Located at an altitude of more than 3,000 meters, Jiuzhai Valley faces special difficulties with dining. Many goods and materials have to be transferred from nearby towns and villages, resulting in high prices and a limited variety of foods.Apart from the above choices, the restaurants affiliated with star-rated hotels here provide better-tasting foods in a comfortable atmosphere.
Jiuzhai Paradise and Sheraton Jiuzhaigou Resort are two five-star restaurants that supply various kinds of good quality Chinese and Western food, especially the authentic Tibetan specialties. However, neither of them is the ideal choice for a budget-conscious visitors. Don't worry, for there are several lower grade hotels around the valley that serve some delicious food at reasonable prices.
It can take an entire day to visit this large scenic spot, so lunching in the valley is a practical option. Currently, there are four restaurants along Heyezhai, Shuzhengzhai, Nuorilang and Zechawa that serve several grades of buffet dinners. Another alternative is the tourist service center of Nuorilang, which offers various grades of buffet dinners, as well as a series of banquets which include Tibetan specialties and other Chinese cuisines.
However, during the peak season, the restaurants are always very crowded. One way to escape the crowds is to take food with you. In fact, it will be cozier eating in the charming natural beauty of the area than in the bustling restaurants. The prices of goods sold around the attractions are higher in China, so buying food and beverage before coming to Jiuzhai Valley will save money. Some Tibetans in the valley sell their simple food to visitors at reasonable prices. Visitors who are looking for more interesting experiences might enjoy trying the Tibetan food.
Local Restaurants
Near the scenic spot are several small restaurants that offer different styles of Chinese cuisine. A simple dinner can be found there at a reasonable price. The Xiaobu Snack, a popular restaurant, is located at Bianbian Street to the right of the entrance gate to Jiuzhai Valley. Most of the restaurants in the area can be reached easily on foot; however, taking a taxi will save time. Since the area has been inhabited by a large number of Tibetans for a long time, the authentic local food offers unique Tibetan flavors, such as the famous buttered tea and highland barley wine. The strong flavor of the Tibetan food might not please everyone.
Yuxiangtang Restaurant
Add: Behind the Construction Bank, Building 1-3, Bianbian Street, next to Renzhi Hotel
Business hours: Monday to Sunday 09:00-24:00
Jiulixiang Restaurant
Address: 1st Floor, Yinfeng Hotel, Huodidi (next to Jiuyuan Hotel)
Business hours: Monday to Sunday 10:00-22:30
Zhaxi Tibetan Restaurant
Address: Opposite to Gesang Hotel, Zhangzha Town
Business hours: Monday to Sunday 10:30-00:30
Chongqing Rejia Restaurant
Address: Next to Qianhe International Hotel, Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area, 301 Provincial Highway (Four Hyatt Hotel Downstairs)
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday 10:00-00:00
Tel: 0837-7766404