Located in the heart of Beijing, Shichahai is not only famous for its scenic lakes and historical landmarks but also its wide range of delicious food offerings. Whether you’re looking for a cozy café to enjoy a picturesque afternoon tea or a hearty local meal, this area has something for everyone. The proximity of Shichahai to metro stations makes it easy to explore, and within just a 3-kilometer radius, you can find some of the city’s best-value eateries. Below is a comprehensive guide to some of the top food spots in Shichahai, from beautiful cafés perfect for Instagram-worthy photos to authentic local restaurants offering Beijing’s traditional flavors.
Best Cafés for Photos and Afternoon Tea
Tangfang Café (糖房咖啡)
- Located in Shichahai, this café offers a delightful combination of coffee, desserts, and beautiful views of Shichahai’s changing scenery throughout the year. With its photogenic ambiance, it’s a perfect spot for social media-worthy shots.
- Average cost: 55 RMB per person.
- Recommendations: Blackberry Mulberry Cake (黑莓桑蛋糕), Orange Sunset (橘子落日), Peach Molecular Dessert (桃子分子), and Lattes (拿铁).
Oh! by FINE Café & Canteen
- Famous for its fluffy soufflés, this café blends taste with aesthetics. The light and balanced sweetness of the desserts make it ideal for those who don’t like overly rich flavors.
- Average cost: 87 RMB per person.
- Recommendations: Mixed Berry Soufflé (杂梅舒芙蕾), Matcha Soufflé (抹茶舒芙蕾), and Mixed Berry Drink (杂梅特饮).
Metalhands Coffee (铁手咖啡制造总局)
- Tucked away in the hutongs of Dongsi, this hidden gem is worth the search. The café’s unique blend of coffee and desserts has earned it a loyal following.
- Average cost: 67 RMB per person.
- Recommendations: Gamboge Fig Cheesecake (藤黄无花奶酪), Dirty Coffee (冰博客Dirty), and Hand-poured Coffee (手冲).
Recommended Local Restaurants for a Full Meal
Old Xi’an Restaurant (老西安饭庄)
- Located in Xinjiekou, this restaurant has been serving authentic Shaanxi cuisine for over 20 years. The traditional dishes and snacks are perfect for a filling meal.
- Average cost: 70 RMB per person.
- Recommendations: Lamb Skewers (羊肉串), Lamb Pao Mo (羊肉泡馍), and Braised Oxtail (红烧牛尾).
Huatian Yanji Restaurant (华天延吉餐厅)
- Established in 1943 and recognized as a cultural heritage site, this restaurant specializes in Yanji cold noodles and other Korean-Chinese fusion dishes.
- Average cost: 51 RMB per person.
- Recommendations: Yanji Cold Noodles (延吉冷面), Spicy Marinated Beef (拌辣牛肉), and Spicy Grilled Fish (拌明太鱼).
Xianlaoman (馅老满)
- This restaurant in Andingmen has been a local favorite for over 20 years, offering traditional Beijing-style dishes with a focus on dumplings.
- Average cost: 63 RMB per person.
- Recommendations: Xianlaoman Signature Dumplings (招牌老满饺子), Mackerel and Chive Dumplings (鲅鱼韭菜饺子), and Kung Pao Chicken (极品宫保鸡丁).
Zhang Mama Sichuan Restaurant (张妈妈特色川味馆)
- A popular spot for Sichuan cuisine lovers, this restaurant offers authentic flavors at an affordable price, reminiscent of home-cooked meals.
- Average cost: 68 RMB per person.
- Recommendations: Bo Bo Chicken (钵钵鸡), Zhang Mama’s Stir-fried Dishes (张妈妈小炒), and Twice-cooked Pork (连山回锅肉).
Pengji Iron Pot Chitterlings (彭记铁锅肥肠)
- Though the restaurant is small, it serves some of the best chitterlings in Beijing, known for being clean and hearty. It’s ideal for those who enjoy bold flavors.
- Average cost: 98 RMB per person.
- Recommendations: Iron Pot Chitterlings (铁锅肥肠), Mouth-watering Chicken (口水鸡), and Spicy Beef Tripe (夫妻肺片).
Ya’er Liji Restaurant (鸦儿李记)
- A traditional halal restaurant near Gulou, specializing in Beijing snacks and family-style dishes. From hotpot lamb to roast meat, you’ll find a wide array of local favorites.
- Average cost: 62 RMB per person.
- Recommendations: Lamb Tripe Soup (羊杂汤), Roasted Lamb Skewers (羊肉串), and Sugar Fire Cake (糖火烧).
Dingxiangrun Restaurant (鼎香润)
- One of the top-rated Beijing-style restaurants near Deshengmen, it serves well-reviewed, affordable dishes, perfect for a family dinner or casual meal.
- Average cost: 73 RMB per person.
- Recommendations: House-special Elbow (招牌肘子), Sweet and Sour Pork (糖醋里脊), and Qianlong Cabbage (乾隆白菜).