31 Best Chinese Street Foods To Try in 2025

From sizzling griddles to bubbling pots, bustling markets across China have spent generations offering an array of mouthwatering Chinese street food to passersby, each with its own story to tell. But with so many tempting choices, where do you even start?

Have you ever wondered what makes a snack sold on a lively Chinese street corner so unforgettable? According to EthnoMed, "Chinese people are more concerned with the food’s texture, flavor, color and aroma", so this emphasis on sensory experience is what makes Chinese street food so unique — every dish is crafted to balance taste, fragrance and mouthfeel, creating an unforgettable culinary adventure.

This guide to the best Chinese street foods will take you on a journey through the must-try dishes that define this diverse food scene. Get ready to savor the bold spices, comforting aromas and irresistible textures that make this fare a feast for the senses. 

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• 31 Popular Chinese Street Foods To Try
• Learn How To Cook Chinese Food

31 Popular Chinese Street Foods To Try

1. Jianbing

Jianbing is a beloved Chinese street food often called the Chinese crêpe. This savory pancake starts with a thin wheat and mung bean flour batter, spread on a sizzling hot griddle. An egg is cracked on top and then sprinkled with scallions, sesame seeds and a crunchy sheet of fried dough. The finishing touch includes flavorful sauces like hoisin, sweet bean paste and chili sauce, creating a perfect harmony of taste and texture. 

Typically folded into a handheld wrap, jianbing is a breakfast staple prized for its portability and bold flavors and it’s no wonder Jianbing is considered one of the best Chinese street food options for its unique flavors and appeal.

2. Rou Jia Mo

Often dubbed the Chinese hamburger, Rou Jia Mo is a delicious addition to the world of Chinese street food. It originates from Shaanxi province and features slow-cooked, shredded pork seasoned with Chinese five-spice, soy sauce and other aromatic spices. The meat is stuffed into a flatbread called mo, which is crisp on the outside and tender within. 

This hearty, sandwich-like snack is an icon, celebrated for its comforting and deeply savory flavors. Variations include fillings like beef or lamb, making it a versatile and satisfying choice for food lovers who seek out the best Chinese street food.

3. Jiaozi 

Jiaozi or dumplings, are a quintessential part of Chinese street food and culinary tradition. These delicious parcels are filled with ingredients like pork, shrimp and cabbage, wrapped in delicate dough. They can be boiled, steamed or pan-fried, with each cooking method offering a unique texture and taste. 

Served with soy sauce, vinegar or chili oil, jiaozi are a symbol of wealth and are especially significant during Lunar New Year celebrations. Their versatility and rich cultural significance make them an unmissable highlight of Chinese street food.

4. Baozi 

Baozi are soft, steamed buns that showcase the comforting flavors of Chinese street food. These fluffy buns are stuffed with a variety of fillings, from savory pork or vegetables to sweet red bean paste. 

Often prepared fresh in bamboo steamers by street vendors, Baozi is a warm, portable snack that can be enjoyed any time of day. Whether you prefer a savory or sweet treat, these buns are a staple of Chinese street food and a testament to the country’s culinary diversity.

5. Youtiao

Youtiao or Chinese crullers, are a breakfast classic that perfectly captures the simplicity of popular Chinese street food. These golden, deep-fried dough sticks are lightly salted and irresistibly crispy. 

Often paired with soy milk or bowls of congee, youtiao exemplifies how Chinese street food transforms basic ingredients into cherished traditions. Their crisp exterior and airy interior make them a delightful start to any morning meal.

6. Xiaolongbao

Xiaolongbao are delicate steamed buns that stand as a pinnacle of popular Chinese street food craftsmanship. Filled with minced pork and a savory, gelatinized broth that liquefies when steamed, these buns are a culinary masterpiece that can’t be skipped. 

Originating in Jiangsu and Shanghai, xiaolongbao is typically served in bamboo steamers and enjoyed with black vinegar and ginger. Their tender dough and flavorful soup make them a must-try for anyone seeking the delicate artistry of Chinese street food.

7. Chou Doufu  

Chou doufu or stinky tofu, is a bold and aromatic choice in Chinese street food. This fermented tofu is known for its strong smell, which contrasts its crispy exterior and creamy, umami-packed interior. 

Fried to perfection and often paired with pickles or spicy chili sauce, chou doufu is a street food that surprises and delights those who try it for the first time. Despite its aroma, it remains a beloved part of Chinese street food culture for its rich and distinctive taste.

