9 Must-Try Traditional Bites at Liberation Monument That Will Keep You Coming Back

Jiefangbei is one of those places you just can’t get enough of. The bustling streets, bright shopping areas, and amazing food hiding in every corner make it a must-visit. As a seasoned food lover who's made multiple trips to Jiefangbei, I've put together a list of 9 traditional eateries you absolutely have to try. Most of these spots have been around for years and their reputation has only grown with time. Once you try these dishes, you'll definitely be craving more!

In short, this guide is your ultimate playbook for food, drinks, and fun at Jiefangbei—make sure to save it!

Shancheng Restaurant: Classic Glutinous Rice Duck and Hechuan Beef Slices

First up is Shancheng Restaurant, a gem that’s been around for over fifty years. I always make a special trip here just for their signature glutinous rice duck. The skin is crispy while the meat is tender and flavorful—you just can’t stop eating it. Also, you’ve got to try the Hechuan beef slices, which are juicy and not greasy at all. When you walk in, you’ll often see locals gathered around chatting, truly capturing the essence of old Chongqing.

Sanyazi: A Dessert Spot You Can't Miss

After your main course, you definitely need some dessert, and Sanyazi will satisfy your sweet tooth. Their desserts are not overly sweet, making it a hit even for those who aren’t big fans of sweets. I highly recommend the peach gum rice wine taro balls—the smooth, cold texture is just heavenly; the family-style mochi is chewy and layered, making every bite feel blissful. Plus, if you love douhua like I do, definitely grab a bowl of iced douhua to round things off!

Lianjie Hotpot: Delicious Hotpot in an Apartment Building

When you think of Chongqing, hotpot immediately comes to mind, but have you ever tried the broth from an apartment building? Lianjie Hotpot is hidden in an old residential building in Jiefangbei. The vibe is simple, but the spicy broth is totally irresistible. The beef is freshly sliced, with just the right mix of fat and lean meat, and it’s super tender when dipped in sesame oil. Don’t miss their thoughtful snack—beef fried rice! Just 10.6 yuan, the rice is fluffy and the beef is fragrant, making it perfect for a post-hotpot meal to cool the spice.

Shancheng Lamb Restaurant: An 80-Year Tradition

Next up is the impressive Shancheng Lamb Restaurant, which has been delighting customers for over 80 years. They don't have too many frills, yet a bowl of their lamb rice noodles is enough to make the trip worth it. The lamb broth is refreshingly clean without that strong gamey taste, making it enjoyable and satisfying; plus, the lamb itself is super tender, with a high-quality feel. If you’re in the mood for something spicy, try their steamed lamb dumplings—you won’t be able to resist them.

Ding Yanjing Hotpot: Fresh Handcrafted Ingredients

If you’re a fan of handmade ingredients, then Ding Yanjing Hotpot is perfect for you. Almost everything on their menu is top-notch fresh! For instance, their freshly fried crispy meat is golden outside and tender inside, without being greasy. Then there are the handmade tender meat slices, which melt in your mouth. And if you’re feeling a bit hot from the meal, a bowl of cold shrimp is a great way to refresh!

Zao BBQ: Spicy Skewers You Must Try

BBQ lovers, take note! The essence of Zao BBQ lies in their spicy oil sauce, which elevates the flavor of both skewer meats and various veggies. Just a hint of cumin on top makes the aroma so enticing you can smell it from across the street! Don’t miss their lamb and beef skewers, both freshly grilled and totally satisfying. If you want something unique, I recommend their sweet potato skin—the chewy texture is truly unforgettable.

Lao Qiuchiu: Traditional Jianghu Cuisine

Lao Qiuchiu is the place to go if you want a completa meal for around thirty bucks. You won’t find anything bad on the menu; my personal favorite is their shredded chicken cold noodles, which combine a spicy kick with sesame sauce and shredded chicken for a refreshing bite. Another must-try is the garlic pork slices, which are sliced thinly, super easy to eat, and packed with garlic goodness—it’s simply satisfying.

Huashi Wanzha: A Delight of Soft Peas and Meat

If you’re looking for a small noodle shop with a unique Chongqing flavor, Huashi Wanzha is the place. Their pea noodles shine because the peas are cooked to a perfect softness, yet maintain a sticky texture similar to rice, making it a dream come true for pea lovers! And the generous serving of meat sauce on top is just awesome.

Fengsheng Handcrafted Spicy Beans: Authentic Handmade with Eight Flavors

Last but not least, I’ve got to recommend a really unique snack—Fengsheng Handcrafted Spicy Beans. If you’re looking to take home a little gift, you must grab some of these. They make them fresh every day, and each bean is full and crunchy, with an amazing variety of flavors! Spicy, beef, onion, seaweed, curry, tomato, coconut, durian—that’s eight flavors to choose from, so you’re sure to find your favorite.

Jiefangbei Must-Try Flash Card

These are the spots I hit each time I go to Jiefangbei, and I hope after you try them, you’ll remember them just like I do! The food at Jiefangbei is truly unforgettable—come experience it for yourself!