Chengdu Street Food Guide: 4 Spicy and Sour Local Favorites
Chengdu is well known for giant pandas, but for many travelers, its real charm lies in the food.
This Chengdu street food guide focuses on four spicy and sour snacks that locals eat every day. They are bold in flavor, affordable, and deeply connected to the city’s food culture.
If you want to understand Chengdu beyond hotpot and tourist restaurants, start with these classics.
I. Dandan Noodles: A Classic Chengdu Staple
Dandan Noodles are one of the most representative dishes of Chengdu street food. The noodles are thin and springy, topped with minced pork sauce (zaozi), chili oil, preserved vegetables (yacai), and green onions. The flavors are layered but balanced—fragrant, savory, and gently spicy rather than overwhelming.
Spice Level: 3/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Recommended spots:
Xiao Ming Tang Dandan Noodles (Dongchenggan Street)
- Price: ~15 RMB
- Getting there: Metro Line 1 or 4, Luomashi Station, Exit E (8-minute walk)
- Why locals go: Many Chengdu residents have eaten here since childhood. The meat sauce is dry-fried for aroma, and the chili oil is rich without being harsh.
- Tip: Very busy at peak hours. Mobile payment accepted.
Zhang Lao Er Jelly (Wenshu Monastery Branch)
- Price: ~12 RMB
- Getting there: Metro Line 1, Wenshu Monastery Station, Exit K (5-minute walk)
- Why locals go: A time-honored shop near the monastery. Simple setting, reliable flavors.
- Tip: Popular in the morning and at noon. Cash only.
II. Sad Jelly: Extremely Spicy, Extremely Local
Sad Jelly (Shangxin Liangfen) is famous for its intense heat. The name comes from the idea that it is so spicy that people end up crying while eating it. The jelly is smooth and slippery, mixed with chili oil, Sichuan peppercorn oil, vinegar, and garlic. The result is sharp, numbing, sour, and unforgettable.
Spice Level: 5/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Recommended spots:
Sad Jelly (Jinli Branch)
- Price: ~15 RMB
- Getting there: Metro Line 3 or 5, Gaoshengqiao Station, Exit D (10-minute walk)
- Why locals go: Convenient location inside Jinli Ancient Street and consistent quality.
- Tip: Jinli gets crowded. Ask for less spice if needed.
Dongzikou Zhang Lao Er Jelly (Main Branch)
- Price: ~10 RMB
- Getting there: Bus 129 or 24 to Dongzikou East Station
- Why locals go: A favorite among Chengdu residents for its strong seasoning and low price.
- Tip: Expect a line during meal times.
III. Fat Intestine Rice Noodles: Rich and Comforting
Fat Intestine Rice Noodles are a daily comfort food for many locals. Sweet potato glass noodles are paired with carefully cleaned pork intestines, chili oil, peppercorns, and green onions, all finished with a ladle of rich bone broth. The texture is soft and chewy, and the flavor is deep and warming.
Spice Level: 4/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Recommended spots:
Gan Ji Fat Intestine Rice Noodles (Ma’an Road)
- Price: ~18 RMB
- Getting there: Metro Line 3, Qianfeng Road Station, Exit D (10-minute walk)
- Why locals go: Known for clean intestines with no strong smell and a very rich broth.
- Tip: Pair it with a Guokui (crispy stuffed pancake).
Baijia Gaoji Fat Intestine Rice Noodles (Shuangliu)
- Price: ~20 RMB
- Getting there: Metro Line 10 to Jinhua Station, then taxi
- Why locals go: A century-old brand with a thick, flavorful broth.
- Tip: Far from downtown, but popular with both locals and visitors.
IV. Hot and Sour Rice Noodles: Simple and Satisfying
Hot and Sour Rice Noodles (Suanla Fen) are loved for their strong vinegar aroma and spicy kick. The noodles are mixed with chili oil, vinegar, peanuts, cilantro, and minced meat sauce. It’s a quick, filling option that many people eat for lunch or a light dinner.
Spice Level: 3.5/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Recommended spots:
Long Chao Shou (Chunxi Road Branch)
- Price: ~20 RMB
- Getting there: Metro Line 2 or 3, Chunxi Road Station, Exit D
- Why locals go: Central location and consistent quality.
- Tip: Visit outside peak hours to avoid long lines.
Zhong Dumplings (People’s Park Branch)
- Price: ~25 RMB
- Getting there: Metro Line 2, People’s Park Station, Exit D
- Why locals go: Eating noodles inside People’s Park is a classic Chengdu experience.
- Tip: Combine your meal with a walk or tea nearby.
Summary: Exploring Chengdu Street Food Like a Local
These spicy and sour snacks reflect everyday life in Chengdu. From Dandan noodles to Sad Jelly, each dish shows how locals balance heat, sourness, and aroma. If you enjoy bold flavors, these street foods are an essential part of any Chengdu visit. 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.
Quick tip: Many good shops are on small streets. Wear comfortable shoes, carry some cash, and don’t be afraid to try something new.
