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1. Peking Duck (北京烤鸭)
Nothing says Beijing quite like Peking duck. This culinary masterpiece is a must-try for any visitor to the city.
With a history spanning centuries, Peking duck has been a staple on the imperial court's table and is now a symbol of Beijing's rich culinary tradition. Famous for its crispy skin, tender meat, and intricate preparation process, Peking duck is a truly special dining experience. The process of carving the duck tableside is a sight to behold, showcasing the skill required to create each perfect slice.
Quanjude and Da Dong are two of the most renowned restaurants for Peking duck, where the ducks are roasted in open ovens to achieve the perfect crispy skin and juicy meat. Traditionally, Peking duck is served with thin pancakes, sweet bean sauce, scallions, and cucumbers.
2. Peking Shredded Pork (京酱肉丝)
Peking Shredded Pork, or Jingjiang Rousi, is another iconic dish from Beijing. This flavorful dish features tender pork that is shredded and stir-fried with a variety of vegetables and a savory sauce.
Beijing Shredded Pork is a delicious dish made with finely shredded pork cooked in a sweet bean sauce. It's typically served with soft pancakes, fresh cucumbers, and scallions. Eating Beijing Shredded Pork is almost as enjoyable as tasting it.
The traditional way to enjoy it is to assemble your own wraps by spreading the pancake, adding the meat, cucumber, and scallions, and rolling it up into a tasty wrap. This interactive way of eating makes it more than just a meal, but an experience, perfect for sharing with friends or family.
3. Zha Jiang Mian (Beijing Fried Sauce Noodles) - 炸酱面
Zha Jiang Mian, also known as Beijing Fried Sauce Noodles, is a classic dish beloved for its simple yet satisfying flavors. This hearty meal consists of thick wheat noodles topped with a salty pork sauce and a variety of vegetables.
The sauce, known as "Zha Jiang," is made from minced pork, soybean paste, sugar, vinegar, and spices. It's typically thick, savory, and slightly sweet, enhancing the fresh taste of the dish. The noodles are usually served cold, topped with chopped green onions, julienned cucumbers, and a dollop of chili oil.
Zha Jiang Mian is a filling and satisfying dish, perfect for lunch or dinner. It's also a popular choice among street vendors, who often sell it in small portions, making it ideal for a snack.
One of the best places to try Zha Jiang Mian in Beijing is at Fangzhuang Factory Number 69, which has been recommended by Michelin for several consecutive years. Other bustling food streets like Wangfujing or Guijie also offer authentic versions of this beloved dish, served up in small eateries and frequented by local diners.
4. Dumplings (饺子)
In Beijing, a city rich with culinary traditions, one dish that stands out due to its universality and popularity is the humble dumpling. These delightful treats are a staple in northern Chinese cuisine and come in a delicious array of variations.
Dumplings are typically filled with a mix of minced pork and vegetables, but there are many other options available to suit all tastes. They are usually steamed or boiled and often served with a dipping sauce made from vinegar, soy sauce, and chili oil. Dumplings can be enjoyed as a main dish or a snack and are a popular choice among families and friends.
During Lunar New Year celebrations, dumplings are especially significant as their shape resembles ancient Chinese currency, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. It's a tradition for families to come together and make dumplings during the New Year, making them not just a meal but also a social activity.
For those looking to try some of the freshest, steaming hot dumplings, head to Wangfujing Snack Street or the historic Qianmen area where small eateries and street vendors abound. Other popular spots include Baoyuan Dumpling House, Jindingxuan, Xian Lao Man, and Xijiade Shrimp Dumplings, among others.
5. Beijing Style Hot Pot (老北京涮羊肉)
When the chilly winds sweep through Beijing, there's one culinary tradition that locals and visitors alike flock to for warmth and conviviality: the Beijing style hot pot. This communal dining experience isn't just about sating hunger; it's a cultural ritual that brings people together around a simmering pot filled with rich, aromatic broth.
Distinct from its more famous cousin, the Sichuan hot pot, which is known for its numbing spice, the Beijing version is characterized by its milder, yet deeply flavorful broth. Typically based on mutton and beef, the broth is simmered to perfection with goji berries, jujubes, and a variety of herbs and spices that lend a subtle complexity to the dish.
Accompanying the bubbling broth are various dipping sauces, typically sesame paste and fermented tofu sauce, which diners can mix to their liking, adding another layer of flavor to the cooked ingredients.
Iconic spots to enjoy Beijing hot pot include Dong Lai Shun and Haidilao, which offer authentic experiences with high-quality ingredients and attentive service.
6. Imperial Cuisine (宫廷菜)
Dining on Imperial Cuisine in Beijing is like taking a delicious dive into China's royal past. Why settle for the ordinary when you can feast like an emperor? At Yuxiandu (御仙都), you get a taste of what was once reserved for royalty. This isn't just a meal; it's a full-on cultural immersion.
Sitting down to a menu that features exquisite dishes once crafted by the emperor's personal chefs in the imperial kitchens. These recipes are culinary treasures, combining rare ingredients with intricate preparations. But the experience at Yuxiandu goes beyond just food. While you savor these delicacies, you'll be treated to traditional performances that echo the grandeur of ancient China. And yes, you can totally enhance your experience by donning period costumes provided by the restaurant.
7. Pancake (煎饼)
Beijing's food scene is as vast and varied as the city itself, but if you're looking to dive right into the heart of local cuisine, you can't go wrong with a Beijing pancake. Not just any pancake, this is a staple that offers a taste of the city's history and culture in every bite.
A Beijing pancake, commonly referred to as Jianbing, is a traditional Chinese street food that's beloved by locals and tourists alike. It's made right before your eyes on a hot griddle, starting with a thin layer of batter (similar to a crepe) which is then brushed with egg and sprinkled with an assortment of toppings. Green onions, fresh coriander, and sometimes a handful of crunchy wonton crisps add texture and flavor. The magic ingredient? A richly flavored chili or hoisin sauce that's painted across the surface to give the pancake its signature kick.
Jianbing vendors are found on many street corners in the morning hours, serving up these crispy, savory treats that are perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast or a quick snack while exploring the city.
8. Lamb Skewers (羊肉串)
When roaming the bustling streets of Beijing, the sizzle and smoke of lamb skewers, locally known as Yangrou Chuan, are an unmistakable part of the city's nighttime charm.
The key to a good lamb skewer is the marinade. The meat is typically marinated in a mixture of spices, including cumin, chili powder, and Sichuan peppercorns. This gives the lamb a flavorful and slightly spicy kick.
Once marinated, the lamb is skewered and grilled over a charcoal grill. The high heat gives the meat a crispy exterior and a juicy interior. Lamb skewers are typically served with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a side of cumin powder.
There are many great places to try lamb skewers in Beijing. One popular spot is the Wangfujing Night Market, where you can find a variety of street food vendors selling skewers. Another option is to visit a local barbecue restaurant, where you can order a platter of lamb skewers along with other grilled meats and vegetables.
9. Donkey Roll (驴打滚)
Don't let the name fool you! Donkey rolls, or lu da gun (驴打滚), are actually a delicious sweet treat that has nothing to do with donkeys. This traditional Chinese dessert is made with glutinous rice flour, red bean paste, and sugar.
The dough is rolled out thin and then filled with a sweet red bean paste. The filled dough is then rolled up into a log shape and coated in a layer of powdered sugar. The result is a chewy and sweet treat that is both satisfying and delicious.
Donkey rolls are a popular snack in Beijing, and they can be found at many traditional Chinese pastry shops. They are often served with a cup of tea, and they make a great dessert after a meal.
If you're looking for a unique and delicious treat to try while in Beijing, be sure to sample some donkey rolls. You won't be disappointed!
10. Pea Cake (豌豆黄)
If you're wandering through the bustling food markets in Beijing or strolling down a quaint alleyway lined with eateries, and you stumble upon a stall selling Pea Cake, or 豌豆黄 (Wāndòu huáng), you're in for a treat. This traditional snack might not grab headlines like Peking duck or jianbing, but it holds a cherished place in the hearts of Beijingers.
Pea Cake is a mellow, mildly sweet treat made from yellow split peas, which are meticulously ground into a fine powder and then steamed with a concoction of sugar and a touch of osmanthus flower for fragrance. The result is a smooth, jelly-like cake that melts gently in your mouth, offering a subtle sweetness and a floral hint that's refreshing and not overpoweringly sugary.
Originating from the Qing Dynasty, Pea Cake was once considered a delicacy exclusive to the imperial family. Today, it's accessible to anyone looking for an authentic taste of Beijing's culinary history. Often served chilled, especially during the warmer months, it provides a cool respite from the bustling city heat.
Pea Cake is typically cut into delicate squares and served on plates as a perfect end to a meal or as a delightful afternoon snack. It pairs wonderfully with a pot of Chinese tea, balancing the flavors with its sweet simplicity.
Where to Eat in Beijing
When exploring the vast and varied culinary landscape of Beijing, every meal can feel like an adventure. Whether you're craving street-side snacks, traditional Chinese fare, Western cuisine, or vegetarian dishes, Beijing's neighborhoods and famous eateries promise an unforgettable dining experience.
Street Food: Dive into the heart of Beijing's street food scene at Ghost Street (Gui Jie). This vibrant stretch is lined with stalls and small restaurants serving up everything from fiery hotpots to spicy crayfish late into the night. It's the perfect spot to snack your way through some of Beijing's most beloved dishes under the glow of red lanterns.
Traditional Cuisine: For a taste of old Beijing, head to Liu Quan Ju, one of the oldest Peking duck restaurants in the city, located in the bustling Qianmen area. Here, the duck is roasted to perfection and served alongside a plethora of traditional accompaniments, providing a quintessential Beijing dining experience.
Western Cuisine: If you're in the mood for something familiar with a twist, check out The Opposite House in Sanlitun, an area known for its modern vibe and expatriate crowd. This trendy hotel hosts several restaurants that offer innovative Western dishes with a sophisticated flair, perfect for when you need a break from the local cuisine.
Vegetarian: For vegetarians, the artistic and serene King's Joy, close to the Yonghegong Lama Temple, offers a luxurious escape into the world of gourmet vegetarian and vegan cuisine. Using organic ingredients, the chefs create dishes that are as beautiful as they are tasty, ensuring that even non-vegetarians are tempted.
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Beijing at Night, Beijing Food
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