As someone who’s been living in Beijing since 2018, one thing I’ve always appreciated is the city’s international food scene. From high-end dining to hidden neighborhood gems, there’s no shortage of global flavors—and Turkish Feast is a standout when it comes to authentic Turkish cuisine.

Their Wangfujing location, which opened in 2024, is located on the 4th floor of WF Central, a modern shopping complex just steps away from some of Beijing’s most iconic landmarks, including the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square.

It’s a convenient and stylish spot for lunch or dinner, whether you’re sightseeing or just exploring downtown.

The menu offers a solid range of Turkish dishes. We started with a classic mezze platter featuring muhammara, yogurt celery, hummus —all fresh, flavorful, and beautifully plated.

I’m a huge fan of Turkish dips and bread, and these were the perfect way to start the meal!

For mains, we shared the grape sarma, a giant Ottoman-style lamb with bulgar pilaf, and beef, adana and chicken kebabs.

The pide—a Turkish-style flatbread—was warm, cheesy, and comforting, and the baklava was perfectly crisp with just the right level of sweetness.

And don’t miss out on the cocktails. Their drink menu includes creative options like the Turkish Feast cocktail with gin, Istanbul Night, Shy Raspberry, Irish Ginger, and Turkish Delight—all of which were thoughtfully mixed and well-balanced.

On weekends, the restaurant also features a live saxophone player, which adds to the atmosphere without feeling overly staged. It’s a nice detail that enhances the dining experience.

While this branch is centrally located, Turkish Feast also has other locations across Beijing (listed below), making it easy to enjoy their food whether you’re in Chaoyang, Sanlitun, or elsewhere in the city.

Thank you to Turkish Feast for inviting me to taste your menu at this Wangfujing location! Over the years we have visited Turkish Feast’s other locations on our own many times and always enjoy the food and atmosphere.

Wangfujing Location: Xiting Xiuse Turkish Feast (WF Central Branch) Room 411B, East Tower, WF Central, No. 269 Wangfujing Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing西庭·秀色 Turkish Feast（王府中环店）北京市东城区王府井大街269号王府中环东座411B

I recently joined a Beijing Breakfast tour with Lost Plate that took us through a morning of authentic eats across six different stops, and it was a feast for the senses. As someone who’s lived in Beijing for six years, trust me—this is the best way to discover the city’s culinary gems!

Want to book a Lost Plate food tour? Use my code RACHELMEETSCHINA for a discount and dive into the delicious world of Chinese food culture!

Stop 1: Huguo Temple Snacks (护国寺小吃)

Our first stop was at the iconic Huguo Temple Snacks, a must-visit spot for traditional Beijing street food. Our group split an assortment of treats, including:

• 豆汁儿 (Fermented Mungbean Juice): A classic, though acquired, taste that’s loved by locals.

• 焦圈儿 (Fried Dough Ring): Perfectly crispy, it’s the ideal pairing with the mungbean juice.

• 艾窝窝 (White Sticky Rice Ball with Fillings) and 豌豆黄 (Yellow Pea Cake): Soft and slightly sweet, these are delicate bites packed with flavor.

• 驴打滚 (Rolling Donkey): A sweet glutinous rice roll coated in bean flour—a nostalgic favorite for many Beijingers.

• 山楂糕 (Hawthorn Jelly) and 鲜豆糕 (Mungbean Mooncake): Refreshingly tangy and sweet.

• 螺丝钻儿 (Screw or Snail): A crunchy and fun snack I had never tried before!

Stop 2: Traditional Beijing Breakfast (老北京早餐)

The next spot offered some of Beijing’s most beloved breakfast dishes:

• 豆腐脑 (Savory Tender Tofu): Soft tofu in a savory broth that’s warming and comforting.

• 糖油饼 (Fried Brown Sugar Pancake): This was the highlight for me—crispy on the outside, with gooey caramelized sugar inside. I could honestly eat this every day!

• 韭菜馅饼 (Chive and Egg Pancake) and 包子 (Steamed Buns) with various fillings: Both were fresh and flavorful, perfect for a hearty start to the day.

• 肉桂糖卷子 (Cinnamon Roll with Brown Sugar): A warm, fragrant treat that was a delightful surprise.

Stop 3-5: Street Food Classics

This stop featured some of my favorite street snacks:

• 煎饼果子 (Jianbing with Crackers): A Beijing classic that never disappoints—crispy and savory.

• 烤冷面 (Grilled Cold Noodles): Chewy and smoky, a must-try if you’re exploring local flavors.

• 糖葫芦 (Hawthorn on a Stick): Tangy and sweet, these candied fruits are a nostalgic taste of Beijing winters.

Stop 4: Egg Pancake and Dumplings

We then moved on to:

• 鸡蛋灌饼 (Egg-Filled Pancake): Fluffy and filling, this one’s a street food favorite.

• 蒸饺 (Steamed Dumplings): Classic and comforting, with juicy fillings that hit the spot.

Stop 5: Lamb Soup and More

For something more savory, we visited a place specializing in lamb soup:

• 羊汤 (Lamb Soup): The broth was rich and flavorful, perfect for a chilly morning.

• 芝麻火烧 (Sesame Bread): Crispy and warm, it paired perfectly with the soup.

• 豆腐皮 (Doufu Skin Salad): Light and refreshing, this salad added a nice balance.

Stop 6: Coffee with a View

To end the tour, we relaxed at a coffee shop overlooking the beautiful White Dagoba (Baita Si). It was the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on the morning’s delicious journey.

Walking Tour Through the Hutongs

One of the best parts of the tour was that it took us through the winding hutongs of Beijing, giving us a true glimpse into local life. Our guide, Kelly, was amazing—she shared fascinating stories about the history of the hutongs, from their origins to how they’ve shaped Beijing’s culture today.

As we walked, we noticed that many of the shops didn’t have menus displayed; it’s a sign of how authentic these places are, with locals simply knowing what to order. It added an extra layer of excitement and authenticity to the experience, making each stop feel like a hidden gem.

Why A Food Tour Is a Must-Do in China

Whether you’re new to China or have lived here for years, food tours offers a unique and immersive way to experience Beijing’s local restaurants and street food culture. I discovered dishes I hadn’t tried before and revisited some of my favorites. If you’re looking to explore Beijing’s food scene, I highly recommend this experience.

Lost Plate also offers tours in other cities like Chengdu, Shanghai, Suzhou, Yunnan, and Xi’an, with a variety of options including breakfast tours and specialized food travel adventures. I previous have done a Lost Plate dinner food tour and a Shanghai Breakfast tour, and really enjoyed those as well!

Want to book a tour? Use my code RACHELMEETSCHINA for a discount and dive into the delicious world of Chinese food culture!

Morton’s of Chicago is a renowned steakhouse chain originating from the Chicago, known for its commitment to delivering exceptional quality steaks, seafood, and classic American fare in an upscale dining atmosphere, consistently providing guests with an elevated culinary experience characterized by attention to detail and impeccable service.

Ascending to the second floor of the Regent Hotel, you can’t miss the iconic Morton’s sign and a display showcasing the meticulous aging process of their meat cuts. As you walk in you’ll pass the Wall of Fame, adorned with pictures of international celebrities and dignitaries who have dined here, adding a touch of glamour to the atmosphere.

But let’s talk about the star of the show: the food. Morton’s offers a tantalizing selection of expertly aged steaks, fresh seafood, indulgent appetizers, flavorful sides, and exquisite desserts, all complemented by a curated wine list and impeccable service for a truly unforgettable dining experience.

To start your meal, every table is given a giant onion-crusted bread roll accompanied by the iconic Morton’s logo butter pat.

The Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes, bursting with real crab chunks and complemented by roast pepper and creamy avocado sauces, are a standout among the appetizers, along with the succulent jumbo shrimp.

Moving on to the main course, Morton’s offers a diverse selection of prime steaks, including the tantalizing Porterhouse Steak and the exclusive China-inspired Moutai aged steak. We tried the Porterhouse, which is a giant slab of meat that’s enough for 2 people. Morton’s is known for their open kitchen design, where you can watch the chef prepare your steak with their broiler. They love to keep it straightforward – just pure steak, with salt and pepper on the side.

To accompany the main course, the traditional steakhouse sides offer a tempting array of options, from asparagus to Parmesan truffle fries.

And for dessert, the limited-time-only Carrot Cake and the classic Key Lime Pie are both must-tries. Trust me, I’ve never tasted Key Lime Pie like this in China before.

Morton’s Steakhouse at the Regent Hotel is truly a culinary oasis in the heart of Beijing, offering a taste of Chicago’s finest with a touch of international flair. Next time you’re craving a steak in Beijing, head to Morton’s.

