Hangzhou: The Elegance of West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy and Longjing Shrimp

Nestled by the serene West Lake, Hangzhou is a city where poetry meets cuisine. Two iconic dishes—West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy (西湖醋鱼) and Longjing Shrimp (龙井虾仁)—showcase the refined harmony between food and nature, much like how French haute cuisine balances flavor with artistry.

West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy features tender grass carp, poached to perfection and drizzled with a sweet-tangy sauce. Imagine a dish as balanced as Italy’s risotto al limone—light yet flavorful, with a citrusy twist. The fish symbolizes abundance, while the vinegar represents life’s sour-sweet balance.

Longjing Shrimp is equally poetic. Delicate river shrimp are stir-fried with fragrant Longjing tea leaves, creating a dish as refreshing as England’s afternoon tea with finger sandwiches. The tea’s earthy notes complement the shrimp’s sweetness, offering a taste of Hangzhou’s misty hills.

Both dishes reflect Hangzhou’s cultural ethos: simplicity with depth, seasonal and meticulously prepared. Trying them is like sipping Darjeeling in the Himalayas—unexpected, yet utterly memorable. A visit to Hangzhou isn’t complete without savoring these edible masterpieces.