I’ve written quite a few posts about Chongqing’s restaurants and local specialties — from the city’s legendary hot pot to spicy Chongqing noodles and classic Sichuan cuisine. But after exploring so many fiery dishes, I realized something: even the most adventurous travelers sometimes crave something different — maybe a comforting meal from home, a cozy vegetarian spot, or a place where the vibe matters just as much as the food.
Personally, whenever I travel abroad, I do the same thing — I’ll dive into local food on the first day, but by the second or third, I’m on Google Maps searching for a good Chinese restaurant, haha! So, in this post, I’m not going to talk about Chongqing’s famously spicy and heavy-flavored dishes. Instead, I’ve handpicked 19 unique restaurants that offer a refreshing mix of dining experiences. To fit these restaurants into a broader first-time route, use this 3-day Chongqing itinerary.
This list includes peaceful vegetarian restaurants like those near ancient temples, stylish rooftop spots with stunning city views, Western-style restaurants offering German, Italian, and other international cuisines, as well as chic bars perfect for a night out or a casual cocktail. I’ve also included quiet coffee shops where you can relax, read, or even get some work done while soaking up the local atmosphere.
This list will keep growing as I explore more, so if you have specific requests or types of places you’d like me to include, feel free to let me know — I’d love to help!
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.
🌟Chongqing Travel Planning Guide
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:
🌶️ Top 23 Local Chongqing Hot Pot Restaurants for 2026
👑 25 Essential Dishes to Try in Chongqing: A Food Lover’s Guide
🌟 Top 35 Local Chongqing Noodles Restaurants for 2026
🍲24 Best Restaurants in Chongqing: Where to Eat
⭐ 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
🥬Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Chongqing
1. Huayan Temple Vegetarian Restaurant
At Huayan Temple, there’s a spacious vegetarian restaurant with a calm, elegant vibe — great for combining sightseeing with dining. Among Chongqing’s many attractions, this is a relatively off-the-beaten-path spot.
Daily specials make it affordable, and the highlights include three-colored Douhua with matching sauces, the crispy hollow Vajra Shaobing, and flavorful marinated bamboo shoots.
Friendly service makes the experience even better.
Basic Info
🥢 Signature dish: Shaobing (baked flatbread), Douhua (tofu pudding), Chunbing (spring pancake).
⏰ Opening hours: 09:00-19:30
💰 Price range: 70 RMB
🔴Chinese: 华岩寺素食餐厅
📍Address: Huayansi Rd, Jiulongpo District, Chongqing
2. Ciyun Temple Shanzhai Vegetarian Restaurant
On the B1 floor of Ciyun Temple along Nanbin Road, this vegetarian restaurant offers both set meals and à la carte dishes, with a menu that changes often. It’s a great spot if you’re curious about Chongqing food but want a lighter, plant-based option.
Favorites include vegetarian buns and Mapo Tofu. After praying and burning incense upstairs, enjoying a hearty vegetarian meal here feels like the perfect way to round out your visit.
Discover more local bites in my Guide to Chongqing Street Food.
Basic Info
🥢 Signature dish: various vegetarian buns, Mapo Tofu
⏰ Opening hours: 07:00-20:00
💰 Price range: 25 RMB
🔴Chinese: 慈云寺善斋素食
📍Address: Nanbin Rd, Shizi Mount, Nan’an District
3. Suixiangcangfang Vegetarian Restaurant
The environment is elegant and comfortable, but the real surprise is how delicious the vegetarian dishes are — truly impressive from ingredient selection to cooking techniques.
The owner is a Traditional Chinese Medicine professional who focuses on health and wellness, combining the principle of “food and medicine from the same source” with modern nutrition. After dining, you’ll feel the food is nourishing and balanced.
The owner is also very kind, generously sharing health and wellness tips, and even gifting their house-made chili sauce, which is amazingly fragrant and the perfect partner for fried rice.
If you’re also searching for halal-friendly dining, this halal restaurants in Chongqing guide is a helpful addition.
Basic Info
🥢 Signature dish: Satay Sauce Baked King Oyster Mushrooms, Vegetarian Dumplings, Mushroom Hot Pot
⏰ Opening hours: 10:00-14:00,17:00-21:00
💰 Price range: 90 RMB
🔴Chinese: 随香藏坊素食餐厅
📍Address: 12-27 Nanbin W Rd, Nan’an District
Chongqing’s uniqueness also lies in its ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage’ dishes that use zero spice. Discover these legendary non-spicy institutions that have been serving locals for decades.
4. Yi Duo Lang Hua
A humble, no-frills vegetarian restaurant that feels authentic rather than commercialized. Flavors are refined, though portions run a bit small, but the attentive service more than makes up for it.
Basic Info
🥢 Signature dish: Black Truffle Fried Rice, Matsutake Mushroom Soup Pot, Avocado Hand Roll
⏰ Opening hours: 10:00-14:00,17:00-21:30
💰 Price range: 90 RMB
🔴Chinese: 一朵浪花
📍Address: Address, 23 Huayi Rd, Yubei District
If you enjoy food that feels rooted in daily life, this Chongqing breakfast guide adds another side of the city.
🌆Best Rooftop Restaurants in Chongqing
5. Commune
At Changjiahui, this cozy spot pairs warm jazz, craft beer, and river views with standout dishes. Upstairs seating offers drone shows and sweeping views of the two rivers — perfect for special occasions (book early on holidays or weekends!). And if you’re after a more authentic local atmosphere, this list of Chongqing restaurants is worth saving.
With great food, attentive staff, and a relaxed riverside vibe, it’s a spot you’ll want to come back to.
Basic Info
🥢 Signature dish: Chicken Wings, Black Truffle Parma Ham Pizza, Popcorn Chicken
⏰ Opening hours: 11:00-02:00
💰 Price range: 90 RMB
📞 Tel: 19922331211
📍Address: L5, Changjiahui Shopping Park, Nan’an District
6. Wudu Tanju · BBQ View Restaurant
When it comes to barbecue and Chongqing hot pot, I love going with friends! I went here with a good friend before — overall it was quite nice. The restaurant is located on the rooftop 5th floor, where you can enjoy beautiful views of Chongqing’s nightlife scene.
The flavors were decent, and the best part is that the staff grills for you, which is perfect for people like us who don’t know how to BBQ. We chose this place mainly for the night views, which were worth it.
If you want a good seat, you need to arrive early because they don’t accept reservations — it’s first come, first served! During busy hours, we didn’t need to wait in line.
Prices are fair for the quality, and the location is convenient, close to public transportation.
Basic Info
🥢 Recommended BBQ dishes: Pork Belly, Steak, Beef Short Plate
⏰ Opening hours: 10:00-22:00
💰 Price range: 90 RMB
🔴Chinese: 雾都炭局烤肉观景餐厅
📍Address: F5, 1-1 E Ling Main St, Yuzhong District
7. Duole Banana Restaurant · BANANA
I visited two years ago and was immediately impressed by the stunning setting — I even got first pick of the seats with unbeatable views.
Generous portions and reasonable prices meant the meal was satisfying, while the friendly staff offered thoughtful dish introductions and personalized suggestions.
On one side, you see charming old streets; on the other, the wide Jialing River. With a gentle breeze, great drinks, and attentive service, the combination of food and scenery made it truly memorable.
Basic Info
🥢 Signature dish: Eggs Benedict, Soft Scrambled Egg & Ham Croissant with Salad, Sausage & Potato Wedges, Seafood Pasta
⏰ Opening hours: 11:00-17:00.18:30-22:00
💰 Price range: 110 RMB
🔴Chinese: 多樂香蕉餐厅BANANA
📍Address: 8 Longmenhao Old St, Nanbin Rd, Nan’an District
🍽️Best Western Restaurants in Chongqing
8. Come Out Motorcycle Station · Restaurant & Bar
The motorcycle-themed pizza place is super cool! All the pizzas are made to order, with a crispy crust and incredibly long cheese pull. The signature is the Black Truffle Beef Pizza, rich in aroma and extremely satisfying in every bite.
The interior has an industrial style, with motorcycle parts hanging on the walls — perfect for photos. The owner is a motorcycle enthusiast, and you can often see all kinds of flashy bikes parked outside.
With an average spend of 60+ RMB, it’s very affordable and definitely a paradise for pizza lovers!
Basic Info
🥢 Signature dish: Black Truffle Bacon Salami Pizza, Thin-Crust Pizza, Beef Burger.
⏰ Opening hours: 11:30-01:00
💰 Price range: 65 RMB
For a more modern, high-energy side of the city, this guide to Guanyinqiao for first-time visitors is a useful follow-up.
🔴Chinese: Come Out 机车驿站 · 餐吧
📍Address: 368 Beibin First Rd, Golden Resources Shopping Mall, Jiangbei District
9. Sausage Brothers · German Restaurant & Bar
The owner is German. This is their first store in Chongqing, and the sausages here have the best flavor. The restaurant has now expanded into the outer hall, blending with the surroundings, giving it a street-side stall vibe. Pairing it with a mug of dark beer is really enjoyable.
There are other branches, but this location is relatively small.
Basic Info
🥢 Signature dish: Sausage Platter, German Roasted Pork Knuckle
⏰ Opening hours: 11:00-14:00,16:30-22:00
💰 Price range: 70 RMB
🔴Chinese: 香肠兄弟德式餐吧
📍Address: F4, Times Tian Street D Hall, Yuzhong District
10. Carmen
Carmen is a cozy, family-run Spanish spot tucked on a quiet uphill street.
With authentic touches like paella, garlic butter prawns, and foie gras with bread, plus the warm hospitality of the Spanish owner couple, it offers a genuine taste of Spain — though the flavors may feel unusual for local palates and prices are slightly higher.
Still, it’s remarkable that such a unique Spanish restaurant thrives in Chongqing.
Basic Info
🥢 Signature dish: Paella, Garlic Butter Prawns, Foie Gras with Bread
⏰ Opening hours: 11:00-14:00,16:30-21:00
💰 Price range: 150 RMB
📍Address: 190 Shifang Art Center, Jiulongpo District
11. Napoli Pizzeria
Napoli Pizzeria is one of Chongqing’s early renowned pizza spots. The interior captures vintage Italian charm, though the tucked-away location can be tricky to find.
Mostly popular with foreigners, the service is friendly and attentive, making it worth a visit despite slightly higher prices and a bustling, Instagram-ready atmosphere.
Basic Info
🥢 Signature dish: Black Truffle Fries Pizza, Tiramisu, Classic Margherita Pizza
⏰ Opening hours: 11:30-21:30
💰 Price range: 110 RMB
📍Address: 73, Lu Zu Temple, Datong Rd, Yuzhong District
12. Mates
Mates is a go-to spot for healthy, satisfying meals. Packed with fresh ingredients, the dishes are both filling and flavorful without being heavy.
Popular with local office workers, it has multiple branches across Chongqing and rarely disappoints.
Basic Info
🥢 Signature dish: Energy Bowl (light meal), Grilled Australian Beef Sandwich, Smoked Salmon Tagliatelle
⏰ Opening hours: 11:00-20:30
💰 Price range: 70 RMB
📍Address: B1 Guotai Plaza, Yuzhong District
🍻Best Bars in Chongqing
13. Canyon Cocktail
This spot gets packed! My friend—nicknamed the “nightlife prince”—swears it’s the most popular bar in the area, and judging by the crowds, I believe him. Even some underage visitors manage to slip in.
Since we went during a holiday, the line outside was insanely long. Later in the night, after hopping to a few other bars, the wait wasn’t as bad, but inside it was still shoulder-to-shoulder. The crowd leans young, but not the overly immature student vibe you’d find at BSK. On weekends, you’ll also spot quite a few expats.
The music is solid—not too basic or repetitive—and drink prices are pretty standard. Unlike some bars, they don’t rely on cheap group deals to pull people in.
🔴Chinese: 峡谷镇
📍Address: 46 Beichengtian St, Jiangbei District
14. TEETHGOLD
If hip-hop is your scene, this bar delivers. The crowd is young and stylish—lots of good-looking people—and the DJ keeps the energy up with the hottest hip-hop tracks of the moment. The drink menu covers both imported spirits and local beers, so you’ve got options.
