City dining guide
46 guide-listed restaurants — Michelin, Bib Gourmand, Black Pearl, Must-Eat List, World's 50 Best and more. Reference quality signals; never ranked by commission, no in-app checkout.
“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.
WebsiteFor 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.
A three-storey historic building is home to this Chaoshan restaurant. The ground floor sports several tables, while private rooms on the upper floors require a minimum spend. The kitchen team of Chaoshan natives excels in authentic dishes made with fresh produce. Braised goose web in spiced marinade is flavoursome and gelatinous in texture and the local green lobster with taro-scented wax gourd hits the spot every time.
This simple shop is famous for beef noodle soup and noodles dressed in beef ragout. The signature beef noodle soup with pickled cabbage is a must – the beef long loin is perfectly cooked to be tender but firm. The beef bone stock is flavoursome, and the pickle cuts through the richness. The red-braised beef noodle soup, and the marinated meat platter with dried tofu, hard-boiled eggs, beef tripe, intestine and shin are also popular.
This restaurant is all about à la minute cooking, and diners get to witness the action in the glass-clad kitchen. Home-style Fujian dishes are their strong suit: the pork soup with whelks is loaded with umami and briny sweetness. The braised pork trotter with mashed Fuding taro boasts bouncy, flavoursome meat and creamy, starchy taro. All-you-can-eat steamed rice, and sweet potato congee are a nice touch. With only 10 tables, expect a wait.
Its façade may be nondescript but its open-air kitchen provides quite a spectacle. Minnan-style soups are slow-cooked over heated sand on clay stoves for three to four hours so need to be pre-ordered; the availability of some soups is limited. Signatures include Muscovy duck soup with mud crab, which combines seafood umami with meaty flavours, and braised soft-shelled tortoise seasoned with ginger and green Sichuan peppercorns.
Into the second generation, this family business founded in 1993 features in many Xiamenians' childhood memories. It prides itself on Minnan cooking, especially fresh seafood dishes. The threadfin blanched in claypot has oily, silky flesh and remarkable umami. The deep-fried baby eels in peppered salt are crispy and flavoursome, the mildly spicy kick making them a perfect companion for alcoholic drinks. The friendly service is a plus.
Founded in 2003, this restaurant was named after Tongan, the cradle of Xiamen culture. The space is bright and airy, with a wall of oyster shell collage as a focal point. Formerly a fisherman, the owner is picky about his fish. Try the boneless giant mottled eel in claypot – the rich sauce complements the oily fish nicely. The quintessential Tongan classic of seared pork belly with dried oysters, chestnuts and shiitake is also recommended.
Opened by a restaurant group based in the city of Shishi some 30 years ago, this branch has stood the test of time. The kitchen team, trained in the Shishi flagship, is overseen by a Minnan master chef. The interesting menu includes a host of Minnan classics, plus regional small bites. Watch the chefs making the signature scallion buns behind a glass partition. The mackerel fish ball soup with pork tripe and pickled mustard greens is also a must-try.
WebsiteWhat 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.
Deep inside a cultural park, this restaurant is reached easily by following the signs. Its idyllic, lush location is part of the charm; the Zen-inspired interior is equally serene. Changing twice a month, the single set menu follows the Chinese calendar's 24 solar terms. The 10 courses go from light to heavy flavours with the climax being the minced mushroom patty in a black pepper sauce. The private rooms of various sizes must be booked in advance.
This restaurant is set up in a Fujian red-brick mansion, with a black, white and wood colour scheme punctuated by pops of bright red. Both the owner and the chef are Sichuan natives, specialising in cuisine from the city of Zigong, famous for its salt industry. To ensure authenticity, most condiments are shipped from Sichuan. Try the chilli fish roes and fish maws with pickled cabbage and ginger, or diced rabbit hot pot in Sichuan pepper sauce.
Dai Tai opened its doors in 2011, specialising in Yunnanese home-style cooking, especially the cuisine of the Dai ethnic group. The all-Yunnanese kitchen team has most ingredients shipped from their home province to ensure authenticity. The food is mostly spicy, but diners can ask the chefs to tone it down. Try the Dai-style deep-fried pork skin starter – a crunchy, zesty treat. Follow up with fresh sweet bamboo shoots stir-fried with Yunnan ham.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Its bright red sign may be hard to miss but it's the lingering herbal aromas that draw in customers from near and far. The owner used to run a Chinese clinic and opened Shan Gu Tang to serve food with medicinal value. The small menu is dominated by herbal soups, alongside blanched items, marinated meats and seasoned taro rice. Try the free-range chicken soup with russula mushrooms, or pork intestine soup with lotus seeds.
The chef-owner has almost 30 years' experience under his belt, with notable stints in various hotel restaurants. Respecting traditions while re-inventing Minnan cuisine by incorporating Western techniques and creative touches, he has come up with a menu that is familiar and fresh at the same time. Try his oyster omelette, in which umami meets the crispness of water chestnut and celery. The slow-cooked pork belly with shiitake is another treat.
