Louvre
Time-Honored BrandLouvre · Zhejiang · Founded 1848
A century-old culinary landmark in Hangzhou, renowned for West Lake Vinegar Fish and Dongpo Pork, embodying the refined flavors and cultural memory of Jiangnan cuisine.
Brand Story
Founded in 1848 by Hong Ruitang at the foot of Gushan Hill by West Lake, Louwailou takes its name from a line by Southern Song poet Lin Sheng: 'Beyond the hills, beyond the green hills, beyond the towers, a tower.' What began as a modest lakeside eatery grew into a celebrated restaurant. During the Republic era, it became a gathering place for literati such as Yu Dafu and Lu Xun, who left behind many anecdotes. After public-private partnership in the 1950s, Louwailou became a symbol of Hangzhou's culinary culture. Its dishes, blending West Lake scenery with Jiangnan techniques, especially vinegar fish and water shield soup, earned it the title 'First Tower of West Lake.' Through wars and changes, Louwailou has upheld tradition, becoming a representative brand of Hangzhou cuisine and an integral part of West Lake's cultural landscape.
“A tower named for its cuisine, a gathering place for literary minds.”
Signature Products
Grass carp in a sweet-and-sour vinegar sauce, tender and flavorful; a classic Hangzhou dish. (approx. ¥150-300)
Pork belly slow-braised until glossy and tender, rich yet not greasy; said to originate from Su Dongpo. (approx. ¥80-150)
Stir-fried shrimp with pre-Ming Longjing tea leaves, fresh and refreshing with a delicate tea aroma. (approx. ¥200-400)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Zhejiang（浙江）
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Cultural Note
Louwailou's cooking emphasizes the natural flavors of ingredients, with meticulous attention to heat and seasoning balance, carrying on the Hangzhou style of 'light, fresh, and tender.' Its dishes harmonize with the scenic beauty of West Lake, creating a unique culture of 'dining with a view.' Traditional techniques, such as the precise heat control for vinegar fish and the slow-braising method for Dongpo Pork, reflect the delicacy and elegance of Jiangnan gastronomy.
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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 Louvre founded?
Louvre was founded in 1848, originating in Zhejiang, Zhejiang, primarily in the Other field.
What is the signature product of Louvre?
Its signature product is West Lake Vinegar Fish. 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: