Songhelou
A historic Suzhou restaurant serving authentic Jiangnan cuisine with a rich tradition dating back over 250 years. Famous for its signature squirrel fi...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Songhelou
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Suzhou restaurant serving authentic Jiangnan cuisine with a rich tradition dating back over 250 years. Famous for its signature squirrel fish and delicate local flavors.
"This is a great restaurant to gain a great taste of genuine Suzhou dishes plus some in house specialities."
Book Weekends in Advance
Ensure seating availability by making reservations, especially for weekend visits.
Visit During Off-Peak Hours
Enjoy a more relaxed dining experience by visiting outside of busy meal times.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Chinese (Suzhou)
Price
$$$
Phone
+86 512 6727 2285
Address
72 Taijian Ln, 太监弄平江区 Suzhou, Jiangsu, China, 215005
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish
A signature Suzhou dish, beautifully presented and crispy, offering a unique sweet and savory flavor profile.
Authentic Suzhou Cuisine
Experience traditional Jiangnan cuisine with melt-in-your-mouth braised pork and delicate flavors.
Historic Dining Experience
Dine in a restaurant with over 250 years of history, known for its authentic regional dishes and relaxing atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Weekends in Advance
Ensure seating availability by making reservations, especially for weekend visits.
Visit During Off-Peak Hours
Enjoy a more relaxed dining experience by visiting outside of busy meal times.
Try Multiple Dishes
Savor the variety of flavors by ordering and sharing several dishes from the extensive menu.
Mind Kitchen Closing Time
Be aware that the kitchen closes strictly at 1:30 PM; late arrivals may be turned away.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Weekends in Advance
Ensure seating availability by making reservations, especially for weekend visits.
Visit During Off-Peak Hours
Enjoy a more relaxed dining experience by visiting outside of busy meal times.
Try Multiple Dishes
Savor the variety of flavors by ordering and sharing several dishes from the extensive menu.
Mind Kitchen Closing Time
Be aware that the kitchen closes strictly at 1:30 PM; late arrivals may be turned away.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Songhelou is celebrated for its authentic Suzhou cuisine and historical significance, with many praising signature dishes like the squirrel fish and braised pork. While the food is consistently rated highly for its fresh ingredients and delicate flavors, some reviewers note that service can be lacking refinement during peak hours and prices are on the higher side.
"The best place for famous Suzhou dishes! My all time favorites are the squirrel fish, longjin shrimp, and crab meat tofu."
Connie C
"Famous for its Suzhou squirrel fish, which I do have to commend on their knife skills and frying technique. While the fish is fresh, the sauce is rather one dimensional and flat. Worth the try while you’re at Suzhou, but don’t have high expectations for it."
Xin Yi Chan
"A must-visit in Suzhou! This restaurant delivered an unforgettable taste of local Jiangnan cuisine. The sweet & savory Suzhou-style braised pork was melt-in-your-mouth perfection, and the squirrel-shaped mandarin fish was not only delicious but beautifully presented. We loved the balance of traditional flavors with elegant plating. Cozy atmosphere, friendly service, and great for capturing foodie shots! Don’t miss this spot if you're exploring Suzhou’s culinary scene."
pepperidge farm
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Songhelou is most famous for its authentic Suzhou cuisine, particularly the signature squirrel-shaped mandarin fish and traditional braised pork.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend visits, to ensure you can get a table.
Songhelou serves authentic Suzhou cuisine, also known as Jiangnan cuisine, which is characterized by its delicate, slightly sweet, and savory flavors.
Highly recommended dishes include the squirrel-shaped mandarin fish, Suzhou-style braised pork, longjin shrimp, and crab meat tofu.
The kitchen strictly closes at 1:30 PM. It's advisable to arrive before then to place your order.
Yes, compared to the fast pace of Shanghai or Hangzhou eateries, Songhelou offers a more relaxed atmosphere where you can savor your meal.
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Another famous restaurant in Suzhou to enjoy traditional local cuisine is Songhelou restaurant. This restaurant is located in the busiest area of Suzhou and is also considered one of the four most famous restaurants in China. Established in 1737, this restaurant rich in tradition still retains its characteristics from the old days, ensuring the use of the best seasonal ingredients.
Suzhou food and restaurant, Suzhou cuisine, what to eat in Suzhou
The 2 most famous restaurants are Songhelou (Address: 141 Guanqian Street) and Deyulou (Address: 27 Taijian Lane, Guanqian Street). Other recommended restaurants are Nankai Restaurant (123 North Dongwu Street), Wangsi Restaurant (23 Taijian Lane) and Wanjiadenghuo Restaurant (379 Phoenix Street).
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Song He Lou is an old brand Suzhou restaurant with more than 200 years' history since 1757. The good and authentic Suzhou cuisine here is noted worldwide. To a large extent, Song He Lou stands for Suzhou foods.
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