The Temple of Heaven in Beijing is not only a must-visit historical site but also a delightful culinary destination. During my recent visit, I explored the area surrounding the temple, indulging in exquisite desserts and beverages. The creative cultural products available are both practical and visually appealing. At the Temple of Heaven, you can immerse yourself in stunning ancient architecture while discovering delicious local food options. Here’s a guide to some fantastic eateries you shouldn’t miss on your visit.
1. Nanmen Shuanrou (南门涮肉)
Cuisine: Halal Hot Pot
Signature Dishes: Beef and Lamb
Nanmen Shuanrou is a popular spot located near the southern gate of the Temple of Heaven. Known for its high-quality halal beef and lamb, this restaurant offers a delightful hot pot experience. Their sesame sauce (芝麻酱) and sesame pancakes (烧饼) are also highly recommended. The meat is exceptionally tender with no gamey taste, making it a standout choice for hot pot lovers. If you plan to visit on a busy day, consider making a reservation in advance to avoid long waits.
Address: South Gate of Temple of Heaven Park, Dongcheng District, Beijing
Average Cost: ¥96 per person
2. Yin San Douzhi (尹三豆汁)
Cuisine: Traditional Beijing Cuisine
Signature Dishes: Douzhi (豆汁, Fermented Mung Bean Juice), Jiaoquan (焦圈, Fried Dough Rings)
This hidden gem, a Michelin-recommended restaurant located at the foot of the Temple of Heaven, preserves the essence of old Beijing. With reasonable prices, it’s considered one of the most affordable Michelin restaurants in the city. Douzhi, made from fermented mung bean residue, has a rich and unique flavor that might be an acquired taste for some visitors. Alongside the Douzhi, you can try other traditional snacks such as fried dough rings and sweet treats like Tanghuo (糖火烧).
Address: 176 Dongxiaoshi Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing
Average Cost: ¥18 per person
3. Sanyuan Meiyuan (三元梅元)
Cuisine: Desserts
Signature Dishes: Milk Cake (奶糕), Milk Rolls (奶卷)
Sanyuan Meiyuan is renowned for its signature milk cake and milk rolls. The milk cake is made without sugar, allowing the pure milk flavor to shine through. The red bean filling (豆沙) adds a touch of sweetness, although it can sometimes overpower the delicate milk flavor when eaten together. Be mindful not to indulge too much, as it can get a bit rich.
Address: 14 Guozijian Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing
Average Cost: ¥30 per person
4. Menkuang Luzhu (门框卤煮)
Cuisine: Traditional Beijing Snacks
Signature Dishes: Luzhu (卤煮, Braised Offal), Chao Gan (炒肝, Stir-fried Liver)
This bustling spot is famous for its braised dishes, attracting a steady stream of customers eager to try classic Beijing snacks. The dishes here, such as Luzhu and Chao Gan, are known for their tender textures and rich flavors, ensuring that you won’t have a bad meal here. The prices are quite reasonable, making it a great choice for casual dining.
Address: About 300 meters from Exit B of Tiantan East Subway Station, Dongcheng District, Beijing
Average Cost: ¥30 per person
5. Temple of Heaven Desserts (天坛甜品)
As you enter from the North Gate, you’ll find a delightful takeaway shop offering beautifully designed ice creams, including one shaped like the Prayer Hall (祈年殿). Priced at ¥28, these ice creams are a bit on the expensive side but make for fantastic photo opportunities.
6. Tiantan Fuyin (天坛福饮)
Cuisine: Coffee and Desserts
This café, located near the East Gate, features an array of aesthetically pleasing drinks (饮料) and desserts. The artistic presentation extends to the paper cups, which showcase designs inspired by the Temple of Heaven. You can also find creative cultural products here, making it an enjoyable stop for a break during your visit.
Address: Near the East Gate of Temple of Heaven Park, Dongcheng District, Beijing