Yuexiu Cantonese Restaurant, Qingdao

Normally hotel restaurants are met with ho-hum indifference, but this dining gem snubs generalized perceptions by serving so much local deliciousness that even locals jockey for a table. Located in the four-star Dongfang Hotel the menu favors shrimp, crabs, tilapia and other local catches prepared in Cantonese and Shandong styles. Despite the highbrow location, the atmosphere is wonderfully casual. Private dining rooms are available and need to be reserved well in advance.