The Black Pearl Restaurant Guide 2025 was released by Meituan, a major online services platform in China, on Jan 6, recognizing 370 dining establishments across 34 cities worldwide. Zhejiang claimed 29 spots, with Hangzhou, Ningbo, Taizhou, and newcomer Wenzhou representing the province.

Hangzhou led with 18 entries, two more than last year, featuring diverse cuisines like Jiangsu-Zhejiang, Chaozhou, creative, and vegetarian. Chinese cuisine dominated at 77.8 percent, and Ren Haipeng of Hangzhou's Jie Xian Lou was named one of the guide's young chef awardees.

Ningbo followed with five entries, while Taizhou had four, including Xin Rong Ji. Wenzhou debuted with two restaurants on the list.

In December 2024, the first official standards for the iconic Hangzhou cuisine were unveiled. The standards provide detailed guidelines on raw materials, cooking techniques, equipment, and inheritance of signature dishes.

Dongpo Pork is a signature Hangzhou dish. [Photo/Tide News]