At this friendly neighbourhood shop in the old town, the owner couple knows every customer by name. Sha cha noodles are their speciality: whatever the time of the day, the rich broth is always piping hot, striking a balance between garlic, peanut and chilli flavours. In addition to year-round favourite toppings – from fish balls and pork liver to pork tendon – umami-laden seasonal shellfish such as oysters and razor clams are also a must!
This bustling joint in the old town specialises in shao jiao pei – the Minnan term for small plates intended to be enjoyed with alcohol. The owners, a couple, have been at the helm for 10-plus years. Their seafood-forward menu also features meat and offal dishes. The crisp but tender blanched octopus is served with a simply addictive secret dip. Pork kidney in Sichuan pepper sauce comes on a bed of sliced celtuce, presenting a contrast of textures.
This spot, a household name in Xiaman, has been serving mini pork wontons – bian shi – for over 30 years. Generations of Xiamenese have grown up eating their wonton soup, blanched noodles tossed in peanut sauce, as well as hand-shredded pork with the tendon attached. For the signature bian shi, choose between the regular flour wrapper and the minced pork and starch variety. The former is soft and velvety, the latter bouncy and translucent.
In the old town, this noodle shop with over 20 years of history is always bustling with diners who come for its prawn noodles. Hundreds of prawn heads are used to make the umami-laden broth with orange oil from the tomalley floating on top. Grated garlic adds depth and aromas. In addition to shelled prawns, the noodles are topped with prawn balls, lean pork, char siu, pork intestine and bean sprouts. The prawn ball soup is also popular.
Zhen Zhen runs the whole place alone: she's the owner, server and chef. She's picky about seafood, having it delivered a few times daily to ensure freshness. The well-made dishes at bargain prices have secured a loyal fan base. The menu comprises 20 items, mostly small plates, such as braised pork rice, and shrimp ball soup. Her oyster omelette is packed with plump oysters and garlic sprouts.
For almost a century, this shop in the old town has been making prawn noodles the traditional way. The broth derives deep umami from the shells and heads of whiskered velvet shrimps, which are toasted, pounded and slow cooked for 4 hours. Order extra toppings to make it a feast. Their giant fish ball soup is equally stunning – a fist-sized fish ball made with white eel and stuffed with juicy pork filling is served in a milky pork bone broth.
This is the third address of the household name since it opened in 1999. It has built a loyal following thanks to its authentic Tong'an home-style cooking. The flavoursome, melt-in-the-mouth Tong'an braised pork belly exudes aromas of garlic, dried shrimps, shiitake, chestnuts and lotus seeds. The pork kidney dressed in coriander sauce boasts a crisp, springy texture. You can order à la carte, or the set menus cater to your party size flexibly.
This noodle shop has been around for more than 40 years. What it lacks in space and grandeur, it makes up for in good food. Besides the secret sha cha broth bursting with a deep peanut flavour, diners also appreciate the dazzling and almost infinite array of toppings – pork intestine, pork bladder, dried tofu, fish balls, duck blood curd, pork liver, lean pork... Pair the noodles with roast pork sticky rice dumpling for a truly filling meal.
By the pier, this roof-top dining room commands gorgeous views of Gulangyu. The owner chose to re-create the ancient Fujian-style architecture and landscaping in his stunning venue, complete with a water feature, lush greenery and stone arches. The menu is focused on Minnan fare, illustrated by deep-fried taro dumplings with pork filling. Salt-baked Japanese scad accentuates its oily, natural flavour. Don’t miss the puppet show at night.
With decades of history to its name, this noodle shop is always busy. There is just one thing on the menu – sha cha noodles – but over 20 different toppings to choose from: an array of seafood, including plump razor clams and creamy oysters, and pork offal – even pork heart and pork tripe – are solid options. Less garlicky than its counterparts, its broth is made from toasted, not fried, peanuts to accentuate nuttiness and umami.
Tucked away in a nondescript alley, this simple shop with its bright red wall can't be missed. Owner Wu Lan has been making sha cha noodles for decades, with a foothold on this spot for over 20 years. She makes her sweet, mildly spicy and deeply nutty broth every morning. Complemented by toppings such as pork liver, shrimps and even abalone, it is addictive! In addition to the sha cha noodles, try her golden and crispy oyster omelette.
Connected to a beachside promenade, this villa restaurant prides itself on its breathtaking ocean views, but also a Zen-inspired decor and plant-based cooking with a touch of finesse. It serves two set menus, both featuring season-driven dishes. Inspired by the Fujian classic Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, the rich and flavoursome Six-Treasure Soup is made with six different mushrooms. Ask for a table on the patio on a balmy night.
Separated from the city centre and Xiamen Island by a harbour, this shop specialising in sha cha noodles is popular with students. Thanks to the coarsely ground peanuts, the sha cha broth is brimming with rich nutty flavours; the level of spiciness is also spot on. For toppings, in addition to classics such as oysters, pork tendon and beef short loin, the dried tofu, duck blood curd, pork kidney and pork intestine are also excellent choices.
