Food In Shantang Street

Food History of Shantang Street, Suzhou, China

Shantang Street, also known as Seven-mile Shantang, is an ancient street in Suzhou with a rich history that dates back to 825 AD during the Tang Dynasty. This area, developed by Bai Juyi, a famous poet and then governor of Suzhou, has been a hub for culture and cuisine for centuries. Renowned for its traditional architecture and classical Chinese gardens, Shantang Street is not only a visual treat but also a gastronomic delight, reflecting the profound culinary traditions of Suzhou.

The street food and local dishes of Shantang Street have been influenced by the water town's proximity to lakes and rivers, leading to an abundance of fresh fish and other aquatic foods. Throughout history, this bustling marketplace has further been enriched by the exchange of goods and ideas, including various cooking techniques and flavors from other regions. The integration of these elements has contributed to the creation of Suzhou's unique and delicate flavors, beloved by both locals and visitors.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Shantang Street, Suzhou

1. Song Shu Gui Yu (Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish) - Non Veg: This is a classic Suzhou dish where the fish is scored and fried to resemble a squirrel, before being doused in a sweet and sour sauce.
2. Suzhou-Style Mooncakes - Veg/Non Veg: Unlike the Cantonese version, these mooncakes are savory and filled with pork, or sweet fillings for vegetarians.
3. Suzhou Tangbao (Soup Dumplings) - Non Veg: Another must-try is the large soup dumplings, filled with savory broth and pork.
4. Bi Feng Tang Style Prawns - Non Veg: Prawns cooked in a unique, piquant style reflective of Suzhou's culinary aesthetics.
5. Fried Glutinous Rice Cake - Veg: A traditional snack in Suzhou made from glutinous rice flour, and fried until crispy and golden.
6. Lai Tang Yuan (Sweet Rice Dumplings) - Veg: Rice dumplings filled with black sesame paste served in a sweet soup, often enjoyed during the Lantern Festival.
7. Qi Bao Vegetarian Chicken - Veg: A soy-based dish emulating the taste and texture of chicken, which is a testament to the city's Buddhist influences resulting in creative vegetarian options.
8. Steamed Whitefish - Non Veg: Lightly seasoned and delicately steamed, showcasing the natural flavors of local lake fish.
9. Lotus Root with Sweet Sticky Rice - Veg: A dessert or snack consisting of sticky rice stuffed inside slices of lotus root, then candied.
10. Xie Ke Huang (Crab Shell Pie) - Non Veg: Made with a crab meat filling, this flaky pastry is a savory snack beloved by Suzhou's locals.

Top Famous Restaurants in Shantang Street, Suzhou

• Name: Song He Lou (Pine & Crane Restaurant)
  Address: No.27 East Taijian Lane, Gusu District, Suzhou
  Famous Food: Song Shu Gui Yu (Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish) - Non Veg
• Name: De Yue Lou
  Address: No.43 Taijian Lane, Gusu District, Shantang Street, Suzhou
  Famous Food: Suzhou-Style Mooncakes (available in both Veg and Non Veg options)
• Name: Tong De Xing
  Address: No.14 Shantang Street, Gusu District, Suzhou
  Famous Food: Suzhou Tangbao (Soup Dumplings) - Non Veg
• Name: Zui Xiang Lou
  Address: No.65 Shantang Street, Gusu District, Suzhou
  Famous Food: Bi Feng Tang Style Prawns - Non Veg
• Name: Gui Hua Lou
  Address: Shangri-La Hotel, 168 Ta Yuan Road, Suzhou
  Famous Food: Veg and Non-Veg Chinese dishes, offering a fine-dining experience with a range of delicacies.