Where to eat and drink after a day at Canton Fair

Twice a year, Guangzhou plays host to one of the world’s largest trade fairs. The Canton Fair attracts vendors from far and wide to show off their wares, while buyers flock to snap up the goods. There is truly something for everyone, from electronics to glassware, from machinery to clothing, and from home décor to textiles.

After a few hours exploring the vast exhibition halls that make up Canton Fair Complex on Guangzhou’s Pazhou Island, you’ll no doubt work up an appetite. Fortunately, the city has no shortage of excellent dining destinations. Here are some of the best restaurants and bars in Guangzhou to head to after a day at the Canton Fair.

For easy access from Canton Fair

RongEra (容時代)

A short drive or tram ride from the Canton Fair Complex, this eatery offers al fresco dining along the Pearl River, with a spectacular view of the surrounding bridges and skyline. Its menu comprises hearty Western dishes like seafood pasta and steak, as well as salads and a selection of colourful drinks. Take in the riverside vibes as the setting sun casts an orange glow over Guangzhou’s cityscape.

118 Modiesha Street, Haizhu District, Guangzhou

Prego

For more vibrant city views but in a modern, sky-high setting, walk a few steps from Canton Fair to The Westin Pazhou, where you’ll find Italian restaurant Prego occupying the top floor. In this spacious venue, floor-to-ceiling windows allow you to admire the urban skyline as you chow down on margherita pizzas, grilled sirloin and risotto in white sauce. Complete your meal with a serving of tiramisu and a glass of white wine.

Floor 40, 6 Linhezhong Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou

Supa Fama (農場西餐)

Located in a shopping complex in Pazhou, Supa Fama is just a short car ride from Canton Fair. Its steampunk-inspired interior is interspersed throughout with greenery, creating a relaxing atmosphere in which to enjoy a mix of Western and Chinese cuisine. You’ll find trendy dishes like cheesy bolognese fries, avocado shakes, truffle fried rice and salads packed with greens – as if plucked straight from the décor.  

Floor 6, Pazhou Poly Plaza, Haizhu District, Guangzhou

For a taste of Guangzhou’s Cantonese cuisine 

Jiang by Chef Fei

Housed in the Mandarin Oriental, Guangzhou, this two-Michelin-star restaurant emanates an air of poise and calm – just the thing after a day mingling among crowds. You can get here by hopping on a free shuttle bus from Canton Fair. Dine on classic dim sum like shrimp dumplings and crispy pastries, or opt for refined Cantonese dishes starring premium ingredients like foie gras, abalone, crab, lobster and braised meat.

389 Tianhe Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou

Panxi Restaurant (泮溪酒家)

Perched on the very edge of Liwan Lake, this time-honoured venue oozes character, and is well worth the trip from Canton Fair. With its upturned tiled roof, panelled ceiling and lakeside decor, Panxi Restaurant pays homage traditional Chinese architecture. In addition to dim sum staples such as soup dumplings and char siu bao (roast pork buns), you’ll find other Cantonese delicacies like roasted baby pigeon and goose.

151 Longjinxi Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou

For drinks

The Roof Bar

Also accessible by shuttle bus from Canton Fair, this rooftop terrace sits above the city on the 70th floor of Park Hyatt Guangzhou. An ideal spot to unwind for the night, it boasts live music by a resident band and views of the multicoloured Canton Tower, which dwarfs its neighbouring buildings. A range of cocktails, wines and spirits pair well with light bites like crispy chicken wings, applewood-smoked salmon tartare and wagyu cubes.  

16 Huaxia Road, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District, Guangzhou

DSK Cocktail Club

From the team behind celebrated Guangzhou bar Hope & Sesame comes this swanky establishment inspired by classic hotel lounges. DSK is spread across three levels; the lobby lounge on the ground floor is ideal for socialising, with comfy low seating and warm lighting, while the top two floors offer a more exclusive, personalised experience. Guest numbers are kept small, so it’s recommended that you make a reservation at least one day in advance, via WeChat or email.

1 Qingming First Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou