Zhoushan Zhejiang, China Travel Guide
The focus is featuring fresh fish, reflecting its status as one of The people's republic of china's largest fishing grounds. The cooking style is typically light, highlighting the natural flavors of the ingredients, having less heavy seasoning than northern Chinese cuisines.
Tastes are generally fresh, salty, and often subtly sweet. This tradition developed over centuries, shaped by daily catches from the East China Sea.
Fresh seafood (fish, crabs, shrimp, shellfish, octopus, seaweed), locally grown vegetables, rice, soy sauce, rice wine, ginger, and garlic are central.
Predominantly fresh and savory, with a balance of sweet and salty notes. Steaming, braising, and stir-frying preserve delicate ingredient tastes.
Zhoushan cuisine unifies around seafood. Putuoshan, a hallowed Buddhist island, additionally has a distinct vegetarian "temple cuisine."
A highly prized local fish, simply steamed with ginger, scallions, and a salty. Found in any reputable seafood restaurant.
Highlights delicate natural flavor.
Fresh local prawns deep-fried and seasoned with salt and pepper. Widely available.
A crispy and flavorful dish.
Fresh crab braised with chewy rice cakes in a savory sauce. A well-liked local specialty.
Chewy rice cakes pair with savory crab.
Huangjiu (Yellow Wine, commonly from Shaoxing), local/international beers, green tea (Longjing), fresh soy milk.
Tangyuan (glutinous rice balls with sweet/savory fillings), seasonal fresh fruits.
Dedicated fine dining establishments are limited. High-end hotels (e.g., Hilton, Sheraton) typically have upscale food options.
Abundant in Shenjiamen, Dinghai, and Zhujiajian, many specializing in seafood. These balance quality, ambiance, and price.
Street food stalls and small local noodle shops are plentiful. Shenjiamen fishing port area features many small, authentic seafood eateries.
International cuisine selections are limited. Large hotels may present some Western or international dishes.
Some cafes or fast-food chains can be seen in larger urban areas (Dinghai, Shenjiamen).
Shenjiamen Seafood Market: Select fresh seafood, then have it cooked by nearby restaurants for a "processing fee."
Wet Markets: Local markets in Dinghai and Shenjiamen feature fresh produce, meat, and cooked snacks.
Available on Putuoshan (Buddhist cuisine). Communicate clearly with translation apps elsewhere.
Extremely rare. No known certified restaurants. Self-catering or careful selection.
Challenging. A salty often contains wheat. Use translated allergen cards.
Generally low. Stick to simple, fresh ingredients and clear communication.
The "select your seafood, then have it cooked" experience is an unique highlight. Choose fresh catch, and nearby restaurants prepare it for a processing fee.
Highly personalized dining experience.
Dining on Putuoshan features pure vegetarian meals at temple canteens.
A simple yet authentic Buddhist culinary experience.
Beyond simply eating, Zhoushan has opportunities to immerse yourself in its gastronomy culture, from lively markets to serene temple dining.
The region's unique maritime environment defines its cuisine-related identity. Exploration of food traditions is a rewarding part of the visit.
Experience selecting fresh seafood at Shenjiamen Seafood Market and having them prepared to your preference at nearby restaurants.
Taste simple, pure vegetarian meals at the canteens of Putuoshan's Buddhist temples.
Look for local events like the Zhoushan International Islands Leisure & Tourism Festival, that frequently showcases local delicacies.
Autumn is famous for fresh hairy crabs and other crab varieties, a regional delicacy.
A must-try for seafood enthusiasts.
Special dishes are prepared for Lunar New Year, often symbolizing good fortune, like whole fish for abundance.
Experience cultural traditions through cuisine.
Zhoushan's cuisine is defined by its incredibly fresh and diverse seafood, a direct reflection of its fishing heritage.
The cooking style is typically light, designed to enhance the natural flavors of the high-quality ingredients.
From street food to temple dining, the local food scene possesses numerous opportunities for culinary exploration.
Some advice:
