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A Year of Culinary Excellence
2024 was a defining year for Quanzhou's rich culinary heritage. It marked not only the official launch of the Flavors of Quanzhou multimedia food platform on January 24 but also a series of remarkable achievements in the city's food scene, including:
· Showcasing Quanzhou cuisine at UNESCO headquarters
· Winning an award at the Beijing International Film Festival for the culinary film Eat Well, Win Big
· Launching Quanzhou's bid for UNESCO's "City of Gastronomy" designation
· Hosting the finals of the 2024 "New Fujian Cuisine: The Quintessential Quanzhou" Culinary Championship
· Featuring prominently at the 33rd China Chefs' Festival
· Inaugurating the China (Quanzhou) Silk Road Street Food Festival and International Food Carnival
· Earning recognition in the Michelin Guide Fujian 2025, with four Quanzhou restaurants making the list
Each of these milestones has strengthened Quanzhou's bid for global culinary recognition while enriching local food culture and enhancing the daily lives of its residents.
Launch of the Flavors of Quanzhou Multimedia Platform
With strong support from the Quanzhou Municipal Bureau of Commerce, the Quanzhou Evening News launched the Flavors of Quanzhou multimedia platform in January 2024. This initiative serves as a premier hub for culinary news and promotion, leveraging multiple channels, including WeChat, Xiaohongshu, the Quanzhou Connect app, Today's Headlines, and video platforms.
Since its inception, the platform has actively explored Quanzhou's regional food culture, reported on key industry events and policies, connected culinary associations, and participated in promotional activities. These efforts have significantly boosted Quanzhou's gastronomic visibility, positioning the city as a rising culinary destination on the global stage.
A Taste of Heritage: The Quanzhou Feast
To celebrate the Lunar New Year and offer visitors an authentic culinary experience, the Quanzhou Feast (Public Edition) was introduced under the guidance of the Quanzhou Municipal Bureau of Commerce.
Developed in collaboration with the Fujian Culinary Association's Master Chef Committee and leading industry bodies, this curated menu highlights Quanzhou's maritime heritage. Distributed to hotels and restaurants citywide, it has become a definitive guide for tourists eager to savor local flavors, earning widespread acclaim from both visitors and the hospitality industry.
Quanzhou Delegation at the 17th China Catering Industry Development Conference
On April 2, a delegation led by Deputy Director Jian Guohong of the Quanzhou Municipal Bureau of Commerce attended the 17th China Catering Industry Development Conference in Jinan. This high-profile event brought together government officials, industry experts, and leading restaurant brands to discuss innovations and future trends in China's culinary sector.
Quanzhou representatives engaged in strategic discussions with the China Cuisine Association, exploring opportunities to host major culinary events in Quanzhou, strengthen its food branding, and drive industry development.
During the conference's signature banquet, Quanzhou's Chef Hu Manrong and his team presented a standout dish-Braised Golden Abalone-which received widespread praise. Additionally, Chef Hu was appointed as Deputy Director of the Chinese Cuisine R&D Center, while other Quanzhou culinary leaders secured key industry roles.
Quanzhou Cuisine Showcased at UNESCO Headquarters
On April 15-16, UNESCO, in collaboration with the State Council Information Office of China, hosted the International Symposium on Civilizational Exchange in Paris. As part of the event's cultural reception, chefs from the China Cuisine Association—including Quanzhou's Hu Manrong and Liu Shuwen—prepared a selection of authentic Minnan dishes. Their exquisite creations were highly praised by international guests, further cementing Quanzhou's culinary reputation on a global stage.
Dehua Gastronomy and Porcelain Promotion in Beijing
From April 19–23, the Flavors of Dehua promotional event was held at the Fujian Hall in Beijing, highlighting the unique fusion of Dehua's ceramic artistry and regional cuisine.
The event featured the One County, One Signature Dish showcase, where 15 signature Dehua dishes were presented alongside the region's world-renowned porcelain craftsmanship. Guests were invited to experience the interplay of fine dining and traditional ceramics, reinforcing Dehua's reputation as a global hub for porcelain artistry.
Quanzhou Culinary Film Wins Award at Beijing International Film Festival
The Quanzhou Municipal Bureau of Commerce-produced short film Eat Well, Win Big earned second place in the Creative Category at the 14th Beijing International Film Festival's Short Film Awards.
Competing against 5,180 entries from over 30 countries,including submissions from major media platforms such as China Central Television, People's Daily, Douyin, and Bilibili-the film stood out among 826 creative submissions, winning top honors in its category.
Strategic Partnership Between Quanzhou and the China Cuisine Association
On April 24–25, China Cuisine Association President Yang Liu led a delegation to Quanzhou for an official visit, during which a strategic cooperation agreement was signed with the Quanzhou Municipal Government. This partnership aims to advance Quanzhou's City of Gastronomy initiative, support local culinary innovations, and promote sustainable growth in the regional food industry.
Three Quanzhou Restaurateurs Receive International RecognitionOn May 19, the 7th American Chinese Culinary Forum took place at McCormick Place in Chicago, gathering industry leaders from China and the United States. The forum focused on "Empowering Innovation through Technology, Strengthening Collaborative Growth, and Enhancing the Global Standard of Chinese Cuisine." During the event, three distinguished restaurateurs from Quanzhou—Chen Rixing, Xu Minqiang, and Du Wuhan—were honored for their outstanding contributions to the promotion and innovation of Chinese culinary culture.
Chen Rixing received the Global Outstanding Contribution Award for Promoting Chinese Culinary Culture.
Xu Minqiang and Du Wuhan were awarded the Global Excellence in Promoting Chinese Culinary Culture Award.
Anxi's "Xiangfu Family Feast" Recognized as a National Landmark BanquetIn May, the China Hotel Association announced its annual list of landmark culinary specialties, distinguished enterprises, and heritage practitioners. Anxi's "Xiangfu Family Feast" was selected as a national landmark banquet, highlighting the region's rich gastronomic heritage. Anxi, particularly Hutou Town, has long been recognized as a culinary hub. The 16-course banquet represents a fusion of Fujian cuisine's heritage and innovative local flavors, creating a unique cultural dining experience.
Quanzhou Launches Initiative to Become a UNESCO Creative City of GastronomyIn June, the Quanzhou Municipal Committee and Quanzhou Municipal Government formally issued the Work Plan for Quanzhou's Bid for UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. This initiative aims to elevate Quanzhou's global reputation and drive high-quality development in cultural tourism, consumer markets, and the food industry.
The plan outlines a two-year preparation, four-year application, and six-year achievement roadmap to secure the title of "UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy." It establishes a framework where the government provides support, industries collaborate, and businesses lead, ensuring tangible benefits for the public. Key initiatives include:
Developing renowned restaurant brands
Creating signature culinary districts
Incorporating Quanzhou cuisine into provincial and national intangible cultural heritage lists
Recognizing distinguished chefs, restaurants, and signature dishes
Through these efforts, Quanzhou aims to position itself as a thriving culinary hub with a well-integrated food ecosystem.
Official Kickoff: Quanzhou's UNESCO Gastronomy City Bid
On July 19, Quanzhou held its official launch and mobilization conference for the UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy bid. The event also marked the launch of the China Culinary Conference-Fujian Chapter and appointed the first batch of expert advisors and culinary ambassadors. Several key projects supporting the 2024 bid were announced, solidifying Quanzhou's commitment to achieving this prestigious designation.
Maritime Silk Road Banquet Industry Summit
On August 23, the Maritime Silk Road Banquet Industry Summit was held in Juyong Town, Hui'an County, organized by the Quanzhou Outdoor Catering Industry Association. The event featured a culinary supply chain exhibition, a cultural forum on traditional banquets, and a grand appreciation banquet. The summit gathered nearly 1,000 catering professionals and over 40 industry associations, fostering collaboration and international engagement in the field of banquet catering.
The exhibition showcased 150 booths, covering every aspect of the outdoor catering industry—from ingredients and pre-prepared dishes to specialized tableware and decorative food carving. The event underscored the rapid growth and modernization of Quanzhou's banquet industry.
Fujian's First Outdoor Catering Culinary Competition Held in Quanzhou
On August 31, Fujian's first Outdoor Catering Culinary Competition took place in Nan'an, Quanzhou, hosted by the Fujian Provincial Catering and Culinary Industry Association. Themed "Promoting Chinese Culinary Heritage and Showcasing the Essence of Fujian Cuisine", the competition highlighted Quanzhou's diverse mountain-sea flavors and unique banquet traditions.
The event provided a platform for culinary talent from across China to exchange ideas and elevate their craft, reinforcing the vision of "Wherever Fujian Merchants Go, Fujian Cuisine Follows."
Quanzhou Hosts UNESCO Gastronomy City Cultural & Experience Exchange Forum
On September 14, Quanzhou held the "Creative Gastronomy: Culinary Heritage and Innovation for Sustainable Growth" Forum. Experts from UNESCO-recognized Gastronomy Cities, master chefs from the Great Hall of the People, and leading culinary professionals joined local government officials and scholars to discuss best practices, industry innovation, and the economic potential of culinary tourism.
Quanzhou's Vice Mayor Huang Wenjie emphasized that securing the Creative City of Gastronomy title is not just about honoring culinary traditions but also about boosting global visibility and fostering economic growth through creative food industries.
Nan'an's "Success Banquet" Selected as a National Culinary Tourism Model
On September 21, the 2024 Culinary Tourism Development Conference was held in Hengyang, Hunan, exploring the intersection of food and tourism. The conference released key industry reports and recognized top culinary tourism development cases. Nan'an's "Success Banquet" was selected as a model case, showcasing the region's innovative approach to blending traditional banquets with cultural tourism experiences.
2024 "New Fujian Cuisine – Best of Quanzhou" Culinary Championship Finals
On September 27, the finals of the "New Fujian Cuisine – Best of Quanzhou" Culinary Championship took place at the Guochao Quanzhou Innovation Center. The event included a prestigious awards ceremony, recognizing top chefs, signature dishes, innovative snacks, and renowned restaurants.
The winners of the Quanzhou Top 10 Innovative Chefs Award included:
Huang Jingzhong
Wu Junjie
Zhou Yongfeng
Guo Quling
Li Songlin
Lu Xin
Chen Wenhuang
Wu Zhixiang
Xiong Rongbin
Wu Junxiong
Meituan's Black Pearl Restaurant Guide to Launch in Quanzhou in 2025
On September 27, Meituan announced that its prestigious Black Pearl Restaurant Guide will officially include Quanzhou in 2025, further elevating the city's culinary status on the global stage.
New Fujian Cuisine·The Quintessential Quanzhou Guide Launches for National Day
As a UNESCO World Heritage City and a historic maritime trade hub of Song-Yuan China, Quanzhou continues to captivate visitors with its vibrant streets, rich cultural heritage, and distinctive cuisine. Known for its bold flavors and diverse influences, Quanzhou cuisine is a major draw for both domestic and international travelers.
On October 1, the New Fujian Cuisine·The Quintessential Quanzhou Guide 100+ was officially launched by Quanzhou Evening News, under the guidance of the Quanzhou World Gastronomy City Application Office, the Quanzhou Municipal Bureau of Commerce, and the Fujian Culinary Industry Association. This guide provides a curated exploration of Quanzhou's dynamic food scene, offering travelers a deeper appreciation of the city's thousand-year culinary legacy.
One County, One Banquet: Showcasing Regional Flavors
As part of the National Day celebrations, twelve signature banquets—each representing a different county or district—were unveiled. Developed by local government agencies, these banquets highlight regional history, traditions, and renowned cultural figures:
Citong Banquet (Licheng)
Flower Crown Banquet (Fengze)
Luoshui Fairy Mountain Banquet (Luojiang)
Longevity Banquet (Quangang)
Song-Yuan Maritime Banquet (Shishi)
Jinjiang Heritage Feast (Jinjiang)
Zheng Chenggong's Family Feast (Nan'an)
Hui'an Maidens' Banquet (Hui'an)
Xiangfu Family Feast (Anxi)
Kui Xing Banquet (Yongchun)
Porcelain Capital Feast (Dehua)
Zheng He's Family Banquet (Taiwanese Investment Zone)
This initiative celebrates Quanzhou's fusion of mountain and sea flavors while preserving and innovating its culinary traditions. By enhancing the city's reputation as a gastronomic destination, it has expanded culinary tourism opportunities and received widespread acclaim. To further showcase these feasts, Quanzhou Evening News released a special culinary edition, presenting an in-depth look at Quanzhou's vibrant food culture to audiences worldwide.
