Best Budget Eats in Nanjing, China
1. Nanjing Xiaolongbao
Delicious and authentic steamed dumplings filled with soup, a Nanjing specialty.
- Affordable Price: Costs as low as 5 RMB per serving.
- Local Favorites: Highly popular among locals and visitors alike.
- Authenticity: Offers a genuine taste of Nanjing's culinary heritage.
2. Nanjing Roujiaomo
Spicy shredded mutton in a fluffy bun - a must-try street food.
- Portable Snack: Easy to carry and eat while walking.
- Flavorful Experience: Spicy, savory, and delicious - a unique taste you won't forget.
- Budget-Friendly: Costs as low as 5 RMB per serving.
3. Nanjing Mantou
Traditional steamed flatbread made from wheat flour and served with side dishes.
- Cultural Significance: Dates back to the Han Dynasty and holds historical significance.
- Versatile Meal: Can be paired with various side dishes like pickled vegetables or sauces.
- Budget-Friendly: Costs as low as 10 RMB for a set of Mantou and sides.
4. Nanjing Salted Fish Ball Soup
Savory soup filled with fish balls, vegetables, and a hint of saltiness.
- Healthy Option: A hearty and nutritious meal that is low in fat.
- Traditional Taste: An authentic taste of Nanjing's culinary heritage.
- Affordable Price: Costs around 15 RMB per serving.
5. Nanjing Kuaizhai Quail Eggs
Crispy fried quail eggs served with spices - a popular street food.
- Portable Snack: Easy to eat while walking.
- Unique Taste: Offers a different taste experience compared to chicken eggs.
- Budget-Friendly: Costs around 5 RMB for a small serving.
6. Nanjing Sesame Paste Cake
Sweet and nutty sesame paste cake - a perfect dessert or snack.
- Traditional Snack: Dates back to the Jin Dynasty and holds historical significance.
- Sweet Taste: Satisfies your sweet tooth with its rich, nutty flavor.
- Affordable Price: Costs around 5 RMB per serving.
7. Nanjing Smoked Duck
Tender and flavorful smoked duck served with pancakes or rice.
- Unique Taste: Offers a different taste experience compared to roasted or grilled ducks.
- Versatile Meal: Can be enjoyed with pancakes, rice, or noodles.
- Budget-Friendly: Costs around 20 RMB per serving.
8. Nanjing Fried Pork Chops
Crispy fried pork chops served with pickled vegetables and rice.
- Savory Experience: Offers a savory taste experience.
- Versatile Meal: Can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner.
- Budget-Friendly: Costs around 20 RMB per serving.
9. Nanjing Lanzhou Beef Noodles
Spicy and flavorful beef noodle soup - a popular dish from the Lanzhou region.
- Spicy Option: Can be adjusted to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Filling Meal: Offers a hearty and filling meal option.
- Affordable Price: Costs around 20 RMB per serving.
10. Nanjing Shui Zhong Yuan Soy Milk
Fresh and creamy soy milk - a popular breakfast option.
- Healthy Option: A nutritious choice for breakfast.
- Traditional Snack: Dates back to the Ming Dynasty and holds historical significance.
- Affordable Price: Costs around 5 RMB per serving.
11. Nanjing Yuxiang Rabbit Pot
Spicy and flavorful rabbit pot dish - a popular local delicacy.
- Unique Taste: Offers a different taste experience compared to other meats.
- Spicy Option: Can be adjusted to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Budget-Friendly: Costs around 30 RMB per serving.
12. Nanjing Jiaozi (Dumplings)
Delicious and authentic dumplings filled with various fillings.
- Versatile Meal: Can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner.
- Affordable Price: Costs around 10 RMB per serving.
- Local Favorites: Highly popular among locals and visitors alike.
13. Nanjing Zongzi (Sticky Rice Triangle)
Traditional glutinous rice wrapped in bamboo leaves - a popular festival dish.
- Cultural Significance: Dates back to the Han Dynasty and holds historical significance.
- Versatile Snack: Can be enjoyed as a snack or a meal.
- Budget-Friendly: Costs around 10 RMB per serving.
14. Nanjing Xian (Cold Noodles)
Refreshing and flavorful cold noodles served with various toppings.
- Refreshing Option: Offers a refreshing taste experience.
- Versatile Snack: Can be enjoyed as a snack or a meal.
- Budget-Friendly: Costs around 10 RMB per serving.
15. Nanjing You Bing (Fried Pancake)
Crispy fried pancake filled with various fillings - a popular street food.
- Portable Snack: Easy to eat while walking.
- Unique Taste: Offers a different taste experience compared to other street foods.
- Budget-Friendly: Costs around 5 RMB per serving.