In Hai'an, breakfast is not just a meal but a sensory experience that delights locals and visitors alike. As the sun rises, the streets come alive with the aroma of freshly cooked delicacies, each offering a unique taste of this charming town.

The golden, fluffy youtiao (fried dough sticks) emerge from the fryer, their crispy exteriors inviting a satisfying crunch with every bite.

For those seeking comfort in a bowl, the fish soup noodles offer a rich, savory broth that warms the soul. The noodles swim in this flavorful soup, offering a hearty start to the day.

Equally enticing are the freshly made shrimp cakes. Their crispy, golden-brown shells give way to a soft, chewy center, offering an exquisite contrast that is both satisfying and memorable. Similarly, the sesame balls, with their golden, crispy exteriors and hollow, airy interiors, are lightly sweet and not at all greasy, making them a delightful treat.

The rice cakes, made from pressed glutinous rice, are fried to a perfect golden brown. With a crisp outer layer that crackles with each bite, the inside remains soft and chewy, demonstrating a perfect balance of textures.

No breakfast in Hai'an is complete without the radish bun. Paired with a warm bowl of cornmeal porridge, this combination offers a comforting embrace that soothes from the inside out.

Finally, there's the versatile shaobing, a baked flatbread that invites personal preference. Some enjoy it with a bowl of savory tofu pudding mixed with scallions, pickled vegetables, and sesame oil, while others prefer the subtle sweetness of sugared soy milk.