Best Budget Eats in Hai’an, Jiangsu, China
1. Little Steamed Bun Shop
A quaint shop serving affordable and delicious steamed buns filled with various ingredients like pork, vegetables, or red beans. Solves the challenge of finding a quick, tasty, and budget-friendly meal.
- Affordability: Offers some of the cheapest steamed buns in Hai’an.
- Convenience: Located centrally, making it easily accessible for tourists.
- Variety: Offers a wide selection of steamed bun fillings to cater to diverse tastes.
2. Yangcheng Lake Snack Street
Street food market featuring local specialties such as lotus root candy and Yangcheng Lake's famous fish balls. Solves the challenge of experiencing authentic Hai’an street food without breaking the bank.
- Authenticity: Offers traditional, locally-made street foods.
- Affordability: Most items are priced under 10 RMB.
- Atmosphere: Bustling, lively environment that captures the spirit of Hai’an street food culture.
3. Xinhe Road Noodle House
A local favorite for hand-pulled noodles and spicy Sichuan dishes. Solves the challenge of finding a hearty, budget-friendly meal with a spicy kick.
- Spiciness: Known for its authentic, flavorful, and spicy Sichuan dishes.
- Affordability: Offers a variety of noodle dishes at reasonable prices.
- Atmosphere: Small, cozy setting with friendly service.
4. Xiangyue Steamed Dumpling House
Serves a variety of steamed and fried dumplings in a casual setting. Solves the challenge of finding delicious dumplings at affordable prices.
- Variety: Offers multiple types of steamed and fried dumplings.
- Affordability: Dumpling prices range from 1 to 5 RMB each.
- Atmosphere: Relaxed environment with fast service.
5. Zhenguang Bridge Seafood Market
Open-air market offering a wide variety of fresh seafood at affordable prices. Solves the challenge of finding delicious, budget-friendly seafood.
- Freshness: Offers some of the freshest seafood in Hai’an.
- Affordability: Seafood prices are significantly lower than in restaurants.
- Variety: Huge selection of seafood, including local favorites like eel and crab.
6. Lotus Root Cake Shop
Specializes in traditional lotus root cakes made from fresh, locally-grown ingredients. Solves the challenge of finding unique, delicious snacks at a budget price.
- Authenticity: Uses time-honored techniques to create traditional lotus root cakes.
- Affordability: Prices range from 5 to 10 RMB for various cake sizes.
- Taste: Cakes are sweet, chewy, and have a unique lotus flavor.
7. Jade Lake Teahouse
A picturesque teahouse overlooking the beautiful Jade Lake. Solves the challenge of finding a peaceful, budget-friendly spot to relax and enjoy traditional teas.
- Scenic Views: Boasts stunning views of Jade Lake.
- Affordability: Tea prices are very reasonable and include snacks.
- Tradition: Serves a variety of traditional Chinese teas in a serene environment.
8. Bai Family Rice Noodle Shop
Family-run shop known for its handmade rice noodles and traditional toppings. Solves the challenge of finding authentic, budget-friendly Hai’an noodle dishes.
- Authenticity: Uses family recipes passed down for generations.
- Affordability: Noodle dishes are reasonably priced and filling.
- Variety: Offers multiple toppings, including local favorites like pickled vegetables and spicy Sichuan sauce.
9. Hai’an Night Market
Bustling night market offering a variety of street foods, souvenirs, and local crafts. Solves the challenge of experiencing Hai’an's vibrant nightlife without breaking the bank.
- Variety: Offers a wide selection of street foods, souvenirs, and crafts.
- Affordability: Prices are reasonable for most items at the market.
- Atmosphere: Lively, energetic environment that captures the essence of Hai’an's night markets.
10. Yangcheng Lake Boat Tour
Affordable boat tour through Yangcheng Lake to see the famous lotus flowers and birds. Solves the challenge of experiencing Hai’an's natural beauty without spending a fortune.
- Scenic Views: Provides stunning views of Yangcheng Lake, lotus flowers, and birds.
- Affordability: Tours are reasonably priced for individuals or groups.
- Accessibility: Boats depart from several locations around the lake, making it easy to find a convenient departure point.
11. Yangcheng Lake Bamboo Raft Tour
An affordable bamboo raft tour through the beautiful wetlands of Yangcheng Lake. Solves the challenge of exploring Hai’an's natural beauty in a unique and budget-friendly way.
- Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking views of Yangcheng Lake's wetlands, birds, and lotus flowers.
- Affordability: Tours are reasonably priced for individuals or groups.
- Authenticity: Uses traditional bamboo rafts to navigate the lake's wetlands.
12. Xiajiang Snack Street
Street food market featuring local specialties like Yangcheng Lake's famous fish balls and other tasty snacks. Solves the challenge of experiencing Hai’an street food without breaking the bank.
- Authenticity: Offers traditional, locally-made street foods.
- Affordability: Most items are priced under 10 RMB.
- Atmosphere: Bustling, lively environment that captures the spirit of Hai’an street food culture.
13. Fisherman's Wharf Seafood Restaurant
A casual seafood restaurant located at Fisherman's Wharf. Solves the challenge of finding delicious, budget-friendly seafood dishes in a picturesque setting.
- Scenic Views: Located on beautiful Fisherman’s Wharf with stunning lake views.
- Affordability: Seafood dishes are reasonably priced and offer generous portions.
- Variety: Offers a wide variety of fresh seafood, including local favorites like eel and crab.
14. Hai’an Veggie Stir-Fry Stand
A simple street food stand serving delicious veggie stir-fries. Solves the challenge of finding healthy, budget-friendly meals in Hai’an.
- Healthiness: Offers a variety of fresh, nutritious vegetable options.
- Affordability: Prices are very reasonable for each stir-fry dish.
- Flavor: Stir-fries are flavorful and made with a variety of seasonings and sauces.
15. Tofu House
A cozy tofu house serving traditional Chinese tofu dishes. Solves the challenge of finding vegetarian-friendly, budget-friendly meals in Hai’an.
- Vegetarian Friendly: Offers a variety of delicious and filling tofu dishes.
- Affordability: Tofu dishes are reasonably priced and offer generous portions.
- Authenticity: Uses traditional tofu-making techniques passed down through generations.