Quanzhou Chefs Excel at the 2024 Fujian New Fujian Cuisine Innovation Competition
From October 16–18, the 2024 Fujian New Fujian Cuisine Innovation Competition took place at the Rongyu Hotel in Shishi, Quanzhou. Among the 120+ participants, over one-third were from Quanzhou, securing:
· 10 Special Gold Medals
· 11 Gold Medals
· 14 Silver Medals
· 2 Outstanding Organization Awards
This marks Quanzhou's strongest performance in the competition's history, boosting confidence in its culinary industry and further elevating local gastronomic standards.
Quanzhou Unveils Three-Year Culinary Standards Action Plan (2024–2026)
In late October, the Quanzhou Municipal Government introduced the Three-Year Action Plan for Quanzhou Culinary Standards (2024–2026). The plan aims to:
· Standardize Quanzhou's culinary techniques
· Strengthen industry development
· Advance Quanzhou's bid for UNESCO's City of Gastronomy designation
With structured leadership and clear accountability, the plan establishes working groups, gathers industry feedback, and promotes technical training to ensure effective implementation. This initiative is set to drive high-quality growth in Quanzhou's culinary sector.
Quanzhou Takes Center Stage at the 33rd China Chef Festival
From October 25–27, the 33rd China Chef Festival & 2024 China Chef Expo was held in Yibin, Sichuan. The Quanzhou delegation—comprising eight industry associations and 30 companies-set up a 180-square-meter Quanzhou Culinary Pavilion, showcasing:
· Quanzhou's Urban Culinary Culture
· One County, One Banquet
· Quanzhou Premium Products
· New Fujian Cuisine·The Quintessential Quanzhou 100+
Quanzhou's chefs achieved remarkable success:
· 12 chefs received the prestigious China Golden Chef Award
· 2 chefs won Gold at the National Western Cuisine Competition
This marks Quanzhou's best performance at the festival to date.
Quanzhou and the China Cuisine Association Develop a High-Quality Culinary Industry Plan
To further enhance Quanzhou's global culinary reputation, the Quanzhou Municipal Government and the China Cuisine Association have partnered to develop the Quanzhou Culinary Industry High-Quality Development Plan. From November 7–9, a research team led by Zhang Xiaowen, Vice President of the China Cuisine Association, conducted field studies across Nan'an, Shishi, and Licheng. Combining Quanzhou's cultural heritage with national industry expertise, the final report-expected by January 2025-will outline a sustainable path for the city's culinary growth.
Quanzhou Food Museum Welcomes Its First Donations
On November 9, the Quanzhou Food Museum held its inaugural donation ceremony at the Quanzhou Maritime Museum. Ten donors contributed 70 food-related artifacts across 39 categories, including:
· Qing and Republican-era culinary artifacts
· Historical documents
· Traditional kitchen tools
· Archival photographs
These contributions will play a key role in preserving and showcasing Quanzhou's rich culinary heritage.
Zheng Chenggong Family Feast Recognized as a Landmark Banquet
In November, the China Hotel Association officially designated Nan'an's Zheng Chenggong Family Feast as a Landmark Cuisine. Featuring a curated selection of traditional and innovative dishes, this banquet pays homage to the legendary general Zheng Chenggong (Koxinga). By incorporating Nan'an kiln ceramics and Wuli Bridge World Heritage elements, it offers an immersive cultural and gastronomic experience.
