Beijing, the capital of China, is a sprawling metropolis where ancient imperial history meets state-of-the-art modernity. Home to the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and countless UNESCO World Heritage Sites, it offers an unparalleled window into 3,000 years of Chinese civilization.
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
Da Dong Roast Duck (Dongzhimen)
Da Dong is Beijing's most celebrated Peking duck restaurant, known for its 'super lean' roast duck that is lower in fat than traditional preparation. Chef Dong Zhenxiang's duck is roasted in a special oven to achieve crispy skin and tender meat. The contemporary dining room and theatrical service make it a memorable experience.
Building 3, Nanxincang International Plaza, 22A Dongsishitiao, Dongcheng District
Quanjude Qianmen
Founded in 1864, Quanjude is the most historic Peking duck restaurant in the world and Beijing's most iconic culinary institution. The Qianmen flagship can seat over 2,000 diners across multiple floors. The original hanging-oven roasting technique has been maintained for 160 years. A pilgrimage for duck lovers.
32 Qianmen St, Dongcheng District
Jing Yaa Tang
Jing Yaa Tang at The Opposite House is widely considered the most sophisticated Peking duck experience in Beijing. The sleek, design-forward restaurant serves classic Beijing dishes with refined presentations. The duck is served with homemade condiments and the service is impeccable. A perfect blend of tradition and modernity.
The Opposite House, 11 Sanlitun Rd, Chaoyang District
Maison Boulud
Chef Daniel Boulud's celebrated Beijing outpost occupies a stunning 1900s heritage mansion adjacent to Tiananmen Square. French haute cuisine is subtly infused with Chinese flavors and local ingredients. The wine list is exceptional. One of the top fine dining addresses in China.
23 Qianmen East Ave, Dongcheng District
Bianyifang (Qianmen)
Bianyifang is even older than Quanjude, tracing its roots to 1416 during the Ming dynasty. It uses the焖炉 (stuffy oven) roasting technique rather than the open-flame hanging oven, producing duck with uniquely tender meat and a different flavor profile. A must-visit for serious Peking duck connoisseurs.
2A Chongwenmen Outer St, Dongcheng District
Haidilao Hot Pot (Wangfujing)
China's most famous hot pot chain is renowned not just for its excellent broth and fresh ingredients but for its extraordinary customer service. While waiting, guests receive free snacks, manicures and shoe shines. The tableside noodle-pulling performance is a highlight. An essential Beijing dining experience.
B1, Sina Plaza, 8 Jinbao St, Dongcheng District
Lost Heaven (Yunnan Yi Cuisine)
Lost Heaven brings the exotic flavors of Yunnan province to Beijing in a beautifully decorated space inspired by the ethnic minorities of southwest China. Yunnan cuisine features fresh herbs, mushrooms, goat cheese and ingredients found nowhere else in China. The atmospheric setting with tribal art and wooden architecture adds to the experience.
23 Qianmen East Ave, Dongcheng District
Yuxiang Renjia
The best authentic Sichuan restaurant chain in Beijing, Yuxiang Renjia has been serving fiery Sichuan classics since 1999. The mapo tofu, kung pao chicken and dry-fried green beans are benchmark versions. Popular with locals, the restaurant maintains consistent quality across its multiple Beijing locations.
Various locations; main: Chaoyangmenwai Ave, Chaoyang District
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
Beijing
Mr. Shi's Dumplings
A beloved hole-in-the-wall dumpling restaurant tucked into a hutong near the Drum Tower. Mr. Shi and his family hand-make every dumpling to order. The pork and cabbage jiaozi are legendary, as are the pan-fried guotie. A no-frills, authentic Beijing dining experience beloved by locals and in-the-know travelers alike.
74 Baochao Hutong, Dongcheng District
Baoyuan Jiaozi Wu
Famous for its rainbow-colored dumplings made with natural vegetable dyes - purple from purple cabbage, orange from carrot, green from spinach. Beyond the photogenic appeal, the fillings are delicious and generous. A Beijing institution that attracts both locals and visitors. One of the most fun dining experiences in the city.
6 Maizidian West St, Chaoyang District
Zhangzhuang (Old Beijing Noodle)
A famous hole-in-the-wall near Qianmen serving Beijing's signature dish: zhajiangmian (noodles with fermented soybean paste and minced pork). The noodles are hand-pulled fresh and the sauce is made to a traditional recipe. Waitstaff in traditional Han Chinese dress and the old-Beijing street setting add to the authentic atmosphere.
29 Dazhalan West St, Xicheng District
Li Qun Roast Duck
Hidden in a narrow hutong south of Qianmen, Li Qun is one of Beijing's most characterful duck restaurants. The century-old courtyard restaurant is ramshackle and atmospheric. Owner Guo Jingyi has been roasting ducks in a fruit-wood fired oven for decades. The duck must be ordered 24 hours in advance on busy days.
11 Beixiangfeng Hutong, Zhushikou East Ave, Dongcheng District
Beijing Dadong (Nanxincang)
Da Dong's original Nanxincang location is set within a converted Ming dynasty imperial granary, giving it dramatic historic ambiance with exposed brick and high ceilings. The menu is slightly different from other Da Dong branches with additional seasonal specials. Considered the most atmospheric Da Dong location.
22 Dongsishitiao, Dongcheng District (Nanxincang historic granary)
Siji Minfu Roast Duck
Siji Minfu has emerged as a top-value Peking duck option, offering quality comparable to Da Dong at lower prices in an attractive modern space. The restaurant uses fruit wood for roasting and serves the duck tableside with a skilled carver. Multiple downtown locations make it convenient for tourists. Often cited as the best duck for price-to-quality ratio.
32 Dengshikou West St, Dongcheng District
Donglaishun Hot Pot (Xidan)
Donglaishun is Beijing's oldest and most celebrated Muslim (halal) hotpot restaurant, founded in 1903 by a Hui Muslim family. The copper hotpot heated by charcoal is filled with a mild broth and the star ingredient is hand-cut Mongolian lamb, sliced paper-thin. An authentic Beijing cultural institution that has served generations of locals.
Xidan Joy City, Changan Ave, Xicheng District
Bao Yuan Dumplings (Chaoyang)
A beloved Beijing dumpling restaurant chain known for making the whole process of jiaozi-making a fun, participatory experience. Diners can watch or join the dumpling-making at certain times. The colorful vegetable-dyed dumplings have become Instagram famous. Portions are generous and prices are remarkably affordable.
6 Maizidian West St, Chaoyang District
Chinese
Ghost Street (Gui Jie) - Crayfish Row
Ghost Street (Gui Jie) is Beijing's famous late-night food street, a 1.4km strip of restaurants that stays open until dawn. The street is legendary for its spicy crayfish (xiaolongxia) which have become a Beijing obsession every summer. Red lanterns glow all night, creating a festive atmosphere. Also known for hotpot, Peking duck and snacks.
Gui Jie (Ghost Street), Dongzhimen Inner St, Dongcheng District
Gu Xiang 20
One of the most charming restaurants on Nanluoguxiang, Gu Xiang 20 occupies a beautifully restored courtyard building with outdoor seating. The menu focuses on refined Beijing home cooking and classic northern Chinese dishes. The setting amid wisteria-draped walls is particularly lovely in spring and summer.
20 Nanluoguxiang, Dongcheng District
Noodle Bar at China Grill (Grand Hyatt)
The Grand Hyatt's signature Chinese restaurant features an open noodle-pulling theater where chefs make hand-pulled noodles (la mian) to order. The menu spans regional Chinese cuisines with premium ingredients. An elegant setting near Wangfujing makes it convenient for post-sightseeing dining.
Grand Hyatt Beijing, 1 Dong Chang'an Ave, Dongcheng District
Xibei Youmian Village
Xibei brings the bold flavors of China's northwest to Beijing with its hearty oat noodles (youmian), flatbreads, lamb dishes and Silk Road-influenced cuisine. The rustic, ranch-style decor and family-friendly atmosphere make it very popular with locals. The hand-pulled noodle dishes are particularly celebrated.
Multiple locations; main: Joy City, Chaoyang District
Nanmen Shaokao
The cluster of outdoor barbecue stalls near the south gate of Beihai Park and Shichahai lakes offers one of Beijing's best street barbecue experiences. Charcoal-grilled lamb skewers (yang rou chuan), corn, eggplant, leeks and tofu fill the air with smoky aromas each evening. Dine under the stars with local families.
Near South Gate of Beihai Park, Xicheng District
American
Jing-A Brewpub (Sanlitun)
Beijing's premier craft brewery and brewpub, Jing-A makes Beijing-inspired beers including the famous Airpocalypse IPA (now renamed). Excellent bar food including smash burgers, nachos and wings. A lively, welcoming space popular with expats and young Beijingers. Regular tap takeovers and beer events.
Courtyard 4, Gongti North Rd, Chaoyang District
Grandma's Kitchen
A beloved institution for Beijing's expat community, Grandma's Kitchen serves hearty American comfort food including Thanksgiving-style roast turkey, meatloaf, biscuits and gravy, and homemade pies. A home away from home for many expats and a fascinating cultural experience for visitors. Sunday brunch is legendary.
11 Xiaoyun South Rd, Chaoyang District
Slow Boat Brewery Taproom (Dengshikou)
The hutong taproom of Beijing's beloved Slow Boat Brewery, set in a cozy courtyard space in the heart of old Beijing. The rotating taps feature American-style ales, IPAs and stouts brewed in Beijing. Hearty bar snacks, a great weekend brunch and a welcoming neighborhood feel make this a favorite local hangout.
56 Dongsi Liutiao, Dongcheng District
Beijing Imperial
Sihe Yishu Hutong Restaurant
Set in a restored courtyard near Jingshan Park, this elegant restaurant specializes in imperial Beijing cuisine based on recipes from the Qing dynasty court. The menu features dishes once prepared for the emperors, including the famous Manhan Quanxi feast. Traditional Chinese instruments play during dinner service.
1 Jingshan East St, Dongcheng District
Tiandi Yijia
One of Beijing's most exclusive private kitchen restaurants, set in a beautifully restored courtyard adjacent to the Forbidden City moat. Tiandi Yijia specializes in imperial court cuisine with elaborate presentations. The restaurant has hosted international dignitaries. The setting - intimate courtyard rooms with red lanterns and antique furnishings - is exceptional.
140 Nanchizi St, Dongcheng District
Beijing Street Food
Wangfujing Snack Street
Beijing's most famous street food destination, the Wangfujing Snack Street is lined with stalls offering everything from Beijing staples to exotic protein-on-a-stick. Live scorpions, starfish, silkworm pupae and seahorses on skewers draw curious tourists, while more conventional stalls serve jianbing, lamb skewers and candied hawthorn. Lively and entertaining.
Wangfujing Snack Street (Donghuamen Night Market), Dongcheng District
Jianbing Guy
Jianbing is Beijing's quintessential street breakfast - a thin crepe made on a griddle, spread with egg, hoisin sauce, chili paste, and a crispy wonton cracker, then folded into a packet. Street vendors set up on bicycles or tricycles throughout the city each morning. Watching a skilled vendor make a jianbing in under 2 minutes is mesmerizing.
Street vendors throughout Dongcheng and Xicheng Districts
Cantonese
Huang Ting Restaurant (The Peninsula)
Set in a recreated traditional Beijing courtyard within The Peninsula hotel, Huang Ting is Beijing's finest Cantonese restaurant. The dim sum lunch is legendary - delicate har gao, fluffy char siu bao and exquisite cheong fun are prepared by chefs trained in Hong Kong. The dinner menu focuses on Cantonese classics executed with exceptional precision.
The Peninsula Beijing, 8 Goldfish Lane, Wangfujing, Dongcheng District
European
Cafe Zarah
A cozy independent cafe tucked in the Gulou hutong area, Cafe Zarah is a beloved Beijing institution for its relaxed atmosphere, good coffee, generous sandwiches and all-day breakfast. The courtyard seating in summer is delightful. A mix of expats, students and travelers creates a laid-back international vibe.
42 Gulou East St, Dongcheng District
French
Comptoirs de France
The best French bakery in Beijing, Comptoirs de France serves authentic croissants, baguettes, pain au chocolat and quiches made by French-trained bakers. The Sanlitun location has a lovely terrace and is packed with expats on weekend mornings. Also serves excellent coffee, sandwiches and French pastries throughout the day.
Multiple locations; main: 3 Sanlitun South Rd, Chaoyang District
Fusion
Transit Restaurant
A perennial favorite in Sanlitun's Nali Patio complex, Transit brings the flavors of Yunnan and Southeast Asia together in a vibrant, casual setting. Known for outstanding Yunnan rice noodles, crossing-the-bridge (guoqiao) noodles, fresh herb salads and innovative cocktails. One of the best value lunch options in the area.
2/F, Nali Patio, 81 Sanlitun North Rd, Chaoyang District
Inner Mongolian Hot Pot
Little Sheep Hot Pot
Little Sheep pioneered the Mongolian-style broth-based hotpot concept that is now beloved across China. Unlike Sichuan-style hotpot, Little Sheep's broth is made from a proprietary spice blend with lamb bones and dozens of Chinese herbs. The focus is on premium lamb, which is sliced thin and cooked briefly in the fragrant broth.
Multiple locations; main: 33 Madian South Rd, Chaoyang District
International
Element Fresh
The go-to restaurant for healthy eating in Beijing, Element Fresh serves fresh salads, grain bowls, wraps, smoothies and organic options that cater to health-conscious diners. The all-day menu and reliable quality make it popular with expats, families and travelers wanting a break from rich Chinese food.
Multiple locations; Shanghai Plaza, Chaoyang District
International Buffet
Saffron (The Westin Beijing)
The Westin Beijing Financial Street's all-day dining restaurant is renowned for having one of the finest breakfast buffets in Beijing. The spread features live cooking stations, imported cheeses, freshly baked breads, Asian and Western options, and an extensive juice bar. A wonderful way to start a day of sightseeing.
9B Financial St, Xicheng District (The Westin Beijing)
Scandinavian
The Georg
One of Beijing's most critically acclaimed fine dining restaurants, The Georg brings New Nordic cuisine philosophy to China with Chinese ingredients. Chef Georg Stub's tasting menu showcases seasonal Chinese ingredients with Scandinavian techniques. A Michelin-starred experience unlike anything else in Beijing.
2/F, LG Twin Towers, 12B Jianguomenwai Ave, Chaoyang District
Shaoxing
Kong Yi Ji Restaurant
Named after a character in Lu Xun's famous short stories, Kong Yi Ji recreates the atmosphere of a Shaoxing wine house with its peanut-shell-covered floors and Jiangnan specialties. Shaoxing yellow wine, anise-braised pork feet, marinated edamame and fennel-flavored beans are the specialty. A literary and culinary experience.
Near Shichahai, Xicheng District
Spanish
Migas Mercado
Migas is Beijing's top Spanish restaurant and a favorite of the expat community. The rooftop terrace with city views is one of the best alfresco dining spots in Beijing. Excellent Spanish tapas, fresh seafood, premium jamón ibérico and an extensive wine list make it essential for those craving Western food. Also famous for Sunday brunch.
6/F, 81 Sanlitun North Rd, Chaoyang District
Taiwanese
Din Tai Fung (Xidan)
The beloved Taiwanese xiaolongbao (soup dumpling) institution has a devoted Beijing following. The glass-walled kitchen allows diners to watch skilled chefs fold dumplings to exacting standards. Each xiaolongbao must have exactly 18 folds and weigh precisely 21 grams. Consistently excellent quality makes queues long but worthwhile.
33 Xidan North Ave, Xicheng District
Vegetarian
King's Joy (Jing Yue Xuan)
Beijing's most acclaimed vegetarian fine dining restaurant, set in a beautifully restored hutong courtyard near the Lama Temple. King's Joy elevates plant-based Chinese cuisine to an art form - each dish is a meditation on ingredients, texture and seasonality. The tasting menu draws on Buddhist vegetarian culinary traditions reinterpreted with modern techniques. A Michelin-recommended restaurant and the finest meat-free dining in China.
2 Wudaoying Hutong, Dongcheng District
Food tours & tastings in Beijing
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Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
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Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $5-15/meal | Street food, local eateries, and simple restaurants. |
| Mid-range | $15-40/meal | Sit-down restaurants with good service and varied menus. |
| Upscale | $40+/meal | Fine dining, international cuisine, and premium experiences. |