Must-Try Foods In Chengdu Research Base Of Giant Panda Breeding (Chengdu) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, while not specifically a culinary destination, is situated within Chengdu, which has a rich and profound culinary history. Chengdu is the capital of Sichuan province, known for its bold flavors, particularly the pungency and spiciness arising from the use of garlic and chili peppers, as well as the unique flavor of Sichuan pepper. Although the research base focuses on the conservation and breeding of the giant pandas, visitors can also experience the local Sichuanese cuisine at nearby eateries. Given that feeding pandas is strictly controlled and focuses on a diet mainly consisting of bamboo alongside some other nutritious panda cakes and fruits, the food history here is primarily tied to that of the broader Chengdu region.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Chengdu

1. Mapo Tofu - A spicy and fragrant stew-like dish made with tofu, fermented black beans, minced meat (often pork or beef), and Sichuan peppercorns. (Please note the meat can be excluded to cater to vegetarians)
2. Kung Pao Chicken - A popular Sichuan dish featuring chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers. (Non-Veg)
3. Sichuan Hotpot - A communal pot of spicy broth in which a variety of meats, vegetables, and noodles can be cooked. Vegetarian options are available. (Veg/Non-Veg)
4. Chengdu-style Dan Dan Noodles - This dish comes with a spicy, sesame-based sauce and is often topped with minced pork, although it can be made vegetarian without it. (Veg/Non-Veg)
5. Twice-Cooked Pork - A flavorful dish made with boiled then stir-fried pork slices with vegetables in a spicy sauce. (Non-Veg)
6. Zhong Dumplings - Delicious pork dumplings coated in a spicy and sweet sauce. (Non-Veg)
7. Sichuan Pickles - Various vegetables are pickled in a spicy and tangy brine, a common appetizer or side in Sichuan cuisine. (Veg)
8. Sweet Water Noodles - A classic Sichuan street food dish consisting of cold noodles in a sweet, spicy, and tangy sauce. (Veg)
9. Yibin Burning Noodles - A mix of cooked noodles with spicy Sichuanese seasonings and garnishes. (Veg)
10. Long Chao Shou - Chengdu-style wontons served in a mild or spicy sauce. (Non-Veg)

Top Famous Restaurants Near Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

Shu JiuXiang Hotpot Restaurant (Land Branch)

Address: No. 20-24, Renmin Park South Rd, Chenghua District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China

Famous Food: Sichuan Hotpot with various choices of broth and ingredients. (Veg/Non-Veg)

Vegetarian Lifestyle

Address: 27 Qinglong Street, Qingyang District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China

Famous Food: Vegetarian takes on classic Sichuan dishes. (Veg)

Hongxing Erke ChuanChuan Xiang

Address: No. 20 Modaopu Street, Chengdu, Sichuan, China

Famous Food: Chuan chuan (Sichuanese skewers), which can be customized with a choice of vegetables and meats dipped into a spicy hot pot. (Veg/Non-Veg)

Dragon Wok (Long Chaoshou)

Address: Chunxi Rd, Jinjiang District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China

Famous Food: Long Chao Shou (wontons) and other Sichuan snacks. (Non-Veg)

Ming Ting Restaurant

Address: No.20 Sanse Road, Qingyang District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China

Famous Food: Classic Sichuan dishes like Mapo Tofu and Kung Pao Chicken. (Veg/Non-Veg)

Please note that while Chengdu offers a range of sumptuous dishes, the availability of vegetarian options may be limited due to the prevalent use of small amounts of meat or meat stock in many traditionally 'vegetarian' dishes. However, many restaurants are accommodating and can prepare dishes that meet vegetarian standards upon request.