When it comes to Chengdu’s food streets, it’s not just about the well-known Chunxi Road, Kuanzhai Alley (宽窄巷子, Kuānzhǎi Xiàngzi), or Jinli (锦里, Jǐnlǐ). Hidden in the back alleys and residential neighborhoods lies the real paradise for lao haochizui (老好吃嘴, true foodies of Chengdu). Let’s wander through these side streets and discover where authentic flavors are still alive.
Sansheng Street + Longwangmiao Street + Dongsheng Street | Old Streets, Timeless Flavors
Chunxi Road may be a bustling landmark filled with countless restaurants, but the most authentic tastes of Chengdu hide in the old streets just behind it.
Sansheng Street, only a few minutes’ walk from Chunxi Road, is one of the few surviving old neighborhoods in the city center. Here, family-run eateries serve classics like chaoshou (抄手, Sichuan wontons), boboji (钵钵鸡, skewers in spicy broth), qiaojiao niurou (跷脚牛肉, beef hotpot), and homestyle Sichuan dishes—recipes that have stood the test of generations and earned a reputation across the city.
Take a turn off Sansheng Street and you’ll reach Longwangmiao Zhengjie (龙王庙正街, Lóngwángmiào Zhèngjiē) and Dongsheng Street (东升街, Dōngshēng Jiē). Compared to the chic modern vibe of Taikoo Li, these streets retain the nostalgic charm of old Chengdu.
At the street corner, an old vendor fries langya tudou (狼牙土豆, crispy spiced potato wedges) every day, filling the air with a mouthwatering aroma. He has been at it for decades, embodying the spirit of simplicity and dedication. Just like the eateries here—no fancy décor, no marketing tricks, just flavors passed down for generations, keeping alive the taste of Chengdu from a century ago.
Food Recommendations
Zhang Taipo Laoma Tihua (张太婆老妈蹄花, Zhāng Tàipó Lǎomā Tíhuā)
For those who can’t live without spice, this late-night favorite is a must. Their signature pork trotter soup (tihua , 蹄花) has a tender, gelatinous texture, paired with a spicy dipping sauce that explodes with flavor. The snow peas in the pot are simmered until soft, soaking up the broth’s richness. It’s a cozy spot where locals gather over drinks at night, and nothing beats enjoying it with a bowl of hearty pork trotter soup.
For those who can’t live without spice, this late-night favorite is a must. Their signature pork trotter soup (tihua , 蹄花) has a tender, gelatinous texture, paired with a spicy dipping sauce that explodes with flavor. The snow peas in the pot are simmered until soft, soaking up the broth’s richness. It’s a cozy spot where locals gather over drinks at night, and nothing beats enjoying it with a bowl of hearty pork trotter soup.
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📍 Address: No. 46 Gengjia Alley, Sansheng Street, Jinjiang District
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⏰ Hours: 11:00 – 5:00 (next day)
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💰 Avg. spend: 58 RMB/person
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Juecheng Yuerji · Since 1990 (绝城芋儿鸡, Juéchéng Yù’érjī)
A legendary name in Sichuan dining, the original shop is right here on Longwangmiao Street. Don’t expect a fancy environment or polished service—the secret is all in the flavor. Their yuerji (芋儿鸡, chicken stewed with taro) is outstanding: soft taro infused with chicken oil, melt-in-your-mouth chicken feet, and a broth enhanced with Chinese herbs like angelica. The taste has stayed consistent for decades, making this hidden spot a true local gem.
A legendary name in Sichuan dining, the original shop is right here on Longwangmiao Street. Don’t expect a fancy environment or polished service—the secret is all in the flavor. Their yuerji (芋儿鸡, chicken stewed with taro) is outstanding: soft taro infused with chicken oil, melt-in-your-mouth chicken feet, and a broth enhanced with Chinese herbs like angelica. The taste has stayed consistent for decades, making this hidden spot a true local gem.
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📍 Address: No. 7 Longwangmiao Zhengjie
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⏰ Hours: 11:00 – 22:30
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💰 Avg. spend: 59 RMB/person
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Read Next: For more Chengdu culinary adventures, explore Chengdu Street Food Guide or Must-Try Chengdu Fly Restaurants.