What really sets this place apart is its pure hip-hop vibe. If you’re into that kind of atmosphere, it’s a must-visit spot to experience the nightlife.
🔴Chinese: 两颗金牙
📍Address: 40 Beichengtian St, Jiangbei District
15. Orangutan Bunker
Orangutan Bunker is one of the hottest nightlife spots on Jiu Jie. Things don’t really kick off until about 10 p.m., when the place fills up and the atmosphere comes alive. Expect friendly staff who are happy to recommend drinks, smooth cocktails mixed by skilled bartenders, and music that stays trendy and upbeat.
The space is bright, lively, and designed for fun—perfect for a night out with friends. The real highlight? After midnight, the dance floor gets going, and everyone joins in on the vibe. No wonder it’s ranked among the top three bars in Jiu Jie.
🔴Chinese: 猩猩地堡酒吧
📍Address: 48 Beichengtian St, Jiangbei District
16. BB FUNK JAZZ CLUB
This bar is easy to find and instantly charms you with its blues-and-jazz-inspired style. Known for having the city’s most extensive gin selection, it’s a go-to spot for gin lovers.
The bartender—a chic and talented mixologist—keeps the drinks flowing smoothly. The crowd often includes international guests, and on some nights you’ll even catch a live jazz band, adding to the charm.
As a relaxed lounge rather than a high-energy club, it’s perfect for unwinding with great music and a well-crafted cocktail.
📍Address: 32 Ziwei Rd, Yubei District
17. Dunebar
Tucked away in a local neighborhood of Chongqing, this bar is a hidden gem I stumbled upon. It’s easy to find by taxi, and the space immediately stands out with its sleek design — a flowing central counter that connects two bar stations.
Inside, the warm lighting contrasts beautifully with the view outside, creating a balanced, stylish vibe. The bartender is not only skilled but also fun to chat with, and the drink list is clear, varied, and thoughtful.
Don’t miss the milk punch — it’s a standout.
Best of all, the bar is strictly non-smoking, a rare and refreshing detail in the city. For anyone who values well-crafted cocktails in a refined setting, this spot is a must-visit.
📍Address: Rooms 1-8, Tianrenju, Huanglong Rd, Yubei District
☕Best Coffee Shops in Chongqing
18. GUAGUAJUNcoffee
My first coffee stop in Chongqing was GUAGUAJUN Coffee, tucked away in Daijia Lane, Yuzhong District. It took a bit of navigation to find (Chongqing’s winding streets are no joke!), but it was worth the hunt.
The café is best known for its creative specialty drinks, but what really stood out was the unbeatable river view and the distinctive mountain-city atmosphere.
Prices are surprisingly fair for such a prime location, making it an excellent value. For travelers craving not just good coffee but also a place that captures the essence of Chongqing, this spot is a must.
If you want to explore Chongqing’s coffee scene, take a look at these top coffee shops.
📍Address: 25 Daijia Lane, Jiefangbei St, Yuzhong District
19. Coffee Holic
Tucked away in a little alley near Nanping Starlight, this café-and-studio is a hidden gem for studying or remote work.
The interiors are thoughtfully designed with cozy details, creating a peaceful retreat right in the middle of the city’s hustle. The coffee is solid, and the atmosphere makes it well worth seeking out.
📍Address: 6-7 Nancheng Blvd, Nan’an District
🌸 Final Thoughts: Unique Restaurants in Chongqing
Exploring Chongqing doesn’t have to be all about fiery hot pot and super spicy noodles. This curated list of 19 unique spots highlights a different side of the city — from tranquil vegetarian restaurants and cozy coffee shops to rooftop restaurants with amazing views and stylish bars. You can find quiet corners to work, relaxing places to unwind, or lively spots to enjoy a drink or a meal. Keep this guide handy as you explore, and let yourself discover the unexpected flavors and atmospheres Chongqing has to offer — its culinary scene is full of surprises waiting for every kind of adventurer.
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.
