Located on the southeastern coast of the Shandong Peninsula, Qingdao is not only known for its stunning seaside scenery but also for its vibrant food culture. The city is a paradise for food lovers, offering an array of flavorful dishes that go beyond its famed seafood. From fresh shellfish to traditional snacks, Qingdao’s culinary scene reflects the region’s rich history and maritime traditions. Here are some of the must-try dishes that showcase the best of Qingdao’s food culture.
Spicy Stir-Fried Clams 辣炒蛤蜊
Clams are a favorite in Qingdao, known for their high protein content, rich iron, and calcium, as well as being low in fat. Often referred to as “the world’s finest seafood” and “the king of flavors,” fresh clams are juicy and tender, making them perfect for stir-frying. One of the most popular ways to prepare clams in Qingdao is by stir-frying them with spicy peppers, a method that enhances the clams’ natural sweetness while adding a fiery kick. The dish is bursting with flavors that tantalize the taste buds, making it a perfect companion for a cold beer.
Where to eat: Haile Seafood Restaurant (海乐海鲜家常菜), 51 Laoyang Road (莱阳路51号甲).
Sea Cucumber with Minced Pork 肉末海参
Sea cucumber is a treasured ingredient in Chinese cuisine, and it holds the title of being one of the “Eight Culinary Delicacies of the Sea.” In Qingdao, sea cucumber is often paired with minced pork, a combination that brings out the richness of both ingredients. The tender sea cucumber absorbs the savory flavor of the pork while maintaining its unique texture. This dish strikes a perfect balance between the meaty aroma of pork and the light, clean taste of sea cucumber, offering an exquisite dining experience.
Where to eat: Jufuyuan Seafood (聚福源海鲜), 6 Henan Road (河南路6号).
Crispy Fried Chicken 香酥鸡
Qingdao’s take on fried chicken is an irresistible dish known for its crispy exterior and tender meat. Made from boiled and deep-fried hen, this chicken dish is carefully prepared to maintain its shape while achieving a perfect level of crispiness. The reddish-golden skin adds a delightful crunch, while the soft, succulent meat inside offers a mouthwatering contrast. Served with pepper salt, this dish is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Where to eat: Boluoyouzi Qingdao Cuisine (波螺油子 · 青岛本帮菜), 2nd Floor, 71 Hong Kong Middle Road (香港中路71号秀尔韩国服装城二楼).
Spanish Mackerel Dumplings 鲅鱼饺子
Dumplings are a staple in northern Chinese cuisine, and in Qingdao, the unique version made from Spanish mackerel is a must-try. These dumplings are filled with a blend of fresh mackerel, pork, and chives, creating a delicate balance of flavors. When cooked, the dumplings become translucent, and the filling retains its fresh and bouncy texture. Each bite offers a burst of rich, pure flavor that is both fragrant and satisfying.
Where to eat: Chuange Fish Dumplings (船歌鱼水饺), B1 Floor, 6 Shandong Road (山东路6号甲万象城B1层).
Deep-Fried Oysters 炸蛎黄
Fried oysters are a popular dish in Qingdao, particularly noted for their rich flavor and health benefits. Made from plump, green-colored oysters, the dish is deep-fried to achieve a golden-brown crisp on the outside while maintaining a tender, juicy interior. The batter locks in the oyster’s natural briny taste, making each bite a delicious mix of crunchy and savory. Oysters are also highly nutritious, packed with vitamins and minerals that support bone health and digestion.
Where to eat: Yiqinglou Restaurant (怡情楼), 1 Xuzhou Road (徐州路1号).
Seaweed Jelly 海凉粉
A quintessential snack from the Jiaodong region, seaweed jelly is a traditional Qingdao specialty made from a type of seaweed that grows on the rocks beneath Laoshan Mountain. The seaweed is dried and then boiled for several hours before being filtered and cooled to form a jelly-like consistency. This jelly is then cut into strips and served cold, offering a refreshing and unique taste of the sea. It’s often enjoyed during hot summer months as a light, cool dish.
Where to eat: Seaweed Jelly (海凉粉), near Mitiandong Cave, Laoshan Scenic Area (崂山区仰口风景区觅天洞口).
Qingdao’s culinary delights go far beyond seafood, offering a rich variety of local specialties that reflect the region’s cultural and geographical heritage. Whether you’re savoring spicy clams with a cold beer or biting into crispy fried chicken, Qingdao’s vibrant food scene will leave a lasting impression, making your visit to this coastal city all the more memorable.