8. Liang Mian  

Liang mian or cold noodles, is a refreshing dish that shines as a summertime favorite in Chinese street food. These noodles are tossed with a rich sauce of sesame paste, soy sauce, vinegar and chili oil, then garnished with cucumbers and peanuts.

Simple yet bursting with flavor, Liang mian is a refreshing dish that is not only delicious but also a contender for the healthiest Chinese food, thanks to its fresh ingredients. Its cooling nature and bold taste make it a must-try for noodle enthusiasts.

9. Malatang  

Malatang is a customizable, interactive delight that has become a cornerstone of Chinese street food culture. This dish allows diners to select skewers of meat, tofu and vegetables, which are then cooked in a spicy, aromatic Sichuan broth. 

The social aspect and bold flavors of malatang make it a popular choice among fans of Chinese street food. Its adaptability to individual preferences ensures there’s something for everyone in this fiery, flavorful experience.

10. Lurou Huoshao

A specialty from northern China, particularly in cities like Baoding and Hejian, Lurou huoshao is a distinctive dish featuring tender donkey meat. This regional delicacy involves slow-cooking the meat with a medley of aromatic spices and herbs until it becomes meltingly soft and deeply flavorful. The filling is then generously stuffed into flaky bread rolls, creating a satisfying contrast of textures.

The flaky exterior of the bread gives way to the rich, savory filling, making every bite unforgettable. Lurou huoshao showcases lesser-known regional ingredients and techniques and it’s a must-try for anyone eager to explore the diversity of Chinese food culture.

It is important to note that while donkey meat is traditional, its consumption varies across northern China, and not all areas prioritize it. Additionally, the consumption of donkey meat is a point of contention for some animal rights groups.

11. Bing Tanghulu  

Bing Tanghulu is a sweet and tangy treat that embodies the charm of Chinese street food. Made by skewering hawthorn berries and coating them in hardened sugar syrup, these glossy red skewers are a visual and flavorful delight. 

Particularly popular in northern China and in colder months, Bing Tanghulu evokes nostalgia while offering a perfect balance of tart and sweet. Its vibrant appearance and unique taste make it an irresistible highlight of Chinese street food.

12. Pai Gu Nian Gao

Pai Gu Nian Gao masterfully combines marinated pork chops with chewy rice cakes made from glutinous rice flour. The pork is first seasoned with soy sauce, ginger and garlic, then fried to golden perfection. The rice cakes, stir-fried alongside, absorb the flavors of the pork and sauces, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

This dish, popular in Shanghai and its surroundings, is both hearty and satisfying. As a beloved staple of Chinese street food, Pai Gu Nian Gao stands out for its balance of chewy and tender textures, making it a favorite comfort food among locals and travelers alike. It’s a true representation of how Chinese street food can marry textures and flavors into something unforgettable.

13. Mapo Tofu

A fiery icon of Sichuan cuisine, mapo tofu is a bold, flavor-packed dish that combines silky tofu with a spicy, numbing sauce. The secret to its unmistakable taste lies in the doubanjiang (fermented bean paste) and Sichuan peppercorns, which deliver a perfect blend of heat and numbing sensation.

While often enjoyed at sit-down restaurants, mapo tofu has also found a place in the world of Chinese street food. Vendors serve it over steaming bowls of rice, making it an affordable, satisfying meal for spice lovers. Its reputation as one of the spiciest and most flavorful dishes in Chinese street food ensures its spot as a must-try.

14. Chen Cun Fen

Hailing from Guangdong province, Chen cun fen features flat, chewy rice noodles that are versatile and irresistibly delicious. These noodles are either stir-fried with soy sauce, garlic and vegetables or served in light broths that enhance their natural flavor.

Known for their ability to soak up sauces, these rice noodles are a favorite in Chinese street food markets. Their soft texture and adaptability make them a satisfying snack or meal, embodying the simplicity and versatility of Chinese street food. Whether served hot or cold, they’re a comforting dish enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

15. Rouyan Dumplings

Rouyan dumplings, a Fujian specialty, are unique for their delicate wrappers made of pork and flour rather than traditional wheat dough. These dumplings are filled with finely minced meat and are often served in a light, savory broth.

The soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture of Rouyan dumplings sets them apart from their counterparts in Chinese street food. Their comforting flavor and elegant presentation make them a favorite for those seeking a taste of Fujian’s culinary heritage. As a delicious part of the Chinese street food scene, these dumplings should be on every foodie’s radar.

16. Gan Guo

Gan guo or dry pot, offers a stir-fried alternative to the traditional hot pot experience. Ingredients like lotus root, tofu and meats are cooked in a wok with minimal sauce but an abundance of spices, creating an intensely flavored dish.

This sizzling delight is popular in Chinese street food stalls for its customizable nature, allowing diners to pick their preferred ingredients. With its bold spices and crisp textures, Gan Guo is a must-try for adventurous eaters looking for something beyond the ordinary in Chinese street food.

17. Spicy Lamb Skewers

A signature of Xinjiang cuisine, spicy lamb skewers are a staple in Chinese food markets nationwide. Marinated in a tantalizing blend of cumin, chili powder, garlic and other spices, the lamb is grilled over charcoal, imparting a smoky, aromatic flavor.

These skewers are served fresh off the grill, their spice-laden aroma drawing crowds of hungry passersby. Perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, they are an essential stop and no foodie bucket list of Chinese street food would be complete without spicy lamb skewers. The smoky, aromatic flavor makes them an unforgettable experience for meat lovers.

18. Hot Pot Skewers

A street food spin on the communal hot pot, hot pot skewers bring people together over a bubbling pot of spicy broth. Skewers of meat, tofu and vegetables are often paired with glass noodles, which soak up the broth’s rich flavor, adding a chewy and satisfying texture.

These skewers are served immediately, allowing diners to enjoy the robust taste and warmth of the broth. A social and flavorful experience, hot pot skewers have become a cherished part of street food culture, perfect for sharing with friends. This dish is a great way to dive into the communal and interactive side of Chinese street food.

19. Fish Balls

A common sight in street food markets, fish balls are made by blending fish paste with starch to achieve a delightfully bouncy texture. They are often boiled in soup or deep-fried, served on skewers or added to noodle dishes.

Fish balls are particularly popular for their light yet savory flavor, making them a versatile addition to the world of Chinese street food. Their simplicity and satisfying texture make them a comforting choice for quick snacks or hearty meals in the bustling atmosphere of Chinese food markets.

20. Dan Dan Noodles

Dan Dan Noodles are a Sichuan street food legend, celebrated for their bold and complex flavor profile. These thin wheat noodles are bathed in a savory sauce made from sesame paste, soy sauce and chili oil, creating a rich and spicy base. Topped with minced pork, scallions and crunchy peanuts, every bite delivers an explosion of umami, heat and nutty richness.

Traditionally carried by street vendors in wooden buckets slung across their shoulders, Dan Dan Noodles have evolved into a must-try Chinese street food for spice enthusiasts. Their perfect balance of tangy, salty and spicy notes ensures they remain a beloved dish in bustling markets and a classic example of the bold flavors that define Chinese street food.

21. Sweet Potato Balls

Sweet potato balls are bite-sized delights with a golden, crispy exterior and a soft, pillowy interior. Made from mashed sweet potatoes mixed with flour and sugar, these snacks are deep-fried to perfection, offering a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with their light, crunchy texture.

Found in night markets and fairs, sweet potato balls are a comforting and nostalgic dish and their simplicity makes them an enduring favorite for anyone craving a sweet treat while venturing through the lively atmosphere of Chinese food markets.

22. Scallion Pancakes

Scallion pancakes or cong you bing, are flaky, savory pastries that are a cornerstone of Chinese street food. These golden-brown pancakes are crafted from layered dough infused with chopped scallions, then pan-fried until crispy on the outside and tender within.

The combination of crunchy edges and aromatic, oniony layers makes them a quintessential example of Chinese street food. Often served with a soy-based dipping sauce, scallion pancakes are a perfect representation of how Chinese food can turn simple ingredients into culinary masterpieces.

23. Tofu Pudding

Tofu pudding, known as douhua, is a versatile Chinese street food enjoyed in sweet or savory forms. The sweet version features silky tofu drizzled with sugar syrup or topped with fruits, while the savory variation is seasoned with soy sauce, pickled vegetables and chili oil.

Whether served warm on chilly mornings or chilled on hot summer days, tofu pudding’s delicate texture and customizable flavors remain a delicious and essential component of any Chinese street food experience. For visitors exploring street food in China, douhua offers a delightful taste of tradition and local flavors.

24. Cold Spicy Noodles

Cold Spicy Noodles or liang pi, are a refreshing street food dish perfect for hot summer days. These silky noodles are tossed in a tangy, spicy sauce made from chili oil, vinegar, garlic and sesame paste, then garnished with crisp cucumber slices and crushed peanuts for added crunch.

