Xiamen, a coastal gem in Fujian Province, is not just famous for its stunning island views and colonial architecture—it’s also a paradise for food lovers. The city’s vibrant street food scene offers a mix of savory, sweet, and umami flavors that reflect its rich cultural heritage. From bustling night markets to hidden alleyway stalls, every bite tells a story. Here’s your ultimate guide to Xiamen’s best street food, guaranteed to make your taste buds dance.
No culinary adventure in Xiamen is complete without a visit to Zhongshan Road. This pedestrian-friendly street is lined with historic buildings, neon lights, and, most importantly, endless food stalls. The aroma of grilled seafood, fried noodles, and sweet desserts fills the air, creating an irresistible pull for hungry travelers.
A Fujianese classic, Sha Cha Mian features springy noodles swimming in a rich, nutty broth made with sha cha sauce (a blend of seafood, peanuts, and spices). Customize your bowl with toppings like shrimp, squid, pork liver, or tofu. The best stalls let you pick your ingredients fresh from a display.
Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside—this Taiwanese-influenced dish is a Xiamen staple. Fresh oysters are mixed with eggs and sweet potato starch, then pan-fried to perfection. Drizzle it with chili sauce or a tangy soy-based dip for extra flavor.
For something sweet, try this warm, creamy soup made from slow-cooked peanuts. It’s often served with you tiao (fried dough sticks) for dipping. The contrast of textures—silky soup and crunchy dough—is pure comfort.
While Zhongshan Road gets the spotlight, Xiamen’s lesser-known spots offer equally delicious (and often cheaper) bites. Venture into the labyrinth of Bashi Market or the alleys near Gulangyu Island for authentic flavors.
Don’t let the name scare you—this jelly-like snack is a delicacy. Made from sipunculus nudus (a type of marine worm), it’s chilled into a gelatinous block and served with mustard and vinegar. The texture is surprisingly refreshing, and locals swear by its health benefits.
These crispy rolls are stuffed with minced pork, onions, and five-spice powder, then deep-fried until golden. They’re crunchy, aromatic, and utterly addictive. Pair them with a bowl of ban mian (peanut butter noodles) for the ultimate combo.
Xiamen’s coastal location means seafood is always fresh and abundant. Head to Hepu Seafood Street or the Xiamen Fishing Village for grilled squid, steamed clams, and buttery crab.
Plump scallops are topped with minced garlic, vermicelli, and a splash of soy sauce, then grilled over charcoal. The smoky aroma alone is worth the trip.
Fresh crab is marinated in Shaoxing wine and spices, resulting in a dish that’s both boozy and briny. It’s a bold flavor experience, best enjoyed with a cold beer.
No street food tour is complete without dessert. Xiamen’s sweets range from traditional to innovative.
A tropical delight, this dessert piles fresh mango chunks atop fluffy shaved ice, drizzled with condensed milk and mango syrup. Perfect for cooling off after a spicy meal.
Buttery pastry filled with sweet-tart pineapple jam—these bite-sized treats are a popular souvenir. The best ones are found in small bakeries near Gulangyu.
Whether you’re a seafood fanatic, noodle lover, or dessert enthusiast, Xiamen’s street food scene has something to thrill every palate. So grab a napkin, dive in, and let your taste buds lead the way.
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Author: Xiamen Travel
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