When winter’s chill sweeps through Tianjin, the city transforms into a cozy haven of steaming street food, aromatic teas, and hearty dishes that warm both body and soul. From sizzling lamb hotpot to sweet, sticky tanghulu, Tianjin’s winter culinary scene is a feast for the senses. Whether you’re strolling along the frozen Hai River or exploring the historic Five Great Avenues, these eats and drinks will keep you toasty—and utterly satisfied.
No visit to Tianjin is complete without biting into a freshly made jianbing guozi. This beloved breakfast crepe—crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside—is stuffed with egg, scallions, cilantro, and a crunchy guozi (fried dough cracker). Winter vendors often add a dash of chili sauce for extra heat, making it the perfect handheld warmer on frosty mornings. Pro tip: Head to Nanshi Food Street for some of the city’s best versions.
When temperatures drop, locals flock to huoguo (hotpot) joints for a communal feast. Tianjin’s lamb hotpot stands out with its rich, herbal broth and thinly sliced meat that cooks in seconds. Dip your lamb in a mix of sesame sauce, chili oil, and fermented tofu for maximum flavor. For an authentic experience, try Dong Lai Shun, a century-old chain famous for its melt-in-your-mouth cuts.
This nostalgic winter snack—candied hawthorn berries skewered on a stick—is a sweet-and-sour delight. Modern twists include versions with strawberries, grapes, or even jujubes (red dates). The sugary glaze crackles with each bite, making it a fun (and Instagram-worthy) treat. Find vendors near Ancient Culture Street or outside Tianjin Eye.
Tianjin’s tea culture shines in winter, where sipping pu’er or jasmine tea in a centuries-old teahouse is pure bliss. The historic Gulou area boasts charming spots like Ming Qing Teahouse, where you can warm up with a pot of iron goddess oolong while admiring antique décor.
For those who prefer coffee, the European-style villas of Wudadao (Five Great Avenues) hide cozy cafés like Soloist Coffee. Their spiced latte—infused with cinnamon and nutmeg—pairs perfectly with a buttery Portuguese egg tart from nearby bakeries.
These famed steamed buns, stuffed with juicy pork or crab meat, are a Tianjin institution. The fluffy dough and savory filling make them ideal for winter comfort. Skip the touristy spots and queue at Goubuli’s original location near Heping Road.
A relic of Tianjin’s Qing Dynasty past, this feast features eight slow-cooked dishes—braised pork, stewed fish, and more—served in earthenware bowls. Try it at Shi Ji Restaurant, where the lion’s head meatballs (oversized pork patties) are legendary.
Crunchy, twisted mahua (fried dough) is a must-buy souvenir. The best? Gui Street Mahua, where the caramel-glazed variety pairs wonderfully with hot soy milk.
Tianjin’s night markets buzz year-round, but winter calls for mala xia (numbingly spicy crawfish). At Nancuiping Food Alley, peel open shell-on crustaceans drenched in Sichuan peppercorns—then wash it down with baijiu (Chinese liquor) to double the heat.
The faux-European Italian Style Street offers a quirky escape with its Christmas markets. Sip on mulled wine at Bavaria Beer House, where the cloves and orange zest cut through the cold.
For a modern twist, TIANYE Brewing serves winter ales like dark stout with dates—a local twist on classic flavors. Their riverside location offers frosty views with a frothy reward.
So, whether you’re slurping noodles in a misty alley or clinking glasses in a retro café, Tianjin’s winter flavors promise warmth—and unforgettable memories.
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Author: Tianjin Travel
Link: https://tianjintravel.github.io/travel-blog/warm-up-in-tianjin-best-winter-eats-amp-drinks-332.htm
Source: Tianjin Travel
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