Skip the tourist restaurants. What do Changsha locals eat for breakfast? Who makes the most authentic Stinky Tofu? This list of 10 eateries covers breakfast to midnight snacks — the real flavors of Changsha.
Breakfast: Stinky Tofu is Changsha locals' soul food. Try the old spots near 五一广场, 15-30 RMB/person. Lunch: Local restaurants — order Stinky Tofu and seasonal vegetables, 50-80 RMB/person. Dinner: Stinky Tofu veteran near 太平街, 80-150 RMB/person. Late night: BBQ stalls near 梅溪湖, 30-50 RMB/person.
10 recommended spots: ① 五一广场 old Stinky Tofu (20-year veteran); ② 太平街 trendy Stinky Tofu (good ambiance); ③ 梅溪湖 hole-in-the-wall (most authentic); ④ Farmhouse near 橘子洲; ⑤ Seafood/river fish near 岳麓山; ⑥ 湖湘文化-themed restaurant; ⑦ Local breakfast joint; ⑧ Night market BBQ; ⑨ Dessert old shop; ⑩ Souvenir shop. Budget: a full day of eating ~200-400 RMB/person.