Beijing has more people than Ireland, Denmark, and Greece, combined. The term “meal options” here means something else entirely. Beijing’s awesome culinary scene can be attributed to it’s history as the on-again, off-again, capital of China. Eat Imperial meals or explore the cuisines of Beijing’s own little’ Chinatowns’ – these aren’t foreign imports but rather a mosaic of flavors from different parts of China and various ethnic communities. It’s a delicious melting pot that’s so impressive, it’s almost impossible to nail down the best local eateries.
But we’ve tried! From the world-famous Peking duck to the humblest dumplings, we’ve curated a list of our favorite spots for visitors. Our picks are not only authentic and ridiculously tasty, but they also feature menus in English and/or with photos to help you navigate the choices. Consider this your ultimate dining guide for Beijing—don’t settle for just one; taste them all!
Don’t want to visit “foreigner-friendly” spots? Then join one of our Beijing Food Tours and we’ll get you off the beaten path and go to places that only locals know about…unlimited food & beer included. Leave the logistics and ordering to us and eat the best local food in the city!
You can’t visit Beijing without trying its iconic Peking Duck, and with a few locations around town, this spot is a time-tested local favorite. Our favorite location is along the west wall of the Forbidden city which offers incredible views (and a perfect spot to eat after if you’re visiting the area).
As you enter, you can watch ducks being expertly roasted in two massive wood-fired ovens. Then see your crisp, golden duck skillfully sliced beside your dining table, showcasing the chef’s masterful techniques. Enjoy it in a delicate pancake with fresh scallions and some sweet ‘n tangy Peking duck sauce; the combination of textures and flavors creates a dining experience you’ll never forget.
Pro tip: Regardless of which location you visit, we recommend visiting during off-peak times (late lunch or early dinner) to avoid long waits.
Opening Hours: 10:30-21:30 Daily
What To Order:
Peking Duck 酥香嫩烤鸭:
159 RMB/half set (recommended for 2-3 people)
259 RMB/whole set (recommended for 3-5 people)
Plus 6 RMB for duck wraps and 6 RMB/pax for condiments
Grilled Lamb with Scallion 贝勒爷烤肉
Cold Tossed Pea Shoots 巧拌豆苗
What We Love: Tableside duck slicing with Forbidden City views.
Where it’s located: 11 Nanchizi Ave, Dongcheng District.
Show Your Taxi Driver: 四季民福故宫店
Maps: Google Map (requires VPN in China) or Chinese Map
This cozy Chinese dumpling haven in the heart of Beijing boasts the largest selection of dumplings in Beijing (and perhaps even the world), including an array of classic and innovative options – including vegetarian. While the staff may not speak English, the menu provides good English translations, and all orders include complimentary picked garlic and vinegar.
Pro tip: Each type of dumpling has a minimum order of 10, so come hungry and bring friends to explore the variety.
Opening Hours: 10:30-21:00 Daily
What To Order:
Man Jie’s House Special Dumplings (leek, shrimp, egg, pork, fungus) 满姐招牌饺子
Pork and Fennel Dumplings 猪肉茴香饺子
Zucchini and Scrambled Egg Dumplings 西葫芦鸡蛋饺子
What We Love: Dumpling heaven that’s perfect for a group hangout.
Where it’s located: 34-3, Dongsishitiao Yi (close to Dongsishitiao Subway Station, exit D, on line 2)
Show Your Taxi Driver: 满姐饺子（东城区东四十条乙34-3号）
Maps: Google Map (requires VPN in China) or Chinese Map
This hidden gem offers rooftop views of Beijing’s historic bell tower and serves local hotpot in traditional copper pots and filled with a clear broth that highlights the quality ingredients. Thin slices of mutton and beef are quickly cooked in the pot and then dipped in a sauce made with sesame paste…plus grab a pint of local craft beer! Wanna know where this hidden gem is? Join our Beijing Evening Food Tour to find out!
Beijing’s climate is harsh, traditionally relying on things like wheat, root veggies, and pantry-based ingredients. Yunnan province, on the other hand, borders Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam and is known for its breathtaking scenery and vibrant cuisine with SE Asian influences. Hence, Beijingers love Yunnan food.
Step inside to find ‘Little Yunnan’, where natural light and greenery create a refreshing retreat in the heart of Beijing. Enjoy a diverse menu that captures the essence of Yunnan cuisine, available in both Chinese and English. Here, each dish, rich with fragrant herbs and exotic spices, not only delights the palate but also evokes the lush landscapes of southwestern China.
Discover ‘Little Yunnan’ in the heart of Beijing, a vibrant spot where the diverse flavors of Yunnan’s cuisine come to life through a menu infused with exotic spices and aromatic herbs, all served up in a light-filled, plant-adorned setting.
