The 2026 MICHELIN Guide for Fujian Province: A Culinary Journey
Fujian's Culinary Scene: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
On November 21st, Michelin unveiled its second edition of the Fujian guide, showcasing a vibrant dining scene that seamlessly blends tradition and innovation. This year, Ningde joins Fuzhou, Xiamen, and Quanzhou, featuring 96 restaurants across these cities, including 7 One-Star establishments, 66 Bib Gourmand selections, and 23 MICHELIN-selected restaurants. The Guide also introduced the Mentor Chef Award, alongside the Young Chef and Service awards, honoring culinary excellence and mentorship.
One-Star Elevations: Fuzhou and Quanzhou Shine
In the inaugural 2024 Fujian MICHELIN Guide, five restaurants earned One MICHELIN Star. This year, two restaurants retained their stars: Restaurant Jiangnan Wok ‧ Rong and Wenru No.9 in Fuzhou, and Restaurant Fleurs Et Festin, Hokklo, and Yanyu (Jiahe Road) in Xiamen. Quanzhou's Qing You Yu and Fuzhou's Restaurant Hatter join the ranks as new One-Star recipients, bringing the total to seven, showcasing the province's culinary growth.
European Contemporary: Hatter's Seasonal Tasting Menus
Hatter, a European Contemporary restaurant, offers a unique dining experience. The owner, a returnee from Australia, collaborates with the chef to create seasonal tasting menus featuring first-rate produce from around the world. Local condiments like red wine lees and laver add a touch of Fuzhou's famous flavors, and the owner's sommelier expertise ensures perfect wine pairings.
Seafood Delights: Qing You Yu's Live Seafood
Qing You Yu, a Seafood restaurant, captivates diners with its live seafood selection. Diners choose from three-tier fish tanks, specifying their preferred preparation. From chilled swimmer crab to swamp eel braised with tea seed oil and basil, each dish is a culinary masterpiece.
Bib Gourmand Expansion: 19 New Additions
The Bib Gourmand selection expanded significantly, with 19 new restaurants joining the list. Fuzhou's additions include 167 Shan Hai Li, Lin Yi Nen Ming Pai Zhu Xue Hua, Shang Xing, Yi Qiang, Yong Zhou Ji Bian Rou, and Yu Xian Lou, showcasing diverse culinary styles. Xiamen's new entries are A Xi Xia Mian, Chen Xian Sen Sha Cha Mian, Da Tong Shao Jiu Lang, Guo Gong Fan Dian, Lao Song Bian Shi Dian, and Shan Li Yan Sha Cha Mian. Quanzhou's Che Qiao Tou Wen A Shui Wan and Wai Tou Niu Rou add local cultural depth.
Ningde's inclusion is a highlight, featuring local snacks like Fu Ding Zheng Zong Bian Rou, Hu Yu Zhong Wu Qu Bian Rou, and Ning Chuan Zu Yao Yu Wan, preserving traditional flavors. Shou Ning Mi Gao stands out with its signature rice cakes, and Xiao Dong Men Niu Rou Shui Fen Lao Dian is celebrated for its beef rice noodles.
Honoring Culinary Excellence: Awards and Recognition
The MICHELIN Guide honored three culinary professionals: Chef WU Rong from Xiamen's One-MICHELIN-Starred Yanyu (Jiahe Road) received the Mentor Chef Award for his mentorship and innovation in Fujian cuisine. Chef Xupeng MA from Jiangnan Wok ‧ Rong earned the Young Chef Award for his Huaiyang cuisine expertise. Ms. Mengqing MAO from Antstory received the MICHELLIN Service Award for her exceptional hospitality.
The MICHELIN Guide's Impact: A Culinary Journey Continues
The 2026 MICHELIN Guide for Fujian Province celebrates a diverse culinary landscape, offering memorable dining experiences at all price points. From traditional Fujian cuisine to innovative global influences, the province's restaurants continue to thrive, captivating local diners and international visitors alike.
