Skip the tourist restaurants. What do Lijiang locals eat for breakfast? Who makes the most authentic La Paigu? This list of 10 eateries covers breakfast to midnight snacks — the real flavors of Lijiang.
Breakfast: La Paigu is Lijiang locals' soul food. Try the old spots near 大研古城, 15-30 RMB/person. Lunch: Local restaurants — order La Paigu and seasonal vegetables, 50-80 RMB/person. Dinner: La Paigu veteran near 束河, 80-150 RMB/person. Late night: BBQ stalls near 白沙, 30-50 RMB/person.
10 recommended spots: ① 大研古城 old La Paigu (20-year veteran); ② 束河 trendy La Paigu (good ambiance); ③ 白沙 hole-in-the-wall (most authentic); ④ Farmhouse near 丽江古城; ⑤ Seafood/river fish near 玉龙雪山; ⑥ 纳西文化-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.