Best Michelin Restaurants in Chongqing for Foreign Travelers: A Local’s Guide
- DolphinUnion
- Sep 29
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 7
Chongqing Is More Than Just Spicy Food: Discover Michelin Dining
Most people think Chongqing food equals only hot and spicy. And yes — our hotpot is famous for making you sweat. But here’s the thing: if you can’t handle spice, don’t worry. Chongqing now boasts Michelin-starred restaurants with world-class flavors.
Last year, a French friend visited. He loves food but hates spice. He tried our local “Fat Intestine Noodles.” It was spicy and had animal organs. He took one bite and couldn’t finish. “I respect the culture,” he said, “but I need something different.”
That’s when I took him to Michelin-starred dining in Chongqing. No spice. No shock. Just amazing taste.
This guide will show you the best Michelin restaurants in Chongqing, all in one luxury food hall. You’ll learn about the food style, price, and what to order. Even if you hate spice, you’ll eat like a king.
Where to Find Michelin Restaurants in Chongqing
All 4 Michelin-starred restaurants are on Level 6 of Metropolis Oriental Plaza (Dahuiyi Dongfang Guangchang), Jiefangbei (Jiefangbei). This is the heart of Chongqing and easy to reach.
Take Metro Line 2 or 6 to Jiefangbei Station (Jiefangbei Zhan). Exit 9. Walk 3 minutes. Look for the big mall. The space is clean, quiet, and air-conditioned — a break from the hot, loud streets.
I’ve been to all 4 restaurants. I know the chefs, the menus, and the best dishes. Trust me — this is not tourist food. This is top-tier dining.
Fu Hao Restaurant (Michelin 1 Star)
Address: Level 6, Metropolis Oriental Plaza, Jiefangbei, Yuzhong District (Yuzhong Qu Jiefangbei Dahuiyi Dongfang Guangchang 6 Lou)
Style: Cantonese cuisine, fine dining
Must-Try Dish: Roast goose with honey glaze (¥188)
Avg. Spend: ¥400–600 per person
I went here in December 2024, right after it opened. The roast goose was crispy outside, juicy inside. The honey glaze added a soft sweetness. My UK friend said: “This tastes like the best roast I’ve had in London — but better.”
The staff speak good English. The menu has photos and English names.
Verdict: Best for first-time Michelin diners. Great for families or business meals.
Li’s Kitchen (Michelin 2 Stars Formerly)
Address: Level 6, Metropolis Oriental Plaza, Jiefangbei, Yuzhong District (Yuzhong Qu Jiefangbei Dahuiyi Dongfang Guangchang 6 Lou)
Style: Imperial Qing Dynasty cuisine, rare recipes
Must-Try Dish: Braised abalone with bird’s nest (¥320 per person)
Avg. Spend: ¥600–1,000 per person
This is luxury food from old China. The recipes are 200 years old. The chef’s family served the emperor. I tried the abalone dish. It was soft, rich, and warm. No spice. Just deep flavor.
A Canadian friend said: “It feels like eating history.” But warning: this is expensive. Not for budget travelers. Also, some dishes have unusual ingredients (like deer tendon). If you’re picky, ask the waiter to explain.
Verdict: Best for special occasions. Book 3 days ahead.
Changben Japanese Cuisine (Michelin 1 Star)
Address: Level 6, Metropolis Oriental Plaza, Jiefangbei, Yuzhong District (Yuzhong Qu Jiefangbei Dahuiyi Dongfang Guangchang 6 Lou)
Style: Omakase sushi (chef’s choice), authentic Japanese
Must-Try Dish: Fresh tuna belly with wasabi (part of ¥580 omakase set)
Avg. Spend: ¥500–700 per person (omakase only)
Opened after Chinese New Year 2025. I was there on day one. The chef trained in Tokyo. He serves 12 courses. Each piece of fish is cut fresh. The tuna belly melted in my mouth. The rice was warm and soft.
No menu. You just say “Omakase, please.” The chef decides.
Verdict: Best for sushi lovers. Go early (5:30 p.m.) to get a seat.
Aleia Restaurant (Michelin 1 Star, Spain)
Address: Level 6, Metropolis Oriental Plaza, Jiefangbei, Yuzhong District (Yuzhong Qu Jiefangbei Dahuiyi Dongfang Guangchang 6 Lou)
Style: Spanish fine dining, seafood focus
Must-Try Dish: Grilled octopus with paprika (¥168)
Avg. Spend: ¥450–650 per person
This is Spain’s first Michelin-starred restaurant in China. I tried their octopus. It was tender, smoky, and perfectly spiced. They also have sangria (¥60/glass) — sweet, cold, and great for summer.
A Brazilian friend said: “It tastes like home.” The staff use simple English. They explain every dish.
Verdict: Best for non-Asian food lovers. Great for dates.
Final Tips from a Local: Eat Like a Pro
I’ve eaten at all these places. I’ve seen friends order the wrong dish, waste money, or miss the best food. So here’s my honest advice:
Book ahead — Michelin spots fill fast. Use Meituan or call the restaurant.
Ask for an English menu — most have one. If not, use Google Translate.
Don’t skip the wine pairings — Aleia and Changben offer great drinks with food.
Go early — 5:30–6:00 p.m. is best. After 8 p.m., it’s packed.
What Foreign Travelers Say
“I hate spicy food. Fu Hao saved my trip!” — Sarah, Canada
“Ate abalone at Li’s Kitchen. Felt like royalty.” — James, UK
“Omakase at Changben was the best sushi ever.” — Luca, Italy
Ready to Eat Like a Local?
Chongqing is not just spicy. It’s fine dining. It’s culture. It’s flavor. Start at Metropolis Oriental Plaza, Level 6. Pick your style. Taste the world.
And if you need help — just reply here. I’ll help you choose the perfect meal. Your Michelin meal in Chongqing is waiting. Chongqing Michelin restaurants guide for foreigners. Want routes? PM me! 😊
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