When you think of Guilin, its stunning karst landscapes and the serene Li River might come to mind first. But for travelers seeking an authentic taste of Southern China, exploring Guilin food is an absolute must in 2025. The city’s culinary scene is a vibrant blend of traditional Guangxi flavors, ethnic influences, and street food culture that tells stories of history and local life. From steaming bowls of rice noodles to flavorful river fish dishes, Guilin’s cuisine is as captivating as its scenery. As your local food guide, I’ll take you through the must-try dishes, hidden food streets, and insider tips to make your culinary journey unforgettable. Let’s dig in!

Must-Try Guilin Dishes & Where to Find Them

1. Guilin Rice Noodles

No visit to Guilin is complete without trying Guilin rice noodles, the city’s most famous dish. These silky rice noodles are served in a flavorful broth made from pork and beef bones, topped with crispy pork, peanuts, and pickled vegetables. The dish is known for its balance of textures and aromas. For an authentic experience, head to Laodongjiang Rice Noodles near Xiangbi Hill. It’s a local favorite that offers generous portions at budget-friendly prices (around ¥5-8($0.69 - $1.11)per bowl).

2. Yangshuo Beer Fish

This iconic dish from the nearby town of Yangshuo features fresh river fish cooked with local beer, tomatoes, and chili peppers. The result is a tender, mildly spicy fish with a rich aroma. Master Fish Beer Fish in Yangshuo West Street is a popular spot to try this dish, though be prepared for tourist-friendly pricing. For a more local experience, ask your hotel for recommendations in smaller neighborhoods.

3. Lipu Taro Pork

A traditional Guilin delicacy, Lipu taro pork combines sliced taro and pork belly steamed together with savory spices. The taro absorbs the pork’s flavors, creating a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. This dish can be found at Xiaonanguo Restaurant, a local chain with several locations offering reliable versions of classic Guangxi dishes.

Where to Find the Best Street Food in Guilin

Shangshui Street

Located near Zhengyang Pedestrian Street, Shangshui Street is a bustling food alley known as Guilin’s "Wide and Narrow Alley". Here you’ll find dozens of stalls serving everything from grilled seafood and spicy skewers to innovative desserts. The atmosphere is lively, especially in the evenings, and it’s a great place to sample multiple dishes in one stop.

Location: 6 Zhengyang Street, Xiufeng District How to Get There: Take bus routes 2, 100, 11, 91, or K99 to Cross Street or Lijiang Theater stops.

Zhengyang Pedestrian Street & Cultural Palace Food Street

These adjacent areas offer a mix of street food stalls and casual restaurants. You’ll find local snacks like rice dumplings, water chestnut cake, and stuffed tofu. The area is particularly vibrant at night when locals gather for evening snacks and socializing.

Guilin Food Culture & Dining Tips

Guilin’s cuisine reflects its geography and multi-ethnic heritage. Influences from the Zhuang, Yao, and Miao minorities appear in dishes like oil tea, a slightly bitter tea served with fried rice grains and toppings. The city’s proximity to rivers and farmland means fresh ingredients are central to the food culture.

Budget-Friendly Dining: Guilin is known for its reasonable food prices. Street food dishes typically cost ¥5-15($0.69 - $2.08), while restaurant meals range from ¥30-50($4.17 - $6.94) per person.

Avoid Tourist Traps: Be cautious of restaurants near major tourist sites like Elephant Trunk Hill or along the Li River, where prices may be inflated. Instead, explore smaller streets or ask locals for recommendations.

One-Day Guilin Food Itinerary for Foreign Travelers

Morning: Start your day with breakfast at Laodongjiang Rice Noodles near Elephant Trunk Hill. After eating, visit the park to see Guilin’s iconic landmark.
Lunch: Head to Shangshui Street or Zhengyang Pedestrian Street to sample multiple street food snacks. Try water chestnut cake, stuffed tofu, or spicy skewers.
Afternoon: Take a break at a local tea house to experience Gongcheng oil tea, a unique savory tea tradition.
Dinner: Enjoy a sit-down meal at Xiaonanguo Restaurant to taste classic dishes like Lipu taro pork or beer fish.
Evening: Explore the night market near Cultural Palace for dessert snacks and people-watching.

Practical Tips for Foodies Visiting Guilin in 2025

Cash is King: While major restaurants accept mobile payments, many street vendors still prefer cash. Carry small bills for convenience.
Spice Level: Guilin food can be spicy. If you’re sensitive to heat, learn to say "不要辣" (bù yào là) meaning "no spice."
Food Safety: Stick to busy stalls with high turnover. Avoid raw vegetables that might have been washed in local water.
Seasonal Specialties: Visit between August-October for fresh lychees and pomelos, or in winter for hearty hot pot dishes.

A Final Taste of Wisdom

Exploring Guilin food is more than just eating—it’s a journey through culture, history, and stunning landscapes. From slurping rice noodles at a humble breakfast spot to sharing a fish dish with new friends, each meal tells a story of this beautiful region. So come with an open mind and an empty stomach; Guilin’s culinary wonders await you in 2025!

Best Guilin Food Guide for 2025: Must-Try Dishes & Local Secrets

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