Address: Morton’s Steakhouse: 2/F, Regent Hotel, 99 Jinbao Jie, Dongcheng District 东城区金宝街99号丽晶酒店2层

Thank you to Morton’s of Chicago Beijing for extending the gracious invitation to experience a menu tasting. Your hospitality and the opportunity to savor your culinary creations are sincerely appreciated. Please note that while this event was hosted by the restaurant, all opinions expressed in my review remain honest and reflective of my personal experience.

I’ve compiled 30 best traditional things you should try in Beijing in 2025, including food, restaurants, attractions, walking tours, and experiences to try.

As an expat living in Beijing for 5+ years, these are the things I would recommend to first-time Beijing visitors, long time Beijing lovers, and even take my friends and family to do if they were coming to visit me!

Many of these I chose based on their location, overall experience, and some of my personal favorites. But this is by no means a complete list of all Beijing has to offer! It depends on your schedule, interests, and budget as well. Hopefully it inspires your trip to Beijing and shows you some new or old favorites.

Beijing Foods

• Peking Duck (See My 8 Top Places To Go For Peking Duck in Beijing)
• Zhajiangmian 
• Door Nail Meat Pie (Mendingroubing)
• Donkey Burger  
• Tanghulu
• Dou Zhi (Mung bean milk)
• Mongolian Hot Pot
• Dumplings
• Beibingyang Arctic Orange Soda
• Doujiang and Youtiao

I’ll mention this later as well, but I highly recommend a Beijing Food Tour with Lost Plate! If you want to book a tour, use my code for a discount at checkout: RACHELMEETSCHINA

Beijing Attractions

• The Great Wall (Check out Which Section of the Great Wall Is Best To Visit?)
• The Forbidden City 
• Temple of Heaven
• Summer Palace  
• Lama Temple 
• Olympic Stadium
• Panjiayuan Antique Market

See my Top 10 Places to Visit in Beijing for First-Timers for a more complete list, or The Ultimate 3 Day Beijing Itinerary for 2025.

Navigating Beijing and its surroundings is stress-free with a trusted local driver. From Great Wall trips to airport transfers and full-day itineraries, they’ve got you covered. I can connect you with them via WeChat or WhatsApp. Send me a message on WeChat, Instagram, or my email to connect: rachellynnweiss@gmail.com

Places to Walk

These hutongs are perfect for long lazy strolls or for explorers wanting to try local street foods and see what locals are getting up to.

• Wudaoying Hutong
• Nanluoguxiang
• Qianmen
• Houhai Lake Area
• Ghost Street
• Bell and Drum Tower
• Beihai Park

Beijing Restaurants

This list is very Peking Duck heavy, because for first time visitors roast duck is a must try! These restaurants also offer other amazing side dishes that have local Beijing flavor, so don’t worry if duck isn’t your favorite thing.

• Peking Chamber 四季民福烤鸭
• Jingzun Peking Duck Restaurant 京尊烤鸭店
• Quanjude Roast Duck 全聚德
• Home Town Palace: A Taste of Peking Duck in the Beijing Hutongs
• Mr. Shi’s Dumplings 
• Anywhere on Gui Jie 簋街 (Ghost Street): I reccommend Huda Restaurant (胡大) which offers a huge menu variety to choose from, but you’ll also find restaurants that specialize in chuanr, Hot Pot, and more.

Check out my list of 10 Amazing Chinese Restaurants to Try in Beijing

Beijing Hotels

There are many districts in Beijing with great hotel options, from more local homestays and boutique hotels in the hutongs, to upscale and 5-star hotels with incredible amenities and restaurants. It all depends on the location you want to be in and your budget.

• The Rosewood 
• Hotel JEN 
• East Hotel 
• The Orchid 
• The Intercontinental 
• China World Summit 
• The Kempinski 
• The Opposite house 
• Regent 

Beijing Cultural Experiences

Our Beijing: Offering tours and local experiences in Beijing including eBike tours, walking tours, food tours, jianzi golf, Great Wall trips, Mahjong workshops, Jianbing workshops, and more. Check out their website and Wechat for more info,

Black Sesame Kitchen: They are a reservations-only cooking school, dining venue, and event space in the heart of old Beijing. Chinese-American author Jen Lin-Liu opened Black Sesame Kitchen in 2008 to promote the understanding of Chinese cuisine and to create a convivial setting for socializing and exchange between China and the rest of the world. See their website here.

Lost Plate Food Tour: They help you navigate a city and introduce you to the best local dishes. Lost Plate is an award winning food tour group in China and Asia that dive into local culture with excellent guides and incredible food. I’ve been on two of their tours in Beijing, and they were heavenly. They also do tours in Xi’an, Ningxia, Lijiang, Chengdu, and Suzhou. If you want to book a tour, use my code for a discount at checkout: RACHELMEETSCHINA

Show Beijing is your guide to an unforgettable night in the city and things to do in Beijing. Now discount ticket booking available for some of the most thrilling entertainment & performances like Beijing Opera, Acrobatic Shows, and other variety shows! Visit their website here.

The Hutong is (北京融汇通文化传播有限公司) is Beijing’s premier culture exchange center. Visit their calendar to see what’s coming up.

More To Do In Beijing

Like I mentioned, there is so much more to do and see in Beijing! I haven’t even scratched the surface of Beijing’s modern cafe’s, rooftops, breweries, and more. Stay tuned for my future lists from an inside perspective of Beijing in 2025.

• Top 10 Places to Visit in Beijing for First-Timers
• A Guide To UNIVERSAL STUDIOS Beijing Resort: Best Things To Do
• Longqing Gorge: Day Trip from Beijing
• View my 2025 Beijing Travel and Lifestyle Guide: Best Services, Tips, and Tours

When visiting Beijing one of the top experiences to try is eating Peking Duck – and have I got a recommendation for you!

Home Town Palace, located inside a Hutong courtyard nearby the south entrance of Nanluoguxiang, is famous for their Peking Duck, and also offers a wide range of Chinese tastes including Beijing, Canton, Sichuan and more.

I recently had a tasting at Home Town Palace and wanted to share some of the highlights. You can also view my video on Instagram below!

About Home Town Palace

A culinary tribute by Master Chef Jack Ouyang to his Chinese heritage, the restaurant features top quality ingredients using a blend of traditional methods with a contemporary interpretation.

The restaurant’s primary dining area is a spacious, open concept adorned with numerous tables, offering a refined setting for patrons to enjoy their meals. Beyond this expansive main dining room, the establishment boasts a second floor featuring cozy gallery seating, as well as private dining rooms exuding an air of luxury for those seeking added exclusivity.

For guests indulging in private dining experiences, bespoke menus tailored to their preferences are also available, further enhancing the sense of personalized hospitality.

Home Town Palace Peking Duck

On their tasty menu we were first of course treated to Peking Roast Duck. Adhering to the time-honored traditions of Beijing, these ducks are meticulously roasted within open ovens fueled by fragrant fruitwood, such as Chinese dates, imparting a delightful fruity aroma that enhances every bite.

Once the duck is ready, a chef gracefully carve the tender meat into exquisite slices. Each slice is then carefully arranged on a stone plate, its surface heated by the radiant warmth of salt.

The Peking duck pancakes are also thought carefully about. Often times as you eat the pancakes sitting at your table, gradually the pancakes loose their steamy lightness, becoming hardened.

To maintain their warmth and texture, they are delicately draped over a bowl of fragrant jasmine tea. This dual function not only keeps the pancakes hot and ready but also imparts a subtle floral aroma to enhance the dining experience.

Every diner gets their own platter of sauce, green spring onions, and cucumbers. This platter also uniquely features osthmanthus salt for dipping as well.

Other Menu Items at Home Town Palace

Peking duck is a treat unto itself, but there’s so much more on the menu to devour. We had Beijing rou bing, or meat pancake which was incredible with both a sour and spicy dipping sauce.

Here’s a menu listing of the dishes I tried:

1. Spinach Roll, Sesame Mustard Sauce 菠菜卷, 芝麻芥末酱
2. BBQ Honey Iberico Pork 蜜汁伊比利亚猪肉
3. Sichuan Beef Jerky 川味牛肉干
4. Madeira Beijing Roasted Duckling 麦德拉北京烤鸭
5. Sweet Sour Pineapple Donuts Filled with 3 Treasure Pork 酸甜菠萝三宝肉甜甜圈
6. Wok fried Prawns with Lotus Buds and Truffle 炒荷花糖心虾
7. Imperial Style Pancake Filled with Shrimp, Spinach and Shiitake 帝王鲜虾菠菜香菇饼
8. Golden Black Swan Durian Puffs 金黑天鹅榴莲酥
9. Mango Pomelo Sago Cream 芒果柚子西米露
10. Shanxi Spicy Belt Noodles with Braised Wagyu Beef 山西辣条面配烩和牛

Visit Home Town Palace in Beijing

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Beijing on the hunt for the ultimate Peking duck experience or a seasoned local eager to rediscover the city’s culinary delights, this restaurant offers something special for everyone. From the mouthwatering aroma of roasting duck to the cozy intimacy of the private dining rooms, each moment promises a new adventure.

So, whether you’re a newbie or a Beijing pro, gather your friends, bring your appetite, and enjoy dining at Home Town Palace in Beijing.

Last month I went on an Old Beijing Dinner Tour with UnTour Food Tours, a company founded in 2010 that offers food tours in Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Hong Kong. Their intimate small-group tours provide the perfect opportunity to savor authentic cuisine alongside local people in China.

A food tour is a great idea whether you’re a first time China traveler or an expat whose been living in China for years.

For first timers, it’s a great way to be guided to restaurants where you know you’ll eat good food, try local specialties, and also learn the history and culture of the area. It will also help you gain confidence in restaurants in China even if you don’t speak any Mandarin, while also interacting with local people.

Tip: If you’re traveling to a city for the first time, I recommend you start your visit with a food tour on the first day, rather than later on your trip. You’ll pick up so many tips and tricks for navigating Chinese restaurants  and ordering dishes, and also have a guide that you can ask China questions to! And then if you especially love a dish, you can eat that dish again and again while you’re still in that city.

For expats who have already been living in China like myself, it’s a chance to explore restaurants outside your routine. While I’ve lived in Beijing for over 5 years and have tried many Beijing restaurants and snacks, it’s really fun to play tourist in your own city and dive back into local flavors you haven’t tried in awhile.

Continue reading below to get all the details of my local Hutong Beijing food tour with UnTour Food Tours.

Old Beijing Dinner Tour in the Hutongs

The Old Beijing Dinner Tour started in the Beijing hutongs nearby Beixinqiao. This three hour food journey took us through the old local alleys to experience Beijing’s cuisine and history behind what they put on their plates. After booking, you will receive an email confirmation with instructions on exactly where to meet your guide and at what time.

This tour featured:

• 15+ Tastings at 7 total stops
• 3-hour dinner tour
• Walking (2.6 km or 1.6 miles)

To kick thing right off our guide told us: pace yourself. And that was no joke! It was so tempting to completely devour all the food at each stop, but I had to remind myself that it was a marathon not a sprint, and there was more tasty food to come.

It’s a food walking tour, so we walked from site to site around the hutongs. It’s a nice way to break up the food stops, but also people watch and see what life in the hutongs is like. Make sure you dress appropriately for the weather!

1. Beijing Hot Pot 老北京涮肉

The tour kicked off with Beijing Hot Pot 老北京涮肉. Hot pot is a collaborative meal experience where you dip raw meats and vegetables in a boiling flavored pot of broth.

When thinking of hot pot what usually comes to mind is Chengdu or Chongqing hot pot style, which features much spicier broth. Beijing hot pot however is less spicy, with a light broth flavored by mushrooms and dates. It also has a tall metal rim inside the hot pot, which allows you to control the temperature of the pot. You can open it to allow more oxygen to flow through, or close it.

The freshly cut mutton, sliced exactly 216 times, is cooked using the dip-boil method, dipping a slice of meat in for approximately 8 seconds to get the perfect boiled beef.

And then the dipping sauce – my favorite! This combination is called “Er Ba Jiang 二八酱” (literally translated as “Two Eight Sauce” or “2:8 Sauce”), and it typically consists of two parts peanut sauce and eight parts sesame paste.

The combination of peanut and sesame flavors creates a rich and nutty sauce that adds depth and complexity to various dishes. Then other ingredients like soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and sugar are often added to enhance the flavor profile. This one also featured fermented chives and fermented tofu, which created a rich umami flavor. On top of that you mix in green chives and cilantro. YUM.

2. Leek and Egg Dumplings 韭菜鸡蛋饺子

We also had some Chinese chive and egg dumplings 韭菜鸡蛋饺子 (Jiǔcài Jīdàn Jiǎozi) with the hot pot, which honestly you can’t go wrong with! It also tastes equally good dipped in that Er Bai sauce.

3. Donkey Burger 驴肉火烧

As we wandered through the hutongs, another stop led us to a small shop selling donkey burgers. A Donkey Burger (驴肉火烧 Lǘròu Huǒshāo) is a traditional Chinese street food originating from the city of Baoding in Hebei Province, but is also popular in northern areas like Beijing. It consists of a grilled or pan-fried bun stuffed with seasoned donkey meat. It might sound a bit strange, but honestly, the texture of this flaky bread combined with the meat was just perfect!

And of course accompanying our different stops we had to have some classic Yanjing Beer 燕京啤酒 (Yànjīng Píjiǔ) and – for the daring – China’s iconic Baijiu白酒 (Báijiǔ), the rice wine liquor.

We visited several other restaurants along the way to try more dishes like:

• 炒拉面 (chao lā miàn) – Fried Pulled Noodles
• 老北京酸奶 (Běijīng Suānnǎi) – Old Beijing Yogurt
• 诺米酒品尝 (Nuòmǐ Jiǔ) – Craft Nuomi (Sticky Rice) Wine Tasting
• 煎饼 (Jiānbing) – Jiānbing
• 烤鸡翅 (Jīchì) – Specialty BBQ Chicken Wings

A Food Tour Full of Beijing Hutong Culture and History

As we walked to each stop, our guide Garth really impressed us with his passion about the Beijing food. As a Beijing expat for over a decade now, he was extremely knowledgable about Beijing’s history and food, and very friendly to chat with.

In every restaurant we walked into, the owners would greet him as “Lao pengyou” or “old friend”. There was genuine excitement and friendliness in their interactions, and in turn, with ours, creating a very warm atmosphere for the tour.

He also explained how the UnTour Food Tours guide team would constantly be checking the restaurants, looking for new places, and maintaining the quality of the food and the tour. The guides are all local to the area and genuinely enjoy eating and drinking at these restaurants themselves.

When walking between stops or sitting down at a new location Garth would tell us more about the history of Beijing hutongs and legends of the food. When stopped at a stall for Jianbing (煎饼), a popular Chinese street food that is like a savory crepe or pancake, Garth asked us: Did you know there’s a story behind the jianbing?

It’s history is rooted in the Three Kingdoms Period, when one of China’s greatest dynasties descended into chaos. According to legend, Zhuge Liang, a military commander, had to grapple with the immense task of feeding an army of soldiers who had lost their woks in battle. Liang urged his soldiers to mix water with flour, then cook the batter on their shields over an open flame. And thus, a jianbing was born!

Go on a Beijing Food Tour

I left full and satisfied, which is always the most important aspect of a food tour! I loved the pacing of the tour and how the stops ranged from small to large food quantities.

I also enjoyed the tour because they keep the groups small. You’re visiting local Beijing mom and pop shops in the hutongs that aren’t meant for giant groups – this is where local Beijingers eat! So you know you’ll get a chance to enjoy high quality and fresh food, and get to know your tour mates in a close way.

This trip included so much food, drinks and many hidden gems! To enjoy the full experience, you’ll have to book an UnTour Food Tour for yourself.

Ready to book your own food tour? UnTour Food Tour offers a wide range of tours, from Beijing Breakfast to Shanghai Street Eats! Check out all of the UnTour Food Tours now or scan the QR code below.

Thanks so much to UnTour for inviting me on an evening food tour in Beijing!

If you find yourself visiting Beijing, you can’t miss the iconic Peking Duck. This delicacy, rooted in imperial history, has become a must-try for visitors.

Choosing from the many duck restaurants can be overwhelming though – with so many locations out there it’s hard to narrow down where to get Beijing roast duck. So here’s a curated list of some of the best places to go in Beijing for Peking duck!

As an expat who has lived in Beijing for 5+ years, I’ve had my fair of Peking Duck. When choosing a restaurant, I consider not only the quality and taste of the duck, but the overall experience I want to have and price I want to pay. It’s also important to consider the wait time, as some famous restaurants might have a 2+ hour wait!

Use my Apple Maps link to view all these restaurant locations: Peking Duck in Beijing Map

*Many of these restaurants have branches in several locations, so you can use Apple Maps or Dianping to find other convenient locations for where you want to go. I used Apple Maps because it’s in English, but it may not always be the best way to navigate China.

**Update: Jing Yaa Tang is no longer open, as the Opposite House hotel closed this year. I’ve added a different Michelin star restaurant to the list, 新荣记(新源南路店).

My Top Peking Duck Restaurants in Beijing

1. My Top Peking Duck Restaurants in Beijing
   1. 1. 四季民福烤鸭店 – Siji Minfu Kaoya (Peking Chamber)
   2. 2. 全聚德 – Quan Jude
   3. 3. 京尊烤鸭店JINGZUN
   4. 4. 便宜坊 – Bianyi Fang
   5. 5. 大董 – Da Dong
   6. 6. 荷唐·殿 Home Town Palace
   7. 7. Sheng Yong Xing 晟永兴 
2. Xin Rong Ji (新荣记, Xinyuan South Road branch)
3. Must Try Peking Duck in Beijing
4. Planning a Trip in Beijing?

1. 四季民福烤鸭店 – Siji Minfu Kaoya (Peking Chamber)

• My personal favorite and highly recommended!
• No reservations though, so arrive early to secure a spot in line.
• Address: 四季民福烤鸭店(东四十条店) Siji Minfu Kaoya Dongsishitiao Branch

2. 全聚德 – Quan Jude

• Beijing’s most famous Peking Duck brand
• A symbol of traditional culinary excellence with a longstanding legacy
• Address: 32 Qianmen Street, Chongwen District (崇文区前门大街 32 号)

3. 京尊烤鸭店JINGZUN

• Convenient option with minimal wait times, and more affordable
• Ideal for those seeking a quick yet delectable Peking Duck experience.
• This is the spot I’ll take friends and visitors in Beijing when we want good food, but nothing too fancy or a long wait time.
• Address: 京尊烤鸭店JINGZUN(春秀路店) 春秀路太平庄南里6号楼北侧

4. 便宜坊 – Bianyi Fang

• The first restaurant in Beijing to serve roast duck.
• Offers a deeply traditional dining experience.
• Pioneer in crafting the authentic Peking Duck.
• Location: Xianyukou Street No.65-77 (Qianmen Subway Station Southeast Entrance & Exit G Pedestrian 350 Meters), Dongcheng, Beijing China

5. 大董 – Da Dong

• Widely regarded as the best Peking Duck by locals
• A blend of tradition and innovation on the plate
• Address: Floor 6, Donghua Gold Street Shopping Center, 301 Wangfujing Street, Dongcheng District (东城区王府井大街301号东华金街购物中心6楼)

6. 荷唐·殿 Home Town Palace

• Located inside historic hutong courtyard, so it has a very traditional Beijing feeling
• An atmospheric setting for a memorable culinary journey.
• Address: 地安门东大街89号 No.89 Dongdajie, Di’anmen, Beijing.
• See my full review and menu tasting at Home Town Palace.

7. Sheng Yong Xing 晟永兴 

• Another well-known brand for Peking Duck enthusiasts.
• Offers a delightful twist to the traditional preparation.
• Many locations around Beijing, one is: Shengyongxing Roast Duck Shop (Sanlitun Branch)

Xin Rong Ji (新荣记, Xinyuan South Road branch)

Xin Rong Ji (新荣记, Xinyuan South Road branch) is a Michelin-starred restaurant located on Xinyuan South Road in Beijing, renowned for its exceptional Chinese cuisine, including its famous Peking duck. The restaurant offers a luxurious dining experience in a traditional setting. A whole Peking duck here costs around 600 to 800 RMB, reflecting the high quality and meticulous preparation of the dish. Guests can savor the crispy skin and tender meat, served with classic accompaniments like pancakes, hoisin sauce, and sliced vegetables, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic and elevated culinary experience in Beijing.

Location: 1F, East Tower, Genesis Beijing, 8 Xinyuan South Road, Chaoyang, Beijing, 中国

Must Try Peking Duck in Beijing

Beijing’s Peking Duck scene is a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. Whether you opt for the traditional Quan Jude, the iconic Siji Minfu Kaoya, or any of the other restaurants, you’re in for a tasty treat. Embrace the tradition, savor the flavors, and let the crispy goodness of Peking Duck leave an indelible mark on your visit to Beijing.

Planning a Trip in Beijing?

If you’re visiting for the first time, check out my Ultimate 3 Day Beijing Itinerary for 2024.

One of the best ways to navigate a trip to Beijing is to hire a driver to help take you to some sites like the Great Wall, Summer Palace, and more. If you’re looking for a recommendation or want to connect with a local Beijing driver, I can put you in touch with a reliable service. I’ve booked several trips with this company, and they can arrange a car based on your destination and group size.

You can add my WeChat below and I will share the contact info with you.

On December 4 Lost Plate invited me to join their Beijing Evening Food Tour, a delicious and thrilling food experience that involved zooming around the city by tuktuk to try 10 authentic dishes at 4 sit-down restaurants, plus one craft brewery. I’ve previously been on one of their food tours, and so I once again happily (and hungrily) accepted.

As Lost Plate says of themselves, this isn’t your standard “go to a market and then a street-food stall” experience. And it truly isn’t. This is a deep dive into local culture, with history and stories coming alive around you while rich and diverse flavors explode in your mouth. It’s heavenly.

As someone who has lived in Beijing for 3 years you can take it from me: this is the best way to experience local restaurants in Beijing. We often don’t take the time to explore new places or even savor our favorites, so why not take an evening to do just that? And their tours aren’t limited to Beijing, or even evening times. They also offer tours in Chengdu, Shanghai, Suzhou, Yunnan, and Xi’an, as well as breakfast tours, and unique food travel tours. Whether you’re new to China or have been here for years and are looking for new experiences, their tours are for you.

If you want to book a tour, make sure you use my code for a discount at checkout: RACHELMEETSCHINA

Now let’s get on to the food!

1. Traditional Beijing noodles: Zhajiangmian 炸酱面

Zhajiangmian (“fried sauce noodles”) are made of thick wheat noodles topped with a soybean paste sauce and cucumbers, radishes, and other vegetables. These ingedients are served separately, then you can personally add them together and mix it up for a fresh taste!

These are traditional Beijing noodle you can find all over the city. I’ve had many bowls of zhajiangmian during my time here, but it’s always a joy to revisit this classic dish. (Also, who could say no to a bowl of noodles? I don’t want to be friends with that person.)

2. Mongolian BBQ

The second stop was a wonderful surprise for me because it was in my old hutong neighborhood in Beijing near Beixinqiao. It was a restaurant I had walked by many times but actually never visited before!

Inside we were greeted with large plates of meat and vegetables soaking in marinades and just waiting to sizzle on the grill. Mongolian BBQ is cooked on a grill over coals and is a fun experience to cook your own food and eat right away. It is also perfect on a chilly night

3. Doornail Meat Pie (Men ding rou bing 门钉肉饼)

One of my recent favorites in Beijing: 门钉肉饼 (doornail meat pie). These consist of meat and spices wrapped in a bread covering and fried up to juicy and golden perfection.

The Story of Doornail Meat Pies

It’s a funny name with an interesting story as well: During Empress Ci Xi’s time in the late Qing Dynasty, the Forbidden Cities Head Chef was preparing the dinner. It is said that Empress Ci Xi was one of the cruelest and meanest empresses and she had high demands for her chef. Every day she required him to create new dishes. One day he decided to wrap a pastry around meat and fry it. And the Empress absolutely loved it. She called for the chef, and he was terrified thinking he was going to be executed for his experimental dish. He walked out to meet the Empress, shaking and fearing for his life. The Empress asked him “What is this called?” The Chef, who put no thought into a name for the dish was shocked and froze. He looked around, thinking, hoping he could think of the right thing to say… He saw the door nails on the big red doors in the Forbidden City, and he spurted out “men ding rou bing” (door nail meal pie).

And so we have it, delicious men ding rou bing! Dip them in chili oil and vinegar to enhance the flavor even more. I promise it won’t disappoint.

4. Spring Pancakes (春饼 chūnbǐng)

The last (food) stop on the tour was trying Spring Pancakes (春饼 chūnbǐng). These are a traditional dish to eat during the new year or new season. You essentially have many different dishes that you will wrap inside a pancake, like fried eggs, sprouts, shredded pork, and other vegetables and meat dishes. It was a savory and satisfying way to end our food adventure.

Also….at some point during the tour the baijiu was brought out. At 42%, baijiu is no joke (and it tastes not too dissimilar to what you imagine lighter fluid would taste like). But it’s a classic China experience you need to try!

5. Peiping Machine Brewing (北平机器)

The tour wrapped up at the well-known Beijing brewery Peiping Machine Brewing. This gem in the Fangjia hutongs has many beer options and gave us the chance to digest our full bellies and reminisce on all the tasty dishes we had enjoyed.

Beijing Food Tour Experience with Lost Plate

Overall it was a fantastic night with tasty dishes, new friends, and a slew of new restaurants in Beijing I had never been to before. Our guide, Flower, was not only very informative about the history of the dishes and the hutong neighborhoods we went to, but also really delightful to chat with during our tour. Our group had lots of fun bonding over the experience: food is always a great way to bridge cultures. Also, the food and drinks are unlimited at each spot, so you can eat to your heart and belly’s content!

If you’re looking for a food tour experience, I highly recommend Lost Plate. Check out their various food tours online and make sure you use my code for a discount at checkout: RACHELMEETSCHINA

Happy eating!

Read More:

• Best Foods to Try in China: Food Tour with Lost Plate Food Tours
• 10 Street Foods To Try in Beijing
• 5 Must Eat Dishes at the Muslim Quarter in Xi’an