A competition of Shandong cuisine, also known as Lu cuisine that developed from the native cooking style of eastern China’s Shandong Province was held on Thursday in the province’s Yantai city. /VCG Photo

Over 600 dishes shaped into innovative animal patterns or exquisite miniascapes were served by chefs from 18 local restaurants amid the contest, attracting many for their lip-smacking flavor as well as well as the artsy presentation. /VCG Photo

Shandong cuisine, as one of the most influential schools of Chinese cuisine, boasts profound historical roots tracing back to the Spring and Autumn Period (770-221BC), and is known for its wide selection of food ingredients including seafood and diverse cooking techniques. /VCG Photo

Famous dishes of the culinary style include stir-fried pig’s kidney and sweet potato with caramelized sugar. /VCG Photo