Think Chongqing is only about numbing spice and red chili oil? Think again. While the city is famous for its fiery hot pot, locals have a deep-rooted love for “Clear Broth” ($Qīngtāng$) heritage—savory, umami-rich dishes focusing on slow-simmered freshness rather than heat.
This guide is for the traveler seeking a break from the chili. It is perfect for families with kids, travelers with sensitive stomachs, or foodies simply craving the “authentic freshness” ($Xuān$) of local ingredients. Finding these spots can be tricky in a city of 30,000 spicy hot pot shops, but they are essential for a balanced food tour. To balance spicy meals with easier options, this 3-day Chongqing itinerary can help you pace the trip.
I’ve curated 10 legendary non-spicy restaurants—ranging from 44-year-old medicinal chicken institutions to hidden “private kitchens” in office buildings. These are the exact spots I take my family to when we need a savory retreat. Located near major landmarks like Jiefangbei, Liziba Monorail, and the Yangtze River Cableway, these gems prove that Chongqing’s food scene is as diverse as its mountain landscape.
To see how these eateries fit into your sightseeing schedule, be sure to check my full guide on the best things to do in Chongqing, or see how to spend your evenings with these must-do activities for Chongqing nightlife.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one of these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. You can learn more about this in my disclosure policy.
Eager to experience authentic Chongqing cuisine?
Check out the top food tours below, immersing yourself in traditional Chinese flavors and the cultural tapestry of Chongqing.
🇨🇳 Top Chongqing Food Tour:
1. Chongqing Li Yan Ba Guo: An immersive Bayu-inspired dining show blending Chinese banquet rituals, dynastic music and dance, theatrical visuals, and wellness-focused culinary culture.
2. 3 HR Chongqing Food Tour: Explore Chongqing’s alleys with local guides, savor spicy street food, adventurous snacks, and unlimited drinks on this immersive walking tour.
3. Hidden Hotpot & Breakfast: Discover Chongqing’s hidden hot pot, street breakfasts, rich history, and vibrant culture on a guided mountain city food tour.
🏨Top Hotels in Chongqing:
Niccolo Chongqing (⭐️ 4.8 luxury)
Regent Chongqing (⭐️ 4.8 luxury)
InterContinental Chongqing Raffles City (⭐️ 4.8 luxury)
Qianhe Zhixuan Gaokong Hotel (⭐️ 4.8 budget-friendly)
🌐Stay connected with a Mainland China 5G eSIM and protect your trip with Vacation Package Travel Plan for worry-free travel in China.
Ready to book your trip to Chongqing? Check out:
⭐ Chongqing 2026: Your Ultimate Guide to the Top 21 Activities
🏨 Where to Stay in Chongqing: Best Hotels and Resorts
🔮 Best Time to Visit Chongqing: Seasons, Weather & Highlights
🌉 12 Must-Do Activities in Chongqing for Unforgettable Nightlife
At a Glance: Non-Spicy Chongqing Top Picks
| Restaurant Name | Signature Dish | Spice Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mingshi Laoshan Youyu Ji | Squid & Chicken Soup | 0/10 | Families & Kids |
| Hengming Fresh Tripe & Chicken Soup Silver Noodles | Fresh Tripe & Chicken Soup Silver Noodles | 0/10 | Anyone & Solo Diners |
| Liziba Liangshan Chicken | Medicinal Chicken | 4/10 | Health-Conscious Foodies |
| Mountain City Mutton Restaurant | Lamb Soup & Steamed Lamb | 0/10 | Heritage & Tradition |
| Laolaifu | Sour Rabbit Pot | 3/10 | Unique Tangy Flavor |
| Wuming Douhua | Tofu Pudding & Braised Pork | 4/10 | Budget-Friendly/Local Life |
| Wuming Braised | Ribs with Long Beans | 4/10 | Authentic Home Cooking |
| San Yang Zi | Taro Mochi | 0/10 | Dessert Lovers |
| Yundou Cake | Rice Molds | 0/10 | Traditional Street Snack |
| Changle Yongkang | Gaiwan Flower Tea | 0/10 | Cultural Immersion |
Hungry for more? This is just one of many local favorites. I’ve shared more insider tips on where to eat in Chongqing, including hidden alleys and upscale dining.
10 Best Non-Spicy Restaurants in Chongqing
1. Mingshi Laoshan Youyu Ji– 明氏老山鱿鱼鸡
Ming’s Squid & Chicken has been serving locals since 2006 and is located on Nanping East Road. In a city famous for spicy hot pot, this nearly 20-year-old restaurant stands out by focusing on freshness rather than chili heat, and it consistently appears on local “must-eat” lists.
Signature Dish: Squid & Chicken Soup Hot Pot
The signature soup is made with free-range chicken from Guizhou, slow-simmered for about three hours before dried squid is added. The result is a golden, clear broth that becomes more fragrant as it cooks. The chicken is tender and absorbs the richness of the soup, making it especially comforting in cooler months.
Is It Really Non-Spicy?
Yes. The soup base itself contains no chili at all. A bowl of dry chili powder is served on the side, but it’s completely optional. Many locals skip it, or mix in a little chicken broth to keep the flavor mild and aromatic.
Good to Know
- Other popular additions include pork stomach, bamboo fungus, and wontons
- The Nanping East Road location is the original and tastes noticeably better than the branches
- Well-suited for non-spicy eaters, families, and first-time visitors to Chongqing
Note: If you are curious about the overall culinary landscape beyond these soup pots, I’ve put together a survival guide on what to eat in Chongqing for every type of foodie.
Opening hours: 11:00–15:30, 17:00–23:00
Average cost per person: CNY 63
Address: Behind Haitang Xiaoyue Bus Stop, Nanping East Road, Nan’an District
2. Hengming Fresh Tripe & Chicken Soup Silver Noodles – 恒明鲜肚子鸡汤银丝面
Located near Luzu Temple Flower Market, Hengming is a long-standing local noodle shop specializing in silver noodles rather than Chongqing’s famous xiaomian. Many locals have been enjoying it since childhood.
Signature Dish: Fresh Tripe & Chicken Soup Silver Noodles
Tender tripe and thin dried noodles fully absorb the slow-simmered chicken broth, delivering a double hit of umami—rich, comforting, and never greasy. The clear broth floats a thin layer of chicken oil, with natural flavor extracted from free-range countryside chickens.
Is It Spicy?
No. The soup is completely non-spicy, perfect for those avoiding chili.
Good to Know
The broth contains no additives or MSG. Other popular options include tomato meatball noodles, mildly spicy eel noodles, and braised beef noodles, all sharing the same flavorful chicken base.
Love noodles? While these silver noodles are non-spicy, you shouldn’t leave the city without trying the legendary spicy “Xiao Mian.” Here is where to find the best Chongqing noodles restaurants.
Opening hours: 07:30–03:00 the following day
Average cost per person: CNY 25
Address: No. 71 Minsheng Road, Yuzhong District
3. Liziba Liangshan Chicken – 李子坝梁山鸡
Liangshan Chicken is a restaurant with a history of over 40 years, next to Liziba Monorail Station, a must-visit spot in Chongqing. Known for its medicinal-style red broth chicken, it has a mild spice level (4/10), making it friendlier for those who prefer less heat.
Signature Dish: Medicinal Red Broth Chicken
Made with free-range mountain chicken, the meat is tender, juicy, and easily separates from the bone. The red broth is infused with herbs like goji berries and angelica, creating a warming, aromatic flavor without overwhelming spice. Taro is a recommended addition, soaking up the broth and turning soft and creamy—perfect with rice.
Is It Very Spicy?
No. The heat is mild and balanced, with a slightly numbing, sweet finish.
Good to Know
- Popular sides: cold pig trotters, brown sugar ice tangyuan
- Free broth refills and extra taro available
- Soup base can be packed to go
Tip: If this mild spice gives you the confidence to try the “real deal,” you’ll want to visit the best Chongqing hot pot restaurants for an authentic chili-filled experience.
Opening hours: 10:00–22:00
Average cost per person: CNY 86
Address: No. 113, Liziba Main Street, Units 1–4, Yuzhong District
4. Mountain City Mutton Restaurant – 山城羊肉馆
Mountain City Mutton Restaurant is a local favorite, loved by Chongqing residents for generations. The restaurant has two floors: small eats on the first, full dishes on the second, and is known for clean, simple flavors.
Signature Dishes: Lamb Soup & Steamed Lamb
The lamb soup is rich and creamy, made from high-quality lamb with no gamey taste. The meat is tender yet firm, and the broth has a mild, pure flavor. Steamed lamb rice is a standout—soft, fragrant, and fully seasoned by the natural lamb essence. The braised lamb ribs are tender and flavorful, with a subtle sweetness and just a touch of spice.
Is It Very Spicy?
No. Spice level 0/10. The dishes highlight the natural lamb flavor, with minimal seasoning or chili, making it ideal for non-spicy eaters and first-time visitors.
Good to Know
- Signature soup is perfect with plain rice or noodles
- Steamed lamb and lamb ribs are crowd favorites
- No strong spices or chili, pure and clean taste
Opening hours: 07:00–21:00
Average cost per person: CNY 66
Address: 2F, Sunshine Constellation, No. 9 Minsheng Road, Yuzhong District
5. Laolaifu – Sour Rabbit Hot Pot – 老来福·酸汤兔
Laolaifu Hot Pot near Jiefangbei has been serving locals for nearly 20 years. This “intangible cultural heritage” dish features a clear rabbit soup that appeals to diners of all ages, with steam rising invitingly from the pot.
Signature Dish: Sour Rabbit Soup
The soup is mildly tangy with a rich, slightly thickened broth. Rabbit meat is tender and full of flavor, while taro and handmade dumplings soak up the essence of the soup. Portions are generous—two people may struggle to finish a pot. A double-pepper dipping sauce is offered on the side to balance the richness and refresh the palate.
Is It Very Spicy?
No. The soup focuses on the natural flavor of rabbit and gentle sourness, perfect for non-spicy eaters.
Good to Know
- Other popular dishes include crispy glutinous rice duck, rich but not greasy
- Generous portions, ideal for sharing
- A rare non-spicy hot pot option in Chongqing
Opening hours: 11:30–21:00
Average cost per person: CNY 85
Address: No. 98-16 Kaixuan Road, Yuzhong District
6. Wuming Braised Dishes – 无名烧菜
Wuming Braised Dishes, literally named “Wuming” (Nameless), is a 24-year-old family-style restaurant beloved by locals. True to its name, it’s a simple eatery focused on home-style braised dishes, with a large, clean dining area under a blue canopy.
Signature Dishes: Dry Long Beans with Ribs & Green Pepper with Century Egg
- Dry Long Beans with Ribs: Long beans are slow-cooked until tender but not mushy, absorbing the rich flavors of the broth. Ribs are meaty and juicy, with a perfect balance of lean, fat, and crisp bones.
- Green Pepper with Century Egg: Even for non-century-egg fans, this dish is a must-try. Egg whites are bouncy and yolks creamy, paired with stir-fried green peppers and chili, arranged like a “sunflower.”
Is It Spicy?
Mild to moderate. Chili is mostly on the side, letting diners control the heat. Most dishes are non-spicy, focusing on savory, natural flavors.
Good to Know
- Simple, no-frills setting, perfect for casual dining
- Other offerings include stir-fried and cold dishes; some cold dishes are self-serve
- Generous portions and excellent value for money
Opening hours: 10:30–14:00, 17:00–21:00
Average cost per person: CNY 35
Address: No. 2 Xincun, Zhongshan 3rd Road, Yuzhong District
7. Wuming Douhua – 无名豆花
Wuming Douhua is a tiny, unassuming eatery tucked inside the Luzumiao Market. Bustling with locals, it offers an authentic, affordable Chongqing dining experience, with most dishes priced between ¥10–30. The half-underground setting is simple but charmingly local.
If you want to explore local breakfasts without diving straight into maximum spice, this Chongqing breakfast guide may help.
Signature Dishes: Douhua Rice & Braised Pork Belly (Shaobai)
- Douhua Rice: Soft, silky tofu sits delicately over rice, served with a side of green or red chili sauce. The tofu is tender yet holds its shape, melting smoothly in your mouth with a subtle sweetness.
- Braised Pork Belly (Shaobai): Five-layer pork belly, perfectly balanced between lean and fat, braised with preserved vegetables. The meat is juicy, flavorful, and not greasy, making it the perfect accompaniment to rice.
Is It Spicy?
Mild. The chili is optional, letting diners enjoy the pure flavors of tofu and pork without overpowering heat. If you’re looking for halal-friendly food, this halal restaurants in Chongqing guide is a useful companion.
Good to Know
- Extremely affordable, perfect for casual meals
- Signature dishes highlight traditional, non-spicy Chongqing flavors
- Popular with locals, so expect a lively, busy atmosphere
Opening hours: 10:00–21:00
Average cost per person: CNY 29
Address: No. 11 Datong Alley, Datong Road, Jiefangbei, Yuzhong District
8. San Yang Zi – 三样子
San Yang Zi is a charming, high-traffic dessert shop with a traditional wooden interior and elegant decor. Despite its small size, it draws a steady crowd, as all desserts are made fresh on site, with no pre-made ingredients.
Signature Desserts: Taro Mochi & Sweet Tofu
- Taro Mochi with Fresh Milk: Creamy taro paste topped with chewy mochi, served with fresh milk. The combination of smooth taro, milk aroma, and soft mochi creates a delightfully balanced dessert.
- Other Favorites: Taro bubble fresh milk mochi, snow bean curd, and peach gum with fermented rice milk—all handmade, soft, and naturally sweet.
Is It Sweet?
Yes, but not overly so. All desserts are naturally flavored, relying on rice, beans, and milk without additives.
Good to Know
- Popular with locals and tourists alike
- Best enjoyed fresh in-store, though takeout is available
- Ideal for those who want traditional, non-spicy Chongqing desserts
If you’re building a lighter food itinerary overall, this guide to the best coffee shops in Chongqing is another useful option between meals.
Opening hours: 09:30–24:00
Average cost per person: CNY 22
Address: L1-6, Luohan Temple St, Jiefangbei, Yuzhong District
9. Yundou Cake Old Shaobing – 熨斗糕老烧饼
Yundou Cake is a classic Chongqing snack, loved by locals for generations. The shop is tucked on a sloped lane near Heping Road, easy to miss but well-known for its freshly made treats.
Signature Items: Triangular & Round Cakes
- Triangular Cakes: Original flavor, light and soft, with a subtle rice aroma.
- Round Cakes: Filled with various fillings like red bean, yellow bean, blueberry, osmanthus, and strawberry. Red bean is especially recommended for its smooth, naturally sweet texture.
How It’s Made
Batter is freshly prepared from rice and poured into molds on a hot griddle. Cakes are cooked until the exterior is slightly crisp while the inside stays soft and airy, with a light chewiness and subtle hint of rice wine.
Good to Know
- Prices are very affordable, around ¥5 each
- Perfect for a quick snack or street food experience
- A 25-year-old local favorite, authentic and freshly baked, ideal for those exploring Chongqing’s traditional flavors
Street Food Lovers: Snacks like these are the heart of the city. To find more grab-and-go treats, check my guide on where to eat Chongqing street food.
Opening hours: 07:00–18:00
Average cost per person: CNY 5
Address: Beside the stairway next to No. 133 Heping Road, Yuzhong District
10. Changle Yongkang Teahouse – 长乐永康茶馆
Though not a restaurant, Changle Yongkang Teahouse (also called “Yongkang”) is a must-visit cultural spot in Chongqing. Located in a quiet alley along the mountain city walkways, the building is a protected historic site, preserving its original architecture, wooden furniture, and old-world charm.
Atmosphere & Experience
The two-story teahouse features a central stage where weekend performances, such as crosstalk-style shows, engage the audience in lively interaction. Antique teapots and simple patterned tea cups line the walls, giving the place a nostalgic feel.
Tea & Tastings
Guests can enjoy flower teas in gaiwans served with snacks like peanuts. The tea is aromatic, light yet slightly sweet in the throat, offering a traditional Chongqing tea experience. Observing locals pour and sip tea using traditional techniques adds to the authenticity.
Good to Know
- Perfect for cultural immersion rather than a meal
- Upstairs seating provides a good view of performances
- A great spot for photography and experiencing classic Chongqing tea culture
Beyond the Teahouse: While this is a cultural must-visit, I have also curated a list of other unique restaurants in Chongqing that offer incredible views and dining environments you won’t find anywhere else.
Opening hours: 09:00–20:00
Average cost per person: CNY 22
Address: At the Chaomen entrance of Yongkang Stone, Shancheng Alley, Yuzhong District
Final Thoughts: Chongqing is More Than Just Chili
Chongqing’s culinary landscape is as layered and complex as its multi-level “3D” streets. While the red chili oil gets all the fame, the “Clear Water” ($Qīngshuǐ$) tradition is the true soul of local home cooking. Exploring these non-spicy gems gives you a much deeper understanding of the city’s obsession with freshness and slow-simmered nutrition.
If you are planning a 3-day or 5-day trip, I highly recommend balancing your itinerary. To make the most of your trip timing, check the best time to visit Chongqing to ensure the weather is perfect for exploring. Pair a night of fiery hot pot with a morning of Shancheng Lamb Soup or a comforting bowl of Squid Chicken. Your stomach will thank you, and you will get to see a side of the “Mountain City” that most tourists miss.
Chongqing is a city built on contrasts—where ancient teahouses sit under neon skyscrapers and where the most delicate herbal soups coexist with the world’s spiciest peppers. Don’t be afraid to step off the beaten path (or up a few hundred stone steps) to find these flavors.
