Skip the tourist restaurants. What do Dali locals eat for breakfast? Who makes the most authentic Rushan? This list of 10 eateries covers breakfast to midnight snacks — the real flavors of Dali.
Breakfast: Rushan is Dali locals' soul food. Try the old spots near 古城, 15-30 RMB/person. Lunch: Local restaurants — order Rushan and seasonal vegetables, 50-80 RMB/person. Dinner: Rushan veteran near 双廊, 80-150 RMB/person. Late night: BBQ stalls near 下关, 30-50 RMB/person.
10 recommended spots: ① 古城 old Rushan (20-year veteran); ② 双廊 trendy Rushan (good ambiance); ③ 下关 hole-in-the-wall (most authentic); ④ Farmhouse near 洱海; ⑤ Seafood/river fish near 苍山; ⑥ 白族文化-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.