Food In Leifeng Pagoda

Food History of Leifeng Pagoda, Hangzhou, China

Leifeng Pagoda, situated within the scenic West Lake area of Hangzhou, is a cultural landmark with a rich history that spans centuries. Originally constructed in the year 975 during the Northern Song Dynasty, it has witnessed numerous historical events and changes in the culinary landscape of the region. Hangzhou cuisine, or Hangbang cuisine, is one of the lesser-known yet distinguished branches of Zhejiang cuisine and has evolved over time to reflect the elegance and natural beauty of this area, with an emphasis on freshness, seasonality, and delicate flavors.

The food associated with the region surrounding Leifeng Pagoda contains a vast array of flavors and ingredients, reflecting the abundance of the region's lakes and farmlands. Historically, Buddhism also played a significant role in shaping the local cuisine, introducing various vegetarian dishes that continue to be popular today.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Leifong Pagoda, Hangzhou

1. West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy (Non-Veg) - This classic Hangzhou dish features a tender fish from the local West Lake, cooked in a sweet and sour vinegar-based gravy.
2. Beggar's Chicken (Non-Veg) - A legendary dish where the chicken is wrapped in lotus leaves, covered in mud, and slowly roasted to a succulent finish.
3. Song Sao Fish Soup (Non-Veg) - Famous for its delicate and light taste, this soup is a testament to the refined technique of local chefs.
4. Dongpo Pork (Non-Veg) - Named after the famed poet Su Dongpo, it is a flavorful braised pork belly dish with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
5. Longjing Shrimp (Non-Veg) - Freshwater shrimp cooked with Longjing, the renowned local green tea, offering a unique taste of Hangzhou.
6. Shelled Shrimp with Dragon Well Tea (Non-Veg) - Another innovative use of Hangzhou's famous Longjing tea, paired with juicy shrimp.
7. Steamed Vegetable Bun (Veg) - A humble yet delicious steamed bun filled with seasonal vegetables and herbs, emblematic of local vegetarian offerings.
8. West Lake Water Shield Soup (Veg) - A vegetarian soup that includes the aquatic vegetable known as water shield, bringing a distinctive texture and flavor.
9. Lotus Root Powder (Veg) - A healthy and refreshing dish typically served as a soup or dessert, praised for its cooling properties.
10. Fried Tofu with Hangzhou Peppers (Veg) - Silky tofu combined with the region's signature peppers, marrying mild flavors with a slight kick.

Top Famous Restaurants in Leifeng Pagoda, Hangzhou

Lou Wai Lou (楼外楼)

Address: No. 30 Gushan Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou
Famous Food: West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy (Non-Veg)

Zhi Wei Guan (知味观)

Address: No. 83 Renhe Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou
Famous Food: Steamed Vegetable Bun (Veg)

Grandma's Home (外婆家)

Address: Multiple locations in Hangzhou
Famous Food: Dongpo Pork (Non-Veg)

Green Tea Restaurant (绿茶餐厅)

Address: No. 83 Longjing Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou
Famous Food: Fried Tofyzu with Hangzhou Peppers (Veg)

Hangzhou Restaurant (杭州饭店)

Address: No. 205 Yan'an Road, Hangzhou
Famous Food: Beggar's Chicken (Non-Veg)

Please note that the above list of restaurants is not exclusive to the immediate vicinity of Leifeng Pagoda but includes well-known establishments in Hangzhou known for their traditional dishes. Visitors to Leifeng Pagoda can explore these culinary delights after taking in the historical and cultural beauty of the pagoda itself.