Bo Bo Ji in Chengdu: The Ultimate Guide to Sichuan’s Cold Pot Street Food
Bo Bo Ji is one of the most beloved Chengdu street foods, known for its bold Sichuan flavors and relaxed dining style. Originating from Leshan, this unique form of Sichuan cold pot features pre-cooked skewers soaked in spicy chili oil or numbing green pepper broth. Lighter than hot pot and more leisurely than chuan chuan, Bo Bo Ji offers travelers an easy and authentic way to experience Chengdu’s food culture. In this guide, you’ll learn what Bo Bo Ji is and where to find the best places to try it in Chengdu.
I. What Is Bo Bo Ji? A Sichuan Street Food Legend
The name Bo Bo Ji comes from the traditional ceramic pot (“Bo”) used to serve the dish. It first appeared in Leshan as a street snack, where vendors sold chicken cooked in broth and soaked in fragrant chili oil.
Often described as “cold skewers,” Bo Bo Ji features meat and vegetables that are fully cooked in advance, then immersed in either spicy red chili oil or green rattan pepper broth. Served cold or at room temperature, it delivers all the depth of hot pot—without the wait.
What makes Bo Bo Ji special:
- The Flavor Base: Red oil made from rapeseed oil, premium chilies, Sichuan peppercorns, and finished with toasted white sesame seeds.
- The Ingredients: Free-range chicken is a classic choice, prized for its firm texture. Popular vegetables include lotus root, potato slices, and wood-ear mushrooms, all excellent at absorbing flavor.
For first-time visitors, Bo Bo Ji offers a perfect balance of spice, numbing heat, and nuttiness—an essential taste of Sichuan cuisine.
II. Where to Eat Bo Bo Ji in Chengdu: 5 Local Favorites
1. Ye Po Po (Ye’s Grandma) Bo Bo Ji – Jinli Branch
- Location: Jinli Ancient Street, No. 231 Wuhouci Ave
- Price: 40–60 RMB per person
- Why Go: One of the most famous Bo Bo Ji spots in Chengdu. Their chicken soup rice pairs perfectly with spicy skewers.
- Local Tip: Visit before 4 PM on weekends. Try the handmade thin pancakes with radish and peanuts dipped in chili oil.
2. Ji Lao Si Yellow Chicken Bo Bo Ji – Near Kuanzhai Alley
- Location: No. 29 Kuixinglou Street
- Price: 50–70 RMB per person
- Why Go: Authentic Leshan-style Bo Bo Ji with crispy-skinned yellow chicken and rich daily-brewed broth.
- Local Tip: Go between 2–4 PM to avoid crowds. Ask for plain chicken soup if the spice is too intense.
3. Leshan Xian Zhi Wei – Jianshe Road
- Location: No. 14–21 Jianshe Alley (near UESTC)
- Price: 35–55 RMB per person
- Why Go: A hidden favorite among local students. The spicy beef and chicken gizzards are standouts.
- Local Tip: Combine with nearby street snacks like grilled potato skin or ice jelly.
4. Chen Ma Po Bo Bo Ji – Taikoo Li Area
- Location: No. 3-2 East Kongshi Street
- Price: 60–80 RMB per person
- Why Go: A modern take on Bo Bo Ji with creative flavors inspired by Mapo Tofu.
- Local Tip: Order brown sugar rice cakes to balance the heat.
5. San Ge Tian Luo – Jiuyanqiao Branch
- Location: No. 28 Zhimin East Road
- Price: 55–75 RMB per person
- Why Go: Famous for its beer-infused broth and lively nighttime atmosphere.
- Local Tip: Open until 2 AM—ideal for late-night food adventures.
IV. Final Thoughts: Why Bo Bo Ji Is a Must-Try in Chengdu
Bo Bo Ji is more than just food—it reflects Chengdu’s relaxed lifestyle and love for layered flavors. Especially in humid weather, pairing it with Bingfen (ice jelly) makes the experience even better. For travelers seeking authentic Sichuan street food, Bo Bo Ji is a must. For a deeper taste of the city, visit our Chengdu Local Food Trails guide to explore traditional snacks, street food, and the everyday dishes locals truly love.
If your trip includes more than just Chengdu, consider adding Leshan to your itinerary. Located about two hours away, Leshan is home to the world-famous Leshan Giant Buddha, one of the most iconic cultural landmarks in Sichuan. More importantly for food lovers, Leshan is the birthplace of Bo Bo Ji. Visiting Leshan allows you to experience this dish in its original form, often at humble street stalls where the flavors are bold, authentic, and deeply local. Combining Chengdu and Leshan offers travelers both cultural highlights and a deeper taste of Sichuan’s food heritage.
