Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Hai’an, Jiangsu, China

1. Hai'an Steamed Fish

Tender fish steamed with ginger and soy sauce, a classic dish showcasing Hai'an's fresh seafood. Try it at Xiuyu Seafood Market.

Freshness: Fish is caught daily and used immediately.
Traditional Preparation: Steaming method preserves the natural flavor of the fish.
Popularity: A must-try dish for seafood lovers visiting Hai'an.

Thin rice noodles served with pickled vegetables and spicy sauce. Taste the unique blend of flavors at Zhongshan Snack Street.

Authenticity: Noodles are made fresh daily using traditional techniques.
Spiciness: Adjust the spice level to your taste, making it enjoyable for everyone.
Value for Money: A filling and affordable meal in a vibrant street food atmosphere.

Delicate duck meat preserved in salt for a unique flavor. Enjoy this Hai'an specialty at Dongguan Salted Duck Restaurant.

Preservation Method: Salt preservation keeps the duck fresh and tasty for a long time.
Flavor Profile: The salted duck offers a unique umami taste.
Cultural Significance: Part of Hai'an's rich culinary history and heritage.

Crispy fried oysters cooked to perfection at Huiying Oyster Restaurant. Enjoy the juicy inside with a crunchy exterior.

Freshness: Oysters are caught fresh daily and used immediately.
Crispiness: Perfectly fried for a satisfying crunch with each bite.
Seafood Variety: Offers an alternative to other popular Hai'an seafood dishes.

Delicious scallion pancake made with thin layers of dough and scallions. Try it at Shuanglong Snack Street.

Flavor Profile: The perfect balance between the savory scallions and tender dough.
Cultural Significance: A traditional Chinese snack with a unique local twist in Hai'an.
Versatility: Can be enjoyed as a standalone snack or paired with other dishes.

Tender and flavorful pork belly slow-cooked in soy sauce and spices. Taste this dish at Laoma Snack Street.

Cooking Method: Slow-cooked to ensure the pork is melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Flavor Profile: The rich, savory flavor of the braised pork belly is a must-try.
Popularity: A favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Delicious shrimp paste made from fresh local shrimp. Try it at Hai'an Seafood Market.

Freshness: Shrimp is caught daily and used immediately.
Flavor Profile: The briny, umami flavor of the shrimp paste is a culinary delight.
Versatility: Used in various dishes, adding an extra layer of flavor.

Sticky rice balls filled with savory meat or vegetables. Try these tasty treats at Wenchang Snack Street.

Flavor Profile: The combination of the sticky rice and savory filling creates a unique taste.
Cultural Significance: A traditional Chinese snack with a unique local twist in Hai'an.
Portability: Perfect for on-the-go snacking or as a side dish.

A mix of fresh local vegetables stir-fried with garlic and soy sauce. Taste the vibrant flavors at Huiying Vegetarian Restaurant.

Freshness: Vegetables are sourced locally and used immediately.
Flavor Profile: The combination of flavors creates a harmonious dish.
Health Consciousness: A healthy and delicious option for vegetarians or those seeking a balanced meal.

Thick sweet potato noodles served with soy sauce and pickled vegetables. Taste this unique dish at Xiuyu Seafood Market.

Flavor Profile: The sweetness of the noodles combined with savory sauces creates a unique taste.
Nutritional Value: Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Cultural Significance: A traditional Chinese dish with a unique local twist in Hai'an.

Juicy and tender squid barbecued to perfection. Enjoy this dish at Huiying Seafood Restaurant.

Freshness: Squid is caught fresh daily and used immediately.
Flavor Profile: The smoky flavor of the barbecue complements the natural taste of the squid.
Versatility: Can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or paired with other items.

Traditional soup made with fresh mud carp and vegetables. Taste this hearty dish at Xiuyu Seafood Market.

Freshness: Mud carp is caught daily and used immediately.
Flavor Profile: The rich, savory flavor of the mud carp combined with vegetables creates a comforting dish.
Cultural Significance: A traditional Hai'an dish with a history dating back centuries.

Creamy and smooth tofu pudding served cold. Try this refreshing dessert at Shuanglong Snack Street.

Flavor Profile: The subtle sweetness and silky texture make it a delightful treat.
Cultural Significance: A traditional Chinese dessert with a unique local twist in Hai'an.
Cooling Effect: Ideal for hot days, providing relief and refreshment.

Juicy dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, fried to golden perfection. Try these tasty treats at Wenchang Snack Street.

Flavor Profile: The combination of the filling and crispy exterior creates a unique taste.
Cultural Significance: A traditional Chinese dish with a unique local twist in Hai'an.
Portability: Perfect for on-the-go snacking or as a side dish.

Spicy crab cooked with chilies and garlic. Enjoy this flavorful dish at Huiying Seafood Restaurant.

Freshness: Crabs are caught fresh daily and used immediately.
Spiciness: Adjust the spice level to your taste, making it enjoyable for everyone.
Seafood Variety: Offers an alternative to other popular Hai'an seafood dishes.