From the most famous Peking Duck to lesser-known snacks, Beijing offers a variety of flavours that will delight any food lover.
Here’s a list of the top 15 Beijing foods and snacks every foreign tourist must try when visiting the city.
1. Peking Duck (北京烤鸭)
Undoubtedly the most famous dish in Beijing, Peking Duck is a must-try for any visitor. Known for its crispy skin and tender, flavourful meat, the duck is traditionally served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and sliced vegetables. It’s a dish steeped in history, having been enjoyed by emperors and commoners alike.
2. Jianbing (煎饼)
Jianbing, a Chinese savoury crepe, is the perfect on-the-go snack for tourists. The thin crepe is filled with egg, vegetables, crispy fried dough, and savoury sauces. It’s a popular breakfast food that can be found at street vendors all over Beijing.
Where to Try:
Street Vendors: Widely available in the morning across the city.
3. Baozi (包子)
Steamed buns filled with savoury or sweet fillings, baozi are a popular snack in Beijing. Pork is the most common filling, but you can also find options with vegetables, red bean paste, or other meats. They are light and fluffy, making them the perfect snack any time of the day.
4. Chuan’r (串儿)
Chuan’r refers to skewered meat, often lamb, grilled over an open flame. These skewers are seasoned with cumin, chilli, and salt, offering a burst of flavours. It’s a perfect street food to try, particularly in the evenings.
Where to Try:
Donghuamen Night Market: A great spot for Chuan’r.
5. Peking-style Noodles (北京炸酱面)
Beijing Zhajiang Noodles, or “Zha Jiang Mian,” is a classic dish in Beijing cuisine. It features thick wheat noodles topped with a rich sauce made from fermented soybean paste and minced pork (or beef), often garnished with fresh vegetables like cucumber and spring onions. Known for its savoury and slightly sweet flavour, it’s a popular and satisfying meal, enjoyed especially for lunch or dinner. This dish has a long history and remains a staple in Chinese food culture.
6. Tanghulu (糖葫芦)
Tanghulu are skewered fruits, typically hawthorn berries, coated in hard sugar syrup. This sweet, tangy treat is a favourite among children and tourists alike. It’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Where to Try:
Qianmen Street: Known for its street vendors selling Tanghulu.
7. Suanla Tang (酸辣汤)
Suanla Tang, or hot and sour soup, is a favourite among locals. It’s a flavour-packed soup made with tofu, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and a variety of spices. The soup is tangy, spicy, and perfect for colder days.
Where to Try:
Qianmen: A famous area with great restaurants serving traditional Chinese soups.
8. Lamb Skewers (羊肉串)
Lamb skewers, often marinated in cumin and chili, are grilled and served as street food across Beijing. They are tender, smoky, and full of flavour, making them a popular evening snack.
Where to Try:
Wangfujing Snack Street: One of the top spots for lamb skewers.
9. Fried Tofu with Chilli (香辣炸豆腐)
Fried tofu served with chilli and other spices is a tasty snack that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It’s a simple yet flavourful dish that’s perfect for those who love a little spice.
Where to Try:
Street Food Stalls: Available at many night markets.
10. Beijing Hotpot (北京火锅)
This winter delicacy, with a history of over 1,000 years, is traditionally served in a copper pot with charcoal burning in the centre, and usually contains a clear broth at the bottom. The dish uses meat from parts of a large-tailed sheep, such as the outer rib, hind leg, and tail, sliced thin as paper. The meat is quickly dipped into the boiling broth, then dipped into a sauce made from sesame paste, fermented bean curd, chili oil, coriander, and spring onions. The result is tender, smooth, and refreshing.
11. Douzhi (豆汁) and Jiao Quan’er (焦圈儿)
Douzhi is a traditional Beijing drink made from fermented mung beans, offering a unique sour and tangy flavour. It’s typically paired with pickled vegetables, giving a true taste of local culture. Meanwhile, Jiao Quan’er is a popular Beijing snack – deep-fried dough rings that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Often served as a savoury treat, they make a perfect snack to enjoy with tea. Together, these two iconic items represent the rich flavours of Beijing’s culinary scene.
12. Mung Bean Cake (绿豆糕)
This traditional dessert is made from mung beans, sugar, and vegetable oil, creating a soft, sweet treat. It’s a popular snack during festivals and a great way to finish off a meal.
Where to Try:
Wangfujing Food Street: A popular location for this sweet treat.
13. Peking-style Tofu (京酱豆腐)
A lesser-known Beijing dish, Peking-style tofu is deep-fried tofu served in a savoury soy sauce-based marinade. It’s a delicious option for vegetarians looking to explore Beijing’s cuisine.
14. Beijing Fried Rice (北京炒饭)
This fried rice is a comforting dish often made with eggs, vegetables, and meats like shrimp or chicken. It’s a quick, simple meal that can be found in many restaurants throughout the city.
15. Beijing Yogurt (老北京酸奶)
Beijing yogurt is a local favourite, known for its creamy texture and tart flavour. Unlike other yogurts, it is traditionally served in a small clay pot, with a spoon provided for scooping. The yogurt is often enjoyed with a drizzle of honey or sweet syrup, making it a simple yet satisfying snack.
Beijing’s food scene is an exciting blend of traditional flavours, street food favourites, and modern culinary creations. From the world-renowned Peking Duck to the humble street snacks like Chuan’r and Jianbing, there is no shortage of delicious dishes to try in the city. Whether you’re seeking something savoury, spicy, or sweet, these 15 foods and snacks will give you a comprehensive taste of Beijing’s rich culinary culture. Don’t miss out on these local delights when visiting Beijing!
