Most Popular Food Streets in Xiamen

Xiamen, a coastal city in southern China, is renowned as one of the gourmet cities in the country. For most tourists visiting Xiamen, exploring the local cuisine is an integral part of the trip. If you're eager to embark on a culinary adventure in Xiamen, here are some of the most popular food streets that you shouldn't miss.

Zhongshan Road

Zhongshan Road, also known as Yatsen Road, is a vibrant street where you can hunt for local delicacies and indulge in shopping. Located in the southwest of Xiamen Island, it stretches for 1.2 kilometers. The street is lined with arcade buildings in Minnan-style, creating a unique and charming atmosphere. What's more, it is currently the only business street in Xiamen that leads directly to the sea.​
 

Along this bustling street, you'll find an array of stores offering a wide variety of food and tourist souvenirs. Some of the must-visit places include Huang Zehe Peanut Soup Store, where you can savor the sweet and creamy peanut soup, a local favorite. Hao Qingxiang Restaurant serves authentic Minnan cuisine, allowing you to experience the rich flavors of the region. Datong Duck Porridge is another great spot, famous for its delicious and nourishing duck porridge. Zhongshan Road is truly a paradise for food lovers and shoppers alike.

Zhongshan Road

Longtou Road on Gulangyu Island

Longtou Road on Gulangyu Island is the main commercial street on the island, perfect for dining and shopping. The road is flanked by numerous small, featured shops, creating a lively and inviting ambiance. Here, you'll have the opportunity to sample a plethora of cuisine, especially an abundance of street snacks.​

Ye’s Fried Glutinous Pudding is a local specialty that you must try. The glutinous rice is fried to a crispy golden brown on the outside while remaining soft and chewy inside, with a delicious filling that will leave you craving for more. Fish balls are also a popular choice, with their bouncy texture and savory flavor. Wang’s Pasties are another local favorite, filled with a variety of ingredients such as meat, vegetables, or a combination of both. Pureed noodles offer a unique and satisfying taste, and fried sea oyster is a classic dish that showcases the freshness of the local seafood.​

With the development of Gulangyu, many craft stores have opened on both sides of the road. These stores sell a wide range of local arts and crafts, including pearl embroidery, painted sculpture, and painted porcelain, which make for wonderful souvenirs. Additionally, you can find antiques, jade, calligraphy and painting, porcelain, and other items from all over the country, adding to the charm of the street.

SM Food Court

SM Food Court is a dedicated dining destination in Xiamen City. It's a place where you can not only relish local snacks but also explore cuisine from all over the country. Most of the stores inside are stalls, with open indoor seating areas. The environment can be a bit crowded and noisy, especially during national holidays and weekends, but this also adds to the lively and bustling atmosphere.​
 

Here, you can sample a diverse range of dishes. From local specialties like oyster omelets, which are made with fresh oysters and eggs, and are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, to various street snacks from different regions of China. Whether you're in the mood for spicy Sichuan cuisine, savory Cantonese dim sum, or other regional favorites, you're likely to find something to satisfy your taste buds at SM Food Court.
 

Food Court on the 5F of Xiamen Railway Station

If you're arriving in or departing from Xiamen by train, the food court on the 5th floor of Xiamen Railway Station is an excellent place to kick-start or conclude your gourmet journey in the city. Despite being located in a railway station, this food court offers a surprisingly wide selection of food.​
 

You can find local Xiamen delicacies as well as popular dishes from other parts of the country. It's a convenient option for travelers who are short on time but still want to enjoy a delicious meal. Whether you're craving a quick snack or a full-course meal, the food court on the 5th floor of Xiamen Railway Station has something to offer.​
 

In conclusion, these food streets in Xiamen present a wonderful opportunity to explore the rich and diverse culinary scene of the city. Each street has its own unique charm and a wide range of delicious food waiting to be discovered. So, be sure to visit these food streets during your trip to Xiamen and treat your taste buds to an unforgettable experience.