Discover Sichuan’s Most Addictive Local Dishes (Beyond Hot Pot!)
When you think of Sichuan cuisine, you probably picture bubbling hot pot or mouth-numbing Mapo Tofu. But the real magic of Sichuan food lies in the street stalls and snack shops, where locals grab quick bites packed with bold flavor, spice, and soul.
If you’re heading to Chengdu, Leshan, or any city in Sichuan, don’t leave without trying these iconic local eats. This guide will help you navigate the must-try dishes—whether you’re an adventurous foodie or just looking for something comforting and delicious.
1. Bobo Chicken (钵钵鸡 Bō Bō Jī)
🥢 What it is: Cold skewers of chicken, tofu, vegetables, and more, soaked in a spicy Sichuan-style marinade.
🔥 Flavor: Numbing, spicy, and savory—with that signature málà kick.
💰 Average Price: ¥35 per person
📍 Pro Tip: Choose your own skewers. It’s like Sichuan-style street tapas—totally customizable!
2. Pig Trotter Stew (蹄花 Tí Huā)
🍲 What it is: A nourishing stew made with tender pig trotters and kidney beans.
🌶️ Flavor: Non-spicy and super comforting. Perfect for those who need a break from chili oil!
💰 Average Price: ¥45 per bowl
🧡 Why locals love it: It’s rich in collagen, with melt-in-your-mouth texture
3. Dan Dan Noodles (担担面 Dàn Dàn Miàn)
🍜 What it is: Thin wheat noodles tossed in chili oil, soy sauce, and topped with minced pork and peanuts.
🌶️ Flavor: Mildly spicy and nutty; served dry, not in soup.
💰 Average Price: ¥12 per bowl
📍 Where to find: Every corner noodle shop in Chengdu!
4. Sugar Glutinous Rice Balls (糖油果子 Táng Yóu Guǒ Zi)
🍡 What it is: Deep-fried sticky rice balls coated in caramelized sugar and sprinkled with sesame seeds.
😋 Flavor: Crispy outside, chewy inside; sweet but not overly rich.
💰 Average Price: ¥5 per skewer (4 pieces)
✨ Don’t miss: Best enjoyed fresh off the wok!
5. Ice Jelly (冰粉 Bīng Fěn)
🍧 What it is: A cold dessert made from the seeds of the Nicandra plant, topped with brown sugar syrup, fruit, peanuts, and other goodies.
❄️ Flavor: Light, cooling, and fully customizable.
💰 Average Price: ¥8 per cup
🔥 Perfect pairing: Order this alongside hot pot or Bobo Chicken to cool down the heat.
Where to Find These Sichuan Delights
🥢 You can try these dishes in most tourist spots in Chengdu, like Wide and Narrow Alley (宽窄巷子) or Jinli Ancient Street (锦里). But for more authentic and budget-friendly flavors, venture into local markets or residential alleyways where the real culinary gems are found.
Tips for First-Time Foodies in Sichuan
- 🔍 Always ask or check for spice level and ingredients—some dishes may be too hot or contain allergens.
- 🧻 Some stalls are “bring your own napkin”—keep tissues handy!
- 🥡 Takeaway? Most vendors offer convenient packaging.
- 📲 Use Dazhong Dianping (大众点评) or Xiaohongshu (小红书) to find highly rated food stalls.
New to Dazhong Dianping or Xiaohongshu? These are essential food-hunting apps in China. Check out our guide to food apps in China to learn how to use them for finding amazing local restaurants, menus, and reviews—even if you don’t speak Chinese!
