Beijing, a city of rich history and vibrant culture, boasts a diverse culinary scene. From traditional Chinese fare to international delicacies, the capital offers an array of dining options to satisfy every palate. As a visitor, navigating the vast Beijing restaurant landscape can be daunting. To ease your decision-making, we’ve curated a list of 15 must-try restaurants in Beijing, each offering unique flavors and dining experiences.
Experience Authentic Chinese Flavors
In & Out (一座一忘丽江主题餐厅): A Taste of Yunnan
Overview:
In & Out offers an authentic taste of Yunnan cuisine, bringing the flavors of Southern China to Beijing. The restaurant is adorned with traditional Yunnan decor, and the staff is dressed in ethnic costumes, adding to the cultural experience.
Recommended Dishes:
- Fried Potato Balls: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, these are a must-try appetizer.
- Rice with Pineapple: A refreshing dish combining sweet and savory elements.
- Xishuangbanna Roast Fish: Infused with lemongrass, this dish is a fragrant delight.
Details:
- Specialties: Vegetarian and vegan options available
- Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-2pm, 5.30-9.30pm; Sat-Sun 11am-9.30pm
- Address: 1 Sanlitun Beixiaojie, Chaoyang District
- Phone: (6467 5235)
- Cuisine Type: Chinese, Yunnan
Shaanxi Noodle King: Northwest Delights
Overview:
Shaanxi Noodle King is renowned for its authentic noodle dishes from the Shaanxi province. This unpretentious eatery draws crowds with its delicious and affordable offerings.
Recommended Dishes:
- Youpo Noodles: Thick, belt-like noodles served in a savory-spicy sauce.
Details:
- Hours: Daily 10am-10pm
- Address: B1-4, Topwin Center, Chaoyang District
- Phone: (5722 2029)
- Cuisine Type: Chinese, Noodles
Xiaodiao Litang: Modern Beijing Cuisine
Overview:
Xiaodiao Litang is a chain offering a modern twist on classic Beijing dishes. The signature litang, a sweetened pear soup, is a highlight.
Recommended Dishes:
- Litang: A traditional pear soup sweetened with rock sugar.
- Flash-Fried Prawns with Pears: A delightful combination of seafood and fruit.
Details:
- Hours: Daily 11am-3pm, 5-9.30pm
- Address: 4A, Baijiazhuang Dongli, south of Tuanjiehu subway exit C, Chaoyang District
- Phone: (6582 1348)
- Cuisine Type: Chinese, Beijing
- Specialties: Vegetarian options available
Chuan Ban: Spicy Sichuan Delicacies
Overview:
Chuan Ban, located within the Sichuan provincial government representative office, is celebrated for its authentic Sichuan dishes. The restaurant’s unpretentious decor belies its reputation for the best Sichuan food in Beijing.
Recommended Dishes:
- Mapo Tofu: Spicy and numbing, a classic Sichuan dish.
- Deep-Fried Chicken with Chilies: A fiery and flavorful favorite.
Details:
- Hours: Daily 10am-10pm
- Address: 5 Gongyuan Toutiao, Jianguomen Neidajie, Dongcheng District
- Phone: (6512 2277 ext 6101)
- Cuisine Type: Chinese, Sichuan
- Specialties: Vegetarian options available
Najia Xiaoguan: Imperial Manchu Cuisine
Overview:
Najia Xiaoguan serves imperial Manchu cuisine with novel dishes featuring unique ingredients like venison. Reservations are recommended due to its popularity.
Recommended Dishes:
- Crispy Skinned Prawns: A perfect blend of texture and flavor.
- Braised Eggplant: A savory and satisfying choice.
Details:
- Hours: Daily 11.30am-9.30pm
- Address: 10 Yonganli, Jianguomen Waidajie, Chaoyang District
- Phone: (6567 3663)
- Cuisine Type: Chinese, Beijing
- Specialties: Vegetarian options available
Baoyuan Dumplings: A Colorful Dumpling Experience
Overview:
Baoyuan Dumplings in the Liangmaqiao area is famed for its vibrant dumplings, colored with natural vegetable dyes. The fillings range from traditional to innovative.
Recommended Dishes:
- Kungpao Chicken Dumplings: A creative twist on a classic dish.
- Crispy Rice and Cabbage: A beloved long-time favorite.
Details:
- Hours: Daily 11am-2pm, 5-10pm
- Address: 6 Maizidian Jie, Chaoyang District
- Phone: (6586 4967)
- Cuisine Type: Chinese, Dumplings
- Specialties: Vegetarian and vegan options available
Good Noodles: A Noodle Lover’s Paradise – the Real Hidden Gem
Overview:
Good Noodles, as the name suggests, is a haven for noodle enthusiasts, offering a variety of styles from across China.
Recommended Dishes:
- Beef Noodle Soup: Rich and flavorful broth with tender beef slices.
- Dan Dan Noodles: Spicy and savory with a hint of sesame.
Details:
- Hours: Daily 11am-11pm
- Address: 25 Xuanwumen Xidajie, Xicheng District
- Phone: (6325 1256)
- Cuisine Type: Chinese, Noodles
Indulge in International Cuisine
Black Sesame Kitchen: Communal Dining Experience
Overview:
Black Sesame Kitchen offers a unique communal dining experience in a charming hutong setting. Their 10-course meals are crafted with fresh ingredients and paired with fine wines.
