Beijing, a city rich in history and culture, is also renowned for its exceptional food scene. Among the city’s most celebrated culinary landmarks are the Ba Da Lou (八大楼) restaurants, a group of century-old dining establishments that offer the very best of traditional Chinese cuisine. Rooted in the late Qing Dynasty, these iconic restaurants have survived the test of time and continue to serve up legendary dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a newcomer to Beijing, dining at one of the Ba Da Lou restaurants is a must. Here’s a guide to the top Ba Da Lou restaurants you should not miss during your visit to Beijing.
1. Dongxing Lou (东兴楼) – A Glimpse into Beijing’s Golden Age
- Recommended Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
- Overview: Founded in 1902 during the reign of the Guangxu Emperor, Dongxing Lou (东兴楼) once stood at the pinnacle of Beijing’s fine dining scene. The restaurant attracted a host of famous intellectuals and artists, including Chen Duxiu (陈独秀), Lu Xun (鲁迅), Hu Shi (胡适), Mei Lanfang (梅兰芳), and Gu Hongming (辜鸿铭). It is a place steeped in history, embodying the cultural richness of its era.
- Ambiance: The restaurant’s retro-style interior and prime location near Dongzhimen Subway Station provide a comfortable yet nostalgic dining experience. Upstairs, you can enjoy scenic views of the Guijie (簋街) area, a vibrant street in Beijing known for its nightlife.
- Recommended Dishes:
- Crispy Fried Meatballs (干炸丸子)
- Stir-Fried Fish Fillet in Wine Sauce (糟溜鱼片)
- Sweet and Spicy Chicken (酱爆鸡丁)
- Stir-Fried Shrimp (油焖大虾)
- Egg-Fried Chicken Slices (芙蓉鸡片)
2. Taifeng Lou (泰丰楼) – A Culinary Gem Since 1876
- Recommended Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
- Overview: Taifeng Lou (泰丰楼) has been serving up classic Shandong (鲁菜) cuisine since its establishment in 1876. This old-time favorite has been visited by historical figures such as Sun Yat-sen (孙中山) and Yuan Shikai (袁世凯). Despite facing challenges in recent years, the restaurant remains a shining star in Beijing’s culinary world, known for its high-quality dishes and rich heritage.
- Ambiance: The restaurant’s classic, quiet atmosphere exudes an old-world charm, making it a perfect place for a peaceful meal. It’s clean, well-maintained, and offers an authentic, time-honored ambiance.
- Recommended Dishes:
- Stir-Fried Crisp Pork and Vegetables (油爆双脆)
- Fried Shrimp with Garlic (炸烹虾)
- Stir-Fried Pork Stomach with Cilantro (芫爆肚丝)
- Pan-Fried Pork Meatballs (南煎丸子)
- Braised Pork Knuckles (锅烧肘子)
- Braised Sea Cucumber with Scallions (葱烧海参)
3. Zhimei Lou (致美楼) – Serving Tradition Since 1842
- Recommended Rating: 🌟🌟🌟
- Overview: Founded in 1842, Zhimei Lou (致美楼) has been serving Beijing locals for over 180 years. With a history as long as its name, this restaurant holds a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate authentic Beijing flavors. The décor is reminiscent of an old national restaurant, offering an atmosphere that will transport you back in time.
- Ambiance: The establishment exudes an old-school charm, resembling a vintage state-run dining hall.
- Recommended Dishes:
- Four Ways to Prepare Live Fish (活鱼四吃)
- Crispy Fried Meatballs (干炸丸子)
- Roast Duck (烤鸭)
- Mustard Duck Feet (芥末鸭掌)
- Black Fish Roe Soup (乌鱼蛋汤)
4. Qingyun Lou (庆云楼) – The First High-End Shandong Restaurant in Beijing
- Recommended Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
- Overview: Founded in 1820, Qingyun Lou (庆云楼) is considered Beijing’s first upscale Shandong restaurant. In its early years, it was a gathering place for aristocrats, scholars, and intellectuals. Today, it remains a favorite spot for anyone seeking to indulge in royal-level cuisine with stunning views.
- Ambiance: Situated near the Silver Ingots Bridge (银锭桥) and Shichahai (什刹海), Qingyun Lou offers beautiful views from its second-floor windows, making it a perfect location to enjoy a meal and take in the scenery.
- Recommended Dishes:
- Caramelized Apple with Sugar (拔丝苹果)
- Stir-Fried Pork Tenderloin (抓炒里脊)
- Peking Duck (烤鸭)
- Nine-Turned Pork Intestines (九转大肠)
- Crispy Chicken (香酥鸡)
5. Cuihua Lou (萃华楼) – A Michelin-Endorsed Shandong Classic
- Recommended Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟✨
- Overview: Cuihua Lou (萃华楼), established in 1940, is a Michelin-recommended Shandong restaurant that has become a must-visit for food lovers in Beijing. It’s rumored that the restaurant inherited the top-tier chefs from Dongxing Lou (东兴楼), elevating it to new heights of culinary excellence. Today, Cuihua Lou is known as one of Beijing’s most affordable Michelin-level restaurants.
- Ambiance: The restaurant boasts a refined and elegant style, offering a spacious and comfortable setting perfect for business dinners or intimate dates.
- Recommended Dishes:
- Egg-Fried Chicken Slices (芙蓉鸡片)
- Sweet and Spicy Chicken (酱爆鸡丁)
- Grilled Mandarin Fish (酱汁鳜鱼)
- Roasted Flower Buns (烤花卷)
- Nine-Turned Pork Intestines (九转大肠)
6. Fengzeyuan (丰泽园) – A Classic Shandong Dining Experience Since 1930
- Recommended Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
- Overview: Fengzeyuan (丰泽园) has been a staple in Beijing’s food scene since 1930, attracting many powerful figures who have been drawn to its famed braised sea cucumber dish (葱烧海参). This restaurant holds a special place in the hearts of locals and remains a top choice for traditional Shandong cuisine.
- Ambiance: With its original grandeur still evident in its clean and well-maintained setting, Fengzeyuan offers an atmosphere of classic luxury.
- Recommended Dishes:
- Braised Sea Cucumber with Scallions (葱烧海参)
- Nine-Turned Pork Intestines (九转大肠)
- Stir-Fried Kidney (火爆腰花)
- Flavored Eggplant (风味茄子)
- Black Fish Roe Soup (乌鱼蛋汤)
- Sweet and Spicy Chicken (酱爆鸡丁)
- Roasted Buns (烤馒头)