Cantonese
Includes Chaozhou and Fujian style cuisines, as well as dim sum. Fresh ingredients, quick stir-frying and steaming are used to preserve the ingredients’ natural flavors. See also: Hakka.
Bamboo Village Bay Fung Tang Restaurant
A haven from the storm where you can feast on cheap Cantonese food. We recommend the shrimp dumplings and bbq pork buns. Daily 10am-6am. 46 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (8460 8778/9) 香港竹家庄避风塘, 朝阳区东直门外大街 46号
Be There or Be Square Cafe
Popular restaurant serving Cantonese fare in a perpetually busy environment. Daily 9.30am-9.30pm. Xidan, Capital Epoch Plaza, Xicheng District. (8391 4078) 不见不散, 西城区西单首都时代广场
Cafe Taipan
Taipan Massage and Spa has branched out into the food industry with this Macanese restaurant. The food is satisfying but the service leaves a lot to be desired. Sun-Sat 11am-2pm. 1/F, Sunjoy Mansion, 6 Ritan Lu, Chaoyang District. (6585 3478) 东方大班, 朝阳区日坛路6号新族大厦一层
Celestial Court
Seafood and dim sum in a luxurious setting for those on an expense account. Daily 11.30am-2pm, 6-10pm. 2/F, St Regis Hotel, 21 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6460 6688 ext 2460 or 2462) 天宝阁, 朝阳区建国门外大街21号北京国际俱乐部饭店二层
Chao Fu Cheng
Good dim sum served all day on the weekends. Perfect for late-risers who crave Cantonese grease. Mon-Fri 10am-10.30pm, Sat-Sun 9.30am-10.30pm. 108 Jianguo Lu (behind Motorola Building), Chaoyang District. (6566 9936) 香港潮福城大酒楼, 朝阳区建国路108号甲（摩托罗拉中心东南角）
Delicieux
With an elegantly circular dining room sure to impress guests, Delicieux offers high-end Cantonese-influenced fare. Casual diners should expect to spend around RMB 100 per person. Dim sum starts from RMB 9.9. Daily 11am-10pm. 2F, Fortune Plaza, 7 Dongsanhuan Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (6530 9708) 金御台, 朝阳区东三环中路7号财富中心二楼
The Deluxe Restaurant
A contemporary-looking place with an excellent set meal for two available only at lunch (RMB 98). Daily 10.30am-3pm, 5-11pm. 3/F Comfort Inn, 6 Gongti Beilu, west side Pacific Century Plaza, Chaoyang District. (8523 6668) 凯悦酒家, 朝阳区工体北路6号凯富酒店三楼 (东三环长虹桥盈科中心西侧)
Dynasty Jade Garden
Home-style Cantonese cuisine, specializing in light and fresh flavors and dishes starting at RMB 35. 11.30am-11.30pm. 9A Fuchengmenwai Dajie, Xicheng District. (5858 5588) 皇朝玉园, 西城区阜成门外大街甲9号 国宾酒店二层
East Ocean Seafood Restaurant
Authentic southern import serves up a sumptuous dim sum feast. Daily 11am-11pm. 39 Maizidian Jie, Chaoyang District. (6508 3482) 东海海鲜酒家, 朝阳区麦子店街39号
Elements
An open kitchen dining experience featuring “pan Asian” cuisines and other culinary styles from around the world. Daily 24 hours. 2/F, Hilton Beijing, 1 Dongfang Lu, Chaoyang District. (5865 5000 ext 5020) 元素阁, 朝阳区东方路1号希尔顿酒店二层
Full Moon
Though its Huadu hotel location has seen better days, Full Moon still reels ‘em in for the dim sum on weekends. Daily 11am-10pm. Huadu Hotel, 8 Xinyuan Nanlu, Chaoyang District. (6597 1166) 福满楼, 朝阳区新源南路8号
GL Cafe
Hong Kong fare served in a vast cafeteria; cheap, greasy and always open: perfect for 4am feasts. Daily 24 Hours. 1) 20 Chaowai Dajie, Chaoyang District. 2) 1/F, L134 China World Shopping Mall, Chaoyang District. (6505 6868); 3) 21 Jianguomenwai Dajie, beside St Regis Hotel, Chaoyang District. (6532 8282) 金湖, 1) 朝阳区朝外大街20号; 2) 朝阳区国贸商城一层L134; 3) 朝阳区建外大街21号(国际俱乐部饭店旁边)
Guangdong Renmin Cai
An intensely lit, chrome-lined destination for authentic Cantonese hotpot and various types of southern fowl. Daily 10am-10pm. Huajiadi Beili, across the street from the North Gate of the Central Academy of Fine Arts, Chaoyang District. (6473 6501) 广东人民菜, 朝阳区花家地北里中央美术学院北门对面
Gui Gong Fu