Opening Hours: 11:00-22:00 Daily
What To Order:
Yunnan Beef with Mint Salad 薄荷牛肉
Lijiang Spicy Chicken with Lotus Root and Potato 丽江藕芋花椒鸡
Grilled Tilapia with Lemongrass Sauce 傣味香茅草罗非鱼
Yunnan Rice Cake Stir-Fry with Ham and Vegetables 腾冲大救驾
What We Love: Yunnan’s lush flavors in the heart of Beijing’s buzz!
Location: Little Yunnan 小云南
Where it’s located: South Luogu Lane Branch: No. 89, Di’anmen East Street
What to show your taxi driver: 小云南南锣鼓巷店
Map: Google Map (requires VPN in China) or Chinese Map
Nestled in the youthful and artistic atmosphere of trendy Wudaoying Hutong, this vegetarian restaurant is accentuated by statues, redwood furniture, and the gentle sounds of flowing water. The menu boasts a variety of signature dishes, with mushrooms taking center stage as the primary ingredient, offering dishes with fresh and delicate flavors. Guests can customize their meals with less oil for a lighter touch.
What To Order:
Curry Vegetable Stew with Avocado, Cauliflower and Potatoes 咖喱时蔬
Kong Pao Mushrooms 素宫保鸡丁
What We Love: Mushrooms steal the show in a cool, artsy spot.
Location: Yebozhai Imperial Vegetarian Restaurant
Where it’s located: No.40, Wudaoying Hutong(close to Lama Temple Subway Station on Line 2&5)
Show Your Taxi Driver: 钵斋宫廷素菜
Map: Google Map (requires VPN in China) or Chinese Map
If you’re a fan of spicy cuisine and eager to explore Sichuan flavors, this hidden gem is an absolute must-visit. As you step inside, the authentic sounds of the Sichuan dialect set the scene for a culinary adventure. Dive into the yummy world of Minced Pork and Smashed Peas Noodles(available both dry and as a noodle soup), where simple noodles are transformed with a complex, spicy sauce that dances on the palate. Don’t miss the pan-fried Potatoes, a local favorite for their crunchy exterior and soft, fluffy inside, making them irresistibly tasty. An English menu is available to help you navigate your options easily, but be sure to keep water at hand for this spicy journey!
Cool down with ‘Bingfen,’ a soothing brown sugar jelly dessert that offers a wave of refreshment, perfectly balancing out the heat and leaving you ready for more of Sichuan’s fiery delights.
Opening Hours: 10:00-21:30 Daily
What To Order:
Minced Pork and Smashed Peas Noodles (dry or with noodle soup)
Pan-fried Potatoes 锅巴土豆
Brown Sugar Jelly Dessert 红糖冰粉
What We Love: Fiery flavors meet sweet Bingfen at this spicy Sichuan hideout!
Location: Chongqing Laojiexiao Noodles 重庆老街小面
Where it’s located:An Ding Men Branch: 103 Annei Ave, Dongcheng District(close to Andingmen Subway Station on Line 2)
Show Your Taxi Driver: 重庆老街小面(安定门内大街103号)
Map: Google Map (requires VPN in China) or Chinese Map
Quickly becoming a favorite haunt for the city’s social media generation, this is a great spot to satisfy your sweet spot. Featuring a seasonal dessert menu that blends Western techniques with traditional Chinese ingredients, they offer some fun twists on classic desserts. The tranquil rooftop retreat with hutong views doesn’t hurt either.
Opening Hours: 11:00-24:00 Daily
What To Order:
Jasmine Tea mousse 茉莉清茶酪
Yuzu Mousse 柚子酪
Peach Rice Wine 蜜桃米浆
Lychee White Tea 荔枝煮白茶
What We Love: Classic Chinese flavors get a trendy mousse twist in this cool hutong hangout.
Location: Yuan Gu Neo-Chinese Style Dessert Shop 元古本店
Where it’s located: No.3 on Shajing Hutong, South Luogu Lane
Show Your Taxi Driver: 元古本店
Map: Google Map (requires VPN in China) or Chinese Map
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Coffee culture isn’t strong (or native) in China, but these cafes in Beijing will have you thinking otherwise. Criteria for our list considered all of the following: good coffee, decent wifi, comfortable vibe, and clean bathrooms.
After three years, China is reopening its border to tourists, effective immediately! Based on what we’ve seen in other parts of the world post-pandemic, the best time to visit a reopened country is early – before all of the crowds return. We’ve got all the details you need to start planning your next trip to China…
Looking for a fresh team building or work outing idea? Our “Flavors of China” Restaurant Tour in Beijing is the perfect chance for you to visit 4 restaurants in one night, discover a plethora of new dishes, and have an amazing time together with your group.
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