)
- Operating Hours: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM
3. Pan Sun Shi (盘飧市) – Founded in 1925
Known for its rich history, Pan Sun Shi (盘飧市) has been a local favorite for almost a century. Specializing in pickled and braised dishes, this restaurant offers a wide selection of savory foods, from classic Sichuan-style meats to tasty snacks.
- Must-Try Dishes:
- Braised Dishes (卤菜)
- Braised Meat Pastry (卤肉锅盔)
- Steamed Buns (包子)
- Average Price: ¥70 per person
- Address: 62-63 Huaxing Street, Chunxi Road (华兴街62-63号，近王府井)
- Operating Hours: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
4. Rong Le Yuan (荣乐园) – Established in 1861
Originally known as Zheng Xing Yuan (正兴园), Rong Le Yuan (荣乐园) has been serving up Sichuan’s finest banquet-style meals since the Qing Dynasty. Famous for its high-end banquet offerings and traditional Sichuan family dishes, it remains a prestigious restaurant in Chengdu.
- Must-Try Dishes:
- Assorted Squid (鱿鱼什锦)
- Couple’s Lung Slices (夫妻肺片)
- Kung Pao Snowflake Beef (宫保雪花牛肉)
- Average Price: ¥100 per person
- Address: 29 Wenshu Monastery Street (文殊院街29号)
- Operating Hours: 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
5. Lai Tang Yuan (赖汤圆) – Since 1894
Founded in 1894 by Lai Yuanxin, Lai Tang Yuan (赖汤圆) is a popular spot for sweet rice dumplings (tangyuan) and other traditional Sichuan desserts. Its menu has evolved over time, offering a variety of flavors, from classic black sesame to innovative rose and ice citrus.
- Must-Try Dishes:
- Lai Tang Yuan (赖汤圆) (Sweet Rice Dumplings)
- Dandan Noodles (担担面)
- Couple’s Lung Slices (夫妻肺片)
- Average Price: ¥20 per person
- Address: 23 Zongfu Road (总府路23号附2号)
- Operating Hours: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM
6. Dai Jiang Cao Tang (带江草堂) – Established in 1936
Originally known as Sanjiang Caotang (三江草堂), Dai Jiang Cao Tang (带江草堂) specializes in fresh river fish and is a favorite among locals for its unique take on seafood dishes. With over 80 years of history, it remains a top choice for anyone craving fresh fish and traditional Sichuan flavors.
- Must-Try Dishes:
- Garlic Carp (大蒜鲢鱼)
- Taibai Sauce Pork (太白酱肉)
- Old-Style Camphor Duck (老号樟茶鸭)
- Kung Pao Chicken (宫保鸡丁)
- Average Price: ¥80 per person
- Address: 101 Xianbei North Road (西安北路101号，西安北路口)
- Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
7. Hao Zi Dong Lao Zhang Duck (耗子洞老张鸭子) – Founded in 1928
Specializing in duck dishes, Hao Zi Dong Lao Zhang Duck (耗子洞老张鸭子) is famous for its signature camphor tea ducks and other duck-based dishes. Established in 1928, it has become a staple of Chengdu’s culinary scene. Whether you prefer roasted or smoked duck, this is the place to indulge in savory duck dishes.
- Must-Try Dishes:
- Signature Camphor Tea Duck (樟茶鸭子)
- Glutinous Rice Duck (糯米鸭)
- Fish-Fragrant Eggplant Cake (鱼香茄饼)
- Spicy Roasted Duck (冒烤鸭)
- Average Price: ¥70 per person
- Address: 55 Changshun Lower Street (长顺下街55号，近八宝街)
- Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM