Jinshuitai
Time-Honored BrandJinshuitai · Jiangsu · Founded
Jinshuitai, a time-honored restaurant in Jiangsu, is renowned for its traditional Suzhou-style noodles and snacks, embodying the culinary heritage of the Jiangnan region.
Brand Story
Founded in the mid-Qing Dynasty, the exact year of Jinshuitai's establishment remains unknown. According to local records, it began as a tea and pastry shop along a canal in Suzhou, hence the name 'Jinshuitai' (meaning 'Platform by the Water'). In the late Qing and early Republic period, owner Wang Afu refined Suzhou noodle-making techniques, introducing the signature 'first-broth noodles' that attracted scholars and commoners alike. During the Republican era, the shop relocated near Guanqian Street, becoming a favorite spot for Suzhou residents to enjoy morning noodles. Its noodles are celebrated for 'clear broth, springy noodles, and savory toppings,' especially braised pork and fried fish noodles. After the public-private partnership in 1956, Jinshuitai was integrated into the Suzhou Catering Service Company, preserving its craft. Though not officially recognized as a China Time-honored Brand, it holds a cherished place in Suzhou's culinary memory, and its noodle-making technique is listed as a Suzhou intangible cultural heritage. Jinshuitai has witnessed Suzhou's transformation from a water town to a modern city, epitomizing Jiangnan's food culture.
Signature Products
Slow-braised pork belly with tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich broth—a classic of Suzhou noodles. (15-25 RMB)
Crispy fried fish pieces soaked in seasoned sauce, served with clear broth and thin noodles—sweet and savory. (12-20 RMB)
Thin-skinned dumplings filled with crab roe and meat, bursting with savory juice—a seasonal autumn delicacy. (20-30 RMB)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Jiangsu（江苏）
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Cultural Note
Jinshuitai's noodle craft emphasizes 'one pot, one broth'—noodles are cooked fresh per order, and the broth is simmered with eel bones and pork bones, clear yet flavorful. The braised pork noodle involves blanching, boiling, and braising over hours, reflecting the Suzhou tradition of meticulous preparation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "China Time-Honored Brand" (中华老字号)?
A China Time-Honored Brand is a designation by China’s Ministry of Commerce for brands with a long history that inherit products, craftsmanship or services across generations and have operated continuously to the present.
When was Jinshuitai founded?
Jinshuitai was founded in null, originating in Jiangsu, Jiangsu, primarily in the Dining field.
What is the signature product of Jinshuitai?
Its signature product is Braised Pork Noodles. See the "Signature / Buy Online" section on this page for more products and shopping links.
Where can I find the official list of China Time-Honored Brands?
You can log into the MOFCOM "China Time-Honored Brand Information Management System", or browse this site’s brand directory — we have profiled 1,451 time-honored brands.
Sources / References
Brand fundamentals (founding year, heritage level, recognition batch) follow official sources such as the MOFCOM time-honored brand list. Story and encyclopedia: