🏆 Popular Picks — Guilin, China

12 Best Guilin Rice Noodle Shops

Guilin rice noodles (Mifen) are the soul of the city's culinary scene, a simple yet deeply flavorful staple enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

📍 Guilin, China 📝 12 picks 🔄 Updated 2026-03-25

📍 Map

Quick answer

Chongshan Mifen is widely regarded as the quintessential Guilin rice noodle experience, offering consistent quality and authentic flavors.

Best overall
Chongshan Mifen
Best budget
Shi Ji Mifen
Best experience
Youyixuan Mifen
Last verified
2026-03

How we picked these

Our selection of Guilin's top rice noodle shops is based on extensive research, local recommendations, online reviews, and personal visits. We prioritized authenticity, taste, hygiene, value, and overall dining experience to ensure a diverse and high-quality list for every traveler.

#1

Chongshan Mifen (崇善米粉)

Classic Guilin Noodles Local Favorite Chain
Chongshan Mifen (崇善米粉)
📍 NeighborhoodCentral Guilin (multiple locations)
💰 Price Range¥10-25 ($1.40-3.50) per person

Chongshan is arguably the most famous and widespread Guilin rice noodle chain, known for its reliable quality and classic flavors. Their noodles feature a rich, aromatic broth, tender marinated sliced pork, and a generous topping of crispy peanuts and bamboo shoots, making it a perfect introduction to Guilin's signature dish.

🍽️ What to order

Original Rice Noodle Soup (原味米粉) with added marinated pork belly.

💡 Insider tip

They offer different sizes; a 'small' bowl is often sufficient for most appetites. Don't forget to customize your bowl with the chili, pickled beans, and other condiments available at the table.

"You can't go wrong with Chongshan Mifen, it's a solid choice every time. Always my first stop in Guilin for that classic taste."
— r/travelchina user
#2

Ritouhuo Mifen (日头火米粉)

Traditional Noodles Popular Local Hearty Bowls
Ritouhuo Mifen (日头火米粉)
📍 NeighborhoodWangcheng Area
💰 Price Range¥12-28 ($1.70-4) per person

Another prominent local chain, Ritouhuo Mifen distinguishes itself with a slightly bolder broth and generous portions. It's a go-to for locals seeking a robust and filling meal. They are particularly praised for their flavorful stewed beef and braised pork toppings, offering a heartier take on the classic.

🍽️ What to order

Stewed Beef Rice Noodles (红烧牛肉米粉).

💡 Insider tip

If you like a bit of spice, ask for extra chili oil. The side dishes like marinated eggs or tofu are great additions to your noodle bowl.

"Ritouhuo hits different after a long day exploring. Their beef noodles are so rich, definitely a step up from some of the smaller places."
— r/guilin user
#3

Shi Ji Mifen (石记米粉)

Authentic Hidden Gem Budget-Friendly
Shi Ji Mifen (石记米粉)
📍 NeighborhoodXicheng Lu
💰 Price Range¥8-18 ($1.10-2.50) per person

Shi Ji Mifen is a beloved local secret, often cited for its authentic, no-frills experience and incredibly affordable prices. It's a small, bustling shop where the focus is solely on delivering a perfect bowl of traditional Guilin noodles. Their dry-mixed noodles (Banfen) are particularly popular among regulars.

🍽️ What to order

Dry-Mixed Rice Noodles (拌粉) with roasted pork (烧肉).

💡 Insider tip

This place can get very crowded during peak breakfast and lunch hours, so prepare for a short wait or visit during off-peak times. Ordering is usually done at the counter, then you find a seat.

"Shi Ji is my absolute favorite for dry noodles. It's super cheap and the flavors are just perfect, exactly what a local spot should be."
— r/food user
#4

Youyixuan Mifen (又益轩米粉)

Local Specialty Refined Flavors Established
Youyixuan Mifen (又益轩米粉)
📍 NeighborhoodZhongshan Zhong Lu
💰 Price Range¥15-30 ($2.10-4.20) per person

Youyixuan Mifen is known for its clean environment and slightly more refined take on Guilin noodles. While it maintains traditional flavors, it offers a comfortable dining experience often preferred by families or those seeking a bit more ambiance than a typical street-side stall. They excel in the balance of their broth and fresh ingredients.

🍽️ What to order

Three Delicacies Rice Noodles (三鲜米粉) which includes a mix of popular toppings.

💡 Insider tip

They often have a wider selection of side dishes and drinks compared to smaller noodle shops. It's a good place if you want to sit down and relax a bit more.

