Don’t Just Climb Emei’s Golden Summit! 5 Must-Try Local Eateries at the Foot of the Mountain
After hiking Mount Emei, tired legs deserve a delicious reward! These 5 local restaurants at the foot of the mountain will instantly recharge you. Locals say, “If you haven’t eaten here, your trip is incomplete.” Each spot hides authentic Emei flavors you won’t want to miss.
1. Emei Xiangcai Restaurant (Near Scenic Area)
Famous for its Linjiang Eel Shreds, thinly sliced eel stir-fried with young ginger, Sichuan chili, and small chili peppers for a fresh and spicy kick. Mix with a portion of thin noodles to soak up the spicy broth—every bite is explosive, and one bowl is never enough. Don’t miss the Steamed Beef with Rice Flour—soft, tender, and packed with flavor—and the sour and spicy chicken feet, perfect for snacking. Average price: 50 RMB. Just a 10-minute walk from the scenic area; peak meal times often require shared tables, so consider reserving ahead.
2. Old-Style Tofu Pudding (Shuyuan Street Branch)
A 20-year-old local institution, this is the ultimate Emei tofu pudding experience. The tofu is silky like pudding, topped with crispy soybeans, pickled vegetables, and fresh coriander, all doused in hot bone broth. You can add steamed beef or pork intestine for more flavor. Pair with a freshly fried crispy pancake—soft inside, crispy outside—for the perfect breakfast or afternoon snack. Average price: 15 RMB. Only a 5-minute walk from Emei Station on Metro Line 3.
3. Xu BBQ (Wannian East Road Branch)
A hidden gem for late-night food lovers. Try the crispy grilled pork belly, flavorful eel, tender brain slices, and garlicky grilled eggplant. Pair with cold beer or local Emei Snow Soda for the ultimate flavor combination. Average price: 70 RMB. Open until 2 AM. Reservations recommended, perfect for small gatherings with friends.
4. Qiaojiao Beef (Baoguo Temple Branch)
A must-visit for fans of Leshan-style beef hot pot. Served in a large copper pot with fresh beef and beef offal cooked on demand, sprinkled with celery for freshness. Must-try: thinly sliced beef tongue cooked for just 3 seconds and dipped in sauce for maximum flavor, tender beef tripe, and spicy blood curd. Average price: 40 RMB. Conveniently located near Baoguo Temple, perfect for refueling after a mountain hike.
5. Emei Braised Duck (Xizheng Street Branch)
Operating for over 30 years, this shop is the benchmark for braised duck in Emei. The skin is glossy, the meat firm, and the flavor rich without being greasy. Half a duck is enough for two people. Don’t miss the duck wings, feet, and signature braised pork intestine. Vacuum-packed options make great souvenirs. Average price: 35 RMB. Located downtown, easy to reach, ideal for gifts or a meal with family.
Hidden Tips: Visit Emei in October–November for stunning autumn foliage along with the sunrise at the Golden Summit. After descending, stop at these eateries for a post-hike feast. Stay overnight in the city for an easy day trip to Leshan Giant Buddha, just 30 minutes away. Vacuum-packed braised duck and Qiaojiao beef can be stored 3–5 days, perfect as souvenirs.
Plan Your Culinary and Scenic Trip with Chengdu Travel Agency
Make the most of your Emei adventure with Chengdu Travel Agency. We provide guided tours to Mount Emei, Leshan Giant Buddha, and surrounding attractions, ensuring you experience authentic Sichuan cuisine, local snacks, and the best scenic routes—all without worrying about planning transportation or finding hidden gems. Perfect for weekend travelers, food enthusiasts, and families seeking an unforgettable Sichuan adventure.
