Lu Cuisine (Shandong Cuisine)
Lu Cuisine, also known as Shandong Cuisine, is one of the Eight Great Traditions of Chinese cuisine and has a history of more than 2,500 years. Jinan, as the capital of Shandong Province, is a major center for Lu Cuisine.
Jinan cuisine is characterized by its emphasis on freshness, aroma, tenderness, and crispness. The dishes are known for their clear, fresh, and slightly salty flavors. Soups are an important part of Jinan cuisine, with clear soups being particularly valued.
The cuisine makes excellent use of local ingredients, including freshwater fish from the Yellow River, seafood from the Bohai Sea, and various vegetables grown in Shandong's fertile soil.
Must-Try Dishes in Jinan
Sweet and Sour Carp
This iconic Jinan dish features a whole carp fried until crispy and then coated in a sweet and sour sauce. The fish is often presented in a dramatic, arched shape.
Braised Intestines in Brown Sauce
A complex dish where pork intestines are braised with various spices until tender. The name "Nine Turns" refers to the intricate cooking process.
Quick-Fried Double Crisp
This dish combines chicken gizzards and pork tripe, quickly fried to maintain their crisp texture. It's a testament to the chef's skill with fire control.
Recommended Restaurants
Jufengde Restaurant
Established in 1848, this is one of Jinan's oldest and most famous restaurants, specializing in traditional Lu Cuisine.
Location: 13 Weisan Road, Lixia District
Qianfoshan Hotel Restaurant
Located near Thousand Buddha Mountain, this restaurant offers authentic Jinan dishes with beautiful views.
Location: 2 Lishan Road, Lixia District