Xiamen Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Xiamen. Your complete guide to dining in Xiamen.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Xiamen! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Xiamen 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 Xiamen's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Xiamen like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Xiamen 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 Xiamen.
Chaofucheng Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Xiamen with 4.7 stars from 20 reviews.
📍 F35C+6MH, Xia He Lu, Si Ming Qu, Xia Men Shi, Fu Jian Sheng, China, 361001
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Chic 1699 Yuanyang Privacy Kitchen
Highly rated Chinese in Xiamen with 4.5 stars from 12 reviews.
📍 China, Xia Men Shi, Si Ming Qu, 3F CN 福建省 厦门市 思明区 环岛东路 1705 1705号JFC品尚中心C馆 邮政编码: 361008
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Indiano John's Samrat
Highly rated Indian in Xiamen with 4.5 stars from 94 reviews.
📍 Huli District, Xiamen, China, 361006
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Indian cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Sip Contemporrary
Highly rated Restaurant in Xiamen with 5 stars from 1 reviews.
📍 China, Xia Men Shi, Si Ming Qu, CN 福建省 厦门市 思明区 建业路 8 8号102室 邮政编码: 361012
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Golden Olives Greek Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Xiamen with 4.9 stars from 10 reviews.
📍 C06-08, 莲前前埔商圈思明区厦门市福建省 China, 361008
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Luchengxuan
Highly rated Chinese in Xiamen with 4.8 stars from 4 reviews.
📍 China, Fu Jian Sheng, Xia Men Shi, Si Ming Qu, 186, Yan Wu Xi Lu, 186号康莱德酒店39F 邮政编码: 361005
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
潮福城
Highly rated Chinese in Xiamen with 4.5 stars from 44 reviews.
📍 28 Hu Bin Bei Lu, Si Ming Qu, Xia Men Shi, Fu Jian Sheng, China, 361012
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Minhe South
Highly rated Chinese in Xiamen with 4.8 stars from 5 reviews.
📍 China, Xia Men Shi, Si Ming Qu, 328室 CN 福建省 厦门市 思明区 湖滨东路 99 99号万象城L3层 邮政编码: 361000
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Ay Manuela
Highly rated Restaurant in Xiamen with 4.4 stars from 8 reviews.
📍 China, Xia Men Shi, Si Ming Qu, CN 福建省 厦门市 思明区 筼筜路 1 1-130 邮政编码: 361012
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Haoqingxiang Restaurant
Highly rated Chinese in Xiamen with 5 stars from 2 reviews.
📍 1 Zhong Shan Lu, Si Ming Qu, Xia Men Shi, Fu Jian Sheng, China, 361001
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Lao Xiamen Tesecai
Highly rated Restaurant in Xiamen with 5 stars from 1 reviews.
📍 C3QR+MW4, Ding Ao Zai, Si Ming Qu, Xia Men Shi, Fu Jian Sheng, China, 361005
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Shuyou Restaurant
Highly rated Chinese in Xiamen with 4.4 stars from 23 reviews.
📍 1 Bai Lu Zhou Dong Lu, Si Ming Qu, Xia Men Shi, Fu Jian Sheng, China, 361000
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️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 Xiamen.
Gutang Longzao Night Market
Highly rated International in Xiamen with 4.3 stars from 3 reviews.
📍 G49C+4R8, Ma Long Lu, Hu Li Qu, Xia Men Shi, Fu Jian Sheng, China, 361015
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
八市
Highly rated International in Xiamen with 4.2 stars from 150 reviews.
📍 Kai He Lu, Si Ming Qu, Xia Men Shi, Fu Jian Sheng, China, 361001
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
厦门市鱼市场
Highly rated International in Xiamen with 3.6 stars from 25 reviews.
📍 C3QP+3H3, Siming District, Xiamen, Fujian, China, 361001
- 🍽️Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Taiwan Snacks Street
Highly rated International in Xiamen with 3.8 stars from 43 reviews.
📍 China, Fu Jian Sheng, Xia Men Shi, Si Ming Qu, Da Zhong Lu, 55号之1 邮政编码: 361001
- 🍽️Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Zhaozai Seafood Branch
Highly rated International in Xiamen with 5 stars from 1 reviews.
📍 6 Dong An Bei Yi Li, Ji Mei Qu, Xia Men Shi, Fu Jian Sheng, China, 361021
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Wuyuan Bay Commercial Street
Highly rated International in Xiamen with 3 stars from 1 reviews.
📍 China, Fu Jian Sheng, Xia Men Shi, Hu Li Qu, 湖里五缘湾大桥两侧、环五缘湾湖滨 邮政编码: 361016
- 🍽️Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
厦大菜市场
Highly rated International in Xiamen with 5 stars from 1 reviews.
📍 C3QV+XV5, Si Ming Nan Lu, Si Ming Qu, Xia Men Shi, Fu Jian Sheng, China, 361005
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Baiquan Vegetable Market
Highly rated International in Xiamen with 4.3 stars from 3 reviews.
📍 H27V+P75, Xing Lin Dong Lu, Ji Mei Qu, Xia Men Shi, Fu Jian Sheng, China, 361022
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Xiamen.
Xiamen Tourism Passenger Wharf
Highly rated International in Xiamen with 4.2 stars from 509 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
Wu Wei Shu Shi
Highly rated Chinese in Xiamen with 4.9 stars from 12 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
Hi Heaven
Highly rated International in Xiamen with 4.6 stars from 15 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
Sanyou Holiday Tour City
Highly rated International in Xiamen with 5 stars from 2 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
Haoyueyuan
Highly rated International in Xiamen with 4.2 stars from 53 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
Xiamen Food
Popular Restaurant in Xiamen. Quick service for those on the go.
- •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 Xiamen.
Starbucks Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Xiamen with 4.7 stars from 35 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 China, Fu Jian Sheng, Xia Men Shi, Si Ming Qu, Lu Jiang Dao, 鹭江道新领荟广场1层M101单元 邮政编码: 361001
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
21 Gram Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Xiamen with 5 stars from 6 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 92-101 Da Zhong Lu, 92, Si Ming Qu, Xia Men Shi, Fu Jian Sheng, China, 361001
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
32 How
Highly rated Cafe in Xiamen with 4.9 stars from 7 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 32 Hua Xin Lu, Si Ming Qu, Xia Men Shi, Fu Jian Sheng, China, 361001
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Starbucks
Highly rated Cafe in Xiamen with 5 stars from 3 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 China, Xia Men Shi, Si Ming Qu, CN 福建省 厦门市 思明区 莲前东路288号瑞景商业广场 邮政编码: 361001
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Hyatt Regency Xiamen Wuyuanwan
Highly rated International in Xiamen with 4.7 stars from 49 reviews.
📍 China, Xia Men Shi, Hu Li Qu, 湖里区日圆二里五号 邮政编码: 361006
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Conrad Xiamen
Highly rated International in Xiamen with 4.5 stars from 124 reviews.
📍 186 Yan Wu Xi Lu, Si Ming Qu, Xia Men Shi, Fu Jian Sheng, China, 361005
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Rendeavous
Highly rated Cafe in Xiamen with 4.3 stars from 6 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 25 Nan Hua Lu, Si Ming Qu, Xia Men Shi, Fu Jian Sheng, China, 361005
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Starbucks Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Xiamen with 5 stars from 1 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 China, Fu Jian Sheng, Xia Men Shi, Xiang An Qu, 祥福五里24号136-141室 邮政编码: 361102
- 🍽️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 Xiamen.
Signature Dish
A must-try Xiamen 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 Xiamen 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 Xiamen 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 Xiamen 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 Xiamen 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 Xiamen 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 Xiamen 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 Xiamen 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 Xiamen 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 Xiamen 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 Xiamen.
Revolucion Cocktail
Highly rated Bar in Xiamen with 4.7 stars from 6 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 10-103 Hu Bin Bei Lu, 10, Si Ming Qu, Xia Men Shi, Fu Jian Sheng, China, 361012
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Londoner
Highly rated Bar in Xiamen with 4.1 stars from 18 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 F3GP+77X, Guan Ren Lu, Si Ming Qu, Xia Men Shi, Fu Jian Sheng, China, 361012
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Key
Highly rated Bar in Xiamen with 4.8 stars from 4 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 China, Fu Jian Sheng, Xia Men Shi, Si Ming Qu, Hu Bin Xi Lu, 湖滨西路海湾公园KK旁 邮政编码: 361001
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Dream Bar
Highly rated Bar in Xiamen with 5 stars from 1 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 China, Xia Men Shi, Si Ming Qu, CN 福建省 厦门市 思明区 海后路 3 3号2楼 邮政编码: 361001
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Midai
Highly rated Bar in Xiamen with 5 stars from 2 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Ao Yong Guang Chang, 9楼88 Ti Yu Lu, 88, Si Ming Qu, Xia Men Shi, Fu Jian Sheng, China, 361012
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Fox Bar Xiamen
Highly rated Bar in Xiamen with 5 stars from 1 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 G47R+G53, Huli District, Xiamen, Fujian, China, 361009
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️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
Xiamen'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 Xiamen 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
Xiamen 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 Xiamen 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 Xiamen 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.
Enjoyed this guide? Share it!