The nighttime catering economy in Shinan district, Qingdao has recovered after being adversely affected by the COVID-19 epidemic, equalling last year's turnover.

Yunxiao Road Food Street near Hong Kong Middle Road in Shinan is considered to be the symbol of Qingdao catering and includes many famous restaurants and taverns.

As night falls, animated conversations and the smell of food make the street come alive.

"Today (July 20) is Monday, which used to the least busy day of the week," said Tian Ruijie, manager of Chuhai Boat Seafood, "but now the private rooms have been fully booked, and there's even a short line at the door."

With the advent of dog days, the busiest hours have changed significantly and are concentrated between 9pm and 12am.

"On average, dinner guests have prolonged their mealtime by half an hour to an hour," said Dong Gang, director of Chuanjia Yuyan, a famous local restaurant. He mentioned that the closing time of the barbecue booth has been pushed back from 11.30pm to 2am, and they have increased discounts for nighttime meals to attract customers.

People line up in front of Wangjie Barbecue Seafood Snack Booth at Shinan district, Qingdao. [Photo/qdsn.gov.cn]