When you visit West Lake, you not only get to enjoy stunning views but also taste authentic Hangzhou flavors. One must-try when you're here is Hangzhou cuisine.

Classic Must-Try:

West Lake State Guesthouse - Ziwai Hall(西湖国宾馆·紫薇厅)

Located by the shores of West Lake, the West Lake State Guesthouse is just a short walk along the willow-lined Yanggong Causeway. A quick turn and you’ll find this iconic guesthouse. The location is superb, with three sides facing the lake and one side backed by mountains. The restaurant inside, Ziwai Hall, is renowned for its excellent Hangzhou cuisine. If you’re wondering what to eat at West Lake, this place is a guaranteed hit.

Even if you're not a hotel guest, you can still enjoy a meal at Ziwai Hall. Here, you can taste West Lake Vinegar Fish, which is considered the “gold standard” of this iconic Hangzhou dish. Not only can you indulge in a delicious meal, but you can also enjoy beautiful lake views. After your meal, you can avoid the crowds and take a leisurely stroll along the lake, soaking in the peaceful scenery.

Address: 18 Yanggong Causeway, West Lake State Guesthouse, Building 8
Recommended Dishes: West Lake Vinegar Fish, Tiger Spring Water Matsutake Rice, Dongpo Braised Pork, Yangmei Wine Shrimp
Opening Hours: 11:00-14:00, 17:00-22:00
Price Reference: ¥475 per person
Tip: It’s best to make a reservation a few days in advance, especially on weekends. Be sure to request a window-side seat when booking.

Four Seasons Hotel - Jinsha Hall(四季酒店·金沙厅)

If you're looking for the finest Chinese cuisine by West Lake, Jinsha Hall at the Four Seasons Hotel might just be your top choice. As the only Black Pearl Three-Diamond and Michelin Two-Star restaurant in Hangzhou, Jinsha Hall has earned a spot on Asia's Top 50 list and is regarded by many food enthusiasts as the pinnacle of Hangzhou cuisine.

As one of Hangzhou’s top restaurants, the dishes here are nothing short of spectacular. The menu changes throughout the year, offering a fresh experience every season with nine seasonal menus. Every new dish brings a unique twist, making each visit a delightful adventure for your taste buds.

Like Ziwai Hall, Jinsha Hall is situated within a scenic area, surrounded by water pavilions, lotus ponds, and bamboo gardens. You can enjoy exquisite Hangzhou dishes while taking in the beautiful, delicate views of West Lake, creating a truly memorable dining experience. Even if you can’t get a reservation for a full meal, having afternoon tea here and enjoying a relaxing stroll by the lake is also a wonderful experience.

On the “Black Pearl List” of Hangzhou’s gourmet scene, Jinsha Hall has consistently held its prestigious three stars. The secret to its success lies not only in maintaining consistent quality but also in continually innovating. While keeping classic Hangzhou dishes on the menu, the seasonal offerings based on fresh ingredients keep food lovers coming back for more.

Address: 5 Lingyin Road
Recommended Dishes: Jinsha Crispy Chicken, Braised Abalone with Pork, Longjing Tea Stewed Milk, Song Sao Fish Soup
Opening Hours: 11:30-14:00, 17:30-21:00
Price Reference: ¥757 per person
Tip: Be sure to make a reservation well in advance—at least two weeks is recommended for the best chance of getting a table.

Hyatt Regency Hangzhou - Lakeside 28 Chinese Restaurant(杭州君悦酒店·湖滨28中餐厅)

Another well-known name in Hangzhou is Lakeside 28, the Chinese restaurant at the Hyatt Regency. As a representative of refined Hangzhou cuisine, this restaurant has become a must-visit spot for countless food enthusiasts.

The restaurant is designed with a traditional Jiangnan courtyard layout, featuring a beautifully layered structure where every step offers a new view—classical and elegant. The dishes here highlight a fusion of Jiangnan and Hangzhou cuisines, with the Gold Medal Braised Pork being one of the most impressive dishes that has wowed many diners.

Lakeside 28 offers authentic Hangzhou cuisine, along with dishes from other major Jiangnan culinary regions, including Huaiyang and Suzhou. The food here is a true masterpiece, and the Gold Medal Braised Pork is a perfect example. The pork slices are neatly arranged in a pyramid shape, with the meat selected from the ribs, ensuring a perfect balance of fat and lean meat. Adding to the experience are the old-fashioned horse-drawn carts greeting guests, as well as live performances of traditional instruments like the pipa and guzheng, making the dining experience truly immersive.

