Steamed lotus root stuffed with glutinous rice is a cold dish traditionally served before the main course. Lotus root from the West Lake is known throughout China as being of the highest quality, making the dish a popular choice with diners.

桂花糯米藕是一道涼菜，一般在上主菜之前供食客品嘗。產自西子湖畔的蓮藕以其品質聞名全國，使得這道菜備受老饕們的歡迎。