Lao Men Dong (θι¨δΈ) is a reconstructed historic block in the southern old city, adjacent to the Confucius Temple area, that has been developed as a pedestrian heritage shopping and dining district. The architecture recreates Ming and Qing merchant buildings with varying degrees of authenticity. The commercial mix includes traditional craft shops, a range of Nanjing snack vendors, tea houses, and craft beer bars.
The development is openly commercial and varies in quality, but at its best the lanes have a pleasant, walkable atmosphere. The specialty food vendors are generally reliable β this is one of the better places to try Nanjing duck blood soup, pan-fried dumplings, and sesame flatbreads in a single walk. Good value street food is clustered near the south entrance.