Central Street (Zhongyang Dajie) in Harbin is not only a cultural and architectural highlight but also a food lover’s paradise. Lined with historical buildings showcasing Russian, Baroque, and eclectic architectural styles, this pedestrian street offers a wide variety of unique and mouthwatering dishes. Whether you are a local or a visitor, exploring Central Street’s culinary offerings is an essential part of experiencing Harbin.
Harbin sausage is one of the most iconic foods you’ll find on Central Street. With its origins in Russian cuisine, the sausage is characterized by its smoky flavor, tender texture, and slightly garlicky taste.
Borscht, a beet-based soup, is another Russian-inspired dish that has been adapted to local tastes. In Harbin, the soup is often less tangy and more hearty, featuring chunks of beef, cabbage, and potatoes.
Central Street is dotted with bakeries offering Russian-inspired bread, cakes, and pastries. Popular choices include rye bread, layered honey cakes, and sweet buns filled with cream or jam.
Northeastern-style dumplings are a staple in Harbin’s food scene. Made with a variety of fillings, including pork, cabbage, shrimp, and chives, these dumplings are juicy and flavorful.
Grilled skewers are a popular street food along Central Street, especially in the evening. Options range from lamb and chicken to vegetables and tofu.
Guo Bao Rou, a sweet and sour pork dish, is a must-try when in Harbin. The pork is thinly sliced, fried to a crispy texture, and coated in a tangy sauce.
Sugar-coated fruit skewers are a favorite winter treat on Central Street. Traditionally made with hawthorn berries, modern versions include grapes, strawberries, and even small tomatoes.
Eating ice cream during Harbin's freezing winters may seem counterintuitive, but it’s a long-standing local tradition. The ice cream is creamy and rich, with flavors like vanilla and chocolate.
Laobing, a type of thick pancake, can be stuffed with savory or sweet fillings such as red bean paste, minced pork, or green onions.
Freshwater fish grilled over an open flame and seasoned with spices is a popular dish on Central Street. The fish is often served whole, accompanied by a spicy dipping sauce.
For those who love seafood, shrimp dumplings are a perfect choice. These delicate dumplings are filled with a mix of shrimp and pork, offering a savory and slightly sweet flavor.
Harbin’s proximity to Korea means that Korean BBQ has a significant presence on Central Street. Grilled meats, kimchi, and Korean-style pancakes are highlights.
Japanese cuisine is also gaining popularity in Harbin. Sushi rolls and steaming bowls of ramen are perfect for those seeking a lighter meal.
This traditional dessert is made from hawthorn berries and sugar, shaped into small, chewy squares. It’s both sweet and tangy, offering a unique taste.
Russian-style chocolates and sweets are widely available on Central Street. Brands like Alenka are popular among locals and visitors alike.
Kvass, a traditional Russian fermented drink, is widely sold along Central Street. It has a mildly sweet, tangy flavor and is slightly carbonated.
Hot soy milk is a comforting drink during Harbin’s cold winters. Served sweetened or unsweetened, it pairs perfectly with savory snacks.
Central Street in Harbin is not just a sightseeing destination but also a culinary journey. With its rich variety of Russian-inspired dishes, Northeastern specialties, and street snacks, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re indulging in hearty Russian borscht, savoring sugar-coated fruit skewers, or sipping hot soy milk, the flavors of Central Street will leave a lasting impression.