Chongqing is a city made for night owls and food lovers alike. Its dramatic landscape—built on hills and surrounded by rivers—makes for a stunning backdrop as the city lights up after sunset. Whether you’re captivated by the glittering skyline or the bustling riverside scenes, Chongqing offers memorable dinner experiences that go beyond just good food. Our favorite is the Chongqing City Private Night Tour with Hot Pot Dinner, which combines scenic views, local culture, and a classic hot pot meal in one evening. It’s a perfect way to see the city’s highlights and enjoy its culinary charm in one go.
For travelers interested in the city’s modern, futuristic side, the Chongqing Cyberpunk City Night Tour Including Dinner offers a high-energy experience with illuminated skyscrapers, river cruises, and a stylish riverside dinner. Finally, those curious about traditional culture and local flavors should consider the Qingyu Banquet Experience with Show and Dinner, which blends local Bayu cuisine with lively performances. Below, we explore each of these top options to help you decide which best suits your tastes and schedule.
1. Chongqing City Private Night Tour with Hot Pot Dinner
At number one on our list, this private night tour combines Chongqing’s most iconic nighttime sights with an authentic hot pot dinner in a popular local restaurant. Starting with a pickup from your hotel, you’ll hop into a private, air-conditioned vehicle and cross the Yangtze River via cable car—an experience in itself that offers panoramic views of the city and river confluences. The tour then continues with visits to Hongya Cave, a 2,300-year-old site where you’ll see the vibrant night views of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers meeting. Your guide will walk you through bustling streets like Zhiyan River bar street and Tiancheng Lane Bayu Custom Street, giving you a real sense of daily life in Chongqing.
The highlight for many is the drive across illuminated city highways and bridges, culminating in a top-grade view from a hilltop overlook where the city’s skyline sparkles like a jewel box. Later, you’ll enjoy a hot pot dinner at a local restaurant favored by residents, where you can observe and participate in the beloved local hot pot tradition—spicy broths, fresh ingredients, and lively chatter. This tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive evening of sightseeing, culture, and delicious food, all in a flexible, private setting.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a personalized, relaxed way to see Chongqing’s night scene and indulge in its famous hot pot, making it ideal for travelers who want depth and comfort.
2. Chongqing Cyberpunk City Night Tour Including Dinner
If you’re drawn to futuristic cityscapes and high-tech lighting, the Chongqing Cyberpunk City Night Tour Including Dinner is perfect. This 4-6 hour experience takes you into the heart of Chongqing’s modern, neon-lit districts—areas that look like they’re straight out of a sci-fi movie. The tour kicks off with a visit to the Jiefang Monument, a symbol of the city, where you’ll sample highly recommended local food, including Chongqing’s spicy hotpot, which is a must-try for any foodie.
Next, you’ll board a cruise to explore the city’s illuminated riverside attractions, including skyscrapers, stilt houses, and bridges that turn into glowing art installations at night. The cruise offers a spectacular water-level view of the city’s luminous skyline. The tour then moves to Liujia Wharf, a lively riverside district packed with trendy restaurants and bars—ideal for soaking in the city’s energetic vibe. This experience is great for travelers eager to see Chongqing from multiple angles—on land, water, and from above—while enjoying a meal in a stylish setting.
Bottom Line: This tour balances modern city sights with a fun cruise, perfect for those interested in Chongqing’s emerging futuristic identity and lively nightlife.
$140.00 per person
3. Chongqing: Qingyu Banquet Experience with Show and Dinner
For a taste of traditional Bayu culture combined with an entertaining performance, the Qingyu Banquet Experience is a standout. Priced affordably at $51 per person, this experience offers a themed dining event that features classic Bayu dishes with a modern twist. The meal is accompanied by lively dance and music performances, giving diners a lively cultural atmosphere. You’ll also have the chance to dress up in ancient costumes with professional makeup artists, making this a fun, immersive experience.
What makes this banquet unique is its focus on local flavors and culture—a chance to enjoy the culinary traditions of the Bayu people while watching performances that bring their stories and heritage to life. It’s well suited for travelers who want an affordable yet authentic cultural experience without sacrificing entertainment. The combination of food, costumes, and performances creates a memorable evening that showcases Chongqing’s rich regional identity.
Bottom Line: This banquet is a fantastic choice for travelers seeking an affordable, culturally immersive dinner with lively performances that highlight local traditions.
$51 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Chongqing Dinner Experience
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, schedule, and interests. The private night tour with hot pot offers a personalized, relaxed experience perfect for those wanting detailed sightseeing combined with a classic meal. The cyberpunk city tour appeals to those fascinated by modern architecture and energetic river views, especially if you’re short on time. Meanwhile, the Qingyu Banquet provides a cultural taste of local traditions in an affordable, lively setting suitable for families or budget travelers.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular activities like the private tour or dinner shows, to secure your preferred date. If you’re after a comprehensive evening with scenic views and local flavor, the private hot pot tour is hard to beat. For a more modern, high-energy experience that showcases Chongqing’s futuristic side, the cyberpunk cruise is ideal. And if you want to learn about traditional Bayu culture, the banquet with show offers both great food and entertainment.
Final Thoughts
Chongqing’s dinner options are as diverse as the city itself—from glittering skyline cruises to steaming hot pots and traditional Banquet shows. For travelers seeking a deep dive into the city’s illuminated landmarks and local culinary scene, the Chongqing City Private Night Tour with Hot Pot Dinner is a top pick. If modern cityscapes and river cruises excite you, the Cyberpunk Night Tour offers an energetic, high-tech evening. And for a taste of local culture with lively performances, the Qingyu Banquet provides an authentic, affordable experience.
No matter your choice, Chongqing’s night scene promises unforgettable sights, flavors, and memories. Planning ahead and booking early will ensure you enjoy these top dinner experiences at their best.