Shuncheng Hui Muslim Halal Food Street in Kunming

Shuncheng (顺城) was once the heart of Halal cuisine in Kunming (昆明), and though the area has transformed with towering buildings, the rich flavors of Hui Muslim food still linger in the air. Once a bustling marketplace, Shuncheng has now become a modern commercial district, but the Hui Muslim food street remains a cherished gem. Located near the mosque (清真寺), this food street is filled with a variety of tasty dishes, from meat skewers (肉串) to sour and spicy fish (酸辣鱼), roasted potatoes (烧洋芋), and more. The culinary aromas evoke nostalgia, and the food keeps visitors coming back for more. The vibrant street, with sizzling meat skewers, crispy fish, and a fusion of spices, feels like a kingdom of food. Visitors are sure to be drawn into its allure, staying longer than planned.

Must-Try Halal Snacks on Shuncheng Hui Muslim Street

Near the Shuncheng Shopping Center (顺城购物中心) and the mosque (清真寺), this street houses many Halal restaurants (清真餐馆), though many visitors may not know about it. Here are some of the best spots to try:

1. Hui Dai (回傣)

A well-known spot for its fried fish (油呛) and sour-spicy fish (酸辣鱼). The fish, priced at 38 CNY per piece, is large, crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside. The flavorful soup is perfect for pairing with rice. Although the owner might not always have the friendliest demeanor, the fish is irresistible.

2. Big Potato (大洋芋)

Located across from Hui Dai, this place is another popular choice. The roasted potatoes have a crispy outer layer, and there are two varieties: crispy and soft. With 18 possible toppings (18种配料), you can mix and match to create your perfect dish. The fermented tofu (包浆豆腐) is also a standout, with the sauce-filled bite being incredibly satisfying.

3. Yunxiangzhai Hui Muslim Pastries (云香斋回族糕点)

An old shop located at Daguanlou (大观楼), famous for its traditional fennel cakes (茴饼) and affordable pastries.

4. Shen Zhou No. 7 (神粥七号)

A long-standing stall offering a variety of porridge (粥), including coconut milk porridge (椰奶粥), rose oatmeal porridge (玫瑰燕麦粥), and more. Though not extraordinary, the nostalgia it evokes makes it a favorite for many locals.

5. Little Potato Fried Tofu & Potato Balls (小洋芋炸豆腐洋芋粑粑)

A small but delicious stall that specializes in crispy fried potatoes with a spicy flavor (麻辣口味). It’s a great snack when you’re on the go.

6. Sai Jia Ji Halal Sauerkraut Red Bean Rice (赛家记 清真酸菜红豆饭)

Located in Shuncheng, this place offers generous portions of sauerkraut red bean beef rice (酸菜红豆牛肉饭) and vegetarian red bean soup rice (素的红豆汤饭), which are simple yet flavorful.

7. Imai Jia Snacks (伊麦佳小吃)

An old food stall that’s been around for over a decade. It serves a wide range of breakfast items (早餐), such as coconut milk porridge (椰奶粥) and skewered fish balls (关东煮). Freshly skewered items are available daily, ensuring you get the freshest and most flavorful snacks.

8. Shuncheng Old Dumplings (顺城老锅贴)

A rare Halal dumpling (清真锅贴) shop serving dumplings (锅贴), xiao long bao (小笼包), sheng jian bao (生煎包), and wonton (混沌). Their dumplings are pan-fried to perfection, crispy on the outside and tender inside.

9. Yixuan Baked Cakes (翌煊粑粑店)

Famous for its savory cakes (酱香饼), crispy on the outside with a rich, flavorful sauce. Another must-try is the sesame cakes (胡麻粑粑), which will win you over after the first bite.

10. Malaxiang Food (马兰香美食)

A traditional restaurant serving beef noodles (牛肉面) and beef rice noodles (牛肉米线), known for its rich and aromatic broth. The soup is slow-cooked for hours to achieve its deep, flavorful taste.

11. Muslim Crispy Bun Shop & Pastries (穆斯林破酥包子店·糕点)

Located in a narrow alley at Jingguo Road (靖国路), this old shop offers delicious crispy buns (破酥包) that are sold out quickly before the afternoon. Their fresh beef buns (鲜牛肉包) are highly recommended.

12. Kanto Boiled Spicy Skewers (关东煮麻辣串)

This stall serves fish tofu (鱼豆腐), kelp (海带), tofu (豆腐), crab sticks (蟹棒), potatoes (土豆), and konjac (魔芋), all simmered in a savory broth. With prices starting at 1 CNY per skewer, it’s an affordable and delicious option for a quick snack.

13. Lanzhou Big Beard Specialty BBQ (兰州大胡子特色烤肉)

This BBQ shop specializes in beef skewers (牛肉串), freshly cut and grilled to perfection. Each skewer is packed with flavor and has a unique, subtle milky taste.

14. Imulan Beef Noodles (伊穆澜牛肉面)

This place draws a crowd every afternoon. The beef noodles (牛肉面) are flavorful and not greasy, and they also offer BBQ skewers (烧烤) at affordable prices.

15. Yunxiangzhai Bakery (云香斋饼屋)

Another long-established shop offering a blend of traditional pastries (传统糕点) and Western desserts (西方美食糕点), perfect for dessert lovers with a sweet tooth.

After a Meal: Visit the Mosque and Art Gallery

After enjoying the food, head over to the mosque (清真寺) nearby to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. This place offers a chance for reflection and tranquility.

Yunnan Art Museum (云南美术馆) is a unique architectural gem located in the city center. A Su-style building (苏式建筑), it’s the only museum in Kunming (昆明) that sits within a historic building. The museum features elegant geometric designs and stunning crystal chandeliers, offering a glimpse into the past century’s architectural beauty.

Take a walk through Shuncheng (顺城) to find unique items such as leather goods (皮具), furniture (家具), and Yunnan-style souvenirs (云南特色纪念品). There’s also a selection of handcrafted goods (编制工艺品).

For a more relaxed experience, visit one of the wine bars (微醺酒馆) or cafés (咖啡馆) in the area, making it a perfect place to unwind and enjoy your day.

Make sure to revisit the Halal food street near the mosque (清真寺) for a second round of delightful treats. You won’t regret trying the Shuncheng dumplings (顺城锅贴), Malaxiang (马兰香小吃) spicy noodles, and Lanzhou Big Beard’s BBQ (兰州大胡子特色烤肉). And don’t miss out on exploring the art museum (美术馆) and mosque (清真寺) before ending your visit!