Qifangge
Time-Honored BrandQifangge · Jiangsu · Founded
Qifangge, a time-honored restaurant in Jiangsu, is renowned for its Qinhuai-style snacks, carrying the culinary memory of the ancient capital of six dynasties.
Brand Story
Qifangge was founded in the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China, with no exact year recorded. It is said to have originated as a teahouse near Confucius Temple in Nanjing, and through generations of careful management, it evolved into a renowned eatery offering both tea and snacks. During the Republic era, Qifangge gained fame for its duck-oil crispy sesame cakes and assorted vegetable buns, becoming a gathering place for literati and common folk alike. Its name, meaning 'rare delicacies that leave a lingering fragrance in the mouth,' reflects a pursuit of culinary excellence. The rise and fall of Qifangge is closely tied to the changes of Nanjing, witnessing the prosperity and vicissitudes of the Confucius Temple area. Its traditional techniques, such as the flaky layering of duck-oil cakes and the blending of fillings, follow ancient methods passed down through generations, making it an important carrier of Jinling culinary culture. Despite lacking an officially recognized founding year, its status and influence in Nanjing's culinary history make it an indispensable part of China's time-honored brand heritage.
“[待核]”
Signature Products
Made with duck oil and flour, layered and flaky, with a golden crispy exterior and savory filling, it is Qifangge's signature snack. (2-5 yuan each)
Stuffed with a rich filling of greens, mushrooms, and dried tofu, with thin skin and generous filling, offering a fresh and light taste that reflects Jinling's vegetarian tradition. (3-6 yuan each)
Prepared with yellow beef, simmered slowly over low heat, resulting in a clear and flavorful broth with tender meat. Best enjoyed with crispy cakes. (10-20 yuan per bowl)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Jiangsu(江苏)
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Cultural Note
The traditional snack-making techniques of Qifangge, especially the baking process of duck-oil crispy cakes, emphasize the coordination of heat and skill, reflecting the refinement and pragmatism of Jinling cuisine. Its business style and dishes are deeply influenced by the market culture along the Qinhuai River, serving as a living fossil for studying modern Nanjing social life and dietary customs.
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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 Qifangge founded?
Qifangge was founded in null, originating in Jiangsu, Jiangsu, primarily in the Dining field.
What is the signature product of Qifangge?
Its signature product is Duck-Oil Crispy Sesame Cake. 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: