Best BBQ in Lanzhou: A Review of Shao Kao Hutong at Anning Road249

As an avid outdoor enthusiast, my weekends are often spent exploring new trails, conquering challenging peaks, or simply relaxing in nature. But even the most dedicated nature lover needs a good meal, and that's where Shao Kao Hutong (烧烤户外兰州安宁路店) comes in. Located on Anning Road in Lanzhou, this restaurant offers a unique blend of delicious BBQ and a surprisingly pleasant outdoor atmosphere, making it a perfect stop for adventurers like myself, or anyone looking for a fantastic meal.

The first thing that strikes you about Shao Kao Hutong is its location. While not directly nestled within a scenic natural area, its placement on Anning Road offers a surprising amount of charm. The restaurant cleverly utilizes its outdoor space, creating a relaxed and inviting ambiance. Instead of the cramped, bustling feel of many city BBQ joints, Shao Kao Hutong presents a more spacious setting. Depending on the time of day and weather, you can often find yourself seated under string lights, surrounded by potted plants, giving a sense of calm amidst the urban sprawl. It feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.

The menu itself is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to quality and variety. Shao Kao, meaning "grilled meat," is, of course, the star of the show. But it's not just your average run-of-the-mill BBQ. They offer an impressive range of meats, seafood, and vegetables, all meticulously prepared and grilled to perfection. I've tried everything from succulent lamb skewers (a Lanzhou specialty) to perfectly charred prawns and tender chicken wings. Each bite was bursting with flavour. Their marinade blends are unique and subtly complex, highlighting the natural taste of the ingredients without overpowering them. There’s a clear focus on freshness; you can taste the difference.

Beyond the meats, the sides are also noteworthy. Their selection of fresh salads offers a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the BBQ. The accompanying sauces are equally diverse, from spicy chili oil to a more delicate sesame dressing. This gives you ample options to customize your dining experience according to your taste preferences. Their selection of local Lanzhou beers perfectly complements the food, providing a cool and refreshing accompaniment to a hot and spicy meal.

What truly sets Shao Kao Hutong apart, however, is its attention to detail. The staff are incredibly friendly and attentive, always ready to offer recommendations or assist with ordering. Their English language skills, while not perfect, are adequate enough for ordering and understanding the menu. This is a significant plus for foreign visitors or those who don't speak fluent Mandarin. The cleanliness of the restaurant is also commendable; everything is well-maintained, and the tables and seating are always kept clean and organized.

One aspect that resonates deeply with my outdoor enthusiast sensibilities is the restaurant’s commitment to sustainable practices. While not explicitly advertised, I observed that they utilize reusable plates and cutlery, minimizing disposable waste. This subtle but important detail reinforces their dedication to environmental consciousness, a value I highly appreciate.

On several occasions, I've visited Shao Kao Hutong with friends after a long day of hiking or cycling in the surrounding areas. The relaxed atmosphere, the delicious food, and the attentive service always make it a perfect ending to an adventurous day. It's the type of place where you can comfortably linger over your meal, sharing stories and laughter with your companions.

The pricing is also reasonable, especially considering the quality of the food and the ambiance. It’s definitely on the higher end compared to some street food options, but it’s well worth the extra cost for the superior quality and relaxed setting. It’s a great place for a special occasion or a celebratory meal after a successful outdoor adventure.

However, there are a few minor downsides. The restaurant can get quite busy, especially on weekends, so making a reservation is highly recommended. Also, while the outdoor seating is fantastic, it can be affected by inclement weather. There is some indoor seating available, but it lacks the charm of the outdoor area.

Overall, Shao Kao Hutong (烧烤户外兰州安宁路店) is a highly recommended restaurant, particularly for outdoor enthusiasts. Its unique combination of delicious BBQ, pleasant outdoor ambiance, attentive service, and reasonable pricing makes it a standout dining experience in Lanzhou. Whether you’re celebrating a successful hike or simply looking for a delicious meal in a relaxing setting, Shao Kao Hutong is an excellent choice.

My recommendation? Try the lamb skewers – they’re a true taste of Lanzhou. And don't forget to order a local beer to complete the experience. You won't be disappointed.

2025-06-14

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