Louwailou
A legendary Hangzhou restaurant serving authentic local cuisine since 1848, with iconic dishes and beautiful West Lake views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Louwailou
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary Hangzhou restaurant serving authentic local cuisine since 1848, with iconic dishes and beautiful West Lake views.
"This century-old brand by West Lake offers authentic Hangzhou food, including superb Dongpo Pork and Beggar's Chicken."
Reserve for Groups
Book your table in advance, especially for group visits, to ensure a smooth dining experience.
Try Local Specialties
Don't miss signature Hangzhou dishes like West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy and Fried Shrimps with Longjing Tea.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Chinese (Hangzhou)
Price
Mid-range
Address
74PV+GC5, Wenbei Ln, 文三路电子信息街区 Xihu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China, 310005
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Hangzhou Cuisine
Savor authentic Hangzhou dishes at a culinary institution established in 1848, steeped in tradition and local flavor.
Beggars Chicken & Dongpo Pork
Must-try specialties like the flavorful Beggar's Chicken and rich Dongpo Pork, hailed as the best in Hangzhou.
Scenic West Lake Views
Enjoy your meal with a view of the iconic West Lake, offering a picturesque backdrop to your dining experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reserve for Groups
Book your table in advance, especially for group visits, to ensure a smooth dining experience.
Try Local Specialties
Don't miss signature Hangzhou dishes like West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy and Fried Shrimps with Longjing Tea.
Order Generous Portions
For groups, consider ordering larger sizes of each dish to fully enjoy the variety.
Tips
from all over the internet
Reserve for Groups
Book your table in advance, especially for group visits, to ensure a smooth dining experience.
Try Local Specialties
Don't miss signature Hangzhou dishes like West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy and Fried Shrimps with Longjing Tea.
Order Generous Portions
For groups, consider ordering larger sizes of each dish to fully enjoy the variety.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Louwailou is a historic Hangzhou institution celebrated for its authentic local cuisine and rich heritage. Diners rave about signature dishes like Beggar's Chicken and Dongpo Pork, praising the traditional flavors. While the food is consistently praised, some reviews mention busy periods, suggesting reservations for groups are recommended. The restaurant's location near West Lake and its long-standing reputation make it a must-visit for an authentic taste of Hangzhou.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Signature dishes include Beggar's Chicken, Dongpo Pork, West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy, and Fried Shrimps with Longjing Tea.
Yes, it's highly recommended for family meals, offering a range of traditional dishes suitable for everyone.
It's recommended to reserve a table, especially if you're visiting with a group.
Louwailou is a historic Hangzhou institution founded in 1848, known for its authentic local cuisine.
Yes, the restaurant is located near West Lake, and some rooms offer beautiful views of the lake.
Mentioned in
Featured in these publications
10 Best Hangzhou Restaurants: Try Authentic Local Cuisine
Chinese Name: 楼外楼 (lou wai lou)If you ask a Hangzhou native which restaurant is the most popular one in this city, he or she will surely say Lou Wai Lou because it offers the most superb authentic Hangzhou food. Founded in 1848, this Hangzhou restaurant boasts a long history and has a large patronage. The specialties include the West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy, Fried Shrimps with Longjing Tea and the Beggar's Chicken.
Zhongshan Rd. Food Street / 中山路美食 - Hangzhou
Louwailou is located at the foot of Gushan, near the beautiful West Lake. More than 150 years old, Louwailou has served many famous persons in history including China’s most famous revolutionary, Dr. Sun Yat-sen and the late Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai.
Food and restaurants, what and where to eat in Hangzhou
Lou Wai Lou is one of Hangzhou's time-honored Chinese brands. It was founded by a scholar from Shaoxing during the Qing Dynasty, named Hong Ruitang. After relocating to Hangzhou, he settled at the foot of Gushan Mountain.
Hangzhou – Travel guide at Wikivoyage
Other restaurants that are good and aren't as tourist-trappy can as Lou Wai Lou are near West Lake, usually to the east past Hubin Road in the Yan'an Road area.
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