⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ · ¥100–200/person
Haidilao is China's most famous hot pot chain — known internationally not just for its excellent hot pot but for its extraordinary service: free manicures and shoe shines while you wait, birthday celebrations with elaborate cake deliveries, and noodle-pulling shows tableside. The Taikoo Li branch in central Chengdu is the most popular with visitors and stays open until 5am.
['The wait times can be 1–3 hours on weekends — use the app to join the queue remotely', 'The free waiting area with manicures, snacks, and games is part of the experience', 'Ask for the half-and-half pot (鸳鸯锅) — one side spicy, one side mild', "Order the 'brain flower' (猪脑花) if you're adventurous — a Chengdu hot pot specialty"]
The noodle-pulling performance and absurd customer service are among the most viral China restaurant videos
Address (English): 2/F, Sino-Ocean Taikoo Li, 8 Shamao St, Jinjiang District, Chengdu
Address (Chinese — show to driver): 锦江区纱帽街8号远洋太古里2楼
Take Didi (China's Uber equivalent) and show the Chinese address above. Or use the metro — all major Chengdu attractions and restaurant districts are well-connected.
Most restaurants in Chengdu accept Alipay and WeChat Pay. Both apps now accept international credit cards — set up Alipay before arriving in China. Some traditional restaurants prefer cash.
Citizens of 54+ countries can visit China for up to 240 hours (10 days) without a visa. This restaurant is fully accessible during a visa-free transit stay in Chengdu.
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