Qujing is well known for its culinary culture, a reputation that began to be established as far back as the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) when the unique flavor of locally produced Xuanwei Ham won the favor of emperors. The ham is still produced today using the methods that so pleased the rulers of old.

Other dishes popular with Chinese tourists include zhanyi lazi ji (chicken fried with chili peppers, garlic and local greens), wuhua mifan (5 flavor rice balls) and luliang banya (tender, succulent roasted duck seasoned with salt).