Check out my additional Chinese cuisine guides here! ⬇️
Top 40 Restaurants to Visit for Authentic Local Flavors in Shanghai
Discover Shanghai’s Finest: The 42 Best Foods You Must Try
Shenzhen Restaurants: 13 Must-Try Spots for Local Food Lovers
Where to Eat: 30 Best Guangzhou Restaurants
Must-Try Foods in Guangzhou: 27 Delicious Dishes
Where to Eat: 91 Best Restaurants in Beijing
What to Eat: 62 Best Beijing Chinese Foods You Must Try
25 Essential Dishes to Try in Chongqing: A Food Lover’s Guide
Where to Eat: 24 Top Restaurants in Chengdu
27 Must-Try Dishes in Chengdu for an Authentic Taste of Sichuan
Where to Eat in Xi’an: Top 23 Must-Visit Spots
Where to Eat in Nanjing: Top 15 Must-Visit Spots
China Travel Planning Guide&FAQ
🎫Do I need a visa for China?
Yes. Most visitors to China will need a visa to enter the country. The type of visa you need will depend on the purpose and duration of your trip, as well as your nationality. If you are a resident of the US, you must apply for a Chinese visa at the Consular Office in the country. On the other hand, inhabitants of countries like Japan, Canada, and the UK can request a visa through the Chinese Visa Application Service Center.
🤔Why is it necessary to install a VPN in China?
In China, the government has strict regulations on internet access, leading to the blocking of popular websites and social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Google, and YouTube. To access these sites, a VPN is suggested as a means of bypassing the restrictions. It is important to choose a reputable VPN provider and use caution while doing so. ExpressVPN has been historically deemed the most reliable VPN for this purpose, despite being heavily targeted by China’s censors. Nevertheless, it is still a widely preferred option owing to its ease of installation and user-friendliness.
📲Is it necessary to have a Chinese SIM card while in China?
Yes. It is crucial to acknowledge that accessing the internet in China may pose limitations due to certain websites being prohibited or filtered. To ensure uninterrupted connectivity while staying in China, purchasing a local SIM card is advisable. For optimum results, acquiring SIM cards from either China Unicom or China Mobile is recommended. While China Mobile has the most comprehensive coverage in China and is a market leader, China Unicom is more compatible with foreign phones, enabling 3G and 4G services. Or you can purchase a SIM card online.
🔮Should I buy China travel insurance?
Yes. Although China is generally a safe country for travel, it is still possible to encounter accidents or other unexpected occurrences. Therefore, obtaining travel insurance can provide a sense of security and financial protection. In my research, I have found that World Nomads is a reputable travel insurance provider that covers a wide range of activities and is recommended for the average traveler. Nevertheless, I advise you to compare insurance quotes from various providers before making a decision.
🚙Can you rent a car in China?
Unfeasible. Obtaining a Chinese driver’s license to rent a car and self-drive may seem like an option, but it is not a practical choice for most foreigners. Therefore, many prefer to opt for a driver or public transportation when navigating China, as it proves to be more convenient.
✈️What’s the best site to purchase flight tickets for China?
I suggest using Trip for affordable flights to China. As a China-based company, they often offer lower prices compared to foreign companies. Additionally, they offer English-speaking phone support in case of any issues.
🏡What is the best way to book hotels in China?
🎒What do I pack for China?
Travel adapter and converter: China uses a different electrical system than many other countries, so it’s important to bring a travel adapter and converter if you plan to use electronic devices such as phones, cameras, and laptops.
Sunscreen: The UV index in China can be high, particularly during the summer months, and prolonged exposure to the sun without protection can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer.
Deodorant: It should be noted that finding deodorant in China may not be a simple task.
📚Can a guidebook for traveling to China be useful?
Yes. If you’re planning to travel to China for the first time, a travel guidebook can be a valuable resource, and Lonely Planet is one of the most reputable guides available globally. Its comprehensive itineraries and recommendations take into account your personal preferences and can save you both time and money. The insider tips are also extremely helpful in navigating China’s unique cultural landscape like a local.
Esther Zheng is a local Chinese travel blogger and the founder of Let’s Travel to China. She began exploring China during her university years and has spent over eight years traveling across nearly every province, discovering both famous landmarks and hidden gems. After sharing her authentic experiences online and helping friends plan trips, she turned her passion into a full-time travel resource. Today, Esther provides insider tips, itineraries, and local insights to help travelers experience China like a local. She’s on a mission to make planning unforgettable journeys across China easy, authentic, and inspiring.
