Create Your Card

🍽️ Step 1: Your Flavor Preferences (I like...)

Tell the chef what you enjoy. This helps with recommendations.

🚫 Step 2: Dietary Restrictions & Allergies (I avoid...)

Critical for health and dietary needs.

📝 Step 3: Additional Note (Optional)

How to Use:

1. Select your preferences and restrictions above.
2. Click "Generate". Show the card on your phone to waiters or chefs.
3. For severe allergies, always verbally confirm.

Your Visual Dining Card

🚫

请选择您的口味偏好与饮食限制

Please select your flavor preferences and dietary restrictions above.

💡 Tip for Best Results:

Point to the Chinese text, smile, and say “Qǐng kàn zhège” (Please look at this). You can also show the saved image offline.

A Traveler‘s Guide to Dining in China with Confidence

This guide, provided by HelloChinaTrip travel experts, offers deeper insight beyond the card to ensure a safe and enjoyable culinary experience in China.

Understanding Chinese Menu & Cooking Styles

Chinese cuisine is diverse. Knowing key terms helps: Chǎo (炒) is stir-fried (often with oil), Zhēng (蒸) is steamed (usually lighter), Zhǔ (煮) is boiled. Dishes labeled “Málà (麻辣)” are numbing and very spicy.

Navigating Common Allergens & Hidden Ingredients

Peanut Oil: Widely used for frying. If you have a peanut allergy, our card says “No peanut oil,” but also ask verbally: “Zhè ge cài yòng huāshēngyóu le ma?” (Did this dish use peanut oil?).
Wheat & Gluten: Found in soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and many marinades. “Gluten-Free” is a challenging concept in standard Chinese kitchens.
Vegetarian/Vegan Caution: Vegetable dishes may be cooked with animal-based broths or lard. Our “Vegetarian” card option stresses “no meat, no animal stock.”

Cultural Tips for Effective Communication

Politeness goes a long way. Pair the visual card with a smile and simple phrases. If unsure, seeking help from your hotel concierge to write down specific needs can be very effective.

Smart Chinese Dining Communication Card