China’s street food scene is legendary, but nothing kills the vibe faster than fumbling your order. Whether you’re eyeing up xiǎolóngbāo in Shanghai or làzi jī in Chengdu, this guide will arm you with the vocabulary to eat your way through the stalls without resorting to charades.
Must-Know Street Food Dishes
Bāozi (包子)
/pɑʊ.tsɨ/“Steamed buns”
Jiānbǐng (煎饼)
/tɕjɛn.piŋ/“Chinese crepe”
Chòu dòufu (臭豆腐)
/ʈʂʰoʊ toʊ.fu/“Stinky tofu”
Ordering Like a Pro
Street vendors move fast. Master these phrases to keep up:
- Yí gè… (一个…) – “One…” (e.g., Yí gè jiānbǐng for one crepe)
- Bú yào… (不要…) – “Don’t want…” (e.g., Bú yào là for no spice)
- Duōshǎo qián? (多少钱?) – “How much?” (Essential before you commit)
Regional Specialties
| Dish | Region | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Ròujiāmó (肉夹馍) | Xi’an | Shredded pork stuffed in flatbread. The original Chinese burger. |
| Guōtiē (锅贴) | Northeast | Pan-fried dumplings with a crispy underside. |
| Táng húlu (糖葫芦) | Beijing | Candied fruit skewers, often hawthorn. Sweet, crunchy, and photogenic. |
Level Up: Condiments & Customisation
Street food isn’t one-size-fits-all. Know your sauces:
- Là jiàng (辣酱) – Chilli sauce (intensity varies wildly)
- Suān là tāng (酸辣汤) – Hot and sour soup base (for noodle dishes)
- Má là (麻辣) – Numbing-spicy (Sichuan’s signature flavour)
For more on navigating Chinese flavours, see our guide on common Chinese food mistakes to avoid.
Final Tip: Embrace the Chaos
Street food isn’t about perfect pronunciation - it’s about enthusiasm. A mispronounced xiǎochī (snack) ordered with a grin will still get you fed. Hungry for more? Check out our breakdown of Chinese characters learners often struggle with.
