Greentree Inn Fujian Xiamen University Business Hotel

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.

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.

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.

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 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 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.

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!