Shenzhen’s food culture is a flavorful blend of Cantonese roots, northern influences, and migrant creativity. From sizzling street bites to time-honored local dishes, here are the must-try local foods and where to enjoy them across this fast-paced city.
1. Cantonese Roast Meats at Da Zhen Restaurant
Why try: Classic flavors with expertly roasted duck, pork, and chicken served the traditional way.
Must try: – Roast Duck Rice – Char Siu – Soy Sauce Chicken
Location: Futian District
Price range: ¥40–¥80 per person
2. Shenzhen-style Dumplings at Xiang Man Lou
Why try: Northern-style dumplings with rich fillings and handmade wrappers.
Must try: – Pork and Chive Dumplings – Spicy Dipping Sauce – Fried Dumpling Platter
Location: Luohu District
Price range: ¥30–¥60 per person
3. Claypot Rice at Lao Bei Fang Claypot
Why try: Crispy-bottomed rice with savory toppings and sizzling flavor.
Must try: – Chicken and Mushroom – Chinese Sausage – Egg Topped
Location: Nanshan District
Price range: ¥35–¥70 per person
4. Seafood Hotpot at Xiao Wei Yang
Why try: Popular for its rich broths, fresh seafood, and custom dipping sauces.
Must try: – Shrimp and Crab Hotpot – Lotus Root – Spicy Broth
Location: Bao’an District
Price range: ¥80–¥150 per person
5. Cantonese Dim Sum at Laurel Restaurant
Why try: Elegant setting with a wide variety of fresh dim sum and tea pairings.
Must try: – Har Gow – Siu Mai – Rice Noodle Rolls
Location: MixC Mall, Luohu
Price range: ¥60–¥120 per person
6. Guilin Rice Noodles at Mi Xian Guan
Why try: Chewy rice noodles with tangy, spicy toppings from nearby Guangxi.
Must try: – Pickled Veg Noodles – Beef Brisket – Chili Sauce
Location: Futian District
Price range: ¥25–¥50 per person
7. Shahe Rice Noodles at Local Wet Markets
Why try: A regional favorite with silky noodles in a light, fragrant broth.
Must try: – Fish Ball Noodle Soup – Roast Duck Topping – Preserved Veg
Location: Wet markets in Luohu and Nanshan
Price range: ¥15–¥40 per person
8. Street BBQ at Shuiwei Night Market
Why try: Skewered meats and veggies grilled with bold spices and smoky aromas.
Must try: – Lamb Skewers – Grilled Eggplant – Spicy Chicken Wings
Location: Shuiwei Market, Futian
Price range: ¥10–¥50 per skewer set
9. Sweet Soups at Tang Yuan Desserts
Why try: Traditional southern-style desserts that are light, warm, and satisfying.
Must try: – Black Sesame Soup – Glutinous Rice Balls – Red Bean Soup
Location: Multiple branches across Shenzhen
Price range: ¥20–¥40 per bowl
10. Cantonese Breakfast at Zhou Heiya
Why try: Start your day like a local with congee, steamed buns, and soy milk.
Must try: – Century Egg Congee – Fried Dough Stick – Salted Duck Egg
Location: Across Shenzhen, especially near transit stations
Price range: ¥15–¥35 per person
