Beijing, a city rich in culture and history, is not only famous for its grand landmarks but also for its diverse and delicious breakfast options. If you’re an early riser or simply looking to experience the authentic flavors of the capital, the city’s breakfast joints serve up some of the best traditional dishes. Here’s a guide to 9 classic and must-try Beijing breakfast spots, each offering a unique taste of local culinary heritage. From crispy sugar oil cakes to savory bean soups, these spots are a true reflection of old Beijing’s charm and flavors.
1. Hei Yang Chang Tang You Bing (黑窑厂糖油饼) – Heiyangchang Street
Must-Try: Tang You Bing (Sugar Oil Cake), Double Sugar Oil Cake, Tofu Brain
Average Price: 25 CNY
A beloved classic in Beijing, the sugar oil cake from Heiyangchang is a must-try for anyone craving a crispy, sweet, and savory start to the day. It’s a popular choice among food bloggers, so be sure to arrive early before the queues form! The crispy, chewy texture and the sweet coating make it a true Beijing breakfast favorite.
2. Yin San Douzhi (尹三豆汁) – Temple of Heaven
Must-Try: Douzhi (Bean Juice), Jiaoquan (Fried Rings), Miancha (Noodle Tea), Shaobing (Sesame Seed Cake)
Average Price: 16 CNY
A historic shop famous for its distinctive bean juice, Yin San is a beloved local institution. The bean juice is known for its slightly sour taste, paired with crispy fried rings and savory snacks like noodle tea and sesame cakes. They even offer bottled versions of their bean juice for those looking to take a taste of Beijing home.
3. Yao Ji Chao Gan (姚记炒肝店) – Drum Tower
Must-Try: Chao Gan (Stir-fried Liver), Pork and Scallion Bun, Lu Zhu (Stewed Pork Entrails), Fried Sausages
Average Price: 32 CNY
For a true taste of old Beijing, Yao Ji Chao Gan is the place to go. This restaurant specializes in stir-fried liver and a variety of classic Beijing snacks, including stewed pork entrails and pork buns. The hearty and savory dishes are perfect for breakfast, bringing an authentic Beijing flavor to the table.
4. Huguo Temple Snacks (护国寺小吃) – Huguo Temple Branch
Must-Try: Miancha (Noodle Tea), Creamy Fried Cake, Pea Flour Cake, Lamb Offal Soup
Average Price: 32 CNY
A time-honored name in Beijing, Huguo Temple Snacks offers a wide array of local delicacies. Their noodle tea and pea flour cake are the highlights of their breakfast menu, offering a deep dive into authentic Beijing flavors. Whether you visit the flagship store or any of the other branches, you’re guaranteed a delicious start to the day.
5. Bai Kui Lao Hao (白魁老号饭庄) – Jiaodao Kou
Must-Try: Miancha (Noodle Tea), Men Ding Rou Bing (Meat Pie), Tang Huo Shao (Sugar Fire Cake), Creamy Fried Cake, Bean Paste Meatballs
Average Price: 51 CNY
For over 20 years, Bai Kui Lao Hao has been serving up classic Beijing breakfasts. With a variety of traditional snacks to choose from, this restaurant is a local favorite for anyone craving authentic flavors. The meat pie and creamy fried cakes are particularly popular, along with the sweet sugar fire cake that adds a touch of nostalgia to your breakfast experience.
6. Zeng Sheng Kui Snacks (增盛魁小吃店) – China Art Museum
Must-Try: Meat Pie, Beef Bun, Lamb Offal Soup, Bean Curd Soup
Average Price: 17 CNY
A staple for those craving quick, hearty breakfasts, Zeng Sheng Kui is known for its meat pies, beef buns, and lamb offal soup. The small but busy eatery has earned its reputation with delicious and affordable offerings that attract both locals and tourists alike. Expect long lines in the morning!
7. Jin Fang Snacks (锦芳小吃) – Ciqikou
Must-Try: Ai Wo Wo (Sticky Rice Balls), Creamy Fried Cake, Miancha (Noodle Tea), Douzhi (Bean Juice), Jiaoquan (Fried Rings)
Average Price: 27 CNY
Jin Fang Snacks is a go-to for locals in the Ciqikou area, offering a selection of traditional Beijing breakfasts. Try the sticky rice balls, known as Ai Wo Wo, and the crispy fried cakes for a unique breakfast experience. Don’t forget to pair them with a cup of warm bean juice for a truly Beijing morning.
8. Niujie Hong Ji Snacks (牛街洪记小吃店) – Niujie
Must-Try: Baozi (Steamed Buns), Fried Cake, Sugar Fire Cake, Sesame Flatbread
Average Price: 34 CNY
A popular spot in Niujie, Hong Ji Snacks serves up some of the best baozi (steamed buns) in the city. The buns, filled with either beef or lamb, are a standout choice, along with fried cakes and sesame flatbreads. Be prepared for long queues, as this spot is known for attracting food lovers from all over Beijing.
9. Li Xiao Lao Shao Bing (李小老烧饼) – Changying
Must-Try: Lamb Offal Soup, Vegetable Dumplings, Beef Pie, Tofu Soup
Average Price: 21 CNY
Li Xiao Lao is perfect for those living in or near Changying. The freshly baked shaobing (sesame flatbread) and lamb offal soup are especially tasty, and the vegetable dumplings and tofu soup offer a lighter option to round out your breakfast.