Hangzhou West Lake Xiangyi Garden

Tucked away in a residential neighbourhood, King’s Choice is known for its authentic Hangzhou cooking, generous portions and wallet-friendly prices. Most dishes are cooked à la minute and boast exceptional wok hei. The signature deep-fried stinky tofu is crispy on the outside and silky on the inside, with chilli sauce on the side to accentuate its unique flavours. The deep-fried wingette in salted egg yolk sauce is also sinfully delicious. Come early to avoid a long wait.

Nestled in a cultural park, this restaurant is furnished in modern Jiangnan style – round windows, bamboo chairs and bonsai. The menu, too, is rooted in tradition but given a modern twist. Be sure to try the deep-fried stinky tofu with river shrimps; the fermented flavour adds to the overall umami. Stone pot taro is cooked with fried lard for a starchy comfort dish in autumn or winter. Also try the braised pork belly with house-made plum wine.

Serenity is the word that comes to mind to describe this restaurant deep in a bamboo forest. The kitchen delves into the unique flavours and terroir that set Zhejiang province apart, striking a balance between tradition and creativity. The seasonal menu changes monthly to showcase premium local produce. Mrs Song’s fish stew uses delicate, sweet yellow croakers. Finish your meal with a flourish of candied lotus root stuffed with sticky rice.

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The sleek, elegant room stands in an osmanthus forest, the sweet scent of which lingers in the air in autumn. Once you set foot inside, the earthy smell of black tea takes over – tea-smoked dishes such as crispy skin chicken exude intoxicating aromas. The menu is dominated by Zhejiang classics made with seasonal ingredients from across the country. Try the river fish cooked with dried bamboo shoot, too. The tea ceremony at each table is quite a spectacle.

This restaurant started out as a noodle shop some 20 years ago. What hasn't changed is the authentic and affordable home-style Hangzhou food it serves. Browse the photos on the wall or pick something from the live fish tanks. The oil-blanched live river shrimps are fried until crispy and tossed in a sweet savoury sauce with vinegar and scallions. The steamed pork-filled tofu skin roll with dried fish is another timeless umami-laden classic.

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