The Best Traditional Guiyang Dishes for Meat Lovers

Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou Province, is a paradise for food enthusiasts—especially those who crave rich, flavorful, and hearty meat dishes. Nestled in the mountainous southwest of China, Guiyang’s cuisine is a vibrant fusion of spicy, sour, and umami flavors, heavily influenced by local ethnic minority traditions. If you’re a meat lover planning a trip to this underrated culinary destination, here’s your ultimate guide to the best traditional Guiyang dishes you must try.

The Must-Try Meat Dishes of Guiyang

1. Siwawa (丝娃娃) – The DIY Meat Wrap Extravaganza

Don’t let the playful name fool you—Siwawa is a serious contender for the most interactive and satisfying meat dish in Guiyang. This DIY-style wrap features thin rice pancakes filled with an assortment of ingredients, including braised pork, pickled vegetables, and crispy fried meat strips.

Why Meat Lovers Will Love It:
- The dish often includes succulent slices of slow-cooked pork belly or shredded chicken.
- You can customize each wrap with extra meat fillings for a protein-packed meal.
- The accompanying spicy dipping sauce adds a fiery kick that enhances the meat’s richness.

Where to Try It:
Head to Zhenning Road or Qianling Park, where street vendors serve fresh, made-to-order Siwawa.

2. Changwang Mian (肠旺面) – Noodles with Blood Curd and Pork Intestines

A breakfast staple in Guiyang, Changwang Mian is a bold, no-holds-barred noodle dish featuring pork intestines, blood curd, and crispy pork belly. The broth is rich, the noodles are springy, and the meat toppings are plentiful.

Why Meat Lovers Will Love It:
- The chewy, deep-flavored pork intestines are a textural delight.
- The blood curd adds a unique, melt-in-your-mouth richness.
- The dish is often topped with extra braised pork for an indulgent touch.

Where to Try It:
Lao San Changwang Mian near Zhonghua Road is a legendary spot loved by locals.

3. Sour Fish Hot Pot (酸汤鱼) – A Tangy, Meat-Loaded Feast

While fish is the star, this hot pot is often loaded with pork ribs, meatballs, and other hearty additions. The broth is fermented with tomatoes and rice, creating a mouthwatering sour-spicy base that complements the meat perfectly.

Why Meat Lovers Will Love It:
- Many restaurants offer a mixed meat version with pork, beef, and chicken.
- The sour broth tenderizes the meat, making every bite juicy and flavorful.
- It’s a communal dish, perfect for sharing with fellow carnivores.

Where to Try It:
Liangshan Sour Fish Hot Pot in Yunyan District is a top pick.

4. La Rou (腊肉) – Guizhou-Style Smoked Bacon

Guiyang’s version of smoked bacon is a smoky, salty, and slightly sweet delicacy. Traditionally air-dried and smoked over pine wood, La Rou is often stir-fried with leeks, chilies, or bamboo shoots.

Why Meat Lovers Will Love It:
- The intense smoky flavor is unlike any other bacon you’ve tried.
- It’s often served in thick, satisfying slices.
- Pairs perfectly with a cold local beer.

Where to Try It:
Look for it in local markets or at Guiyang Laorou Dian (Guiyang Smoked Meat Restaurant).

5. Grilled Meat Skewers (烤肉串) – Street Food Heaven

Guiyang’s night markets are a carnivore’s dream, with endless rows of vendors grilling skewers of lamb, beef, pork, and even exotic meats like rabbit. The skewers are heavily spiced with cumin, chili, and Sichuan peppercorns.

Why Meat Lovers Will Love It:
- The variety is endless—try everything from fatty pork belly to spicy chicken hearts.
- The smoky, charred edges add depth to each bite.
- Cheap, quick, and available late into the night.

Where to Try It:
Huaxi Night Market is the go-to spot for the best grilled skewers.

Pairing Guiyang’s Meat Dishes with Local Drinks

No meat feast is complete without the right beverage. Guiyang offers some unique local drinks that perfectly cut through the richness of these dishes:

Mijiu (米酒) – Sweet Rice Wine

A light, slightly sweet fermented rice wine that balances spicy and fatty meats.

Maotai (茅台) – The Famous Liquor

For those who enjoy strong spirits, a small glass of Maotai enhances the smoky flavors of La Rou.

Sour Plum Drink (酸梅汤)

A refreshing, tangy beverage that cools the palate after fiery dishes like Changwang Mian.

Final Tips for Meat Lovers Visiting Guiyang

• Visit in Autumn or Winter – The cooler weather makes hearty meat dishes even more satisfying.
• Explore Ethnic Minority Villages – Many nearby Miao and Dong villages serve unique meat-based dishes you won’t find in the city.
• Don’t Skip the Condiments – Guiyang’s chili pastes and fermented sauces elevate every meat dish to the next level.

Whether you’re digging into a steaming bowl of Changwang Mian or wrapping your own Siwawa, Guiyang’s meat-centric cuisine promises an unforgettable culinary adventure. Pack your appetite—and maybe some stretchy pants—because this city knows how to satisfy meat lovers like no other.