Top 8 Favourite Street Foods in Shenzhen

Grilled Oysters with Garlic

1. Jianbing (Chinese Savoury Crepe)
The ultimate street breakfast. It’s a thin crepe cooked on a hot plate, topped with egg, scallions, herbs, and crunchy fried dough, then folded and drizzled with sweet-savoury sauce. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside—perfect for mornings on the go.

2. Xinjiang Nang Bing
You’ll now find Xinjiang restaurants scattered all over Shenzhen, and this is one of their signature breads. Nang Bing is a thick, round, crusty flatbread—chewy in the middle, golden on the edges, often decorated with stamped patterns and topped with sesame seeds. It’s rustic, hearty, and makes a great grab-and-go snack.

3. Baozi (Steamed Buns)
These soft, pillowy buns are everywhere. Usually filled with pork, but you can find veggie options too. They're steamed fresh and served piping hot—perfect for breakfast or an afternoon bite. Don’t burn your tongue (but you probably will).

4. Roujiamo (Chinese Burger)
Think shredded meat stewed in spices, stuffed into a crispy, pan-fried flatbread. It’s juicy, flavourful, and super satisfying—like a Chinese version of a pulled meat sandwich. Warning: one is never enough.

"Because plastic stools, smoky carts, and no menus often mean the best meals"

Shenzhen is modern, fast-paced, and full of skyscrapers—but its street food scene is still very much alive and thriving. Whether I’m here for a quick visit or a longer stay, you can bet I’m snacking my way around. From flaky breads to bold spices and everything in between, here are my top 8 street food favourites in SZ.

Xinjiang Nang Bing

Stinky Tofu

Roujiamo - Image courtesy of CW*

5. Yang Rou Chuan (Spicy Cumin Lamb Skewers)
Straight from Xinjiang-style stalls, these lamb skewers are smoky, juicy, and dusted with cumin, chili flakes, and sesame. They’re grilled over open flames and eaten right off the stick. Late-night favourite. Street food icon. Always a win.

6. Stinky Tofu (Yes, it smells)
The name says it all—and yes, it’s strong. But hear me out: once you get past the smell, the taste is kind of addictive. Crispy outside, soft inside, served with chili sauce or pickled cabbage. First time I tried it was with a friend in Dongmen, and I ended up loving it. Locals are obsessed, tourists hesitate—but it’s 100% worth trying at least once.

7. Grilled Oysters with Garlic
These are usually found at night markets, cooked right in the shell, topped with garlic and chillies. Hot, garlicky, and packed with flavour. Best enjoyed standing next to the stall, plastic plate in hand.

8. Bubble Tea (because, obviously)
You’ll find milk tea everywhere in Shenzhen—from tiny corner stalls to stylish cafés. It’s a staple, and yes, I’m one of those people who needs one every few days. Recently, I tried milk tea with cheese (yes, cheese!)—and surprisingly, I enjoyed it. Don’t knock it till you try it.

Quick Tips

• Night markets are easy to find—depending on where you’re staying, they pop up around sundown with food, clothes, and everything in between.

• Keep small notes or WeChat Pay handy.

• If it smells good, follow your nose.

• And don’t rush—some of the best bites happen when you pause and try something unexpected.