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Qingdao, China

Top food to try in Qingdao

6 dishes to eat in Qingdao, what is in them, and where they belong.

Last updated 2026-08-09

1. Seafood by weight

Seafood by weight
Photo: robstephaustralia · CC BY 2.0 · source

Clams, mantis shrimp, sea cucumber and squid, chosen from tanks.

Watch outWeight and price swaps between the display and the kitchen are the commonest complaint on the tourist strips.

2. Clams and beer

Clams and beer
Photo: Tony Fischer Photography · CC BY 2.0 · source

Gala — steamed clams with garlic — is the standard partner to a bag of draught.

3. Jiaozi with seafood

Jiaozi with seafood
Photo: Gary Soup · CC BY 2.0 · source

Dumplings filled with mackerel or clam, a Shandong coastal speciality.

4. Shandong braised dishes

Shandong braised dishes
Photo: Swiss James · CC BY 2.0 · source

Cong shao hai shen and other Lu-cuisine classics, one of China's eight great traditions.

5. Grilled squid on the promenade

Grilled squid on the promenade
Photo: Swiss James · CC BY 2.0 · source

Charcoal-grilled whole squid from carts along the seafront.

6. Corn and peanut snacks

Corn and peanut snacks
Photo: Berries.com · CC BY 2.0 · source

Shandong produce sold roasted from street carts in autumn.

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