Top 5 Places to Eat in Dali

Written by Alexander Kopp, Wei Li
19/08/2025
Elegant view of the Three Pagodas in Dali, China, framed by lush greenery and distant mountains.
鹏翔 方, Pexels

Dali's culinary scene offers a flavorful journey, deeply rooted in the Bai ethnic heritage, presenting a delightful array of dishes that cater to a diverse range of palates, from adventurous food enthusiasts to families and couples.

1. Plum Well Restaurant (梅子井餐厅)

Cuisine: Bai Ethnic Cuisine

Nestled in Dali Ancient City, this restaurant offers an authentic taste of Bai cuisine within a charming traditional house. The ambiance is enhanced by a 600-year-old well and a plum tree in its courtyard, providing a tranquil setting. Must-try items include the homemade plum wine and signature dishes like papaya braised chicken and grilled food served on tiles. It offers a cozy experience for those seeking local flavors.

Price: Approximately RMB 85 per person (around $12 USD)

Getting There: Located on Renmin Road in Dali Ancient City, it is easily accessible by walking from most central areas.

2. Fireplace Image Wild Mushroom Courtyard Hot Pot (火塘印象·野生菌庭院火锅)

Cuisine: Wild Mushroom Hot Pot, Yunnan Cuisine

This highly-rated establishment in Dali Ancient City is celebrated for its wild mushroom hotpot, a regional specialty. The experience involves a rich chicken or mushroom broth, where a variety of fresh, seasonal wild mushrooms are cooked tableside. The atmosphere is comfortable and elegant, with a beautiful courtyard setting. The attentive staff often assist with grilling and cooking, making it a popular choice for families.

Price: Approximately RMB 100-110 per person (around $14-15 USD)

Getting There: Situated near Boai Gate in Dali Ancient City, it is within walking distance from many points of interest.

3. Xizhou Baba (喜洲粑粑) – Street Food

Cuisine: Local Snack / Street Food

Xizhou Baba is a quintessential Dali street food, a crispy flatbread baked in traditional charcoal ovens. It comes in both savory, often filled with lard, salt, pepper, ground pork, and green onion, or sweet, typically with rose jam and red bean paste. This popular snack is perfect for a quick bite while exploring, offering a simple yet deeply satisfying local taste.

Price: Approximately RMB 10 per piece (around $1.50 USD)

Getting There: Widely available from street vendors, particularly in Xizhou Ancient Town and along bustling streets like Renmin Road and Huguo Road in Dali Ancient City.

4. Tang Coffee (唐咖啡)

Cuisine: Coffee & Light Bites

Tucked away on a backstreet of Dali Ancient Town, Tang Coffee is a favored spot for coffee enthusiasts. It prides itself on using locally sourced Yunnan coffee beans, offering a genuine taste of the region's burgeoning coffee culture. With three floors of seating, it provides a quiet and aesthetically pleasing environment for relaxation, whether enjoying a morning brew or taking a break from sightseeing.

Price: Approximately RMB 30 per coffee (around $4 USD)

Getting There: Located on a backstreet within Dali Ancient Town, it is easily reachable by foot. One specific reference points to Huguo Road No. 172 for a similar cafe.

5. Daji Xitang Restaurant (大吉喜塘餐厅)

Cuisine: Fusion Chinese Cuisine

Situated approximately 6 kilometers from Dali Ancient City, this restaurant offers an exquisite dining experience amidst a picturesque rural setting. Guests can enjoy creative dishes that blend local ingredients with refined culinary techniques, often with views of rice paddies, distant temples, and the Cangshan Mountains. It is praised for its elegant environment and attentive service, making it a choice destination for those seeking a more upscale and tranquil meal.

Price: Approximately RMB 150-250 per person (around $21-35 USD)

Getting There: Located in the Silver Bridge and Bay Bridge region, about 6km from Dali Ancient City. A taxi or ride-hailing service (e.g., Didi) would be the most convenient way to get there, costing around 10-20 RMB.

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