Recommended Dishes:
- Red-Braised Pork Belly: Tender and flavorful, a true delight.
- Kungpao Shrimp: A modern twist on a classic favorite.
Details:
- Hours: By appointment only
- Address: 28 Zhonglao Hutong, Dongcheng District
- Phone: (136 9147 4408)
- Cuisine Type: Chinese, Pan-Chinese
- Specialties: Vegetarian and vegan options available
Crescent Moon: Xinjiang Delights
Overview:
Crescent Moon is a popular spot for Xinjiang cuisine, offering hearty portions of lamb kebabs, grilled naan, and homemade yogurt.
Recommended Dishes:
- Chicken and Potato Stew: A comforting and filling choice.
- Lamb Kebabs: Juicy and perfectly seasoned.
Details:
- Hours: Daily 11am-11.30pm
- Address: 16 Dongsi Liutiao, Dongcheng District
- Phone: (6400 5281)
- Cuisine Type: Chinese, Xinjiang
- Specialties: Vegetarian options available
Relish Peking Duck and More
Da Dong: Innovative Modern Cuisine
Overview:
Da Dong is renowned for serving Beijing’s leanest roast duck. The restaurant also offers innovative modern Chinese cuisine with high-end ingredients.
Recommended Dishes:
- Roast Duck: Lean and flavorful, with a crisp skin.
- Lobster with Foie Gras: A luxurious combination.
Details:
- Address: 1-2/F, Nanxincang International Plaza, 22A Dongsi Shitiao, Dongcheng District
- Phone: (5169 0329)
- Cuisine Type: Chinese, Peking Duck
- Specialties: Vegetarian options available
- Language: English menu
Siji Minfu: Peking Duck in Style
Overview:
Siji Minfu offers Peking duck in a lively atmosphere, providing better value than some of the city’s touristy options.
Recommended Dishes:
- Peking Duck: Consistently good and a must-try.
- Zhajiang Noodles: A traditional Beijing dish.
Details:
- Hours: Daily 11am-10pm
- Address: 32 Dengshikou Xijie, Dongcheng District
- Phone: (6522 8888)
- Cuisine Type: Chinese, Peking Duck
- Language: English menu
Jing Yaa Tang: Upscale Peking Duck
Overview:
Located within The Opposite House hotel, Jing Yaa Tang offers an upscale Peking duck experience in a stylish setting.
Recommended Dishes:
- Peking Duck: Expertly prepared with a focus on quality.
- Duck Egg Custard Bun: A delightful dessert option.
Details:
- Hours: Daily 11.30am-2.30pm, 6-10.30pm
- Address: The Opposite House, Sanlitun Village North, 11 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District
- Phone: (6410 5230)
- Cuisine Type: Chinese, Peking Duck
- Language: English menu
Discover Unique Dining Experiences
Hua’s Restaurant: Courtyard Dining Experience
Overview:
Hua’s Restaurant offers an elegant dining experience in restored courtyards, serving upgraded Beijing homestyle dishes.
Recommended Dishes:
- Peking Duck: Served with hawthorn jelly for a unique twist.
- Boiled Crayfish: Fresh and flavorful.
Details:
- Hours: Daily 10.30am-4am
- Address: 235 Dongzhimen Neidajie, Dongcheng District
- Phone: (5128 3315)
- Cuisine Type: Chinese, Beijing
- Language: English menu
King’s Joy: Upscale Vegetarian Dining
Overview:
King’s Joy offers a fine dining vegetarian experience near the Lama Temple. The restaurant is known for its creative dishes and elegant presentation.
Recommended Dishes:
- Assorted Mushroom Hot Pot: A rich and earthy flavor profile.
- Braised Bamboo Shoots: Light and refreshing.
Details:
- Hours: Daily 11am-10pm
- Address: 2 Wudaoying Hutong, Yonghegong Dajie, Dongcheng District
- Phone: (8404 9191)
- Cuisine Type: Chinese, Vegetarian
- Specialties: Vegetarian and vegan options available
- Language: English menu
Haidilao: Interactive Hot Pot Experience
Overview:
Haidilao is renowned for its exceptional service and interactive hot pot experience. Guests can enjoy complimentary services like nail art while waiting for a table.
Recommended Dishes:
- Sichuan Spicy Broth: A fiery and flavorful choice.
- Lamb Slices: Perfect for dipping into the hot pot.
Details:
- Hours: 24 hours
- Address: 8/F, In88 Shopping Center, 88 Wangfujing Dajie, Dongcheng District
- Phone: (5762 0741)
- Cuisine Type: Chinese, Hot Pot
- Specialties: Vegetarian options available
- Language: English menu
Beijing’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its culture, offering an endless array of flavors to explore. From traditional favorites to modern innovations, these restaurants provide unforgettable dining experiences for visitors and locals alike. Whether you’re seeking authenticity or adventure, Beijing’s food scene promises to satisfy your every craving. Check out our China Beijing Tours to help you experiences delicious restaurants in Beijing.
