Luzhou Specialty Snacks

Luzhou Specialty Snacks

　　In its prosperous era, Luzhou’s upper-class families all employed professional chefs, preparing novel 24-course or 36-course meals daily. The town’s common folk, drawn by the trading port from various provinces, introduced numerous regional snacks. Amidst this cultural melting pot, a stunning array of culinary arts emerged, evolving into today’s diverse and abundant Luzhou street food. Luzhou’s snacks can be divided into two main categories: seafood delicacies and traditional local fare. Though Luzhou has declined due to siltation, its muddy beaches have become a haven for fish, shrimp, and shellfish, establishing it as a seafood production hub. Among its specialties are oysters, crabs, clams, mantis shrimp, and cuttlefish roe. When in Luzhou, try the oyster omelet and oyster soup—known for their exceptional richness and generous portions, unmatched elsewhere. Mantis shrimp, resembling both a mole cricket and a shrimp, is a local seafood specialty. Traditionally, it was salt-cured—a perfect accompaniment to rice—but nowadays it’s more commonly deep-fried, resulting in a crispy, savory texture that’s addictive. Salted clams are another delectable treat, cured and chilled to bring out a naturally sweet flavor. During the winter fishing season, cuttlefish roe becomes a seasonal delicacy, often seen hanging outside shops to dry for purchase. Many of Luzhou’s street snacks are concentrated around the First Market and the area near Tianhou Temple. The First Market is located on Minzu Road, beside Jingsheng Lane (also known as the Zigzag Lane). It offers a wide range of snacks, with popular ones including Stir-Fried Five Flavors, Tsai Family Crystal Dumplings, Wen Can Noodles, Yangzhou Meatballs, Wang Wang’s Rice Noodle Soup, and Auntie Tao’s Pickles. The surrounding area is bustling with food stalls, often operating from morning until 8 or 9 pm. Near Tianhou Temple, numerous oyster omelet shops gather, with Huīhóng Oyster Omelet—over 30 years in business—being the most renowned. Luzhou also boasts many unique desserts, such as Zhenwei Zhen’s fresh meat buns, Yujin Chun’s vegetarian buns and taro steamed buns. These are known for their hearty fillings and irresistible aroma when freshly baked. As the local saying goes, “Only after three generations of wealth can one truly appreciate fine cuisine”—a testament to the refined reputation of Luzhou’s traditional pastries. Though the historic teahouses and wine shops have faded with time, their delicate and aromatic tea pastries have become a signature Luzhou specialty. Luzhou’s pastry-making tradition stems from master bakers from mainland China (Tangshan), with many still using traditional methods. Popular items include Ox Tongue Pastry, Lard Crackers, and Phoenix Eye Cake. Luzhou’s Ox Tongue Pastry differs from its counterpart in Yilan—here, it features a flaky crust and soft filling, unmatched in taste. Visitors can find authentic versions at Changxing Food Store and Tianhou Hang on Zhongshan Road. Near Tianhou Temple, several shops roast Ox Tongue Pastry right on the street, filling the air with mouthwatering aromas. Lard Crackers come in three varieties: “Rice Crackers,” “Sesame Crackers,” and “Peanut Crackers.” They have a sweet outer layer and a crisp interior, once beloved by all ages as a tea-time snack. Phoenix Eye Cake melts in your mouth, earning its name for its resemblance to a phoenix eye. The most famous pastry shop in Luzhou is the century-old Yuzhenzhai on Minzu Road. Others, like Zhengxingzhen and Zhengyuzhen, also enjoy strong reputations among locals. (Changhua County)