Ruijie & Sascha
Trail of China · May 2025
Chongqing Hotpot in Shenzhen
The mashup city does spicy — authentic Chongqing hotpot without leaving Shenzhen. Boiling broth, mountains of chili, and beef offal.
Why You'll Love It
Shenzhen's population includes millions of migrants from Sichuan and Chongqing, and they brought their hotpot with them. The result: some of the best Chongqing-style hotpot outside of Chongqing itself.
The format is simple: a vat of boiling red oil and chili broth in the center of the table, and you cook raw ingredients in it. Classic items include beef tripe (毛肚, cook for 15 seconds), duck blood (鸭血, let it simmer), tofu skin, lotus root, and enoki mushrooms. The dip is sesame oil with raw garlic — it cools the heat and adds richness.
About Chongqing Hotpot in Shenzhen
Chongqing hotpot (重庆火锅) has become one of Shenzhen's most popular dining experiences, thanks to the city's large population of migrants from southwestern China. The signature style features a vat of boiling red broth packed with Sichuan peppercorns and dried chilies, into which diners cook raw ingredients.
Practical Details
Getting There
Hotpot restaurants are everywhere in Shenzhen. Haidilao (海底捞) is the most famous chain with English menus and legendary service. Local Chongqing-style shops are spicier and cheaper.
Essential Information
Location
Book Tours & Experiences
Discover guided tours, skip-the-line tickets, and unique experiences in Shenzhen.