When exploring Chongqing travel, one attraction that combines history, culture, and food is the underground city old hot pot. Built inside a vast network of air-raid shelters, this hidden gem offers not only authentic flavors but also a unique atmosphere unlike any other restaurant in China.
1.Essential Information for Visitors
Before diving into the details, here are the basics every traveler should know:
Address: Underground City, No. 5 Ji’an Road, Longta Street, Yubei District, Chongqing
Average Cost: About 100 RMB per person (depending on food choices)
Reservation Phone: +86 23 67173800
Nearby Attractions: Longtousi Railway Station, Guanyinqiao Pedestrian Street
This convenient location makes it easy to include in your itinerary, whether you’re arriving by train or exploring Chongqing’s bustling shopping streets nearby.
2.Dining in History: An Underground World
The underground city old hot pot is unlike any other restaurant in the world. Built inside 18 interconnected wartime air-raid shelters, it has been transformed into a sprawling underground city of food and culture.
A Restaurant the Size of Six Football Fields
Spanning 5,000 square meters, this dining hall can accommodate up to 1,000 guests at once. With 218 tables, including banquet-style options for 36 people, it’s an impressive venue suitable for both intimate meals and large celebrations.
A Unique Cultural Setting
Dining here means stepping into history. The stone walls, arched tunnels, and dim lighting remind visitors of Chongqing’s resilience during wartime. Instead of erasing the past, the underground city old hot pot preserves it, creating an immersive atmosphere that elevates every meal.
For international travelers, this is not just dining—it’s experiencing Chongqing’s story first-hand.
3.What to Eat: Authentic Flavors and Fresh Ingredients
No Chongqing travel experience is complete without hot pot, and here, the flavors are as bold as the setting.
Signature Hot Pot Ingredients
Mao Du (Beef Tripe): A must-try, fresh and crispy when cooked quickly in boiling broth.
Duck Intestine: A local delicacy with a chewy texture that hot pot lovers adore.
Tender Beef Slices: Fresh, juicy cuts sourced directly from the slaughterhouse.
Every ingredient is guaranteed fresh, making the underground city old hot pot one of the best places to taste authentic Chongqing cuisine.
Don’t Miss the Egg Fried Rice
Surprisingly, one of the most recommended dishes here isn’t cooked in the pot—it’s the egg fried rice. Guests often rave about its rich flavor and perfect texture, making it the ideal companion to balance the spice of the hot pot.
4.Atmosphere and Group-Friendly Dining
The underground city old hot pot is not only about food but also about its lively social atmosphere.
Perfect for Gatherings
Family Dinners: Smaller tables are ideal for close-knit meals.
Corporate Events: With banquet tables seating up to 36 people, the restaurant is a top choice for team-building and group celebrations.
Mass Dining Experience: Watching hundreds of tables filled with steaming hot pots at the same time is unforgettable.
Late-Night Dining Experience
Chongqing is famous for its nightlife, and this venue fits right in, staying open until 2 AM. Whether you’re ending your evening with friends or starting the night with a feast, this restaurant delivers energy and flavor deep into the night.
5.Why It’s a Must for Chongqing Travel
For tourists, visiting the underground city old hot pot goes beyond eating—it’s about creating a memory that combines food, history, and culture.
A Unique Travel Highlight
Unlike touristy restaurants, this hidden gem is rooted in local culture. You won’t just eat hot pot; you’ll feel the heartbeat of Chongqing itself.
Great for All Types of Travelers
Solo Travelers & Couples: Cozy tables tucked in tunnels offer a special, intimate experience.
Big Groups: Few restaurants in the world can handle parties of up to 1,000 people at once.
A Living Symbol of Chongqing
Chongqing is a city of spice, resilience, and community. Dining here captures all three, making it the perfect addition to any Chongqing travel itinerary.
Practical Tips for Visitors
Best Time to Visit: Evening hours after 7 PM are the most lively.
Spice Level: Chongqing hot pot is famously spicy. If you prefer milder flavors, ask for a dual-flavor pot (half spicy, half clear broth).
Reservations: Recommended for groups larger than 6, especially during weekends.
How to Get There: Located near Longtousi Railway Station, easily accessible by taxi or metro.
FAQ about the Underground City Old Hot Pot
1.What makes the underground city old hot pot special? Its size, unique underground setting, and authentic flavors make it a dining experience you won’t find anywhere else.
2.Can international travelers dine here easily? Yes. The staff is accustomed to serving visitors, and some English menus are available.
3.What are the opening hours? The restaurant is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
4.How much does it cost? On average, about 100–150 RMB per person. Foreign tourists should carry their passport, as it may be requested when paying by certain methods.
Conclusion
The underground city old hot pot is more than a restaurant—it’s a cultural landmark that perfectly blends food, history, and atmosphere. Whether you’re in Chongqing for a short trip or a longer stay, adding this dining experience to your itinerary will leave you with unforgettable memories.
With its massive underground space, fresh ingredients, and late-night vibe, it captures the very essence of Chongqing travel: bold, authentic, and truly unique.
