Zhejiang cuisine (浙菜) represents the refined food culture of Hangzhou and Ningbo — known for elegant, slightly sweet dishes, exceptional seafood, and the famous West Lake view restaurants that defined Chinese fine dining.
Hangzhou’s Culinary Heritage
Hangzhou was the Southern Song Dynasty capital (1127-1279), and its cuisine absorbed the most refined cooking traditions of the empire. West Lake view restaurants still operate in the same locations where Song emperors dined.
Signature Dishes
Dongpo Pork (东坡肉): The legendary braised pork belly created by poet Su Dongpo — layers of fat and lean, melt-in-the-mouth tender.
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West Lake Vinegar Fish (西湖醋鱼): Fresh fish poached and dressed in sweet-sour sauce with ginger.
Longjing Shrimp (龙井虾仁): Shrimp stir-fried with Hangzhou Longjing tea leaves.
Discover more in our Chinese Food Complete Guide.
