Chongqing’s Best Dumpling & Noodle Shops

Chongqing is a city that thrills travelers with its fiery hotpot, misty mountains, and vibrant street life. But beyond the famous mala flavors, the city hides a treasure trove of dumpling and noodle shops that are just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re craving chewy handmade noodles, savory jiaozi, or spicy wontons, Chongqing’s culinary scene has something to satisfy every craving. Here’s a curated list of the best spots to indulge in these comfort foods.

The Ultimate Dumpling Destinations

1. Chen’s Jiaozi (Chen Jia Jiaozi)

Tucked away in a bustling alley near Jiefangbei, Chen’s Jiaozi is a local legend. Their dumplings are plump, juicy, and packed with a perfect mix of pork, chives, and secret spices. The wrappers are hand-rolled to achieve the ideal thickness—soft yet sturdy enough to hold the rich filling.

Must-try: The Hongyou Chao Shou (spicy wontons) drenched in chili oil and sprinkled with crushed peanuts.

2. Old Auntie’s Dumpling House (Lao Ayi Jiaozi)

This no-frills eatery near Hongyadong serves some of the most authentic northern-style dumplings in Chongqing. The menu is simple—boiled or pan-fried—but the flavors are unforgettable. Locals swear by their lamb and coriander filling, a rare find in this pork-dominated city.

Pro tip: Pair your dumplings with their homemade garlic-vinegar dipping sauce for an extra kick.

3. Xiao Mian Noodle & Dumpling Corner

While the name suggests noodles, their Guotie (potstickers) are the real stars. Crispy on the bottom, tender on top, and filled with a succulent pork-and-cabbage mixture, these dumplings are a textural masterpiece. The tiny shop is always packed, so go early or be prepared to wait.

Noodle Havens You Can’t Miss

1. Spicy Sister’s Noodles (La Mei Zi Xiao Mian)

No Chongqing noodle guide is complete without mentioning this iconic spot. Their Xiao Mian (Chongqing-style spicy noodles) are a fiery, numbing delight, thanks to a generous dose of Sichuan peppercorns and chili oil. The noodles are springy, the broth is aromatic, and the minced pork topping adds a savory depth.

Local hack: Ask for "wei la" (mild spice) if you’re not ready for the full Chongqing heat.

2. Uncle Zhang’s Hand-Pulled Noodles (Zhang Shifu La Mian)

Watching the chefs stretch and slap the dough into thin strands is half the fun at Uncle Zhang’s. Their Beef Noodle Soup is a hearty bowl of slow-cooked brisket, chewy noodles, and a star anise-infused broth. The Dan Dan Mian (noodles with spicy minced pork) is another crowd-pleaser.

Bonus: They offer free refills of their house-pickled vegetables—perfect for cutting through the richness.

3. The Hidden Noodle Stall (Jiao Xiang Xiao Mian)

Located near Ciqikou Old Town, this unassuming stall is where locals go for Suan La Fen (sour and spicy sweet potato noodles). The tangy vinegar, fiery chili, and slippery noodles create a addictive combination. It’s cheap, fast, and incredibly satisfying—ideal for a quick bite between sightseeing.

Fusion & Modern Twists

1. Dumpling Lab

A trendy spot in Guanyinqiao, Dumpling Lab reinvents classics with creative fillings like truffle-pork and crab-roe. The presentation is Instagram-worthy, and the flavors are bold yet balanced. Don’t miss their Rainbow Dumplings, where the wrappers get their vibrant hues from natural ingredients like spinach and beetroot.

2. Noodle Bar X

This minimalist eatery in Raffles City puts a gourmet spin on street food. Their Lobster Dan Dan Mian swaps traditional pork for succulent lobster meat, drenched in a creamy sesame-chili sauce. It’s a splurge, but worth every bite.

Street Food Gems

For those who prefer eating on the go, Chongqing’s night markets and food streets are goldmines:

• Hongyadong Snack Street: Try the Suan La Fen stalls near the riverfront.
• Shapingba Night Market: Look for the Jianbing Guozi (pan-fried dumplings) with a crispy lace skirt.
• Nanshan Dumpling Fair (seasonal): A festival dedicated to every dumpling imaginable, from soup dumplings to chocolate-filled dessert versions.

Tips for Navigating Chongqing’s Food Scene

• Spice levels: "Yao la" means extra spicy; "bu yao la" is no spice.
• Peak times: Avoid lunch rushes (12-1:30 PM) unless you love crowds.
• Cash is king: Many small shops don’t accept mobile payments.

Chongqing’s dumplings and noodles are more than just food—they’re a window into the city’s soul. From hole-in-the-wall gems to modern innovators, every bite tells a story of tradition, passion, and unapologetic flavor. So grab your chopsticks and dig in!