Restaurants at Shahu Lake Scenic Area specialize in full fish feasts. For honored guests, they serve giant bighead carp heads freshly caught from the lake, each weighing 15 to 25 kilograms. The dish is a delight for both taste and sight, winning high praise from all diners. It has even been served at China’s state banquets.

Covering 45 square kilometers of water surface, Shahu Lake was originally a fishing ground before its development as a tourist attraction, home to diverse fish and birds that form an interdependent link in the natural food chain. More than ten fish species live here all year round. The local bighead carp, also known as spotted silver carp, has a large head and small body.

The fish head is rich in collagen, with tender and delicate flesh. It contains higher levels of DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid), a polyunsaturated fatty acid conducive to brain development, than ordinary fish. People favor this dish for its rich nutrition, unique flavor and impressive presentation, for the fish head is abundant in what is known as "brain gold".

The giant fish head is stewed with coarse salt. A half-split fish weighing around 2 to 2.5 kilograms is served on a large round plate, accompanied by a bowl of fresh fish soup.

The most tender meat lies behind the gills, which people taste first, followed by the fish lips and back meat. Topped with special sauce, the finished dish looks bright and has no fishy odor. It is best enjoyed with mashed garlic and sesame oil, featuring a smooth, tender and firm texture. The fish head soup tastes fresh, mellow and creamy with a lingering aftertaste.