Eating well in China can be cheap, especially if you use campus canteens.
Where students eat
- University canteens — cheapest and convenient; buffet-style or set meals.
- Local restaurants — everything from noodles to regional cuisine; prices vary.
- Street food / night markets — cheap and varied; choose busy, clean stalls.
- Delivery apps — Meituan and Ele.me deliver widely; often the default for busy days.
Dietary needs
- Halal: many cities have Muslim restaurants; check around campus and ask your university.
- Vegetarian/vegan: plentiful in Chinese cuisine (tofu, vegetables, noodles), but clarify ingredients (meat stock, lard).
- Allergies: learn key phrases in Chinese (“no peanuts”, etc.) and carry a translated card.
Money-saving tips
- Eat in canteens most weekdays.
- Share dishes with friends at local restaurants.
- Use delivery app coupons and promotions.
- Buy fruit and snacks at markets rather than convenience stores.
Practical tips
- Learn a few food words and how to say “no spicy” (不要辣) if needed.
- Tap water is not for drinking — use boiled or bottled water.
- Hygiene: busy stalls with high turnover are usually the safest bet.
Food options vary by city and campus. Ask current students for their favourite local spots.