Jinan is home to a diverse range of signature dishes, celebrated for their rich flavors. Here are 10 local delicacies of the 2025 Shandong signature dishes.

1. Pingyin rose cake

Pingyin rose cake. [Photo/WeChat account: jnslyj]

A popular treat from Pingyin county, known for its fragrant aroma and delicate texture. Made with sweet rose petals wrapped in a golden, flaky crust, this pastry embodies the essence of local roses.

2. Bazirou pork

Bazirou pork. [Photo/WeChat account: jnslyj]

This Jinan specialty consists of pork fillet with a balance of fat and lean meat, slow-cooked to perfection. Its rich, melt-in-your-mouth flavor is savory and tender, without being greasy.

3. Laiwu sausage

Laiwu sausage. [Photo/WeChat account: jnslyj]

A traditional delicacy from Laiwu, this sausage is made from lean pork and small intestines, marinated and cooked with a blend of spices. Its glossy black color and aromatic scent are unmistakable, making it a local favorite.

4. Braised sea cucumber with scallion

Braised sea cucumber with scallion. [Photo/WeChat account: jnslyj]

Braised sea cucumber with scallion is a classic Shandong dish. The sea cucumber is simmered in a rich broth and enhanced with the aroma of scallion oil.

5. Pork trotter

Pork trotter. [Photo/WeChat account: jnslyj]

This beloved local dish features trotters slow-cooked in a savory sauce with star anise and cinnamon, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a glossy, amber finish.

6. Braised intestines in brown sauce

Braised intestines in brown sauce. [Photo/WeChat account: jnslyj]

Braised intestines in brown sauce is a famous Shandong cuisine. The intestines are blanched, deep-fried, and stewed with a blend of spices. Its rich, tender texture is the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and salty flavors.

7. Tianmo

Tianmo. [Photo/WeChat account: jnslyj]

Tianmo is a savory porridge made from millet, flavored with ginger, pepper, spinach, peanuts, thin sheets of bean curd, and a dash of hot oil.

8. Sweet and sour carp

Sweet and sour carp. [Photo/WeChat account: jnslyj]

Deep-fried Longmen carp from the Yellow River is coated in a tangy sauce of vinegar and sugar. The crispy exterior and tender meat offer a perfect balance of flavors. 

9. Stir-fried pork kidney

Stir-fried pork kidney. [Photo/WeChat account: jnslyj]

Stir-fried pork kidney is a popular dish in Jinan, cooked with sliced kidneys, aromatic spices, garlic, and a touch of chili.

10. Laiwu lamb soup

Laiwu lamb soup. [Photo/WeChat account: jnslyj]

Known for its creamy, milky-white broth, Laiwu lamb soup is slow-simmered for hours to achieve a rich, fresh flavor. It's aromatic without being greasy, and is often served with cilantro.