Louwailou Menu Overview in Hangzhou's Culinary Heritage
Nestled along the picturesque West Lake in Hangzhou, Louwailou offers an authentic dive into the rich flavors of Jiangnan cuisine, one of the revered eight grand Chinese culinary traditions. This historic establishment boasts a menu that balances tradition with exquisite local ingredients, inviting diners to savor time-honored dishes that have been cherished for over a century and a half.
Starters to Awaken the Palate
Begin your culinary journey with the exquisite Song Sao Yellow Fish Soup, a silky broth enriched with yellow croaker, shiitake mushrooms, fish maw, and delicate dried scallops. This starter elegantly captures the essence of Zhejiang’s coastal flavors while preparing your taste buds for the feast ahead.
Signature Mains That Define Hangzhou
Louwailou’s mains showcase the *timeless flavors* of Hangzhou with masterful preparations that highlight fresh, local ingredients and refined techniques.
- West Lake Vinegar Fish (西湖醋鱼) - Fresh grass carp simmered in a harmonious blend of vinegar, sugar, ginger, and scallions, delivering a perfect balance of sweet and sour notes that epitomize Hangzhou’s signature dish.
- Longjing Shrimp (龙井虾仁) - Juicy river shrimp delicately stir-fried with fragrant Longjing tea leaves, egg whites, starch, and Shaoxing rice wine, creating a light yet flavorful dish celebrated for its aromatic charm.
- Dongpo Pork (东坡肉) - A luscious braised pork belly dish steeped in history, slow-cooked with ginger, scallions, Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, and sugar to achieve melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and a rich glaze.
Traditional Desserts to Complete Your Meal
For a sweet finish, the Honey-Glazed Ham (蜜汁火方) offers a delightful balance of smoky ham sweetness enriched by a glossy honey sheen. It’s a beloved dessert that echoes the restaurant’s commitment to classic Hangzhou flavors with a subtle, satisfying sweetness.
Beverages to Complement Your Experience
Louwailou also serves a curated selection of regional wines and beers, perfectly paired to enhance the delicate flavors of Jiangnan cuisine. While cocktails are not on the menu, the professional and courteous staff ensure your dining experience is seamless and memorable.
