UNESCO just crowned Quanzhou, Fujian, the newest “Creative City of Gastronomy,” making it the seventh Chinese city with the title. And honestly? No one’s surprised. This ancient port city has been quietly flexing its food game for over a thousand years, and its Minnan cuisine is finally getting the global spotlight it deserves. For global youth and Gen Z foodies, Quanzhou is poised to be the next authentic, adventurous culinary destination.
Quanzhou’s culinary magic is a delicious fusion born from centuries of migration and maritime trade. Jin-dynasty migrants brought northern flavors south, while Song-era traders smuggled in techniques from Suzhou to Southeast Asia. The result is a unique gastronomic tapestry that blends Central Plains traditions with indigenous Minyue culture and even traces of Arab and Persian influences from its Maritime Silk Road days, cementing its status as a sophisticated food haven.
Forget basic brunch. Instead, wake up to Peanut Soup so creamy it feels illegal—a rich, sweet traditional dessert from Southeast Fujian. Or dive headfirst into a bowl of Mian Xian Hu, a nostalgic vermicelli soup loaded with seafood and pork, cherished by locals and the diaspora alike. Lunch and dinner demand attention: try Ginger Duck, a “Quanzhou Landmark Dish” (and Michelin-recognized!), slow-cooked for 90 minutes with aromatic ginger, delivering a warming punch.
The Oyster Omelette, a crispy, gooey classic with over 1,000 years of history, perfectly captures the city’s coastal heritage. And don’t forget Run Bing (fresh spring rolls) or a bowl of soul-hugging beef soup.
But where Quanzhou truly gets next-level chaotic is its snack game. Cool down instantly with Stone Flower Jelly (sea worm jelly), or sip on a Four-Fruit Soup that tastes like pure summer. For the adventurous, there are crispy Yanpi Fritters and the infamous Tu Sun Dong—sea worm jelly that looks cursed but, dare we say, hits like crack.
Quanzhou is a living menu of history, culture, and seriously good eats, ready for global youth to discover its ancient flavors and modern vibes. It’s an undisputed food trend waiting to explode.
Cover image via Klook.
