What to eat in zhongshan Road xiamen
What to eat in Zhongshan Road Xiamen？ 10 Snacks You Can’t Miss
Welcome to Xiamen! Zhongshan Road is the city’s most famous pedestrian street and a true foodie paradise. Here you’ll find countless delicious and affordable snacks. This guide will help you eat like a local.
I. Must-Try Zhongshan Road Food List
While there are countless delicacies here, these are the ones you absolutely cannot miss:
1. Shāchá Noodles(Shāchá Miàn)
This is Xiamen’s most famous noodle dish. Its broth is orange-red with a distinctive flavor, featuring the aroma of peanuts and shrimp. You can choose to add toppings like pork liver, squid, or tofu.
2. Oyster Omelette(É-ā-jiān)
This is a pancake made by frying fresh oysters, eggs, and greens together. It has a slightly crispy exterior and a soft interior. It’s typically served with a pink sweet, and spicy sauce.
3. Peanut Soup(Huāshēng Tāng)
This is a sweet, hot drink made by boiling peanuts until very soft. Its sweet, smooth texture makes it a popular breakfast or dessert among locals.
4 . Roasted Pork Zongzi (Shāoròu Zòng)
Xiamen’s zongzi (rice dumplings) differ from those elsewhere. They’re made with glutinous rice wrapped around pork, shiitake mushrooms, dried shrimp, and other fillings, then steamed. When served, waitstaff add sweet chili sauce and peanut sauce for a rich, layered flavor.
5. Fish Ball Soup (Yúwán Tāng)
The fish balls here are made from fresh fish meat, offering a delightfully springy texture. The broth is light and refreshing, making it especially soothing after heavier dishes.
6. Sandworm Jelly (Tǔsǔn Dòng)
This is a very unique dish that resembles jelly. It’s actually made from a type of worm that lives on sandy beaches, offering a crispy texture that pairs well with dipping sauces. Adventurous travelers should definitely give it a try!
7 . Ginger Duck (Jiāngmǔ Yā)
If you’re traveling with friends, this is a great option to share. It features duck stewed with generous amounts of ginger and sesame oil, resulting in an intensely aromatic dish with tender, falling-apart meat. This is a hearty dish perfect for sharing.
8. Seafood (Hǎixiān)
Numerous seafood restaurants line Zhongshan Road. You can select live fish, crabs, and shrimp directly from tanks at the entrance, then instruct the chef on your preferred cooking method—such as steaming or stir-frying.
II. Practical Dining Tips
How to Order? Many snack shops require ordering and payment up front, then presenting your receipt to collect your food. Places with long lines are usually the best spots.
How to Find Established Shops? Look for “old-school” shops that appear small but are packed with customers. These long-standing establishments often offer the most authentic flavors.
Bring Cash: While mobile payments are common, some traditional stalls may only accept cash.
Use Map Apps: Search for dish names like “satay noodles” directly on mobile maps (e.g., Baidu Maps, Amap) to find nearby well-reviewed spots.
III. Optimal Visiting Recommendations
The best time to visit is evening. This allows you to experience both the bustling daytime streets and the beautiful nighttime lights. Strolling and eating simultaneously is the ideal way to enjoy Zhongshan Road.
Enjoy your culinary adventures on Xiamen’s Zhongshan Road!
