Guilin Rice Noodles: Must-Try Food in Guilin

Guilin Rice Noodles, also named Guilin Noodles or Guilin Mifen, are the most iconic local cuisine in Guilin, Guangxi. When traveling to Guilin, it's simply the best way to start your trip with a bowl of authentic Guilin noodles, helping you step into the rhythm of local life. Read on to discover the best of Guilin Rice Noodles and the top spots to enjoy them.

A bowl of Guilin Rice Noodles

What's Guilin Rice Noodles

Key ingredients: rice noodles, gravy, toppings

Guilin Rice Noodles are typically a breakfast dish, though many shops serve them all day. The noodles are made from local rice and water from Li River, giving them smooth texture. The dish is typically served with special gravy and various toppings, which makes it aromatic and rich in flavor. A bowl of Guilin Noodles only costs 5-8 RMB (less than 1.5 USD).

How to Eat Guilin Noodles?

Self-service ingredients

Guilin Noodles are typically served in two styles: dry-mixed noodles or broth noodles. We suggest you try dry-mixed noodles for the most authentic taste. If you prefer a lighter flavor, it's also great to try the broth noodles.

• Dry-mixed noodles: The noodles are topped with special gravy, oil, sliced meat and fried peanuts. Then you can add some pickled vegetables like bamboo shoots or beans to the noodles based on your own taste. Now just mix them over and you can enjoy the dish. The noodles are savory with special sauce. If you like spicy one, add some chilli oil. After finishing the dish, you can drink a bowl of pork bone soup offered by the shop to balance the flavors.
• Broth Noodles: The broth noodles are served in a light, savory soup rather than mixed dry. You can add the soup and condiments at the self-service bar to adjust the flavor. The toppings of Guilin Noodles are commonly crispy skin pork or sliced beef. You can ask the vendor to skip it if you don't eat pork. Tasting a bowl of hot broth noodles, you'll feel warm and refreshed.

Where to Try?

You'll find noodle shops all over Guilin, from downtown to Yangshuo, Longsheng and other places. Here are some great local eateries to get you started:

Guilin Rice Noodles with rich toppings

Renli Rice Noodles: In this eatery, a small portion of rice noodles only costs you 5 RMB (0.7 USD). Compared to other local shops, it's popular with rich toppings. More importantly, this shop is open 24 hours a day. Whether early in the morning or late at night, you can go to the shop and enjoy the dish.
Chongshan Rice Noodles: Founded in 1985, the name "chongshan" in Chinese reflects the owner's wish of upholding virtues and doing good deeds. It has many branches across different streets in Guilin. One of its main shops is close to Zhengyang Pedestrian Street with convenient transportation. You can easily enjoy dining and even shopping without spending much time on traffic.
Laodongjiang Rice Noodles: With a history of 33 years, this shop has many branches. If you want the most authentic experience, head to the flagship store located on Shijiayuan Road. It's famous for crispy pork skin and rich gravy. You can ask for one more portion of the meat by paying an extra 5 RMB (0.7 USD).

FAQs About Guilin Rice Noodles

1. Are Guilin Noodles spicy?

The noodles are not naturally spicy. The basic bowl is mild, with a savory gravy and smooth rice noodles. Chili oil is usually available at the self-service counter, so you can adjust the spice level to your taste.

2. Are Guilin Noodles gluten-free?

Guilin Noodles are made from rice flour and water, so they are typically gluten-free. The toppings and broth are also made without wheat products, making the dish safe for people avoiding gluten.

3. Can vegetarians try Guilin Noodles?

If you're a vegetarian, just ask the vendor to skip the meat, so you can enjoy the dish. Leaving out the meat won't change the delicious flavor or satisfying texture of the dish.

Savor the Local Flavors in Guilin

While Guilin Rice Noodles are a must-try, there are plenty of other Guilin foods worth discovering. Our travel consultants are glad to help you plan a customized itinerary based on your interests. Simply contact us here or write to trip@odynovotours.com, and we will reply in 24 hours.