Impress out-of-town guests at this historical site that was the former residence of the Empress Dowager’s little brother. Specializes in tea-spiced Cantonese and Sichuan foods. Daily 10am-2pm, 5-10pm. 11 Fangjiayuan Hutong, Chaoneinan Xiaojie, Dongcheng District. (6512 7667) 贵公府, 东城区朝内南小街芳嘉园胡同11号
Hang Heung’s Kitchen
The stylish white and orange dining room serves a full range of classic HK-style cafe food and traditional dinnertime favorites all without MSG. The Kitchen’s large selection of barbequed and roasted meats, such as crispy-skinned juicy suckling pig, comes highly recommended. Daily 7am-2am. 1-2 Taihua Apartment, Chongwenmenwai Dajie, Chongwen District. (6708 3155) 恒香栈, 崇文区崇文门外大街太华公寓1-2号商铺
Horizon
Good variety of Chinese dishes; classy atmosphere. Dim sum available in the afternoon only. 11.30am-2.30pm, 5.30-10pm. 1/F Kerry Centre Hotel, 1 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (6561 8833 ext 41) 海天阁, 朝阳区光华路1号嘉里中心饭店1层
Huang Du
Typical Cantonese fare with a pleasant view of the hotel courtyard. Daily 11.30am-2pm, 4-10pm. 1/F Radisson SAS Hotel, 6A Beisanhuan Donglu, Chaoyang District. (6466 3388 ext 3423) 皇都, 朝阳区北三环东路甲6号北京皇家大饭店一层
Huang Ting
Fancy-pants Cantonese cuisine (including dim sum) amidst Ming and Qing dynasty antiques for those using the corporate credit card. Daily 11.30am-2.30pm, 6-10pm. B2/F Peninsula Palace Hotel, 8 Jinyu Hutong, Wangfujing Jie, Dongcheng District. (8516 2888 ext 6707) 凰庭, 东城区王府井大街金鱼胡同8号王府饭店地下2层
Huang Yue
A modern Cantonese restaurant featuring fresh seafood and regional delicacies. Daily 11.30am-2.30pm, 5.30pm-10pm. Mezzanine Floor of Crowne Plaza Beijing, 48 Wangfujing Avenue, Dongcheng District. (6513 3388 ext 6) 皇悦中餐厅, 东城区北京国际艺苑皇冠假日酒店内，王府井大街48号
Jewel
Well presented authentic Cantonese cuisine and signature dishes from around China. Daily 10.30am-11pm. 1/F, The Westin Beijing, 9B Jinrong Jie, Xicheng District. (6606 8866) 金城阁, 西城区金融大街乙9号北京金融街威斯汀大酒店1层
Jin Ding Xuan
Cantonese chain that specializes in fresh and steaming baskets of dim sum. Voted “Best Dim Sum” in our 2006 Reader Restaurant Awards. Daily 8am-8pm. 1) 15 Tuanjiehu Nanlu, Chaoyang District. (8596 8881); 2) 77 Hepingli Xijie, Dongcheng District. (6429 6888); 3) 16 Pufang Lu, across from Carrefour, Fengtai District. (6767 8800, 6761 7161); 4) 2 Fuxingmenwai Dajie, B/F New World Mall, Xicheng District. (6858 7247) 金鼎轩酒楼, 1) 朝阳区团结湖南路15号; 2) 东城区和平里西街77号; 3) 丰台区方庄蒲芳路16号 (家乐福的对面); 4) 西城区复兴门外大街2号新世界地下1层
La Paleta
Sister venue of Bellagio. The menu is light and bears a Cantonese influence, with a large selection of noodles and dim sum and Hong Kong-style iced teas and coffee. Daily 10am-12am. Bldg 4, Anhuili Erqu (by the Asian Games Village), Chaoyang District. (6481 0887) 彩色盘港式茶餐厅, 朝阳区安慧里二区4号楼
Lei Garden
Boasting a large menu featuring seafood, steamed dishes, braised/stewed meats, and fresh vegetables, Lei Garden offers a bright, comfortable and contemporary setting for traditional Guangdong cuisine. Daily 11.30am-3pm, 5.30-10.30pm. 3/F, Jinbao Tower, 89 Jinbao Jie, Dongcheng District. (8522 1212) 利苑, 东城区金宝街89号金宝大厦3楼
Noble Court
Fine Cantonese cuisine featuring dim sum as well as seafood dishes. Champagne brunch every Saturday and Sunday with open menu and unlimited bubbly. Daily 11.30am-2:30pm, 5.30pm-10pm (brunch weekends 10.30am-2.30pm). Grand Hyatt Beijing, Beijing Oriental Plaza, 1 East Chang’an Avenue, Dongcheng District. (8518 1234 ext 3822) 悦庭, 东城区东长安街1号东方广场东方君悦大酒店
Regal Palace Chinese Restaurant
Serving the culinary delights of Cantonese cuisine including a selection of live seafood, freshly made dim sum and other local specialties. Daily 10am-10.30 pm. 1/F, Days Hotel & Suites, 27 Huaweili, Chaoyang District. (6773 1234) 秦乐宫中餐厅, 朝阳区华威里27号长安戴斯大饭店一层
Ri Chang
Cheap but tasty Cantonese fare and hotpot. Try their claypot dishes. Daily 24 hours. 1) 72 Dongdan Beidajie, Waijiaobu Kounei, Dongcheng District. (6525 1783); 2) 8 Huayuan Donglu, Haidian District. (8203 8155); 3) 14 Di’anmen Xidajie (opposite Qianhai), Xicheng District. (6405 8205) 日昌, 1) 东城区东单北大街72号外交部口内; 2) 海淀区花园东路8号; 3) 西城区地安门西大街14号
Sampan Seafood
Specialties like shark’s fin soup and roast pigeon, complemented by traditional favorites and very good dim sum. Mon-Fri 10.30am-3pm, 5.30-10pm, Sat-Sun 9.30am-3pm, 5.30-10.30pm. 1/F Gloria Plaza Hotel, 2 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6515 8855 ext 3155/3166) 船餐厅, 朝阳区建国门外大街2号凯莱大酒店一层
Schiller’s Richang
Part of the Schiller’s chain, these stores appear to offer the same cheap but tasty Cantonese fare and hotpot offered at the original Richang near Qianhai. Daily 10am-1am. 1) West gate of Chaoyang Park (next to Annie’s), Chaoyang District. (6593 1078); 2) 4, Yiqu, Jing’anli, Chaoyang District. (6461 9143) 日昌席勒茶餐厅, 1) 朝阳区朝阳公园西门; 2) 朝阳区静安里1区4号
Shang Palace
Authentic Cantonese cuisine in an opulent setting. Enjoy the view of the oriental garden while dining on braised abalone and tiger shark’s fin soup. Daily 11am-2.30pm, 5.30-10pm. Shangri-La Hotel, 29 Zizhuyuan Lu, Haidian District. (6841 2211) 香宫, 海淀区紫竹院路29号香格里拉饭店
Si Chou Lu
With dim sum prepared in the open kitchen of this well-lit Cantonese restaurant. Business lunch set menu RMB 158 (+15% service charge per person). Daily 11.30am-2pm, 5.30pm-10pm. Intercontinental Hotel, 11 Jinrong Jie, Xicheng District. (5852 5888 ext 5918/5919) 丝绸路中餐厅, 西城区金融街11号，金融街洲际酒店
Summer Palace
Excellent dim sum and other delicacies. Daily 11.30am-2pm and 6-10pm. Lobby, China World Hotel, 1 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6505 2266 ext 34) 夏宫中餐厅, 朝阳区建国门外大街1号中国大饭店大堂
Tang Palace Seafood Boat
Those in the know name this as one of the best dim sum places in town. Daily 7.30am-10.30pm (dim sum until 5pm). 3/F Novotel Xinqiao Hotel, Dongjiaominxiang, Dongcheng District. (6512 9603) 唐宫海鲜坊, 东城区东交民巷新侨饭店3楼
Upper Room
Cozy cafe setting serving up Hong Kong-style classics. Daily 11am-midnight. 6A Guanghuali, Chaoyang District. (6506 8324) 楼尚甜品小吃, 朝阳区光华里甲6 号
Dongbei
Thick sauces and stewed dishes in large portions to combat bitter winters.
Dongbeiren
The three-story restaurant’s raucous, colorful atmosphere captures the swaggering spirit of Dongbei. Along with the squirrel fish and the gamey venison, its hard-drinking, loud-talking clientele goes with the territory. Daily 11am-10pm. A1 Xinzhong Jie, Dongzhimenwai, Dongcheng District. (6415 2588/2213) 东北人, 东城区东直门外新中街甲1号
Made in China
Stylish interior and swank surroundings serving classic Dongbei fare with a twist. Daily 7-10am, 11.30am-2.30pm, 5.30-10pm. 1/F Grand Hyatt Hotel, 1A Dong Chang’an Jie, Dongcheng District. (6510 9608) 长安一号, 东城区东长安街甲1号君悦大酒店1层
Tongda Ecosystem Park
A 5,000sqm two-story greenhouse. Each table is surrounded by lush green foliage and craggy rock formations. Daily 10am-10pm. 99 Laiguangying Lu (exit at Beigao from the Airport Expressway, go north on Jingshun Lu to the first stoplight, turn left and proceed 1,000 meters), Chaoyang District. (6431 9099, 6431 9299) 同达生态园, 朝阳区来广营东路99号机场高速路北皋出口上京顺路第一红绿灯向左转1000米
Dumplings
Steamed, fried or boiled flour skins stuffed with a wide assortment of meats and vegetables. Beijingers tend to go heavy on the vinegar dipping sauce.
Shisheng Xuan Jiaoziguan
Humble neighborhood jiaozi joint. Daily 11.30am-midnight. Min’an Xiaoqu, Dongzhimennei, Dongcheng District. (8406 0243) 食圣轩饺子馆, 东城区东直门内民安小区
Guizhou & Guangxi
Characterized by dishes that are light on onion and ginger, and flavors that are tart and slightly spicy. Includes Miao minority style cooking featuring pineapple rice.
Guang Fu Yuan
Diners flock to this Guangxi government-run restaurant for the semi-authentic Guangxi food, despite bleak decor and gruff service. Chinese-only menu. Daily 11.30am-2pm, 5.30pm-9pm. From Dongsanhuan at Guomao Qiao turn south onto the service road and proceed 600 meters (located in the Guijin Hotel), Chaoyang District. (6771 0911 ext 700) 广福园餐厅, 朝阳区从东三环国贸桥往南走辅路600米路西桂京宾馆内
Lao Tan Guizhou Cuisine
Lao Tan serves uncompromising Guizhou cuisine in all its sour and spicy glory. No English menu available but the dining room is spacious and sunny. Daily 11am-11pm. 101, Tower 4, Zhu Bang 2000 Center, Chaoyang Lu, Chaoyang District. (8586 9755) 老坛住邦店, 朝阳区朝阳路住邦2000商务中心4号楼1层101
Miao Minority Restaurant
This restaurant caters to the dinner-and-show type crowd with its nightly Miao minority show. Dishes include oven roasted bullfrog and Guizhou-style dog meat hot pot. Daily 11am-1.30pm, 4-9pm. 1) 300m north of the west gate of Tsinghua University, Haidian District. (6256 9150); 2) 54 Fuxingmen Dajie (across from Minzu gong), Xicheng District. (6607 9738) 盛祥, 1) 海淀区清华大学西门北侧300米路西; 2) 西城区复兴门大街54号(民族宫对面)
Three Guizhou Men
Artsy-fartsy dining establishment with very tasty Guizhou-style favorites. Be sure to try the suantangyu (sour fish soup), xiangban bohe (fragrant peppermint salad). Daily 10.30am-10.30pm. 1) Jianwai Soho, Bldg 7, 39 Dongsanhuan, Chaoyang District. (5869 0598); 2) Inside the West Gate of Workers’ Stadium (above Coco Banana), Chaoyang District. (5869 0598) 三个贵州人, 1) 朝阳区东三环中路39建外Soho7楼国贸桥西南角; 2) 朝阳区工体西门内紫云轩
Xi Mihunzhen Cun
Serene two-story, Guizhou-style dining room is adorned with comfortable chairs and couches; warmly lit hardwood flooring and an uncharacteristically large amount of space between tables. Daily 10am-midnight. 26 Tianze Lu, Jiangtai Xiang, Anjialou (Restaurant Row near Nuren Jie), Chaoyang District. (8454 5539) 西谜魂阵村, 朝阳区安家楼蒋台乡天泽路26号
Hakka
Originally hailing from central China, Hakka communities are now spread throughout Fujian, Guangdong, Jiangxi and Taiwan. Hakka food features dishes that emphasize the natural taste of fresh ingredients.
Han Cang
Cool Qianhai restaurant specializes in foil-wrapped fish and salty shrimp on a stick. Great place for dates. Daily 10.30am-10.30pm. 1) 57 Xingfucun Zhonglu, 1/F Jiezuo Bldg, Chaoyang District. (6417 7720); 2) Opposite of North Gate of Beihai Park, Xicheng District. (6404 2259); 3) 8A Andeli Beijie, Shiyan Lou, Liupukang Erqu, Xicheng District. (6237 5376) 汉仓, 1) 朝阳区幸福村中路57号杰座大厦1层; 2) 西城区北海公园北门对面; 3) 西城区安德里北街甲8号六铺炕二区实验楼
Homestyle
Chinese comfort food; dishes that are ubiquitous throughout China.
Bai Zhou Xiang
Rice porridge, in all its many forms, supplement the congee collection with a variety of homestyle xiaochi. Open daily 24 hours. 1) 6 Zaoying Beili, 1/F Boning Park, Chaoyang District. (6507 9656); 2) 1/F Bldg A, Eastgate Plaza, 9 Dongzhong Jie, Dongcheng District. (6418 5681) 百粥乡, 1) 朝阳区枣营北里6号（佰宁花园一层）; 2) 东城区东中街9号， 东环广场A座一层
Hua Jia Yi Yuan
Serves tasty homestyle fare in a swanky courtyard setting with comfortable private rooms. Their spareribs, kaomantou (roasted buns), mala xie (spicy crayfish) and draft beer are popular. Daily 24 hours. 1) 3 Dangxiao Lu, Jinganli, Chaoyang District. (8451 8809); 2) 235 Dongzhimennei Dajie, Dongcheng District. (6405 1908); 3) 5 Dongzhimennei Dajie, Dongcheng District. (8407 8281/88) 花家怡园, 1) 朝阳区静安里党校路3号（家乐福对面）; 2) 东城区东直门内大街235号; 3) 东城区东直门内大街5号
Xiao Wang Fu
Serves homestyle fare and duck in a bustling, efficient environment. The Ritan Park location is swankier and also pricier. Daily 11am-10.30pm. 1) 4 Gongti Donglu, 50 meters east of the City Hotel, Chaoyang District. (6592 8777, 6592 5555); 2) 2 Guanghua Lu Dongli, Chaoyang District. (6591 3255); 3) Inside the North Gate of Ritan Park, Ritan Lu, Chaoyang District. (8561 5985); 4) 15 Qianhai Beiyan, Xicheng District. (6617 5558) 北京小王府, 1) 朝阳区工体东路4号城市宾馆往东50米; 2) 朝阳区光华路东里2号; 3) 朝阳区日坛路日坛公园北门内; 4) 西城区前海北沿15号
Hot Pot
Raw foods brought to your table and cooked in a bubbling broth. Tastes vary with regional styles.
Ding Ding Xiang
The secret is in the sauce: this popular hot pot place has delicious, savory sesame dipping sauce to accompany the goods: lamb, lots of lamb. One of the cleaner mutton hot pot places in town, albeit with gruff, unhelpful service. Daily 11am-11pm. 1) 2/F Yuanjia International Apartments, Dongzhimenwai, Dongzhong Jie (opposite East Gate Plaza), Dongcheng District. (6417 9289); 2) 1/F 14 Dongzhong Jie, Dongzhimenwai, Dongcheng District. (6417 2546) 鼎鼎香, 1) 东城区东直门外东中街东环广场对面元嘉国际公寓2层; 2) 东城区东直门外东中街14号1层
Dong Lai Shun
Beijingers love this Qingzhen restaurant for its mutton hot pot. Daily 11am-9pm. 5/F Xindong’an Plaza, Wangfujing Dajie, Dongcheng District. (6528 0932) 东来顺, 东城区王府井大街新东安五层
Fuze Doulao
At the south end of Haoyun Jie you can find Fuze Doulao serving Macanese seafood hotpot. Decorated in swanky red, black and white across two floors serving - among other broths - turtle and chicken soup in which to cook over 80 items of seafood, meat and vegetables. Note: non-smoking area available. Daily 10am-3am. Southern end of Haoyun Jie, Zaoying Lu, Chaoyang District. (5867 0260) 福泽豆捞火锅店, 朝阳区枣营路好运街最南端
Grand Fortune
A healthy culinary experience that will change your impression of hotpot. Prices are higher than the typical hotpot joint. Daily 11.30am-4am. West wing of Guangdian Dasha, 14 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6566 1264) 恭启福鲍鱼圣汤火锅, 朝阳区建国门外大街14号广电大厦西配楼
Guolizhuang
Serving all manner of penis, from donkey to deer. Who needs Viagra when you can dine on penis hot pot? But bring your credit card - maximum pleasure doesn’t come cheap. Daily 10am-10.30pm. 1A Dongyan, Xihai (South of Deshengmen Qiao), Xicheng District. (6405 5698) 锅里壮, 西城区德胜门桥南西海东沿甲1号
Hua’an Feiniu
Fresh “Gold Medal” beef in single-serving hot pots. Daily 11am-11pm. 1) 55 Xiaoying Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6497 1818); 2) 8 Qingnianhu Beijie, Jiangzhaikou, Dongcheng District. (8411 6060); 3) 8 Huayuan Dong Lu, Haidian District. (8203 0123) 华安肥牛, 1) 朝阳区小营北路55号; 2) 东城区蒋宅口青年湖北街8号; 3) 海淀区花园东路8号
Huang Cheng Lao Ma
This swanky and crowded Sichuan hot pot restaurant is famous for its laoma niurou (mama’s beef), which becomes more tender the longer you boil it. Great place for large group dinners, although prices are higher than other comparable hot pots. Daily 11am-11pm. 1) 39 Nanqingfengzha Houjie, Dabeiyao, Chaoyang District. (6779 8801); 2) 3 Changchun Jie, Xuanwu District. (6317 3369) 皇城老妈, 1) 朝阳区大北窑南庆丰闸后街39号; 2) 宣武区长椿街3号
Orange
This impeccably clean Korean-style hotpot place sets itself apart with its selection of Korean, Thai and Italian-style dipping sauces and its friendly and helpful staff. Daily 11am-11pm. 2/F, Bldg 12, Huaqing Jia Yuan (next to Sculpting in Time), Wudaokou, Haidian District. (8286 3914) 金桔韩式火锅, 海淀区五道口华清嘉园12 号楼2层
Pazi Hot Pot City
Great hot pot served in a lively atmosphere; perfect for a large group. Daily 24 hours. 13 Xinyuan Li, Chaoyang District. (8451 0505) 火巴子火锅, 朝阳区新源里13号
Tai Bo Tian Fu Shan Zhen
Yunnanese and Fujianese-inspired mushroom hot pot. Daily 11am-11pm. Bldg 9, Erqi Juchang Lu, Xicheng District. (6801 9641) 太伯天府山珍, 西城区二七剧场路9号楼
Wendy Wu Hot Pot
Enjoy steamy hot pot amidst cozy chairs, spacious booths and enormous windows. Daily 10.30am-midnight. Jianwai Soho B102, Chaoyang District. (5869 3917/28) 创意火锅, 朝阳区东三环中路建外Soho B座102
Wudai Hong Kong-style Hot Pot
Meng Tong, proprietor of Vic’s and The Den, took Wudai Restaurant back under his wings, gave it a full-tilt makeover, and transformed the Sichuan joint into a two-story Hong Kong-style hot pot palace. Daily 11am-2pm, 5pm-10.30pm. Inside Workers’ Stadium south gate, Chaoyang District. (6500 5318) 五代港式火锅餐厅, 朝阳区工人体育场南门院内
Xiao Dong Tian
Classic Sichuan hot pot. The food is unrelentingly spicy and served in a gritty environment. Daily 24 hours. 1) 66 Yonghegong Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6404 1768); 2) 258 Dongzhimennei Dajie, Chaoyang District. (8404 9556) 小洞天, 1) 朝阳区雍和宫大街66号; 2) 朝阳区东直门内大街258 号
Xiao Shan Cheng
Talk about renao! The atmosphere at this joint is so authentic your glasses steam up upon entering. Daily 24 hours. 1) 183 Dongzhimennei, Dongcheng District. (6407 6570); 2) 251 Dongzhimennei, Dongcheng District. (8402 0856) 小山城, 1) 东城区东直门内大街183号; 2) 东城区东直门内大街251号
Ye Shan Jun Wild Fungus House
Mushroom hot pot inspired from Yunnan and Fujian. Daily 9.30am-12.30am. 2A Qianmen Dongdajie, Chongwen District. (6512 2708) 野山菌蘑菇宴, 崇文区前门东大街甲2号
Huaiyang
Exquisite knife skills in this type of cooking means beautiful presentations.
