Shichahai is a vibrant hub of history, culture, and cuisine in Beijing. It’s not just a place to enjoy scenic views of the lakes or visit historical landmarks, but also an area rich in culinary delights. This guide offers a perfect route for food lovers who want to explore local flavors while discovering the charm of the surrounding neighborhoods. Starting from Nanluoguxiang (南锣鼓巷) and ending at Shichahai (什刹海), this day-long journey promises a full experience of eating, drinking, and enjoying the best of the city. Whether you’re a weekend wanderer or a tourist looking for authentic Beijing snacks, this food route is sure to satisfy.
Shichahai Food Tour Itinerary
- Starting Point: Nanluoguxiang (南锣鼓巷)
- Ending Point: Shichahai (什刹海), with a return from Shichahai Station (Metro Line 8, Exit A)
1. Wuyutai Tea House (Gulou Branch) 吴裕泰茶庄 (鼓楼店)
Location: 297 Gulou East Street, Dongcheng District
Must-Try: Matcha or flower tea ice cream 抹茶/花茶冰激凌
Price: 10 RMB per ice cream
Wuyutai Tea House (吴裕泰) is a local favorite for its unique tea-infused ice cream, especially the refreshing matcha and floral flavors. It’s the perfect sweet treat to start your food journey on a hot day.
2. Yaoji Fried Liver Restaurant (Gulou Branch) 姚记炒肝店 (鼓楼店)
Location: 311 Gulou East Street, Dongcheng District (Southeast corner of Gulou Bay)
Must-Try: Fried liver 炒肝, pork and scallion buns 猪肉大葱包子, fried sausage 炸灌肠
Price: Around 35 RMB per person
This beloved old Beijing eatery, Yaoji (姚记), is famous for its fried liver and hearty pork buns, offering an authentic taste of traditional Beijing street food.
3. Heiyaochang Sugar Oil Cake (Gulou Branch) 黑窑厂糖油饼 (鼓楼店)
Location: No. 9, Di’anmen Outer Street
Must-Try: Double sugar oil cakes 双糖糖油饼
Price: 4.5 RMB per cake
Considered an MVP snack, the sugar oil cake (糖油饼) here is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a sweet, caramelized flavor that’s hard to resist.
4. Meitan Village Cake Shop (Gulou Branch) 梅潭村·糕饼铺 (鼓楼店)
Location: No. 2, Xin’anli, Di’anmen, Xicheng District
Must-Try: Ricotta cheese pastry 醍醐芝士酥, matcha cheese pastry 抹茶芝士酥, peace cake 平安饼
Price: Around 20 RMB per person
Meitan Village (梅潭村) is known for its delicate pastries. The ricotta cheese pastry and matcha cheese pastry are especially popular and a delightful addition to your food adventure.
5. Baorui Mending Meat Pie Shop 宝瑞门钉肉饼店
Location: No. 76, Jiaodaokou South Street, Dongcheng District
Must-Try: Mending meat pies 门钉肉饼
Price: 7 RMB per pie
Though a bit out of the way, Baorui (宝瑞) meat pies are worth the detour. Crisp on the outside and juicy inside, these savory treats are a must-try if you’re near the end of Nanluoguxiang (南锣鼓巷).
6. Beibingyang Soda 北冰洋汽水
Location: Inside Lotus Market (Huguo Temple area) 荷花市场
Must-Try: Orange soda 橘子味汽水
Price: Around 10 RMB per bottle
Beibingyang soda (北冰洋) is an iconic drink in Beijing, known for its fizzy sweetness and nostalgic taste. Grab a bottle to refresh yourself as you finish your journey.