"If you're looking for a slightly nicer noodle experience without breaking the bank, Youyixuan is a great choice. Their broth is really clean and flavorful."
— r/travel user
#5

Jinbuhuan Mifen (金不换米粉)

Classic Consistent Quality Neighborhood Gem
Jinbuhuan Mifen (金不换米粉)
📍 NeighborhoodXiangshan District
💰 Price Range¥10-25 ($1.40-3.50) per person

Jinbuhuan, meaning 'worth more than gold,' lives up to its name for many locals. This long-standing establishment is praised for its consistency and adherence to traditional Guilin noodle recipes. Their noodles are celebrated for their springy texture and the aromatic oil that coats them, especially in their dry-mixed varieties.

🍽️ What to order

Dry-Mixed Noodles with Crispy Pork (金不换脆皮肉拌粉).

💡 Insider tip

Many locals believe their crispy pork is among the best in the city. Arrive earlier in the day for the freshest batch of toppings.

"Jinbuhuan's crispy pork is legendary. Get it with the dry noodles; you won't regret it. It's a true Guilin classic."
— r/foodchina user
#6

Laodongjiang Mifen (老东江米粉)

Traditional Broth Long-Standing Local Legend
Laodongjiang Mifen (老东江米粉)
📍 NeighborhoodQixing District
💰 Price Range¥9-22 ($1.30-3) per person

Laodongjiang Mifen is a venerable institution, cherished by locals for its deeply flavorful and clear broth, which is simmered for hours. This shop focuses on the purity of the noodle and broth, offering a truly authentic taste of Guilin's culinary heritage. It’s a humble spot where the food speaks for itself.

🍽️ What to order

Clear Broth Rice Noodles (清汤米粉) with roasted pork (烧肉).

💡 Insider tip

This is a great spot to try the simplest version of Guilin noodles to truly appreciate the quality of the broth. Be prepared for a bustling, authentic local dining experience.

"My taxi driver took me to Laodongjiang and said it's where he always eats. The broth was incredibly good, super light but full of flavor."
— r/guilinfood user
#7

Minggui Mifen (明桂米粉)

Tourist-Friendly Reliable Clean Environment
Minggui Mifen (明桂米粉)
📍 NeighborhoodXiangshan District (near Elephant Trunk Hill)
💰 Price Range¥12-28 ($1.70-4) per person

Strategically located near popular tourist attractions, Minggui Mifen offers a clean and welcoming environment for visitors to try Guilin's staple dish. While catering to a broader audience, it maintains a good standard of taste and hygiene, making it a safe and enjoyable choice for those new to the city's food scene.

🍽️ What to order

Braised Pork Rice Noodles (扣肉米粉).

💡 Insider tip

This location is good for combining a meal with sightseeing. They often have English menus or pictures to help with ordering.

"Minggui Mifen was right by our hotel and it was surprisingly good for how touristy the area felt. Clean place, solid noodles."
— r/travel user
#8

Fulai Mifen (福来米粉)

Local Gem Late Night Spicy Options
Fulai Mifen (福来米粉)
📍 NeighborhoodDiecai District
💰 Price Range¥10-20 ($1.40-2.80) per person

Fulai Mifen is a favorite among night owls and locals working late, often staying open longer than other noodle shops. It's known for its robust and sometimes spicier flavor profile, appealing to those who enjoy a bit of a kick. Their ingredients are always fresh, and the service is swift.

🍽️ What to order

Spicy Rice Noodles with Minced Meat (香辣肉沫米粉).

💡 Insider tip

If you're venturing out for a late-night snack, Fulai is a reliable choice. Don't be shy to ask for extra chili if you love heat.

"Walked past Fulai at midnight and it was buzzing! Tried their spicy noodles and it was exactly what I needed after a few beers."
— r/guilinfood user
#9

Laoxiang Mifen (老乡米粉)

Student Favorite No-Frills Generous Portions
Laoxiang Mifen (老乡米粉)
📍 NeighborhoodQixing District (near Guilin University)
💰 Price Range¥8-18 ($1.10-2.50) per person

Laoxiang Mifen, meaning 'old countryman's noodles', embodies simplicity and value, making it a huge hit with students and budget-conscious locals. This humble eatery focuses on serving hearty, traditional bowls without any fuss. The atmosphere is bustling and authentic, reflecting everyday Guilin life.

🍽️ What to order

Plain Rice Noodles with added crispy beans and chili (加酸豆角辣椒拌粉).

💡 Insider tip

It's a true 'hole-in-the-wall' experience. Don't expect fancy decor, just good, honest food at rock-bottom prices. Great for people-watching.

"Laoxiang Mifen is the real deal for cheap, authentic noodles. Always packed with students, which is a good sign!"
— r/food user
#10

Apo Mifen (阿婆米粉)

Home-style Comfort Food Traditional
Apo Mifen (阿婆米粉)
📍 NeighborhoodDiecai District (near Diecai Hill)
💰 Price Range¥9-20 ($1.30-2.80) per person

Apo Mifen, meaning 'Grandma's Noodles', offers a taste of home-cooked comfort. This small, family-run shop prides itself on using traditional methods and fresh, local ingredients to create bowls that evoke a sense of nostalgia for many locals. Their emphasis is on a clean, flavorful broth and perfectly cooked noodles.