Wangping Street (望平街, Wàngpíng Jiē) | A Hidden Gem of Local Eats
Head southeast from Taikoo Li, cross Dongfeng Bridge, and you’ll arrive at Wangping Street (望平街, Wàngpíng Jiē). Located in the Mengzhuowan (猛追湾, Měngzhuīwān) neighborhood—one of Chengdu’s most down-to-earth areas—this is where the city’s everyday charm truly shines. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path foodie adventure, Mengzhuowan is a must-visit.
Leaving Wangping Street without eating until your “belly bursts” (locals say du wai , 肚歪) is almost impossible. Here you’ll find bubbling bowls of malatang (麻辣烫, spicy hotpot skewers), some of the city’s best Southeast Asian cuisine, and trendy cafés with artsy vibes. The toughest decision? Deciding what to eat first.
Food Recommendations
Sankou Zhu Shijing Hotpot (叁口煮市井老火锅, Sānkǒu Zhǔ Shìjǐng Lǎo Huǒguō)
This spot captures the essence of Chengdu’s street-style hotpot, boiling with the city’s love for all things spicy. The lively atmosphere inside is matched by enamel bowls and plates, a nostalgic touch that takes locals back to their chili-filled memories.
This spot captures the essence of Chengdu’s street-style hotpot, boiling with the city’s love for all things spicy. The lively atmosphere inside is matched by enamel bowls and plates, a nostalgic touch that takes locals back to their chili-filled memories.
The flavor here is unapologetically bold, with their signature oil-drenched series standing out. The oil-marinated beef tripe (油浸毛肚) is crisp and tender, while the rare dried cauliflower dish offers a chewy texture similar to preserved vegetables.
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📍 Address: No. 127 Wangping Street
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⏰ Hours: 12:00 – 24:00
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💰 Avg. spend: 72 RMB/person
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Simei Boboji (四妹钵钵鸡, Sìmèi Bōbòjī)
As one of the most famous boboji (钵钵鸡, skewers soaked in spicy broth) brands in Chengdu, Simei is the crown jewel of Wangping Street. Business here never slows down—even at 3 or 4 a.m., hungry night owls still flock in for a fix.
As one of the most famous boboji (钵钵鸡, skewers soaked in spicy broth) brands in Chengdu, Simei is the crown jewel of Wangping Street. Business here never slows down—even at 3 or 4 a.m., hungry night owls still flock in for a fix.
The skewers are tied together by type: crisp ox tripe (黄喉, huánghóu), quail eggs to cut the heat, and richly flavored braised duck heads where the savory broth seeps right into the bone. Every skewer soaked in the chili oil broth is packed with flavor and aroma.
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📍 Address: No. 119 Wangping Street
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⏰ Hours: 11:00 – 3:00 (next day)
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💰 Avg. spend: 59 RMB/person
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Xiangxiang Alley (香香巷, Xiāngxiāng Xiàng) | A Neon Street for Global Eats
Tucked inside Wangping Street, Xiangxiang Alley (香香巷, Xiāngxiāng Xiàng) begins right behind a traditional-style archway. Though less than 100 meters long, it packs in flavors from all over the world—from local Chengdu snacks like Yaba Tu (哑巴兔, spicy rabbit dish) and Laowaipo Haoroyu (老外婆耗儿鱼, spicy fish hotpot) , to Michelin-rated Thai restaurants, Japanese ramen, and Taiwanese street food. Every doorway wafts a different delicious aroma, making “Xiangxiang” (meaning “fragrant”) a fitting name.
By day, the alley looks ordinary. But once night falls, it transforms into a mini neon wonderland. Classic red lanterns glow alongside bright neon signs, creating a surreal mix of tradition and modernity that feels like stepping into a sci-fi comic book scene.
As a pedestrian-only street, Xiangxiang Alley is perfect for a leisurely stroll. The air is filled with vendors’ lively shouts, while every few steps reveals another eatery or a teahouse where you can enjoy Chengdu’s signature laid-back nightlife.
