Must-Try Foods In Master Of The Nets Garden (Suzhou) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Master of the Nets Garden, Suzhou, China

The Master of the Nets Garden, part of the classical gardens of Suzhou, was originally constructed during the Southern Song Dynasty. The garden has a history that stretches back over 800 years and has been renowned for its elegant design and the integration of art, nature, and architecture. Food culture within the garden is closely tied to the broader culinary traditions of Suzhou, which is famous for its refined and delicate Jiangnan (south-of-the-Yangtze River) cuisine. Traditionally, garden owners would host banquets and tea ceremonies featuring local Suzhou dishes that are known for their meticulous preparation and light, sweet flavors.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes near Master of the Nets Garden

1. Song Shu Gui Yu (Squirrel-shaped Mandarin Fish) - Non-Veg: Deep-fried mandarin fish with a sweet and sour sauce, famous for its pinecone-like presentation.
2. Yangcheng Lake Hairy Crab - Non-Veg: A delicacy particularly enjoyed for its roe during the autumn season when the crabs are at their best.
3. Suzhou style mooncakes - Non-Veg: Unlike the Cantonese version, they have a flaky crust and are often filled with pork mince.
4. Suzhou Noodles - Non-Veg: Fine, white, and soft noodles typically served in a rich broth with various toppings.
5. Steamed Whitefish - Non-Veg: A classic way to savor the natural flavors of the region's freshwater fish.
6. Taihu Boat Dishes - Non-Veg: Traditionally prepared by fisherman on the Taihu Lake, these dishes typically feature fresh fish and shrimp.
7. Biluo Shelled Shrimp - Non-Veg: Fresh shrimp cooked in Biluochun tea, showcasing the unique blend of local tea culture and cuisine.
8. Xiang You Shan Hu (Fried Eel Paste) - Non-Veg: Eel is fried and garnished with seaweed, pine nuts, and other ingredients, offering a unique texture and taste.
9. Suzhou-style Pickled Vegetables - Veg: A common side dish with a refreshing taste that complements the rich flavors of the main dishes.
10. Lou Wai Lou Sweet and Sour Mandarin Fish - Non-Veg: Another popular rendition of the sweet and sour fish with a different style of sauce.

Top Famous Restaurants near Master of the Nets Garden

Songhelou Restaurant

Address: 72 Taijian Nong, Guanqian St.
Famous Food: Song Shu Gui Yu (Squirrel-shaped Mandarin Fish) - Non-Veg

Deyuelou Restaurant

Address: 43 Taijian Lane, Suzhou
Famous Food: Yangcheng Lake Hairy Crab - Non-Veg

Pingtan Teahouse

Address: No. 1 Shijia Alley, Daoqian Street, Suzhou
Famous Food: Assorted Suzhou-style Dim Sum - Both Veg and Non-Veg options available

Tongdexing Restaurant

Address: No. 868 Renmin Road, Suzhou
Famous Food: Suzhou Noodles - Non-Veg

Wumen Renjia Restaurant

Address: No. 15 Fenghuang Street, Suzhou
Famous Foods: Biluo Shelled Shrimp - Non-Veg, Suzhou-style Pickled Vegetables - Veg