Stargazing Platform Inn - Guangzhou ChenClanAcademy & ShaMian & YongQingFang Branch

The chain started life as a stall, before this hugely popular outpost opened in 1996. The veteran crew follows ancient recipes to craft its reasonably priced Cantonese fare. The signature Ze Ze eels are swamp varieties served sizzling in a claypot; the fried mantis shrimp in spiced salt bursts with sweetness; and the house-made ice cream is a must. Only private room reservations are accepted. Otherwise, come early to beat the long wait at peak hours.

Chinese

Besides river views and stunning murals, Hongtu Hall is prized for its exquisitely crafted dim sum ranging from the classics to novel creations, as well as velvety congee and juicy roast meats. Make sure to try their shrimp dumplings and shrimp shaomai. Tableside tea service is also a nice touch. The restaurant is always busy during opening hours and reservations are accepted for guests staying in the hotel only. Other customers have to simply join the queue.

Nestled in an old neighbourhood, this shop has kept regulars coming back for almost three decades with their no-frills, tasty food at frugal prices. Come early for their double-boiled soups which tend to run out early. Fish head soup particularly entices with succulent flesh and a hint of Chinese herbs; brace yourself for the heady aromas when you lift the paper lid. Steamed chicken, roast goose and steamed pork patties are also popular choices.

Still going strong after 30+ years, this branch may lack the views of its Lizhiwan counterpart, but the food tastes just as good. Springy duck egg noodles are made in its Lizhiwan factory, blanched à la minute and tossed either in shrimp roe or in a flavourful broth made with dried plaice, pork bones and dried shrimp. Don't miss the beef offal soup – the thinly sliced organ meats are rid of any odd taste and boast velvety textures.

For over 40 years, the owner has been insisting on shopping for fresh beef offal daily, painstakingly preparing and braising it in a rich stock made from scratch with beef and lamb bones. His beef bone marrow boasts a creamy texture and is a perfect match with the house-made radish pickles. Beef tripe tip is another premium cut, available only after 11am. As well as beef offal, also try wonton noodle soup, braised beef brisket and tendon.

For over 50 years, this shop has attracted a faithful following not only for its house-made E-fu, but also its freshly made egg noodles. The soft and springy E-fu has a faint egg aroma. For toppings, choose between beef brisket, zhajiang, pork hock or intestine. The flavourful broth made with dace, pork bones, shrimp roe and dried shrimp pairs perfectly with the noodles. Congee and lai fun noodles are served in the morning only.