Enjoyed for their cooling effect and bold flavors, these noodles are a must-try. Their vibrant combination of heat and tang makes them an ideal choice for those seeking a light yet flavorful bite, showcasing the diversity of street food in China.

25. Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn on the cob is a simple yet satisfying street food found in markets and along busy sidewalks. The corn is roasted over charcoal until slightly charred, then brushed with butter, soy sauce or chili seasoning for an irresistible smoky flavor.

This snack’s natural sweetness and rich, savory coating make it a beloved staple. Perfect for munching on the go, it captures the essence of Chinese street food with its fresh, uncomplicated taste and comforting appeal.

26. Fried Rice Balls

Fried rice balls are crispy, golden orbs filled with savory delights like minced pork, vegetables or mushrooms. Made from glutinous rice, these deep-fried snacks are crispy on the outside and delectably chewy inside, creating a satisfying contrast of textures.

A favorite in bustling markets, Fried Rice Balls are a must-try in Chinese food culture. Their comforting flavors and unique texture make them an unforgettable experience for anyone eager to explore the hearty and innovative side of street food.

27. Spicy Chicken Feet

Spicy chicken feet or feng zhua, are a bold and flavorful snack commonly found in Chinese street food markets. The chicken feet are marinated in a fiery chili sauce, then boiled and steamed until tender, resulting in a chewy, gelatinous texture.

While their appearance might seem unconventional, Spicy Chicken Feet are a celebrated delicacy in Chinese food culture. Their rich flavor and spicy kick make them an adventurous yet rewarding choice for those diving into the diverse offerings of Chinese food.

28. Sesame Balls

Sesame balls or jian dui, are glutinous rice dumplings filled with sweet red bean paste and coated in sesame seeds. These golden orbs are deep-fried until crispy on the outside while remaining soft and chewy inside, creating a delightful contrast in every bite.

A sweet treat often enjoyed during festivals and a classic among Asian desserts, sesame balls offer a delightful mix of nutty and sweet flavors with a satisfyingly chewy texture. 

29. Egg Waffles

Egg waffles or gai daan jai, are a Hong Kong street food classic that has captured hearts worldwide. Made from an egg-rich batter, these waffles are cooked in a special mold that gives them their signature bubble-like texture.

Crispy on the outside and soft inside, Egg waffles are a playful and delicious example of street food. Whether enjoyed plain or with toppings like fruits and chocolate, they remain a favorite for anyone seeking a sweet treat in the dynamic world of food stalls in China.

30. Sweet Red Bean Soup

Sweet Red Bean Soup is a warm and comforting dessert commonly enjoyed during chilly evenings in China. Made by simmering red beans with sugar until soft and flavorful, this dish is sometimes enhanced with glutinous rice balls or coconut milk.

As a nourishing dessert, Sweet Red Bean Soup highlights the sweeter side of Chinese food culture. Its simplicity and wholesome taste make it a cherished option for those exploring the comforting traditions of food stalls in China.

31. Fried Squid Rings

Fried squid rings are a coastal favorite and a staple of Chinese street food markets near the sea. Lightly battered and fried until golden, these squid rings are served with a variety of dipping sauces, from tangy garlic mayo to spicy chili.

This crispy, tender delight is a shining example of how street food captures the essence of regional flavors. Perfect for seafood lovers, Fried squid rings are a must-try for anyone looking to savor the vibrant culinary traditions found in Chinese food.

Learn How To Cook Chinese Food

Want to bring the diverse flavors of Chinese food into your own kitchen? Cooking classes near you and Chinese online cooking classes offer the perfect opportunity to learn the secrets behind these iconic dishes. Expert chefs will guide you through the techniques, ingredients and cultural nuances that make Chinese cuisine so extraordinary. 

From mastering the delicate folds of jiaozi to perfecting the rich, umami-packed sauce of mapo tofu, these classes provide a hands-on way to recreate the flavors of your favorite street food. Whether in person or online, these experiences can transform your cooking skills and give you a deeper appreciation for China’s culinary heritage.

Chinese street food is more than just a collection of dishes; it’s a reflection of the country’s rich history, regional diversity and boundless creativity. Each bite tells a story, whether it’s the nostalgia of a hawthorn-coated bing tanghulu or the fiery intensity of a Sichuan malatang. 

As you taste your way through these beloved snacks, remember that every market stall, vendor and recipe has a tale to share. Whether you’re sampling them on a bustling street in Beijing or recreating them in your kitchen, let these dishes transport you to the heart of China’s vibrant food scene. 

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