Pu Yue Ren Jia
Makes ordinary dishes extraordinary. Try the stir-fried green beans and noodles. 11am-9.30pm. 6 Dongfang Donglu, Chaoyang District. (8448 8800) 浦月人家苏杭食府, 朝阳区东方东路6号
Xihe Yaju
Foreigners and Chinese alike flock to this upscale restaurant set in a traditional courtyard that borders Ritan Park. Daily 11am-2pm, 5-10pm. Northeast corner of Ritan Park, Chaoyang District. (8561 7643) 羲和雅居, 朝阳区日坛公园东北角
Hunan & Hubei
Hubei: Famous for its freshwater fish, tender meat and thick soups that go well with rice.Hunan: Thick and pungent in flavor. Dishes use copious amounts of chili, pepper and shallots.
Tanzhou Jiulou
Excellent smoked duck. Brilliant dishes in a rough environment. Daily 11am-11pm. Bldg 1, Huajiadi Beili (north side of the post office), Chaoyang District. (6473 4418) 潭州酒楼, 朝阳区花家地北里1号楼 (邮局北边)
Tianzhao Jiayuan Huisuo
Daily 10am-9pm. 41 Xizhimenbei Dajie, Haidian District. (6221 7944) 天兆佳苑会所, 海淀区西直门北大街41号
Xiang Hai Lou
The former Yue Ming Lou now serves Hunan food in a traditional environment. Head up to the third floor terrace for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding hutongs. 9am-midnight. 21 Ya’er Hutong, Shichahai, Xicheng District. (6402 8408) 湘海楼, 西城区什刹海鸦儿胡同21号
Xiang Ming Yuan
Nice, clean and brightly lit restaurant serves Xiangcai favorites like hongshaorou (braised pork in claypot) and duojiaoyutou (fish heads with sweet peppers) to a predominantly white collar dinner crowd. Daily 11am-11pm. 1 Gongti Nanlu, Workers’ Stadium south gate, Chaoyang District. (6552 5493) 湘明园, 朝阳区工体南路1号工体南门
Yue Lu
Another brainchild from artist Fang Lijun, the mastermind behind South Silk Road. Serves Hunan-style cuisine in a classically Chinese dining room. 10am-2am. 51-10 Di’anmen Xidajie, in Lotus Lane, Xicheng District. (6617 2696) 岳麓山屋, 西城区地安门西大街51-10号，天荷坊内
Imperial
Eat like an emperor. A wide range of dishes with light flavors and exquisite presentation paying careful attention to color, smell and taste.
Dazhaimen Laoyuanzi
This lavish restaurant harkens back to a dynastic era, simulating a Beijing courtyard experience with its variety show and palace cuisine, which includes bitter douzhi and bone marrow soup. Daily 11am-2.30pm, 5pm-10pm. 20 Shouti Nanlu, Haidian District. (8835 6687) 大宅门老园子酒楼首都体育馆店, 海淀区首体南路20号
Dazhaimen Restaurant
Haidian’s “official cuisine” restaurant features waitstaff clad in traditional Chinese garb and a charmingly secluded garden courtyard. What is “official cuisine”? Essentially it’s whatever wasn’t good enough for the emperor - his majesty’s leftovers - at low-budget prices. Daily 11am-9.30pm. 15 Suzhou Jie (next to Ba Yi Middle School), Haidian District. (6265 4186) 白家大宅门食府, 海淀区苏州街15号(八一中学旁边)
Fangshan Restaurant
Great service and Cixi’s favorites, for just less than the price of a marble boat. Daily 11am-1.30pm, 5-8pm. 1 Wenjin Jie (inside Beihai Park, enter via east gate), Xicheng District. (6401 1889) 仿膳饭庄, 西城区文津街1号北海公园东门内
Gege Fu
An enclave of the Qing dynasty lives on. Try the great duck hotpot. Daily 11am-2pm, 5-10pm (last orders 8.30pm). 9 Daqudeng Hutong, Meishuguan Houdajie, Chaoyang District. (6407 8006) 格格府家宴, 朝阳区美术馆后大街大取灯胡同9号内
Huangcheng Shifu
Opulent settings with elegant service and waitstaff. Tasteful and classy. Daily 11am-1.30pm, 5-8.30pm. Nanchizi Dajie (inside Changpuhe Park), Dongcheng District. (8511 5142/5372) 皇城食府, 东城区南池子大街菖蒲河公园内
Li Jia Cai
This large, exclusive imperial-style restaurant seats about 80 people, with set meals priced per person. English menu available. Daily 4.30-10pm. 11 Yangfang Hutong, Deshengmennei Dajie, Xicheng District. (6618 0107) 厉家菜, 西城区德胜门内大街洋房胡同11号
Red Capital Club
The place to impress out of town guests, the Red Capital Club’s courtyard setting capitalizes on nostalgic kitsch and well-known Beijing dishes. Features a 1950s-style cigar and cocktail lounge. Daily 6-11pm. 66 Dongsijiutiao, Dongcheng District. (6402 7150, 8401 8886) 新红资俱乐部, 东城区东四九条66号
Tiandi Yijia
Aristocratic food, environment and prices, a stone’s throw away from the Forbidden City. Daily 11am-2pm, 5-10pm. 140 Nanchizi Dajie, Dongcheng District. (8511 5556) 天地一家, 东城区南池子大街140号
Shandong
Light food characterized by the use of shallots and garlic emphasizing fragrance and freshness. Big portions and because of its long coastline, seafood is prominent.
