Top Street Food Spots to Savor in Nanjing, China

Nanjing, also known as Nanking, is a city rich in history and culture located in Eastern China’s Jiangsu province. The capital of six dynasties, it offers an extraordinary blend of tradition and modernity. When visiting this beautiful city, don’t forget to indulge in its delicious street food! Here are some must-visit spots for a authentic Nanjing culinary adventure:

1. Minggugong Street (明�uguong Jie)

Minggugong Street is one of the most famous streets for foodies in Nanjing, with a history dating back to over 200 years. This bustling street offers a vast array of traditional snacks, from steamed buns filled with various fillings to skewered delicacies and local desserts. Some popular dishes include Xuan’er Bing (筝儿饼), a thin, crispy flatbread rolled up with ground peanuts or sesame seeds, and Liangfen (凉粉), a refreshing, jelly-like snack made from starch.

2. Confucian Temple Market (禹王寺市集)

Located near the famous Confucius Temple, this vibrant market offers an excellent selection of street food. The area is filled with small food stalls selling everything from grilled skewers to fried rice cakes and snacks. One must-try dish here is Luobo Gan (罗卜干), a sweet and savory dried loofah dish that’s both unique and delicious.

3. Zhongyang Pedestrian Street (中央步行街)

This pedestrian street, located in the heart of Nanjing, is the city’s commercial hub and a popular tourist destination. Although known for its shopping opportunities, the street also offers some great food options. One can find various snack stalls selling dishes such as Nanjing Salted Duck (南京酥炭鸭) and the ever-popular Xiaolongbao (小龙包), steamed dumplings filled with broth.

4. Fuzimiao (福咨墓)

Fuzimiao, also known as the Memorial Hall of Chiang Kai-shek, is a historical site and a popular tourist attraction in Nanjing. The area around it is filled with numerous street food vendors selling a variety of local dishes. Be sure to try Nanjing Ham (南京火腿), a type of cured ham that’s both sweet and salty, and Fuzimiao Xiaolongbao (福咨墓小笼包), which is known for its unique taste.

5. Qinhuai River (秦淮河)

The picturesque Qinhuai River is home to numerous restaurants and food stalls that offer a relaxing dining experience. Some popular dishes here include Nanjing Steamed Fish (南京蒸鱼), which is usually served with fresh ginger, and Guloe (鼓虾), a spicy shrimp dish. Don’t forget to enjoy your meal while taking in the beautiful scenery of the river and the city’s historic sites!

Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to experience authentic local cuisine, Nanjing offers a delightful selection of street foods that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. So, put on your adventurous hat and embark on a delicious journey through the bustling streets of this ancient city!