Dali | The locals really keep their mouths shut! This Bai-style barbecue is absolutely delicious

| The locals really keep their mouths shut! This Bai-style barbecue is absolutely amazing. Our Didi driver recommended trying Bai-style barbecue, saying it's quite different from what we're used to. After exploring the ancient town in the afternoon, we randomly walked into this place—and it turned out to be incredible! As soon as we entered, we noticed lots of tie-dye decorations, giving it such a distinctive Dali vibe! **Haidong Eggplant Barbecue** No. 1, Building 11, No. 36 Lüyu Road, Lüyu Community, Dali Town, Dali City **Wild Herb Stir-Fried Chicken** Never had chicken cooked this way before—such a unique flavor! The staff explained it’s a traditional Bai ethnic preparation. The dish is packed with all sorts of wild herbs, including small hawthorns and green limes—ingredients I’ve never seen in a dish before! The chicken is incredibly flavorful, with a perfect balance of sour and spicy notes. So distinctive! **Wild Mushroom Claypot Rice** This claypot rice is loaded with so many types of wild mushrooms! At first, I thought it might just have a sprinkle of dried mushrooms on top, but when it arrived, the aroma was irresistible. The rice is perfectly cooked, each grain separate and glossy after mixing in all those mushrooms! **Haidong Eggplant** This dish lives up to its reputation! Fresh eggplant, charcoal-grilled and smothered in garlic paste and minced meat—so generous with the toppings! I even discovered a new way to enjoy it: mix it with the wild mushroom claypot rice. Oh my goodness! The combination of the mushrooms’ earthy fragrance and the savory eggplant and meat is indescribable—only those who’ve tried it will understand the sheer bliss of that first bite!!! **Dairy Duo: Rushan and Rubing** Everyone says you have to try grilled Rushan in Dali—here, you can enjoy both Rushan and Rubing in one go! The Rushan is crispy, while the Rubing (made with goat’s milk, as the staff explained) has an incredibly rich, cheesy flavor. Paired with rose petal jam, the mix of creamy and floral notes is absolutely divine!!! Everything in the set was a hit. The *baojiang* tofu was so tender, and with the Bai-style dipping sauce, I couldn’t stop at just one piece—I devoured three! The beef skewers were huge, with generous chunks of meat. The staff were super friendly too, always attentive and quick to clear our empty plates. The place is super popular—we arrived fairly early, and before long, every seat inside and out was taken. If you’re planning to go, remember to arrive early! If you want to experience authentic Bai-style barbecue, this spot comes highly recommended~