If there’s one thing Guangzhou knows how to do spectacularly well, it’s food. As the birthplace of Cantonese cuisine, arguably the most internationally loved branch of Chinese cooking, this city isn’t just a destination, it’s a culinary rite of passage. With a history rooted in imperial kitchens and teahouse traditions, Guangzhou cuisine is all about balance, freshness, and subtle flavours that truly let ingredients shine.

For Malaysian travellers, the charm of Guangzhou’s dishes often feels deliciously familiar, yet thrillingly new. You’ll spot flavours reminiscent of home, think roast meats, silky soups, and herbal touches, but with that unmistakable Cantonese finesse.

Activities to Enjoy With Families in Guangzhou

So if you’re the kind of traveller who eats first and asks questions later, you’ve officially landed in foodie heaven.

Har gow (prawn dumplings), siu mai, cheong fun (rice rolls), and more, served piping hot in bamboo baskets. A must-do morning ritual at any traditional Cantonese teahouse.

Sweet, smoky, and perfectly caramelised, often paired with rice or noodles. It's a flavour bomb with that signature red glaze.

Clear, aromatic broth, springy egg noodles, and juicy wontons, a light yet soul-soothing dish that’s big on comfort.

A deceptively simple dish of poached chicken, served cold with ginger-scallion dipping sauce. Clean flavours that hit all the right notes.

Rice cooked in a claypot with toppings like Chinese sausage or chicken, finished with soy sauce and crispy rice at the bottom. Crunchy, savoury perfection.

Nourishing and deeply flavourful herbal broths, slow-cooked for hours. Think lotus root with pork ribs or chicken with ginseng, warming, healthy, and totally grandma-approved.

Set in one of Guangzhou’s most historic neighbourhoods, Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street is where old-world charm meets non-stop snacking. As the sun sets, the streets come alive with sizzling woks, neon-lit shops, and the irresistible aroma of Cantonese street food. You’ll spot dim sum houses, grilled oyster stalls, herbal jelly vendors, and even cheeky stinky tofu stands for the brave.

This area is perfect for travellers who want a bit of everything—street eats, local fashion finds, and quirky souvenirs. It’s like Jonker Street got a Cantonese makeover, and the vibe is just as vibrant.

During the day, it’s a retail paradise. At night? It becomes a buzzing food crawl heaven. Beijing Road turns into a youthful, energetic spot where hungry shoppers fuel up on trendy snacks. Think cheesy baked seafood, deep-fried milk, bubble tea towers, and all kinds of skewers you didn’t know you needed.

It’s a hotspot for younger crowds and families alike. The best part? Many stores and food stands stay open past midnight—ideal for those spontaneous late-night cravings.

Craving something a little more stylish? Head to TaiKoo Hui. It’s Guangzhou’s modern mega-mall filled with upscale restaurants offering refined takes on Cantonese favourites. You’ll find everything from gourmet dim sum to creative fusion dishes blending tradition and flair.

It’s a great pick if you want air-conditioning, plush seats, and photogenic plates. A go-to after a day of serious shopping or when you're feeling a bit bougie.

For an authentic bite of local life, step into a Cha Chaan Teng. These casual Cantonese diners are everywhere and they serve comforting, quick meals like roast duck rice, pineapple buns, milk tea, and stir-fried noodles that taste like home.

You’ll eat elbow-to-elbow with locals, hear orders being shouted out, and experience the city in its most delicious everyday form. Great for breakfast, lunch, or a late-night snack.

This district might not be on every tourist’s radar, but that’s exactly what makes it special. Haizhu is home to generations-old eateries, humble soup kitchens, and family-run restaurants dishing out slow-cooked delicacies and soulful street food.

If you're up for venturing a bit off the beaten path, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most genuine Cantonese meals in the city. Think lap mei fan (claypot rice with cured meats), double-boiled herbal soups, and char siu that’s crisped just right

The best way to make the most of your food journey? Pair it with a smooth travel experience. With Traveloka, you can book flights, pick hotels near the best food streets, and even find food tours to dive deeper into Cantonese culture.

Best Hotels to Stay in Guangzhou

If you’re here to sip soup, chew on dumplings, or snap photos of your claypot rice, Traveloka’s got your back.