Quanzhou Sets English Translation Standards for Local Cuisine
On November 19, the Quanzhou Local Specialty Cuisine English Translation Standard was officially approved and released. Developed by the Quanzhou Bureau of Commerce, the Quanzhou Market Supervision Administration, and experts from Liming Vocational University, this new standard:
· Establishes a systematic approach to translating Quanzhou's culinary terminology into English
· Enhances global accessibility and cultural exchange
· Strengthens Quanzhou's bid for UNESCO's City of Gastronomy designation
With this initiative, Quanzhou is setting a new benchmark for international culinary communication.
2024 "Chinese Culinary Showcase": First China (Quanzhou) Silk Road Street Food Festival & International Gastronomy Carnival Held in Quanzhou
From November 29 to December 1, the 2024 "Chinese Culinary Showcase", featuring the inaugural China (Quanzhou) Silk Road Street Food Festival and the International Gastronomy Carnival, was successfully held in Quanzhou. Co-hosted by the China Cuisine Association and Quanzhou Cultural Tourism Development Group, the event embraced the theme "Song-Yuan Quanzhou: A Maritime Silk Road Feast."
The festival comprised several highlights, including the First Silk Road Street Food Festival, the 6th Street Food Industry Development Conference, the Silk Road Street Food Cities Salon, and the International Gastronomy Carnival. The International Gastronomy Carnival alone featured 120 food vendor stalls, attracting a total of over 400,000 visitors in three days and generating sales of approximately 20.5 million RMB ($2.85 million). The event is estimated to have boosted local business sales by 35%, making it the largest and most influential food festival in Quanzhou in recent years.
As a key segment of the festival, the 6th Street Food Industry Development Conference took place on the morning of November 29 at Quanzhou Hotel. Industry experts, scholars, and leading street food entrepreneurs gathered to share insights on market trends, research data, and case studies. Notably, Wu Jian, President of the China Catering Industry Research Institute, presented a 2023-2024 report on industry and consumer data analytics.
Michelin Guide Fujian 2025 Announced: Four Quanzhou Restaurants Receive Stars, Ten Earn Bib Gourmand Distinctions
On December 3,the 2025 Michelin Guide Fujian was officially released in Xiamen, marking the first time the guide has evaluated Fujian province at a regional level, covering Quanzhou, Xiamen, and Fuzhou.
Four Quanzhou restaurants-Ant Private Kitchen, Jiangnan Courtyard, Green Island Seafood Restaurant, and Qing You Yu-earned Michelin Stars. Meanwhile, ten local establishments received the Bib Gourmand recommendation, including Aqiu Steak (Huxin Street), Lao Abo, Chunsheng Restaurant, Luo Ji Mian Xian Hu, Dewen Shrimp Noodles, Zhang Lin Ah Shan Ginger Duck, Haoting (Licheng), Zhong Ji Salt-Roasted Duck, Jianlaifa, and Zhuang Ji Quanfeng Lo Mian Guan.
Quanzhou's "City of Gastronomy" Slogan Competition Winners Announced
After a month and a half of public submissions, Quanzhou's "City of Gastronomy" slogan competition concluded on December 13, with the winning entries officially announced.
Gold Prize: "Starting Point of the Maritime Silk Road, Connecting Flavors Worldwide"
Silver Prize: "A Culinary Journey to Quanzhou, Where the Silk Road Meets the World"
Bronze Prize: "Waves of the Silk Road Rise in Quanzhou, Spreading Flavors Across the Globe"
The competition attracted over 10,000 slogan submissions from 1,750 participants across 228 cities in 30 provinces. Entrants ranged from students to senior citizens, including a 90-year-old Mr. Zheng Jinmo from Dehua, who handwrote and mailed his submission.
Quanzhou Introduces New Measures to Strengthen Its Culinary Talent Pool
On December 24, 2024, Quanzhou officially issued the "Measures to Strengthen the Culinary Talent Pool for Quanzhou Cuisine", aimed at fostering the city's food industry and attracting more culinary professionals to work, train, and establish businesses in Quanzhou.
These policies seek to enhance workforce development, improve services for food businesses and professionals, and support Quanzhou's bid to join UNESCO's Creative Cities Network as a City of Gastronomy.'
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