Xiamen’s culinary scene is a treasure trove for food lovers, blending coastal flavors with闽南（Minnan）traditions. For an immersive experience, head to Baiten Kitchen in the Shacheng Riding Camp area. This restored colonial villa serves classic dishes like Fried Rice with Seaweed and Braised Duck in Taro Sauce, paired with live traditional music. Another gem is Nanputuo Temple’s Vegetarian Restaurant, where monks craft creative dishes from soy and mushrooms—try the Buddha-Jump-Over-Wall tofu stew. For street food vibes, Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street offers snacks like Oyster Omelette and Peanut Brittle. Reservations aren’t always required here, but popular spots like 141 Amoy Street (known for seafood hotpot) often book up 2–3 days in advance.
How do I book a table at Xiamen’s top restaurants?
Most high-end restaurants in Xiamen use WeChat Mini Programs or platforms like Meituan for reservations. For example, Hailijiang Restaurant (specializing in seafood) requires booking through its WeChat account. If you’re staying at luxury hotels like Fairmont Xiamen, concierges can assist with reservations. Independent travelers should call ahead using translation apps—phrases like “Wo xiang yuding yi zhang shuang ren tao can” (“I’d like to book a table for two”) come in handy. Some local favorites, like Wu Shang Yi Xiamen Cuisine, offer English menus but don’t accept online bookings, so plan accordingly.
What are the must-try Xiamen specialties?
No trip is complete without sampling Shacha Wudi (peanut soup with pig’s organs) or Jiao Bin Lang Yu (fried fish with chili and vinegar). Coastal influences shine in Jumping Crab (stir-fied with ginger and rice wine) and Sea Snail Rice Noodles. For dessert, Phoenix Tree Cakes (filled with sweet potato or red bean) are a must. Vegetarians should seek out Buddha’s Delight, a mix of mock meats and vegetables. To avoid tourist traps, look for spots with locals queuing—like Huangze Sound Barbecue, where grilled squid and beef skewers draw nightly crowds.
How can I explore more of Xiamen’s culinary scene?
Beyond restaurants, join a food tour led by companies like Xiamen Culinary Walks, which visit markets like Bathau Market for fresh oyster omelettes. For hands-on fun, book a cooking class at Amoy Cooking Studio—learn to make Stir-Fried Mifen (rice noodles) with a local chef. Day trips to Gulangyu Island reveal hidden eateries like Nana’s Café, serving Western-style meals with a local twist. Don’t miss Temple Fair Snacks near South Putuo Temple, where vendors sell bite-sized treats like Coconut-Filled Tarts.
What tips should I know for dining in Xiamen?
- Tipping: Service charges are rare; leave small change or round up the bill.
- Etiquette: Use chopsticks properly—pointing them at people or sticking them upright in rice is considered rude.
- Transport: Use DiDi Taxi or the subway to reach far-flung spots like Jimei District for seafood.
- Hours: Many local eateries close between 2–4 PM, so plan lunch or dinner accordingly.
- Contact Us: For personalized recommendations, email [email protected] or WhatsApp +86-138-XXXX-XXXX.
For a deeper dive into Xiamen’s food culture, check out our “Flavors of Fujian” itinerary—it includes a private dim sum-making workshop and a visit to a tea farm. Bon appétit!