Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Haikou, China
1. Hainanese Chicken Rice
A classic Hainan dish with fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth and succulent poached chicken. Try it at Guanxi Hainan Laojia (莞西海南老家).
- Authenticity: Established since the 1940s, preserving traditional cooking methods.
- Popularity: One of the most famous Hainanese Chicken Rice eateries in Haikou.
- Taste: Known for its perfectly balanced flavor and tender chicken.
2. Shredded Pork with Garlic Sauce
Thin slices of pork in a garlicky, spicy sauce served over rice. Visit Dongshan Shachang (东山烧厂).
- Aroma: The powerful aroma of garlic and spices is unforgettable.
- Flavor Intensity: Bold, rich flavors that satisfy any palate.
- Location: Centrally located in the Dongshan District, easy to find.
3. Hainanese Fish Head Curry
Creamy coconut-based curry with fish head as the star. Savor it at Xiangxiang Yueya Seafood Restaurant (香香月牙海鲜店).
- Spiciness: Varying levels of spice to suit different tastes.
- Freshness: The fish is always freshly caught and cooked daily.
- Experience: An authentic Hainanese dining experience in a traditional setting.
4. Haikou Lobster Pot Rice
Tender lobster meat served over fragrant rice cooked in a stone pot. Enjoy it at Tianyue Lobster Pot Rice (天跃龙虾饭).
- Quality: High-quality lobsters sourced daily.
- Preparation: Cooked in a stone pot for an even flavor distribution.
- Portion Size: Generous servings that satisfy even the heartiest appetites.
5. Haikou Oyster Omelette
A savory omelette filled with tender oysters. Taste it at the bustling Night Market (夜市).
- Taste: The umami flavor from the oysters is irresistible.
- Atmosphere: Vibrant and lively night market experience.
- Affordability: Reasonably priced for a filling meal.
6. Hainanese Clam Pot
Delicious clams steamed in a clay pot with garlic and pepper. Experience it at Shuangyue Zonghe (双月宗合).
- Taste: The natural sweetness of the clams is enhanced by simple seasonings.
- Location: Located in the heart of Haikou city, easy to find.
- Healthy Option: A seafood dish that's both flavorful and good for you.
7. Hainanese Pork Chop Rice
Crispy pork chop served over rice with a tangy tomato sauce. Savor it at Kaitian Shaxia (开田烧刺).
- Texture: The crispy pork chop contrasts beautifully with the soft rice.
- Flavor Combination: The savory pork chop and tangy tomato sauce create a harmonious blend.
- Value for Money: Reasonable prices for a satisfying meal.
8. Hainanese Shrimp Pancake
Thin crepes filled with succulent shrimps and vegetables. Savor it at Tianxiang Shrimp Roll (天祥虾卷).
- Taste: The sweetness of the shrimp complements the savory filling.
- Texture: Crispy and soft textures make each bite delightful.
- Portion Size: Large portions that cater to groups or multiple orders.
9. Hainanese Beef Noodles
Thick noodles in a hearty beef broth with tender slices of beef. Try it at Kaitian Lao Mian (开田老面).
- Quality: High-quality beef and homemade noodles.
- Taste: The rich, meaty flavor of the broth is hard to resist.
- Location: Conveniently located in Haikou city center.
10. Hainanese Steamed Fish
Tender fish steamed with ginger and soy sauce. Enjoy it at Jiulonghu Seafood Restaurant (九龙湖海鲜店).
- Freshness: Fresh fish sourced daily to ensure quality.
- Simplicity: The flavors of the fresh fish shine through, simply seasoned.
- Portion Size: Suitable for a group or multiple orders.
11. Hainanese Sour and Spicy Soup
A comforting soup with sour and spicy flavors. Taste it at Qiuju Shui Zhu (秋居水竹).
- Taste: The balance between sour and spicy creates a unique flavor profile.
- Warmth: Perfect for a cool day or when you're feeling under the weather.
- Location: Located in the bustling Wenchang district of Haikou.
12. Hainanese Barbecue Skewers
Delicious skewers of various meats and seafood grilled to perfection. Try them at Haikou Night Market (海口夜市).
- Variety: A wide variety of skewer options for every taste.
- Flavor: The marinades and seasonings on the skewers add depth to each bite.
- Atmosphere: A vibrant, bustling night market experience.
13. Hainanese Mango Pudding
Smooth and creamy mango pudding, a perfect dessert. Try it at Yaxiang Mangguo (亚香芒果).
- Taste: The sweetness and tanginess of the mango shine through.
- Quality: Made with fresh, ripe mangoes for an authentic taste.
- Location: Located in the heart of Haikou city, easy to find.
14. Hainanese Coconut Jelly
Refreshing coconut jelly with a hint of pandan flavor. Try it at Haikou Night Market (海口夜市).
- Taste: The sweet and slightly earthy flavors create a unique dessert experience.
- Cooling Effect: Perfect for cooling down during a hot day in Haikou.
- Atmosphere: A vibrant, bustling night market experience.
15. Hainanese Almond Jelly
Smooth and chewy almond jelly with a sweet syrup. Try it at Haikou Night Market (海口夜市).
- Taste: The nutty flavor of the almond complements the sweet syrup.
- Texture: A unique texture that's both chewy and satisfying.
- Atmosphere: A vibrant, bustling night market experience.