🍽️ What to order

Original Broth Noodles (原汤米粉) with a side of pickled radish.

💡 Insider tip

This is a great spot to experience a more intimate, local dining setting. The owners are often present and add to the warm, welcoming atmosphere.

"Apo Mifen felt like eating at a friend's grandma's house. So much heart in their noodles, truly comforting."
— r/travel user
#11

Lijiangshui Mifen (漓江水米粉)

Scenic Location Standard Fare Convenient
Lijiangshui Mifen (漓江水米粉)
📍 NeighborhoodElephant Trunk Hill area
💰 Price Range¥12-25 ($1.70-3.50) per person

Named after the iconic Lijiang River, this shop capitalizes on its convenient location near major tourist spots. While perhaps not as historically celebrated as some, it offers a solid and satisfying bowl of Guilin rice noodles in a clean setting. It's a reliable choice for a quick, authentic meal before or after visiting attractions.

🍽️ What to order

Mixed Noodles with Pork and Bamboo Shoots (笋尖肉丝拌粉).

💡 Insider tip

Its proximity to attractions makes it ideal for a quick refuel. Service is generally efficient, getting you back to sightseeing quickly.

"Grabbed lunch at Lijiangshui Mifen after seeing Elephant Trunk Hill. Perfectly decent noodles and super convenient location."
— r/guilin user
#12

Wangcheng Mifen (王城米粉)

Historical Area Local Staple Value
Wangcheng Mifen (王城米粉)
📍 NeighborhoodJingjiang Princes' City (Wangcheng)
💰 Price Range¥10-22 ($1.40-3) per person

Located within or near the historic Jingjiang Princes' City (Wangcheng), this shop offers a taste of Guilin's staple dish amidst a backdrop of imperial history. It serves a straightforward, traditional Guilin rice noodle, often favored by locals and tourists exploring the ancient city walls. The flavors are classic and unpretentious.

🍽️ What to order

Signature Roasted Pork Noodles (招牌烧肉米粉).

💡 Insider tip

After exploring the Princes' City, this is a great spot to grab a quick, authentic and budget-friendly lunch right in the vicinity.

"Found Wangcheng Mifen right outside the Princes' City gates, and it was a lifesaver. Perfect way to refuel after all that walking, and cheap too."
— r/travel user

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What is Guilin rice noodle (Mifen)?

Guilin rice noodle, or Mifen, is the signature dish of Guilin, China. It consists of thin, chewy rice noodles served either in a savory broth (tangfen) or dry-mixed with a special sauce (banfen), accompanied by marinated meat (like roasted pork or stewed beef), crispy peanuts, pickled bamboo shoots, and a variety of customizable condiments.

How do you eat Guilin rice noodles?

Guilin rice noodles are typically served in two main ways: with broth or dry-mixed. For broth noodles, you simply eat them with chopsticks and a spoon. For dry-mixed noodles, you should thoroughly mix all the ingredients with the sauce at the bottom. Many shops also offer a free bowl of broth on the side to sip or add to your dry noodles after you've eaten some.

What are the common toppings for Guilin rice noodles?

The most common toppings include slices of marinated roasted pork (烧肉), stewed beef (红烧牛肉), braised pork (扣肉), or minced meat (肉沫). Essential garnishes are crispy peanuts, pickled sour bamboo shoots, green onions, and often pickled green beans or radishes. You can also add various chili pastes and oils to customize the spice level.

Are there vegetarian options for Guilin rice noodles?

While traditional Guilin rice noodles are heavily meat-focused, it's sometimes possible to find vegetarian options. You can usually request noodles 'plain' (清粉) or ask for toppings like just peanuts, pickled bamboo shoots, and green onions, ensuring no meat or meat broth is included. Always clarify your dietary needs when ordering.

What's the best time of day to eat Guilin rice noodles?

Guilin locals enjoy rice noodles throughout the day! It's a very popular breakfast item, but also commonly eaten for lunch and dinner. Many shops open early in the morning (around 6 AM) and some stay open late into the night, making it a versatile meal choice no matter when hunger strikes.

What's the difference between broth noodles (tangfen) and dry-mixed noodles (banfen)?

Broth noodles (tangfen) are served submerged in a savory, often clear broth, making for a soup-like experience. Dry-mixed noodles (banfen) come with minimal broth or none at all, instead relying on a concentrated savory sauce at the bottom of the bowl that you mix with the noodles and toppings. Both are popular, and personal preference usually dictates the choice.

Plan your Guilin trip

Get a free custom itinerary for Guilin — built from real traveler insights.

Get a Free Itinerary →

Related Attractions