This is the first flagship of a local restaurant chain. The faux-industrial decor works nicely with the greenery and ocean views. The menu is dominated by local seafood and Minnan dishes, depicted by shrimps in sa cha sauce that boast firm texture, mild heat and a deep nutty flavour. Also try Buddha jumps over the wall, crab roe stewed rice, Angus beef in mustard sauce or Chic’s very own sea perch thick soup with fish maw.
In business since 1994, this no-frills joint is part of the collective culinary memory of many locals. The menu on the wall is for reference only – head to the glass-fronted fridge to see what's in store that day. The signature dish is feng rou: skin-on pork trotter braised until tender in a brown sauce with chestnuts, mushrooms and dried shrimps. Ordered by almost every table, the sautéed frog is succulent, well-seasoned and nicely caramelised.
Away from the city centre, this joint serving home-style Fujian cooking has earned acclaim from locals for over two decades. Like its numerous counterparts, there isn’t a menu – just pick your seafood and meat from the fish tank and chiller, then ask the server for the best way to prepare them. With tender meat and rich aromas, ginger duck stew is a best-seller. Fried green lobster in peppered salt stands out with bouncy meat and crisp flavours.
Famous for its beef dishes, this shop was named after the owner, whose moniker means "wryneck". His signature braised beef rib exudes curry flavour and a hint of Chinese herbs. The fork-tender meat goes well with the buttery seasoned rice. Another highlight is the double-boiled oxtail – the meat is slow cooked until gelatinous; infused with Indian mulberry root, the broth tastes mildly sweet. Certain items tend to sell out fast, so come early.
This is Argentinian chef Agustin Balbi's first joint venture in Fujian. With a clever play on light and shadow, the space melds the modern and the classic. His tasting menu is an ensemble of ingenious creations made with quality local ingredients and underpinned by European and Japanese techniques. Tuna tartare with garlic mayo, paprika foam and puffed rice is topped with 10-year-old caviar. His hearty signature caldoso rice is a homage to his grandma.
Having shuttered his acclaimed restaurant in Singapore in 2024, the award-winning chef opened this outpost in Xiamen the following year. As ever, his Cantonese and Chaozhou classics are meticulously executed, leveraging his 30-plus years of experience. His signature Singaporean-style black pepper crab made with giant crabs from Sri Lanka exudes heady aromas. His deep-fried chicken stuffed with minced shrimp and bird's nest is another must-try.
This household name opened its doors in 1996 and moved to this historic villa in 2009. The kitchen specialises in Xiamen classics and the menu is concise yet appetising. Don’t miss the ubiquitous double-boiled Muscovy duck soup with crab, whose robust meaty flavour melds with seafood umami. It is best enjoyed with Xiamen rice noodles that suck up the goodness. Other favourites include oyster omelette and deep-fried five-spice rolls.
This private dining concept in a historical mansion (c 1927) comes complete with a Suzhou-style garden. Despite its proximity to a busy road, it offers tranquil respite. With just 10 private rooms across three levels, reservations are a must and menus can be tailored. Items available may vary, but you can expect deftly prepared Xiamen fare such as double-boiled pork shank soup with green olives and whelks, or braised abalone with ginger duck.
This upscale restaurant in a towering hotel commands breathtaking views of Gulangyu. Head to the romantic bar for a pre-dinner drink and watch the lights dim as the sun sets. Those craving the classics can order steak or seafood tower à la carte. If you're feeling adventurous, go for the tasting menu, which features innovative seasonal dishes – creations made with local catch such as yellowtail scad and fourfinger threadfin are especially impressive.
WebsitePerched atop the city’s sail-shaped landmark, Lucheng commands fantastic views. Traditional Chinese motifs are stylised and melded with elegant fixtures and fittings for comfort. The kitchen team of Fujian natives managed by a young Minnan chef excels in Fujian classics with creative twists, showcasing the province’s wide range of produce. Try deep-fried starchy taro in aged vinegar reduction, and braised river eel with fish maw and pickled cabbage.
WebsiteThe seafood chain started out as a fishmonger’s back in 1994. It began running a roadside food stall in 2016 and rebranded itself in 2023 with this upmarket flagship in a shopping mall. Live fish tanks are showcased next to a museum-like display of 100+ taxidermy crustaceans. Pick your favourite seafood from the tanks and specify how you want it cooked. The menu also offers other Minnan specialities to accompany your meal.
Since 2018, Chef Yang hailing from Jiangsu has been helming the kitchen with a menu that is half Cantonese and half Minnan. Chilled peanut sweet soup is a modified version of the Fujian classic, with a velvety peanut custard over a bed of toothsome algae. The west-facing views over Wuyuan Bay make Xia the perfect spot for a romantic dinner at sunset.
WebsiteIn 1989, Lvdao opened its doors with only six tables. Nowadays, it has turned into a leading F&B chain in Shishi and this flagship establishment now spans two floors. Though it specialises in Fujian fare, especially seafood, there are some Cantonese options on the menu. Try the umami-laden swimmer crab – the locals prefer it steamed with black sticky rice or taro balls. Round off with custard-filled buns, best enjoyed with sweet peanut soup.
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