Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street (中山路步行街) is not just a bustling shopping destination in Qingdao but also a haven for food lovers. From traditional pastries to freshly grilled barbecue and local desserts, this vibrant street offers a wide variety of delicacies that will delight your taste buds. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these must-try spots while enjoying nearby attractions like Zhanqiao Pier (栈桥) and Xiaoyu Hill (小鱼山) is an experience not to be missed. Here’s a guide to the top food stops you should check out!
Top Food Stops on Zhongshan Road
Hongfa Hong Pastry Shop (宏发红西饼屋)
This traditional bakery sells its famous pastries by weight. Their Red Bean Fried Cake (红豆炸糕) is a standout with its rich filling and crispy texture. The nostalgic Old-Style Sausage Bread (老式香肠面包) is also a must-try, and the Red Bean Bread stuffed with yogurt filling is deliciously unique.
Kaixue Ice Cream (凯雪冰激凌)
Kaixue is Qingdao’s own gelato brand, known for being both affordable and delicious. The mint-flavored option is refreshingly cool, though it might remind you of toothpaste. However, it evokes childhood memories for many locals and remains a delightful treat.
Wang Jie Barbecue (王姐烧烤)
This barbecue spot is a favorite among tourists, offering juicy and tender skewers of pork belly and tenderloin. The generous portions and flavorful marinades make it a great dining option, especially considering its reasonable prices for a tourist area.
Quqi Cookies (趣奇家)
Quqi is the place to satisfy your cookie cravings, offering a wide selection of flavors. The Mint Chocolate Cookie, while flavorful, leans more on the chocolate side, but other options like matcha promise to impress. Don’t miss experimenting with different flavors on your next visit!
Ruby Cake Shop (红宝石蛋糕店)
A local favorite, Ruby Cake Shop is known for its Qingdao-style pastries. The Chestnut Cake (栗子蛋糕) is particularly popular, packed with natural chestnut flavor and a nutty aroma, making it a perfect balance of sweetness and texture.
Di’er Handmade Wonton Shop (地二手作馄饨铺)
If you love wontons, this handmade wonton shop is a must-visit. Their Seafood Wonton Platter is a feast of thin wrappers and generously filled dumplings. Don’t forget to sip on the soup first for the ultimate experience!