Jinjiang Inn Xiamen Hexiang Road West

For 10-plus years, this flagship establishment has been packed with loyal patrons. The modern stylish interior showcases top-notch dried seafood which is used in the famous Fujian Buddha jumps over the wall dish, but you can also enjoy other first-rate dishes without breaking the bank. Try Minnan prawn noodles in orange coloured tomalley soup or made to order black mochi packed with black sesame aroma. The seasonal menu is also worth exploring.

With live fish tanks lining the entrance, this is clearly the place to be for fresh seafood. The owner sources his fish directly from local fishermen, ensuring his catch is always the best. Minnan-style seafood defines the menu, and the peanut worm salad in a mustard dressing makes for an interesting start. The braised carpet shark belly and liver is another must-try: the liver is creamy, like tofu, and the belly has a fine, springy texture.

Ever since this neighbourhood joint opened its doors in 1996, there have only been four items on the menu – ginger duck stew, duck gizzards, blanched leafy greens and steamed rice. In the most famous restaurant for ginger duck in the whole of Xiamen, rows and rows of claypots containing local Muscovy duck and old ginger sizzle in rice wine and sesame oil, exuding addictive aromas. The duck gizzards tend to run out, so come early.

What started out as a street stall over two decades ago has firmly established itself as a favourite dining spot among locals. There is no menu – you just browse the fish tanks and light boxes to see your options. Seafood is their strong suit, but so are authentic Minnan dishes. The a la plancha threadfin with Sichuan pepper sauce boasts umami heightened by aromatics. Try the stir fried pork liver with pickled bamboo shoot, too.

This place dates back to the 1940s, when the founder would carry her mobile kitchen on a bamboo pole balanced on her shoulder and sell her bianshi dumplings on the go. She then settled at this spot and has stayed put ever since. Now run by her son, it has built a loyal following for dumplings – handmade like in the old days. The signature has always been shrimp bianshi soup with springy noodles dressed in peanut and fermented tofu sauce.

This neighbourhood duck congee shop opened its doors in 1983. Locals come in droves 24-7 for a bowl of comforting porridge that warms the heart and soul. Those overwhelmed by the 20-plus toppings available can opt for one of the popular combos – ‘signature’ with duck meat and offal; ‘seafood’ with duck, oysters, and squid; or the ‘classic’ with duck, pork liver and marinated egg. Always order a deep-fried dough stick to mop up the broth.

“Hokklo” means "hospitable" in Fujian, in keeping with the welcoming space furnished in elegant East-meets-West style. Hailing from the Minnan region, the head chef champions a refined modern take on traditional Fujian cooking. Signatures include steamed wine-scented yellow croaker, mud crab braised in aged wine with dried longans, and Hakka-style braised He Tian chicken claypot with salt and wine. Peruse the seasonal offerings and extensive wine list, too.