下酒菜
xià jiǔ càiSmall dishes served with alcoholic drinks to enhance the drinking experience.
他边喝啤酒边吃下酒菜。
He drank beer while eating dishes to go with it.
这种下酒菜非常下饭，你一定要尝尝。
This dish goes really well with drinks—you must try it.
Commonly used in Chinese dining culture, especially during social drinking.
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Cultural Insight
下酒菜 reflects the Chinese dining culture of pairing small dishes with alcohol to stimulate appetite and conversation. It is common in both casual gatherings and formal banquets.
⚡Gold Rule
Usage Context
下酒菜 is always served with alcohol, while 下饭菜 is served with rice. Do not confuse the two.
📖Word Origin
下 (xià) means 'to go with' or 'to accompany'; 酒 (jiǔ) means 'alcohol'; 菜 (cài) means 'dish'. The phrase literally means 'dishes to accompany alcohol.'
📝Usage Notes
下酒菜 is typically served in small portions and can include cold dishes, nuts, or light snacks. It is not the main course but enhances the drinking experience.