Dalian Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Dalian. Your complete guide to dining in Dalian.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Dalian! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Dalian has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Dalian's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Dalian like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Dalian offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
- Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
- Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
- Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere
Must-Try Restaurants
From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Dalian.
Wanbao Seafood Fang
Highly rated Seafood in Dalian with 4.5 stars from 47 reviews.
📍 108 Jie Fang Lu, Zhong Shan Qu, Da Lian Shi, Liao Ning Sheng, China, 116001
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Seafood cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Shang Palace (Shangri-La Hotel Dalian)
Highly rated Restaurant in Dalian with 4.6 stars from 5 reviews.
📍 人民路, 66号, Zhong Shan Qu, Da Lian Shi, Liao Ning Sheng, China, 116007
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Dadi Spring Pancake Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Dalian with 4.9 stars from 7 reviews.
📍 107 Dong Bei Lu, Sha He Kou Qu, Da Lian Shi, Liao Ning Sheng, China, 116014
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Indian Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Dalian with 4.6 stars from 19 reviews.
📍 3 Jie Fang Lu, 青泥洼 Zhong Shan Qu, Da Lian Shi, Liao Ning Sheng, China, 116001
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Donghai Bright Pearl Food City
Highly rated Chinese in Dalian with 4.4 stars from 10 reviews.
📍 1 Wen Lin Jie, Zhong Shan Qu, Da Lian Shi, Liao Ning Sheng, China, 116001
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Grand Hyatt Dalian
Highly rated International in Dalian with 4.5 stars from 74 reviews.
📍 No. 33 C 3 Zone, Xinghai Square, 沙河口区大连市 LN, China, 116023
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Dalian Shangri-La Hotel
Highly rated International in Dalian with 4.5 stars from 230 reviews.
📍 66 Ren Min Lu, Zhong Shan Qu, Da Lian Shi, Liao Ning Sheng, China, 116007
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Kempinski Hotel Dalian
Highly rated International in Dalian with 4.2 stars from 81 reviews.
📍 92 Jie Fang Lu, Zhong Shan Qu, Da Lian Shi, Liao Ning Sheng, China, 116001
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Fraser Suites Dalian
Highly rated International in Dalian with 4.7 stars from 37 reviews.
📍 No.30 Ganglong Road, Zhongshan District, 中山区大连市辽宁省 China, 116001
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Castle Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Dalia
Highly rated International in Dalian with 4.5 stars from 82 reviews.
📍 600 Bin Hai Xi Lu, Sha He Kou Qu, Da Lian Shi, Liao Ning Sheng, China, 116023
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Intercontinental Dalian
Highly rated International in Dalian with 4.4 stars from 169 reviews.
📍 No.6 Youhao Square, Zhongshan District, 中山区大连市辽宁省 China, 116001
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Sulaiyi Italy Restaurant
Popular Restaurant in Dalian.
📍 China, Da Lian Shi, Zhong Shan Qu, CN 辽宁省 大连市 中山区 人民路 43 43号大连新世界名店坊3层320 邮政编码: 116007
- 🍽️Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Street Food & Food Markets
Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Dalian.
Dalian Department Store
Highly rated International in Dalian with 4 stars from 12 reviews.
📍 China, Liao Ning Sheng, Da Lian Shi, Zhong Shan Qu, 青三街1号 邮政编码: 116001
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Taoyuan Market
Highly rated International in Dalian with 4.5 stars from 2 reviews.
📍 3QG4+PQV, Wu Yi Lu, Jin Zhou Qu, Da Lian Shi, Liao Ning Sheng, China, 116699
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Dalian Rongsheng Shengxian Market
Highly rated International in Dalian with 4 stars from 3 reviews.
📍 WJ7M+VWR, Wu Hui Lu, Zhong Shan Qu, Da Lian Shi, Liao Ning Sheng, China, 116001
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Dalian Outlet Shopping Mall
Highly rated International in Dalian with 4.1 stars from 17 reviews.
📍 228 Chang Jiang Lu, Zhong Shan Qu, Da Lian Shi, Liao Ning Sheng, China, 116001
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
New Mart Shopping Mall
Highly rated International in Dalian with 3.8 stars from 31 reviews.
📍 China, Liao Ning Sheng, Da Lian Shi, Zhong Shan Qu, 青三街1号 邮政编码: 116001
- 🍽️Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Friendship Shopping Center
Highly rated International in Dalian with 3.6 stars from 37 reviews.
📍 8 Ren Min Lu, Zhong Shan Qu, Da Lian Shi, Liao Ning Sheng, China, 116006
- 🍽️Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Wu Mart
Highly rated International in Dalian with 5 stars from 1 reviews.
📍 3R4C+X4R, Jin Yuan Zhong Lu, Jin Zhou Qu, Da Lian Shi, Liao Ning Sheng, China, 116620
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Clothing market
Popular International in Dalian.
📍 China, Liao Ning Sheng, Da Lian Shi, Zhong Shan Qu, 长江路 邮政编码: 116007
- 🍽️Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Dalian.
Lost Plate Siem Reap Food Tours
Highly rated International in Dalian with 5 stars from 68 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Wanbao Seafood Fang
Highly rated Seafood in Dalian with 4.5 stars from 47 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Blue Frog
Highly rated International in Dalian with 3.9 stars from 30 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
The Castle Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Dalia
Highly rated International in Dalian with 4.5 stars from 82 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Cafe Copenhagen
Highly rated Restaurant in Dalian with 4.7 stars from 9 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Dalian Forest Zoo
Highly rated International in Dalian with 4.2 stars from 80 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Dalian.
Dalian's Café
Highly rated Bakery in Dalian with 4.9 stars from 277 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 530 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90071, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine
Maan Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Dalian with 5 stars from 2 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 China, Liao Ning Sheng, Da Lian Shi, Zhong Shan Qu, 港湾街1号15库创意园2层 邮政编码: 116007
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Grand Hyatt Dalian
Highly rated International in Dalian with 4.5 stars from 74 reviews.
📍 No. 33 C 3 Zone, Xinghai Square, 沙河口区大连市 LN, China, 116023
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Maan Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Dalian with 5 stars from 4 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 VM9W+97R, Bin Hai Dong Lu, Zhong Shan Qu, Da Lian Shi, Liao Ning Sheng, China, 116018
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Cafe Copenhagen
Highly rated Restaurant in Dalian with 4.7 stars from 9 reviews.
📍 111 Tian Jin Jie, Zhong Shan Qu, Da Lian Shi, Liao Ning Sheng, China, 116006
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Wanbao Seafood Fang
Highly rated Seafood in Dalian with 4.5 stars from 47 reviews.
📍 108 Jie Fang Lu, Zhong Shan Qu, Da Lian Shi, Liao Ning Sheng, China, 116001
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Seafood cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Dalian Shangri-La Hotel
Highly rated International in Dalian with 4.5 stars from 230 reviews.
📍 66 Ren Min Lu, Zhong Shan Qu, Da Lian Shi, Liao Ning Sheng, China, 116007
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Starbucks Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Dalian with 4.6 stars from 5 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 China, Liao Ning Sheng, Da Lian Shi, Sha He Kou Qu, 高尔基路695号 邮政编码: 116023
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Dalian.
Signature Dish
A must-try Dalian specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Local Delicacy
This beloved Dalian dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Traditional Recipe
Experience the authentic taste of Dalian with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Street Food Favorite
Discover why this Dalian specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Regional Specialty
This iconic Dalian creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Seasonal Treat
A Dalian classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Classic Comfort Food
A must-try Dalian specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Modern Fusion
This beloved Dalian dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Artisanal Product
Experience the authentic taste of Dalian with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Heritage Recipe
Discover why this Dalian specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Bars & Nightlife
Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Dalian.
Alice Club
Highly rated Bar in Dalian with 4.3 stars from 12 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 12 Wen Lin Jie, Zhong Shan Qu, Da Lian Shi, Liao Ning Sheng, China, 116006
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Paulaner Biergarten
Highly rated Bar in Dalian with 4.8 stars from 4 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 China, Liao Ning Sheng, Da Lian Shi, Zhong Shan Qu, Jie Fang Lu, 92号大连凯宾斯基饭店 邮政编码: 116001
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Memory Bar
Highly rated Bar in Dalian with 5 stars from 1 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 WMF2+47V, Wan Min Jie, Zhong Shan Qu, Da Lian Shi, Liao Ning Sheng, China, 116006
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Bobo's Bar
Highly rated Bar in Dalian with 4.7 stars from 3 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 WJ9V+2QX, Wu Han Jie, Zhong Shan Qu, Da Lian Shi, Liao Ning Sheng, China, 116001
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Memory Bar
Highly rated Bar in Dalian with 5 stars from 1 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 China, Liao Ning Sheng, Da Lian Shi, Zhong Shan Qu, Bao Ding Jie, 保定街 邮政编码: 116007
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
极地酒吧
Highly rated Bar in Dalian with 4.3 stars from 3 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 China, Liao Ning Sheng, Da Lian Shi, Zhong Shan Qu, 民主广场16 邮政编码: 116006
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Essential Tips
- 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
- 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
- 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
- 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
- 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
- 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
- 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
- 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
- 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
- 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Dalian's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.
Average Price
Dining costs in Dalian vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dalian is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.
For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.
Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.
Most restaurants in Dalian offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.
Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Dalian specifically.
Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.
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