An Die An Niang
Shandong eatery at Chaoyang Park West Gate serves great down-home zhou (rice porridge), small dishes and the biggest baozi in town. Daily 10am-4am. Chaoyang Park West Gate, Chaoyang District. (6591 0231) 俺爹俺娘, 朝阳区朝阳公园西门
Hai Sheng Yuan Seafood Restaurant
Cheap fresh seafood. Be sure to try the shrimp soup and seafood potstickers. Daily 11am-3am. 205 Dongzhimennei Dajie, Dongcheng District. (6407 9915) 海盛苑酒家, 东城区东直门内大街205号
Utopia Restaurant
Recently refurbished eatery features Shandong and Cantonese cuisines. Daily 11am-2.30pm; 5.30-9.30pm. 4/F Novotel Xinqiao, 2 Dongjiaominxiang, Dongcheng District. (6513 3366 ext 2402) 蓬莱阁中餐厅, 东城区东交民巷2号北京新侨诺富特饭店4层
Shanghai
Dishes that are slightly sweet and delicate.
Beijing Cook
Their menu offers uninspiring Shanghai classics. Daily 11am-10pm. Nanxincang, Dongsishitiao (behind Le Fu), Dongcheng District. (6409 6728) 酷客, 东城区东四十条南新仓古仓群（乐府后面）
Chenghuangmiao Xiaochi
Over 20 locations around town. Good for Shanghai fast food any time of the day. Daily 24 hours. 51 Beisanhuan Xilu, Haidian District. (6255 9446) 城隍庙小吃, 海淀区北三环西路51号
Din Tai Fung
The internationally renowned chain is now in Beijing. Taste just one dumpling and you’ll know why they’re famous around the world. Mon-Thurs 11.30am-2.30pm, 5-10pm; Fri 11.30am-2.30pm, 5pm-midnight; Sat 11am-midnight; Sun 11am-10pm. Hujiayuan Yibei Building (200 meters northwest of the Yuyang Hotel), Dongcheng District. (6462 4502) 鼎泰丰, 东城区胡家园22号迤北楼(渔阳饭店西北角200米)
Hujiang Xiangmanlou
Very good eels stewed in oil sauce and xiaolongbao dumplings. 11am-2pm, 5-9pm. 34A Dongsishitiao, Dongcheng District. (6403 1368) 沪江香满楼, 东城区东四十条甲34号
Jade Garden
Serves Shanghainese and Cantonese cuisine, and Hong Kong-style dim sum snacks that rival other Beijing outlets, yet the flavors still lack the authenticity of the six-year-old Shanghai flagship. Daily 11am-11pm. 6 Jiqingli, Chaowai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6552 8688) 苏浙汇, 朝阳区朝外大街吉庆里6号楼
Jinjiang Palace Restaurant
The blanched chicken (baizhan ji) comes highly recommended. Daily 6.30-10am, 11.30am-2pm, 5.30-10pm. Asia Hotel, Gongti Beilu, 8 Xinzhong Xijie, Chaoyang District. (6500 7788 ext 6306) 锦江府上海菜, 朝阳区工体北路新中西街8号亚洲酒店
Lu Lu
Restaurant chain serving traditional Shanghai fare in a neo-classical setting. Daily 11am-2.30pm, 5-10pm. 1A Ciyunsi, Chaoyang District. (6508 0101, 6508 0505) 北京鹭鹭酒家东方店, 朝阳区慈云寺甲1 号
Mei Fu
Converted courtyard done up to look like a sophisticated circa-1930s Shanghai salon. Serves up delicate dishes with impressive prices to match. Daily 11.30am-2.30pm, 5.30-10.30pm. 24 Daxiangfeng Hutong (South bank of Houhai), Xicheng District. (6612 6847) 梅府, 西城区后海南沿大翔凤胡同24号
Zen
Stylish Southern-style eatery that oozes moneyed minimalism. Good wine list and whole sections devoted to shark’s fin, abalone and bird’s nest. Daily 10am-10pm. Holiday Inn Central Plaza Beijing, 1 Caiyuanjie (92 Zaolinqianjie), Xuanwu District. (8397 0088 ext 7230) 采蝶轩, 宣武区菜园街1号（枣林前街92号） 中环假日饭店
Shanxi & Sha’anxi
Stewed dishes from a province well known for their flavorful vinegar and noodles.
Made in Heaven
Interesting open-style kitchen. Sit and watch the chefs concoct noodles from China, Japan and beyond. Daily 11am-10pm. 1/F, Holiday Inn Temple of Heaven, 1 Ding’an Dongli, Fengtai District. (6762 6688) 面, 丰台区定安东里1号中成天坛假日酒店一层
Noodle Loft
Homestyle Shanxi dishes and noodles in a posh environment. Try the youmian, a steamer basket full of shotgun shell shaped noodles. Daily 11am-10pm. 1) 20 Xidawang Lu, Chaoyang District. (6774 9950); 2) 3 Heping Xijie, Chaoyang District. (5130 9655) 面酷, 1) 朝阳区西大望路20号; 2) 朝阳区和平西街3号
Paomo Guan
This oasis of beautiful, authentic Shanxi cuisine offers an assortment of perfect, fluffy noodles with a lively, traditional ambiance. The short stools will make you feel like a giant when you get up to leave, especially if you’ve had several mugs of mijiu. Daily 11am-2.30pm, 5pm-10pm. 53 Chaonei Nanxiaojie, Dongcheng District. (6559 8135) 泡馍馆, 东城区朝内南小街53号
Xi’an Fanzhuang
Hand-torn bits of hard bread soaked in a hearty broth of lamb stock. A no-nonsense dive where you come for the food but stay for the old-school service. Daily 10.30am-10pm. 20 Xinjiekou Nandajie (across from the Xinjiekou Baihuo Shangchang), Xicheng District. (6618 1476) 西安饭庄, 西城区新街口南大街20号（新街口百货商场对面）
Xi’an Su Huang Ming Chi
Tasty home-style foods in a no-frills environment. Try the biang biang mian or the classic rou jia mo. Daily 11am-10pm. 19 Ganluyuan (southeast corner of Qingnian Lu), Chaoyang District. (8578 2935) 西安苏皇名吃, 朝阳区甘露园19号青年路南口东南角
Sichuan
Distinguished by its tongue-numbingly spicy flavors. Emphasizes the use of chilli, pepper and prickly ash. Garlic, ginger and fermented soybean are also used.
