8 Best Restaurants in Hangzhou

Founded in 1848 during the Qing Dynasty, Lou Wai Lou is the most iconic restaurant in Hangzhou, famously situated on Solitary Hill. It has served world leaders and literary giants for over a century. The restaurant is the guardian of traditional 'Zhejiang Cuisine' (Zhe Cai), emphasizing fresh ingredients and delicate flavors. Dining here offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the West Lake through its grand windows. Expert recommendation: You must order the 'West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy' and 'Dongpo Pork', which are the definitive versions of these dishes. Pro tip: It is extremely popular; try to arrive by 11:00 AM for lunch to secure a window-side table and avoid a long wait.

Established in 1913, Zhi Wei Guan's motto is 'the taste of the food will make you stop your carriage to take a bite.' This historic brand is beloved by locals for its authentic Hangzhou snacks and dim sum. The ground floor is a bustling, casual hall serving quick bites, while the upper floors offer more formal dining. The sensory experience is lively, filled with the aroma of steamed buns and the chatter of multi-generational families. Expert recommendation: Try the 'Cat's Ear' (shaped pasta) and 'Xiao Long Bao' (soup dumplings). Pro tip: The takeaway window is great for grabbing traditional pastries like 'Osmanthus Cake' on the go.

Founded in 1867, Kui Yuan Guan is known as the 'Noodle King of China.' It has a deep cultural heritage, having hosted famous scholars and artists. The restaurant is famous for its unique 'Jiangnan-style' noodle preparation, where the toppings are stir-fried separately to maintain their texture. The interior is traditional, featuring dark wood and calligraphy. Expert recommendation: The signature 'Pian Er Chuan' (noodles with bamboo shoots and preserved greens) and 'Shrimp and Eel Noodles' are essential. Pro tip: The portions are quite large, so it is perfect for a satisfying, hearty lunch. It's often busy, but the service is efficient.

Xin Bai Lu is a household name in Hangzhou, known for providing high-quality local cuisine at incredibly affordable prices. The restaurants are usually modern and vibrant, catering to a younger crowd and families. The menu is vast, featuring both traditional Hangzhou favorites and innovative fusion dishes. It offers a great snapshot of the contemporary Hangzhou dining scene. Expert recommendation: Their 'Crispy Fried Durian' and 'Shepherd's Purse Tofu' are crowd favorites. Pro tip: Use the 'Meituan' or 'Dianping' app to get a queue number remotely, as wait times can exceed an hour during dinner peaks.

What started as a single small restaurant has grown into a national phenomenon. 'Waipo Jia' offers 'Grandma’s' style home-cooked meals in a stylish, often dimly lit, industrial-chic setting. It is famous for its consistent quality and low prices, making it a go-to for locals and tourists alike. The atmosphere is energetic and loud. Expert recommendation: You must try the 'Grandma’s Chicken' (Waipo Shen Xian Ji) and the 'Green Tea Roasted Chicken.' Pro tip: Like Xin Bai Lu, the queues are legendary. Try going for an early dinner around 4:30 PM to get seated immediately.

This branch of Green Tea is particularly special as it is located near the tea plantations. The restaurant features a picturesque 'water village' design with boats and wooden bridges inside. The food is a mix of Zhejiang, Cantonese, and Sichuan influences, all adjusted to the light, fresh palate of Hangzhou. The sensory experience is immersive and very 'Instagrammable.' Expert recommendation: The 'Green Tea Roast Meat' and 'Bread Temptation' (honey toast with ice cream) are must-orders. Pro tip: Expect a wait; use the time to explore the surrounding tea fields or the nearby China National Tea Museum.

Named after the 'Old Man' (Lao Tou Er) who started it, this restaurant is a legendary local institution. It became famous for its simple, perfectly executed 'Fried River Shrimp with Tea Leaves.' The setting is no-frills and focused entirely on the food. It’s one of the best places to experience the genuine, unpretentious side of Hangzhou's food culture. Expert recommendation: The 'Dry-Fried River Shrimp' and 'Braised Fish Head' are the top choices. Pro tip: Expect a loud, busy environment. This isn't a place for a quiet romantic dinner, but for a high-quality, authentic local feast.

Tian Lun is another heavyweight in the Hangzhou crab-dining scene, often considered more upscale and specialized. They are famous for their 'Drunken Crabs' and various crab-meat based appetizers. The restaurant has a quiet, sophisticated atmosphere with attentive service. They take great pride in the sourcing of their ingredients, especially the crabs from Taihu or Yangcheng Lake. Expert recommendation: The 'Tian Lun Braised Crab Roe' served with small steamed buns is a decadent treat. Pro tip: They have an excellent selection of Shaoxing yellow wine (Huangjiu), which is the traditional pairing for crab to balance its 'cool' nature.