Drue Banta, a recent graduate of the Center’s M.A.I.S.
program, compiled a very comprehensive list of some of the best restaurants in
Nanjing. If you’re headed to Nanjing as an incoming Hopkins-Nanjing Center
student (or even if you’re just passing through), be sure to add these to your
culinary bucket list! 东北菜馆 － 鼓楼四条巷（近南大西北门）
A homey mom-and-pop shop, this restaurant offers a solid array of affordable Dongbei dishes.
 |
| 海底劳火锅 |
海底劳火锅 － 龙园西路58号黄河大夏2楼C区（近龙江金润发）
If you haven’t tried this top-quality hot pot establishment, you
haven’t truly experienced China. Save it for special occasions such as
birthdays/graduation parties or not, you will never regret spending extra for
the world’s best service and kungfu noodle dances.
阿拉丁新疆风味餐厅 － 汉中路罗廊巷43号
If you like Xinjiang food but don’t fancy the lengthy commute out to
Western China, this restaurant offers terrific lamb and naan dishes as well as
homemade yogurt that will keep you coming back for more.
 |
| HNC alum David Martinez with lotus root fries |
The lotus root fries and mashed potatoes will knock your socks off, as will the rest of the authentic Yunnan menu.
越南餐厅 － 汉中门萍聚村7栋101室
The fresh vegetables and authentic Vietnamese fried pork dishes are as
amazing as the prices – the perfect meal for an adventurous HNCer on a budget.If you like complete customization of your dining experience or just want an excuse to check out the Lion’s Bridge walking street, definitely hit up this cool modern Chinese restaurant.
 |
| 老妈牛肉拉面 |
老妈牛肉拉面 － 上海路154号4幢106室
An HNC student classic, this restaurant offers all the usual cheap
Lanzhou dishes and the owners are always fun to chat with.
Valentina’s – 广州路16号2楼
This newly opened Mexican restaurant is a must visit and one of the
most unique venues in Nanjing and all of China! Not only are the dishes 100% halal,
affordable, AND delicious, but the owner is one of HNC’s very own – Ms. Judith Ordaz!
Friends – 汉口路陶谷新村4-2号
Bring your books or laptop to this café and enjoy the good food and
drinks and hospitality – you won’t be disappointed.
Lotus – 上海路209号
A good counterpoint to the more famous Skyways bakery across the
street, Lotus is definitely up-and-coming with its desserts and drinks, as well
as its unique sandwich and pizza offerings.
Pisa Pizza – 上海路81-8号
 |
| Pisa Pizza |
Behind the Wall – 上海路150号
Come for the chimichangas, stay for the
strawberry mojitos and sangria accompanied by live classical Spanish guitar.
MoMentum – 上海路209号
If you’re craving something crazy tasty like a turkey and cranberry
sauce wrap or a Philly cheesesteak sandwich with onion rings and a fruit or
Oreo smoothie, this place will definitely surpass your expectations and keep
your taste buds happy for however long you’re in Nanjing.
Taj Mahal – 上海路189号
If you like well-priced Northern Indian food, this is the place for
you. Run by friendly Nepalese, check out their awesome lunch combos or bring
some friends and share an endless variety of curry dishes for dinner.
Jimmy’s Bar – 石鼓路193号石鼓湾美食街新乐园内
This staple of the Nanjing expat community offers solid deals on tasty
American food and drinks and always hosts a lively crowd – especially on weekly
trivia nights.