Huangyan's Gourmet Guide: A Bite to Warm Your Winter
As winter deepens, only good food can brighten the cold days. Join your friends and explore the streets and alleys of Huangyan for a taste of warmth and flavor. Winter in Huangyan evokes memories through its unique cuisine, with the aroma of local delicacies wafting from dawn to dusk. Amidst the chilly winds, the culinary delights of Huangyan transform the cold season into a lively feast, warming both hearts and taste buds with every bite.
Huangyan mornings start with a bowl of steaming soy milk, where the rich aroma of soybeans awakens the senses. The soy milk, ground to a silky texture with a stone mill, is topped with a dense foam that feels like cotton candy, gently melting away the winter chill. Paired with it is the classic shibingtong, a handmade thin pancake filled with bean sprouts, shredded pork, and various sauces. Its layers of flavor and the slightly crispy edge make it the quintessential taste of winter mornings.
For lunch, nothing beats the iconic duck soup at Laobianjiujia Restaurant. A pot of richly flavored broth simmered over time combines tender duck meat and juicy dumplings, offering a comforting escape from the winter cold. The savory duck blends harmoniously with the handmade dumplings, creating a dish that warms not just the stomach but also the soul.
Xianren Chicken is a festive highlight on Huangyan’s dining tables. Cooked to a golden hue in a traditional clay pot, the chicken is slow-braised with dried daylilies and winter bamboo shoots. The thick, flavorful soup is not greasy, while the tender yet firm chicken has a subtle sweetness from the chicken fat, embodying the culinary traditions treasured by the people of Huangyan.
At Yongningjiang Restaurant, a feast awaits with vibrant dishes like fresh bamboo shoots, plump crabs, bouncy fish, and savory ribs. Each dish radiates irresistible aroma and flavor. Among Huangyan’s signature dishes is Jiang Soup Noodles, with Weichen Snack Shop being a standout. This establishment is famous for its rich toppings, fresh seafood, and distinctive ginger broth.
Zhujishabu Tofu, a childhood favorite for many locals, is renowned for its uniform size and rich color. After a long simmering process with secret herbal spices, the tofu becomes soft yet firm, absorbing the essence of the marinade. A bite reveals a harmonious blend of rich sauce and delicate soybean flavor, leaving a lingering sweetness on the palate. Shabugao, with its sticky yet non-clinging texture, pairs the soft glutinous cake with sweet fillings, banishing winter's chill in a single bite.
Linji Seafood focuses on showcasing the exquisite flavors. Entering the restaurant feels like stepping onto a blue coastline, surrounded by the ocean’s freshness and purity. Signature dishes such as stir-fried crab with rice cakes, sour soup perch, garlic scallops, and crispy fried pork ribs exude unique culinary culture, leaving a lasting impression.
No winter in Huangyan is complete without a bubbling hotpot. Miaochun Hotpot, open only in winter, prides itself on fresh ingredients. The owner’s masterful knife skills ensure that fish slices are paper-thin, while beef and lamb are evenly sliced. Served on plain iron trays, the focus is on freshness rather than elaborate presentation. The hotpot broth is rich, and spice lovers will appreciate the homemade spicy base. With a variety of ingredients and soup bases, the restaurant caters to diverse palates.
Winter in Huangyan is synonymous with the warmth of food. Hidden in its alleys are timeless culinary treasures that bring comfort to everyone who cherishes the city. This winter, follow this gourmet guide to explore Huangyan’s streets and discover the flavors that awaken your memories. Through every dish, reconnect with the charm of this "Thousand-Year Sweet City" and feel its enduring warmth.