Eating Guangzhou: From Old Xiguan to Michelin Stars
Stroll European Shamian, taste boat congee at Lychee Bay, and dine at Bingsheng
"Eating in Guangzhou" is no empty slogan. This city perfectly blends grassroots street food with high-end dining. From the European charm of Shamian Island to the Michelin-starred roast pork of Zhujiang New Town, prepare for a culinary masterclass.
Guangzhou takes its food incredibly seriously. Here, you can eat a two-dollar rice noodle roll in flip-flops on a street corner, or wear a suit to enjoy a Michelin-starred feast in Zhujiang New Town. The city's immense inclusivity is fully reflected on its dining tables.
European Romance at Shamian and Grassroots Xiguan
The journey begins at Shamian Island in Liwan District. Formerly an Anglo-French concession, the island preserves over 150 European-style buildings. Walking under the ancient banyan trees as sunlight dapples the Baroque mansions feels like stepping into 19th-century Europe. After a morning coffee on Shamian, we walk to nearby Lychee Bay. This is a completely different world—the birthplace of Guangzhou's traditional "Xiguan culture." Take a traditional wooden boat ride through the canals flanked by antique Xiguan mansions. We highly recommend grabbing a piping hot bowl of "Tingzai" (boat) congee and some water chestnut cake from a century-old riverside vendor to experience the most authentic Cantonese vibe.
A Michelin Feast in Zhujiang New Town
As night falls, we turn to the bustling CBD, Zhujiang New Town. Guangzhou's high-end dining scene has exploded, and Bingsheng Mansion consistently holds its Michelin star. The absolute must-order here is their "Original Black Char Siu" (roast pork). This dish subverts the traditional red glaze; it is charred and crispy on the outside, bursting with juices inside, and melts in your mouth, elevating familiar Cantonese BBQ to high art.
Escaping the Hustle: Shimen National Forest Park
After days of urban culinary bombardment, we drive north to Guangzhou's "backyard"—Conghua District. The Shimen National Forest Park is a top choice for locals seeking summer coolness and autumn colors. During the transition from autumn to winter, the "Shimen Red Leaves" blanket the mountains, known as Guangdong's most spectacular foliage viewing spot. Walking through this negative-ion-rich forest purifies both the stomach and the soul.
Shamian Island and Lychee Bay are accessible via Metro Line 1 (Huangsha or Changshou Lu stations). Bingsheng Mansion is in Tianhe; take the APM Line to Guangzhou Opera House Station. Shimen National Forest Park is over 80km from the city center; renting a car or hiring a driver is highly recommended.
Bingsheng's Black Char Siu is limited daily; you must reserve it when booking your table. Lychee Bay is very crowded on weekends, so visit on a weekday for a better boat experience. The red leaf season at Shimen Park is usually from mid-December to early January.