Address: 28 Shanghuhuan Road, Hyatt Regency Hotel, 1st Floor (near Pinghai Road)
Recommended Dishes: Gold Medal Braised Pork, Jiangnan Rich Chicken, Song Sao Fish Soup, and more
Opening Hours: 11:30-14:00, 17:30-21:30
Price Reference: ¥558 per person

Jiexianglou(解香楼)

Compared to the other three hotels, Jiexianglou is a bit more off the beaten path, but it has become a hidden gem for many long-time patrons, and the food here is nothing short of amazing.

The restaurant offers a signature dish for each of the 24 solar terms, with a seasonal menu updated monthly, showing their attention to detail. The environment here is particularly charming—an elegant, retro Chinese-style setting that gives you a sense of tranquility, as if you're walking through a hidden path leading to peace. In short, a visit here will never disappoint.

Address: 28 Hubin Road, Hyatt Regency Hotel, 1st Floor (near Pinghai Road)
Recommended Dishes: Vietnamese Braised Beef, Lemongrass Curry Prawns, Yunnan Ham and Wild Vegetable Pomegranate Wraps, Spicy Wine-Simmered Flower Snails
Opening Hours: 11:00-13:00, 17:00-20:00
Price Reference: ¥752 per person

New and Affordable Hangzhou Cuisine Restaurants to Try

If you're looking for new-style or high-cost-performance Hangzhou cuisine, here are some great options worth checking out.

Haimao Canteen(海猫食堂)

Located at the foot of Phoenix Mountain, near the ancient southern Song imperial city at Mantou Mountain, this area is one of the oldest residential neighborhoods in Hangzhou. Today, the Tiao Zhou Bay area has become home to some of the city's most artistic private restaurants, and every one of them serves outstanding food, perfect for a meal with friends.

Haimao Canteen stands out as a leader among these private dining spots. Signature dishes like Steamed Yongchang Stinky Tofu with Chopped Chili and Crispy Large Intestines are full of character. The menu is adjusted seasonally, and the craft beers they offer are also quite good—perfect for enjoying a drink while you eat.

Address: Room 101, Building 3, 45 Tiaozhou Bay, Shangcheng District,Hangzhou
Recommended Dishes: Steamed Yongchang Stinky Tofu with Chopped Chili, Crispy Large Intestines, Sour Soup Bullfrog, Secretly Spiced Flower Snails
Opening Hours: 10:00–14:00, 17:00–21:30
Price Reference: ¥132 per person

Qiantang Kitchen(钱塘厨房)

Within the Hangzhou Cuisine Museum, there are three restaurants: Hangzhou Flavor, Dongpo Pavilion, and Qiantang Kitchen. The first two are better for private rooms or large tables that require advance reservations. If you're in a smaller group, Qiantang Kitchen is the best choice, offering great value for money.

Address: 9 Fenghuang Mountain Road, Inside the Hangzhou Cuisine Museum (near Nanshan Ceramic Market)
Recommended Dishes: Dongpo Braised Pork, West Lake Vinegar Fish, Song Sao Fish Soup, Cizhu Egg with Braised Pork, Crab Roe Tofu
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 10:30–14:00, 16:30–20:00; Sunday 10:30–15:00, 16:30–20:00
Price Reference: ¥113 per person

Deming Restaurant(德明饭店)

Every city has its famous "fly restaurant," and in Hangzhou, that would be Deming Restaurant. Located in a small alley, this classic Hangzhou food joint has maintained the most authentic Hangzhou flavors over the years, with a true street-food atmosphere and fresh ingredients.

Signature dishes you must try include Crispy Large Intestines, Fresh and Delicious Qiantang River White Bass, and Rich Braised Pork. Every dish is consistently good, and even if there's a long line, it’s worth the wait. During peak hours, reservations may be necessary.

Address: 36 Huyu Road (West Side of Baguaxincun, Building 3)
Recommended Dishes: Crispy Large Intestines, Braised Meat, Braised Shrimp, Exploding Kidney Flowers
Opening Hours: 11:00–14:00, 17:00–20:00
Price Reference: ¥120 per person

Baxian Gohai(八鲜够嗨)

Located in the same alley as the famous Deming Restaurant, Baxian Gohai is a small yet beloved spot that has gained recognition within just three to four years of opening. Its name is well known throughout the city.

The restaurant focuses on authentic home-style cooking, and the signature dish—Crispy Large Intestines—is a must-try. The intestines are marinated and fried, offering an extra layer of crunch compared to other places. It’s these deep flavors that have earned this restaurant its loyal following.

Address: 36 Huyu Road, Shangcheng District
Recommended Dishes: Home-style Rice Cake with Small Yellow Fish, Crispy Large Intestines, Pickled Chili Bullfrog
Opening Hours: 10:00–14:00, 16:00–21:00
Price Reference: ¥98 per person