Chongqing Travel Planner: Unique Themed Restaurants to Visit

Chongqing, China’s sprawling megacity, is a dream destination for food lovers. Beyond its famous hotpot, the city boasts an array of themed restaurants that turn dining into an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re craving immersive storytelling, quirky decor, or Instagram-worthy dishes, Chongqing’s themed eateries deliver. Here’s your ultimate guide to the most unique spots you won’t want to miss.

1. The Sci-Fi Hotpot Experience: Spacelab Hotpot

Why It’s a Must-Visit

Imagine dining in a futuristic spaceship where robotic arms deliver your food. Spacelab Hotpot (火锅实验室) blends Chongqing’s fiery cuisine with high-tech theatrics. Neon lights, metallic interiors, and conveyor belts carrying ingredients create a cyberpunk vibe.

What to Order

• Mala Space Station Broth: A signature numbing-spicy broth served in a planet-shaped pot.
• Robot-Cut Beef Slices: Precision-cut meat delivered by a robotic arm.
• Galactic Veggie Platter: A rotating tray of fresh vegetables.

Pro Tip: Visit at night for the full neon-lit spectacle.

2. Step into Ancient China: The Three Kingdoms Banquet

Why It’s a Must-Visit

This restaurant transports diners to the legendary Three Kingdoms era (220–280 AD). Staff wear period costumes, and the menu is inspired by historical feasts. Wooden beams, antique weapon displays, and live guqin music complete the ambiance.

What to Order

• Zhuge Liang’s Wisdom Fish: Steamed fish with a secret herbal sauce.
• Guan Yu’s Braised Pork: Slow-cooked pork belly in a rich soy glaze.
• Liu Bei’s Imperial Rice Wine: A must-try for history buffs.

Pro Tip: Book a private booth for a more immersive storytelling session.

3. The Underground Cave Restaurant: Hongya Dong

Why It’s a Must-Visit

Built into the cliffs of the Jialing River, Hongya Dong (洪崖洞) is a multi-level dining complex resembling a stilted village. At night, golden lights illuminate the structure, making it look like a scene from Spirited Away.

What to Order

• Chongqing Street Skewers: Spicy lamb and tofu skewers from hole-in-the-wall vendors.
• Mountain-Style Ribs: Smoky, slow-roasted ribs with a sticky glaze.
• River View Tea Set: Sip local teas while overlooking the water.

Pro Tip: Arrive before sunset to explore the shops and avoid crowds.

4. The Prison-Themed Eatery: Jail Hotpot

Why It’s a Must-Visit

Not for the faint-hearted, this restaurant recreates a prison dining hall. Guests sit in “cells,” wear striped uniforms, and order from a “wanted” menu. The theatrics are wild, but the hotpot is legit.

What to Order

• The Escapee’s Spicy Tripe: Extra-crispy and loaded with Sichuan peppercorns.
• Life Sentence Beef Platter: A mix of premium cuts.
• Bail Bond Beer: Served in a metal mug.

Pro Tip: Bring friends—this place is all about group fun.

5. The Bookworm’s Paradise: Library Noodles

Why It’s Must-Visit

A cozy noodle shop disguised as a vintage library? Yes, please. Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, reading nooks, and a menu shaped like classic novels make this spot perfect for solo travelers.

What to Order

• War and Peace Beef Noodles: A hearty bowl with slow-cooked brisket.
• Pride and Peppercorn Dan Dan Noodles: A spicy twist on the classic.
• Poetry Matcha Latte: A literary-themed drink.

Pro Tip: Come early to snag a window seat with mountain views.

6. The Horror-Themed Bar: Ghost Street Tavern

Why It’s a Must-Visit

If you love Halloween year-round, this bar is for you. Dim red lighting, eerie mannequins, and cocktails served in syringes create a haunted vibe.

What to Order

• Zombie Apocalypse Cocktail: A flaming blue concoction.
• Vampire’s Kiss Skewers: Blood-red glazed meat.
• Graveyard Churros: Served with “dirt” (crushed Oreos).

Pro Tip: Visit on weekends for live horror performances.

7. The Cat Café with a Twist: Chongqing Whiskers & Wine

Why It’s a Must-Visit

This isn’t your typical cat café—here, fluffy felines roam freely while you enjoy wine pairings. The décor is chic, with cat towers and Instagrammable murals.

What to Order

• Purr-fect Pinot Noir: A smooth red paired with cheese.
• Meow-garita: A cat-themed cocktail.
• Tuna Tartare: For you (not the cats).

Pro Tip: Check their schedule for “Yoga with Cats” sessions.

8. The 80s Retro Diner: Neon Nostalgia

Why It’s a Must-Visit

A blast from the past with vintage arcade games, cassette-tape menus, and waitstaff in retro outfits. The milkshakes alone are worth the trip.

What to Order

• Pac-Man Burger: A colorful stacked burger.
• Tetris Fries: Crispy waffle fries with dipping sauces.
• Space Invaders Sundae: An over-the-top dessert.

Pro Tip: Play a round of Street Fighter II while waiting for food.

Final Bite

Chongqing’s themed restaurants prove that dining here is more than just food—it’s an adventure. Whether you’re a sci-fi geek, history nerd, or horror fanatic, there’s a table waiting for you.