Food Recommendations
Mi Dou Douhua (觅豆豆花, Mì Dòu Dòuhuā)
After indulging in spicy food, nothing soothes the palate like a bowl of douhua (豆花, tofu pudding). This shop takes douhua to the next level, offering endless varieties. Imagine silky tofu combined with shaved ice, giving it a refreshing chill. Classics include red beans and chewy taro balls, topped with creamy coconut milk—so good you might end up ordering seconds.
After indulging in spicy food, nothing soothes the palate like a bowl of douhua (豆花, tofu pudding). This shop takes douhua to the next level, offering endless varieties. Imagine silky tofu combined with shaved ice, giving it a refreshing chill. Classics include red beans and chewy taro balls, topped with creamy coconut milk—so good you might end up ordering seconds.
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📍 Address: Inside Xiangxiang Alley, Wangping Street
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⏰ Hours: 11:30 – 22:30
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💰 Avg. spend: 27 RMB/person
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Chongqing Laowaipo Haoroyu (重庆老外婆耗儿鱼, Chóngqìng Lǎowàipó Hàoróuyú)
In Chengdu dialect, enjoying a pot of red oil haoroyu (红油耗儿鱼, spicy fish hotpot) is the most anyi (安逸, satisfying) way to eat. The broth comes loaded with Sichuan peppercorns, chilies, ginger, and scallions, creating a bold and fragrant base. The fish fillets, each as large as a palm, are tender and fresh, bursting with flavor after just a quick dip in the spicy broth. For those who can’t handle too much heat, the dry pot version delivers a roasted-fish-like aroma.
In Chengdu dialect, enjoying a pot of red oil haoroyu (红油耗儿鱼, spicy fish hotpot) is the most anyi (安逸, satisfying) way to eat. The broth comes loaded with Sichuan peppercorns, chilies, ginger, and scallions, creating a bold and fragrant base. The fish fillets, each as large as a palm, are tender and fresh, bursting with flavor after just a quick dip in the spicy broth. For those who can’t handle too much heat, the dry pot version delivers a roasted-fish-like aroma.
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📍 Address: No. 3, Xiangxiang Alley, Wangping Street
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⏰ Hours: 11:00 – 22:00
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💰 Avg. spend: 93 RMB/person
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Jianshe Alley (建设巷, Jiànshè Xiàng) | The College Night Market Favorite
As the saying goes, great food often comes from streets behind schools. Jianshe Alley (建设巷, Jiànshè Xiàng) , located next to the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, is one of Chengdu’s most famous food streets. It draws crowds from locals and visitors alike, offering everything from humble street barbecue to elegant Western restaurants and refined Japanese eateries. Featured on the show Tiantian Xiangshang (天天向上) , Jianshe Alley is a true melting pot of culinary culture.
Small eateries line both sides of the alley, with one signature spot after another, allowing you to eat from dawn till dusk. By evening, long queues form, so for a relaxed foodie experience, weekdays or weekend mornings are ideal.
Food Recommendations
Zhou Qianqian Guoba Tudou (周签签锅巴土豆, Zhōu Qiānqiān Guōbā Tǔdòu)
Follow the longest line in Jianshe Alley, and you’ll find Zhou Qianqian. Holding a small bowl of these fried potato cubes, it’s easy to understand why they’re so popular. The crispy yet tender potatoes are coated in a classic sweet, sour, and spicy sauce, with the aroma of potatoes and chili mingling perfectly. What could be better than enjoying a steaming bowl of fried potatoes right on the street?
Follow the longest line in Jianshe Alley, and you’ll find Zhou Qianqian. Holding a small bowl of these fried potato cubes, it’s easy to understand why they’re so popular. The crispy yet tender potatoes are coated in a classic sweet, sour, and spicy sauce, with the aroma of potatoes and chili mingling perfectly. What could be better than enjoying a steaming bowl of fried potatoes right on the street?
