Chengdu isn’t just another city with good food, it’s the beating heart of Sichuan cuisine and officially recognised as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. With its heady mix of numbing spices, bold flavours, and comforting street snacks, Chengdu is a destination that captures both your taste buds and your imagination.

From sizzling hotpot gatherings to spicy dumplings and quirky street eats, Chengdu delivers a culinary experience that’s equal parts delicious and daring. Planning a trip to this flavour capital? Here are ten dishes you won’t want to leave without trying.

No dish represents Chengdu’s food culture more than its iconic hotpot. Imagine a bubbling cauldron of spiced broth, floating with red chillies, Sichuan peppercorns, and an array of meats, vegetables, and tofu.

It’s more than just a meal, it’s a social event. Dip your lotus root, beef slices, duck blood cubes, and mushrooms into the fiery broth, then customise your own dipping sauce at the condiment bar. Most hotpot restaurants stay open until late, making it a favourite for night owls.

This comforting classic features silken tofu drenched in a deep red sauce made from fermented bean paste, minced pork, garlic, and Sichuan peppercorn. The result is a beautiful balance of heat and numbing spice, known locally as "mala".

Whether you find it in a humble eatery or a fancy restaurant, one spoonful of Mapo Tofu and you’ll understand why locals love it so much.

These spicy noodles may come in a small serving, but they pack a serious punch. Topped with minced pork, pickled mustard greens, roasted peanuts, and chilli oil, Dan Dan noodles are a staple for those craving a quick, fiery hit of flavour.

They’re perfect for lunch or as part of a multi-dish feast with friends.

When the temperatures rise, locals turn to cold noodles for refreshment. Served with a tangy mix of vinegar, chilli oil, sesame paste, and topped with shredded cucumber and crushed peanuts, this dish is light yet flavourful.

It’s commonly found at street stalls and casual eateries, especially in the summer months.

Soft, juicy pork dumplings drenched in a vibrant red chilli oil sauce, it’s everything you want from a spicy starter. A little sweet, a little numbing, and very addictive, these dumplings are a must-order in any Chengdu-style restaurant.

They’re usually served in small portions, so don’t hesitate to try a few plates.

This bold delicacy might raise eyebrows, but rabbit head is a beloved street snack among locals. Marinated in a complex mix of spices and chillies, it’s served whole for diners to nibble and suck out the meat.

It’s not for everyone, but for the adventurous, it’s an unforgettable bite and a symbol of Chengdu’s fearless culinary spirit.

You’ve probably had Kung Pao Chicken before, but Chengdu is where it all began. The original version features stir-fried chicken, crunchy peanuts, dried chillies, and garlic, all tossed in a sweet and spicy glaze.

It’s bolder, less sugary, and more complex than the versions found overseas. A comforting dish that locals enjoy at home and in restaurants alike.

These handmade noodles are wide, chewy, and coated in a sticky sauce that’s equal parts sweet, savoury, and spicy. With ingredients like soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame, and garlic, each bite is a flavour explosion.

It’s a textural treat that stands out from the typical noodle fare.

Grilled to perfection and then submerged in a bubbling chilli oil broth with fermented bean paste, garlic, and coriander, this dish turns a simple freshwater fish into something unforgettable.

It’s designed for sharing, so bring your appetite, and your friends.

End your food journey with a wander down the city’s famous alleys. These historic streets are packed with snack stalls selling fried stinky tofu, candied hawthorn skewers, Sichuan pancakes, and more.

It’s the perfect way to sample lots of local bites in one lively, lantern-lit stroll.

From hotpot dinners to dumpling delights, Chengdu’s food scene offers more than just meals, it’s a cultural feast that brings people together. Each dish tells a story, and every bite is packed with history, tradition, and innovation.

Ready to explore? Book your foodie escape with Traveloka. Find flights, choose hotels close to popular food streets, and explore must-visit attractions, all in one place. Traveloka makes discovering Chengdu as seamless as it is satisfying.

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