Xiamen, a coastal city in Fujian Province, is a paradise for food lovers. Beyond its stunning beaches and colonial architecture, the city’s vibrant street food culture is a major draw for travelers. From savory bites to sweet treats, Xiamen’s snacks reflect its rich culinary heritage and coastal influences. Here’s a guide to the must-try street foods that will make your trip unforgettable.
No visit to Xiamen is complete without strolling down Zhongshan Road, the city’s most famous pedestrian street. Lined with neon signs and bustling vendors, this area is a hub for local delicacies. The aroma of grilled seafood, fried noodles, and sweet desserts fills the air, creating an irresistible food crawl.
A bowl of Sha Cha Mian is the ultimate comfort food in Xiamen. This noodle dish features a rich, slightly spicy broth made with sha cha sauce, a blend of seafood, peanuts, and spices. Toppings vary but often include shrimp, squid, pork slices, and tofu. The best spots are small, family-run stalls where the broth has been simmering for hours.
Pro Tip: Ask for extra sha cha sauce on the side if you love bold flavors.
Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, the Oyster Omelette is a Fujian classic. Fresh oysters are mixed with eggs, sweet potato starch, and greens, then pan-fried to perfection. The dish is served with a tangy chili sauce that balances the briny oysters.
Where to Try: Look for vendors near Gulangyu Island ferry terminals—they’re known for using the freshest oysters.
While Zhongshan Road is iconic, Xiamen’s night markets offer a more local experience. Shapowei Night Market and Jiangtou Night Market are packed with stalls serving everything from skewered meats to exotic desserts.
Influenced by Southeast Asian flavors, Satay Noodles are a fusion dish loved in Xiamen. Thin rice noodles are tossed in a creamy, peanut-based satay sauce, topped with grilled meats, cilantro, and crushed peanuts. It’s a hearty, aromatic dish that’s perfect for late-night cravings.
These golden, crispy balls are made from mashed taro and stuffed with savory fillings like minced pork or sweet red bean paste. The contrast between the crunchy shell and soft interior is addictive.
Best Pairing: Enjoy them with a cup of Tieguanyin tea to cut through the richness.
Xiamen’s dessert scene is just as exciting as its savory offerings. Don’t miss these sugary delights.
A warm, creamy Peanut Soup is a local favorite, especially during cooler months. The peanuts are boiled until soft, creating a sweet, nutty broth often served with crispy youtiao (fried dough sticks).
Though not unique to Xiamen, the city’s version of Mango Shaved Ice is exceptional. Fresh mango chunks are piled atop fluffy shaved ice, drizzled with condensed milk, and sometimes topped with sago or mochi. It’s a refreshing escape from the coastal humidity.
Given its coastal location, Xiamen’s seafood snacks are a must. Head to Huangze Fishing Village or Zengcuoan for the best catches.
These smoky, chewy skewers are a street food staple. The squid is marinated in garlic, soy sauce, and spices before hitting the grill. Squeeze some lime over them for an extra zing.
Fresh razor clams are steamed with minced garlic, vermicelli, and a splash of rice wine. The result is a juicy, fragrant dish that highlights the ocean’s freshness.
For adventurous eaters, these lesser-known snacks are worth seeking out.
A traditional Chinese dessert, Turtle Jelly is a bitter, herbal jelly believed to have health benefits. It’s often served with honey to balance the taste.
Cubes of sweetened milk are coated in batter and deep-fried until crispy. The inside remains custard-like, creating a delightful contrast.
Xiamen’s street food scene is a journey through flavors, textures, and traditions. Whether you’re savoring a bowl of Sha Cha Mian or indulging in Mango Shaved Ice, each bite tells a story of this vibrant coastal city.
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Author: Xiamen Travel
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