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📍 Address: No. 11, Jianshe Alley, Shop 28
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⏰ Hours: 11:30 – 22:30
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💰 Avg. spend: 10 RMB/person
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Jianglong ZhuaZhua (降龙爪爪, Jiànglóng Zhuǎzhuǎ)
Famous actress Zhang Xinyi once devoured 10 chicken feet in one go on a show—right here at Jianglong ZhuaZhua. Their spicy hotpot-flavored chicken feet are a quintessential Chengdu treat: spicy, numbing, and fragrant. The chicken feet are tender and melt in your mouth, perfectly soaked in flavor. This iconic snack will definitely excite any adventurous foodie.
Famous actress Zhang Xinyi once devoured 10 chicken feet in one go on a show—right here at Jianglong ZhuaZhua. Their spicy hotpot-flavored chicken feet are a quintessential Chengdu treat: spicy, numbing, and fragrant. The chicken feet are tender and melt in your mouth, perfectly soaked in flavor. This iconic snack will definitely excite any adventurous foodie.
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📍 Address: Intersection of Jianshe Middle Road and Jianshe Branch Alley
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⏰ Hours: 11:00 – 24:00
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💰 Avg. spend: 22 RMB/person
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Yulin Street (玉林街, Yùlín Jiē) | Endless Food Adventures
The stories of Yulin (玉林, Yùlín) are endless, and so is its food. Made famous by Zhao Lei’s song Yulin Road , the area actually spans the Yulin street district , divided into East, West, South, North, and Central streets, with ten alleys in total.
Yulin West Road is Chengdu’s old bar street, while Yulin Central Road is the city’s earliest hotpot street. Each street hides its own culinary gems. Particularly famous is the community bus Line 1006 , dubbed the “foodie bus” by local gourmets, connecting several small, tucked-away restaurants beloved for their authentic flavors. Originally called Yulinba (御林坝, Yùlín Bà) , this area was once rumored to be the training camp for Zhuge Liang’s imperial guards. Today, the Yulin district is rich in culture, and local residents maintain a slow-paced life, seemingly indifferent to the fame of Yulin’s delicious food that spreads nationwide.
Food Recommendations
Yulin Chuanchuanxiang (玉林串串香, Yùlín Chuànchuànxiāng)
This famous chuanchuan hotpot restaurant has its flagship store right on Yulin Street. Known as one of the birthplaces of Chengdu’s chuanchuan hotpot, the aroma of the beef-fat broth greets you even before you enter. Spicy, numbing, and rich, every skewer is packed with flavor. The dipping sauces, from sesame oil bowls to dry spice mixes, are equally delightful.
This famous chuanchuan hotpot restaurant has its flagship store right on Yulin Street. Known as one of the birthplaces of Chengdu’s chuanchuan hotpot, the aroma of the beef-fat broth greets you even before you enter. Spicy, numbing, and rich, every skewer is packed with flavor. The dipping sauces, from sesame oil bowls to dry spice mixes, are equally delightful.
With a full selection of ingredients, the beef and maodu (毛肚, beef tripe) stand out for their freshness and crunch. The meat dishes are intensely aromatic, while the vegetables soak up the broth and chili oil, creating an irresistible spicy feast.
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📍 Address: No. 26 Yulin Street, Shop 23
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⏰ Hours: 10:00 – 4:30 (next day)
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💰 Avg. spend: 86 RMB/person
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Jimao Dian (鸡毛店, Jīmáo Diàn)
The name “Jimao Dian” (Chicken Feather Shop) comes from the old days when the tiny shop had no heating, so chicken feathers were used for warmth. This long-standing Wenjiang restaurant specializes in Sichuan cuisine, serving the most authentic, down-to-earth dishes. Though it has branches elsewhere, the Yulin location remains the tastiest and most faithful to tradition.
The name “Jimao Dian” (Chicken Feather Shop) comes from the old days when the tiny shop had no heating, so chicken feathers were used for warmth. This long-standing Wenjiang restaurant specializes in Sichuan cuisine, serving the most authentic, down-to-earth dishes. Though it has branches elsewhere, the Yulin location remains the tastiest and most faithful to tradition.
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📍 Address: 167 Yulin West Road
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⏰ Hours: 11:00 – 14:30 / 17:00 – 21:00
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💰 Avg. spend: 69 RMB/person