In recent years, Chengdu’s Qingyang Palace has gained a reputation for granting wishes, attracting visitors from far and wide. However, what many may not know is that the area surrounding Qingyang Palace is equally famous for its delectable cuisine. From spicy Sichuan dishes to comforting local specialties, the vibrant food scene is a must-try for anyone visiting the palace. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top dining spots near Qingyang Palace that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey through this historic district!
1. Jijiaga (鸡嘎嘎)
Distance: 250 meters from Qingyang Palace
Just a short walk from Qingyang Palace, Jijiaga offers a delightful taste of cold chicken dishes. Their cold chicken (凉拌鸡) is known for its firm texture and chewy skin, with each slice cut thin and evenly. The dish is elevated by a mix of cooked oil and chili peppers combined with a complex soy sauce, which gives their signature red oil chicken slices (红油鸡片) a pronounced spicy aroma. Additionally, the Sour Chicken (酸酸鸡) may seem mild at first glance, but the sweet and sour flavors of the chicken make it a perfect pairing with rice. Accompanied by shredded asparagus (莴苣丝), the dish adds an extra crunch, making for a refreshing experience.
2. Chen Mapo Tofu (陈麻婆豆腐)
Distance: 890 meters from Qingyang Palace
Established during the Qing Dynasty in the Tongzhi era, Chen Mapo Tofu is a time-honored establishment famous for its iconic dish. This century-old restaurant pays meticulous attention to every ingredient and cooking process, ensuring that their Mapo tofu (麻婆豆腐) embodies the perfect balance of numbing spiciness, freshness, and aroma. The standard way to enjoy it is to mix it with rice, allowing the rich broth to enhance every bite.
3. Fenglei Pavilion Xian Noodle (风雷亭訷仙面)
Distance: 770 meters from Qingyang Palace
This charming noodle shop boasts a classic ambiance and offers signature dishes such as Double Dragon Noodles (双龙面) and Seafood Noodles. The Double Dragon features a topping of beef and eel, where the eel is tender and the beef is soft and flavorful. The broth has a spicy kick reminiscent of Sichuan hotpot. The Seafood Noodles have a rich, fragrant broth filled with various mushrooms and seafood, delivering a light yet layered taste experience.
4. Zhang Laowu Liangfen (张老五凉粉)
Distance: 550 meters from Qingyang Palace
A branch of the famous Dongzikou Zhang Laowu Liangfen, this eatery excels in its sweet water noodles (甜水面). Compared to its counterpart, Zhang Laowu’s sauce blends are more sophisticated, with soy sauce and vinegar mixed in complex ways that create a harmonious sweet and spicy flavor, allowing the various spices to shine through.
5. Xiao Tao Hui Ya’an Gong Jiao Xian Yu Guan (小饕荟雅安贡椒鲜鱼馆)
Distance: 700 meters from Qingyang Palace
Known for its signature Gong Jiao hot pot base (贡椒锅底), this restaurant may seem understated, but its flavor is anything but. The base delivers a unique and rich numbing sensation that pleasantly surprises the taste buds. They serve fresh fish, often prepared on demand, with the river bass being a popular choice due to its boneless and tender meat. When paired with frog and pork intestines, the flavors become even more delightful!
6. Maixiang Guokui (麦香锅盔)
Distance: 820 meters from Qingyang Palace
This eatery specializes in Guokui (锅盔), offering only beef and pork fillings. Regardless of your choice, both options are mouthwateringly delicious! The Guokui is first fried and then baked, resulting in a crispy outer layer that crumbles easily while the filling remains hearty yet not greasy. The addition of whole peppercorns enhances the dish with a hint of spiciness.
7. Hu Er Ge Herbal Pig Trotters (胡二哥薬膳蹄花)
Distance: 660 meters from Qingyang Palace
What started as a humble roadside stall has transformed into a Michelin-worthy establishment. The rich yellow broth is infused with aromatic herbs, including goji berries and jujubes, creating a sweet undertone that’s irresistible. The pig trotters (蹄花) are slow-cooked until the meat is tender and falls off the bone, making each bite a collagen-rich delight. However, be prepared for slightly higher prices at this popular spot.
8. Ye Yazi (叶鸭子)
Distance: 920 meters from Qingyang Palace
Originally located on Gulou East Alley, Ye Yazi has maintained a loyal customer base even after relocating. Their Mao Roast Duck (冒烤鸭) stands out for its rich, aromatic oiliness and the firm, succulent texture of the duck meat, delivering a mouthwatering experience with every bite.