Songhelou
Time-Honored BrandSonghelou · Jiangsu · Founded
Established in the Qing Dynasty, Songhelou is a renowned Suzhou restaurant celebrated for its authentic Su-style cuisine. Famous for dishes like Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish, it embodies the essence of Jiangnan culinary culture, blending fresh ingredients with exquisite techniques.
Brand Story
Located in Suzhou, Jiangsu, Songhelou is a representative Suzhou-style restaurant with a history dating back to the Qianlong era (c. 1736-1795). Founded by a merchant surnamed Xu, it began as a modest eatery and gained renown for its exceptional dishes. In the late Qing and early Republic period, it moved to Guanqian Street, becoming a leader in Suzhou's dining scene. Key figure Chen Ada, a celebrated chef, refined classics like Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish, boosting its fame. Songhelou has witnessed Suzhou's modern commercial and culinary evolution, its cuisine reflecting the region's water-town ingredients and meticulous cooking. It stands as a cultural landmark, intertwined with Suzhou's gardens and Pingtan storytelling, embodying the refinement and leisure of Jiangnan life.
“食在松鹤，味在江南（待核）”
Signature Products
Crispy outside, tender inside, with a sweet-and-sour flavor and a squirrel-like shape. A classic Suzhou dish. (approx. ¥150-300)
Made with white shrimp from Taihu Lake, smooth and fresh, reflecting the light, natural taste of Suzhou cuisine. (approx. ¥80-150)
Tender eel shreds served with sizzling hot oil poured at the table, fragrant with pepper. (approx. ¥100-200)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Jiangsu（江苏）
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Cultural Note
Songhelou preserves the traditions of Suzhou cuisine, emphasizing knife skills, heat control, and natural flavors. Its signature Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish requires precise cutting and frying, showcasing Jiangnan's culinary aesthetics. The restaurant also participates in intangible cultural heritage protection, promoting the inheritance of Su-style cooking.
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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 Songhelou founded?
Songhelou was founded in null, originating in Jiangsu, Jiangsu, primarily in the Dining field.
What is the signature product of Songhelou?
Its signature product is Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin 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: