What Food To Try in Beijing and Food Prices

Jianbing - Chinese Crepe (savory breakfast) - A thin crepe filled with egg, scallions, and hoisin sauce, often sprinkled with crunchy fried crackers. Locals grab this quick breakfast from street vendors on busy mornings, sometimes enjoying it while on the go.

Chuan’r - Skewered Meat (popular street food) - Grilled lamb or beef marinated with spices, skewered and roasted over charcoal for a smoky flavor. It's a go-to snack in the evening markets, where friends gather to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and share plates.

Peking Duck - 北京烤鸭 (crispy duck dish) - Crispy-skinned duck, served with thin pancakes, sweet sauce, and sliced cucumber. Often enjoyed during special occasions and family dinners, locals savor the ritual of wrapping the duck with fixings.

Huoshao - Baked Flatbread (local specialty) - A hearty flatbread stuffed with various fillings like pork or vegetables, baked to a crispy perfection. You’ll find it at small eateries, and it’s a beloved option for lunch among working professionals.

Dumplings - 饺子 (surprising combination) - Traditionally filled with ground meats and vegetables, these can also feature sweet fillings like red bean paste for dessert-like variations. You can enjoy them steamed or fried, and it’s common to eat them with a group to share flavors and dips.

Zha Jiang Mian - 炸酱面 (seasonal variation) - Wheat noodles topped with rich, savory soybean paste and seasonal vegetables. Locals often indulge in this dish during cooler months, enjoying it at family-oriented eateries while reminiscing over childhood memories.

Hot Pot - 火锅 (social meal) - A bubbling pot of broth where diners cook a variety of meats and vegetables, paired with dipping sauces. This communal dining experience is popular in the colder months, perfect for gatherings as everyone cooks together around the table.

Doufu Nao - 豆腐脑 (comforting breakfast) - Silken tofu served in a savory broth with toppings like soy sauce, peanuts, and chili oil. It’s a favorite start to the day for locals, often eaten before heading to work, and can be a hearty yet light option to fuel the day.

Jiu Niang - 酒酿 (sweet fermented rice) - A warm, sweet dish made from glutinous rice fermented with a special starter culture, producing a mild alcoholic flavor. Often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack, especially during festivals like the Lantern Festival.

Huangshan tea - 黄山毛峰 (green tea from Huangshan) - Delicate green tea known for its fragrant aroma and smooth, buttery flavor, made from young leaves and buds. Locals sip it leisurely in tea houses, often accompanied by sunflower seeds or nuts while catching up with friends.

Changsha Huanghua - 长沙黄花 (sorbet-like dessert) - A refreshing, icy treat made from yellow flowers and sugar, served chilled to combat heat during summer months. This vibrant dessert is commonly found at local markets, with many enjoying it after meals or during hot afternoons.

Beijing Yolk Pastry - 北京蛋黄酥 (flaky pastry with salted egg yolk) - A sweet, flaky pastry with a rich filling of salted egg yolk and lotus seed paste, offering a delightful contrast in flavor and texture. Often seen during Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations, it's perfect with tea or as a gift to friends.

Erguotou - 二锅头 (sorghum liquor) - A potent liquor made from sorghum, typically served in a small shot glass, often enjoyed with barbecued skewers on lively streets. It’s a common sight during celebrations or just a casual night out among friends, but be careful—it packs a punch!

By the way, during winter, you might find warm variations of some desserts; locals love to adapt their treats to match the season!