Ba Guo Bu Yi
Chengdu import serves authentic Sichuan cuisine. Classy, understated decor looks like a Chinese inn from the movies. Daily 11.15am-2.30pm, 5-9.30pm. 1) 10 Dongsanhuan Zhonglu, Guomao, Chaoyang District. (6567 2188); 2) 89-3 Di’anmen Dongdajie, Dongcheng District. (6400 8888); 3) Xinzhi Dasha, 28 Fucheng Lu, Haidian District. (8819 0088); 4) 68 Xizhimen Nanxiaojie, Xicheng District. (6615 2230) 巴国布衣, 1) 朝阳区东三环东路10号; 2) 东城区地安门东大街89-3号; 3) 海淀区阜成路28号新知大厦; 4) 西城区西直门南小街68号
Berena’s Bistro
Although Sichuan food spans most of the menu from this Nanjie transplant, Berena’s is also the only stop on the street offering Beijing duck. Daily 11am-11pm. 35 Haoyun Jie, Zaoying Lu, Chaoyang District. (5867 0266) 柏瑞娜中国菜, 朝阳区枣营路好运街35号
Chongqing Fandian
Where local Sichuanese go for numbingly spicy prickly ash. Daily 11am-2pm, 5-9pm. 15 Guangximen Beili, Xibahe, Chaoyang District. (6422 8888) 重庆饭店, 朝阳区西坝河光熙门北里15号
Chuan Ban
Its location in the first floor of Sichuan province’s Beijing rep office fuels its reputation as the most authentic Sichuan cuisine in town. Reasonable prices but often crowded, so expect a wait during peak dinner hours. Daily 7am-9am, 10.30am-10.30pm. 5 Gongyuan Toutiao, Jianguomennei Dajie, Dongcheng District. (6512 2277 ext 6101) 川办餐厅, 东城区建国门内贡院头条5号
Cypress Court
Cantonese and Sichuan fare in a stylish hotel setting. 11.30am-2.30pm, 5.30-10pm. 1/F Holiday Inn Temple of Heaven, 1 Ding’an Dongli, Fengtai District. (6762 6888) 天然居, 丰台区定安东里1号中成天坛假日酒店一层
Du Men Chong
This Ghost Street restaurant specializes in Chongqing-style fish and ribs. Authentic and spicy! Daily 24 hours. Guijie, Dongzhimennei (turn west at the first traffic light and walk 100 meters north), Dongcheng District. (8406 2040) 独门冲, 东城区东直门内 (簋街) 向西第一个红绿灯辅路100米路北
Feiteng Yuxiang
Best shuizhuyu in town. Get a balcony seat, tuck in a bib, and get messy. Mon-Fri 11am-2.30pm, 4.30-10pm, Sat-Sun 11am-10.30pm. 1) 1 Gongti Beilu, 35 Xingfu Yicun 4 Xiang, Chaoyang District. (6415 3764); 2) Xinyuan Nanlu (opposite Kunlun Fandian),, Chaoyang District. (8455 2333); 3) 17 Zhichun Lu, Haidian District. (8231 1286); 4) B1/F, Chengming Dasha, 2 Xizhimen Nandajie (north east corner of Xizhimen Qiao), Xicheng District. (5190 1778) 沸腾鱼乡, 1) 朝阳区工体北路1号幸福一村35号4巷; 2) 朝阳区新源南路佳亿时尚广场旁 ; 3) 海淀区知春路17号; 4) 西城区西直门南大街2号成铭大厦底商(西直门桥东北角)
Fu Ku
Sichuan cuisine with a modern twist, on the northwest bank of Houhai. Daily 10.30am-10.30pm. 4A Binhe Hutong, Deshengmennei Dajie, Xicheng District. (6405 0706, 6402 4033) 福库, 西城区德内大街滨河胡同甲4号
Gold Barn
Reserve in advance for a genuine home-cooked Sichuan meal. Daily 10am-late. 1) 52 Sanlitun Nanlu, Chaoyang District. (6502 5142); 2) 1 Sanlitun Beijie, Xingfu Sancun, Chaoyang District. (6463 7240); 3) south of the original store on Sanlitun Beixiaojie, Chaoyang District. (8454 0264) 金谷仓, 1) 朝阳区三里屯南路52号; 2) 朝阳区幸福三村三里屯北街1号; 3) 朝阳区总店往南30米
Hong Jing Yu
The original spicy fish (shuizhuyu) shop in Beijing. Clean and nicely lit. Daily 11am-10.30pm. Building 14 Guangximen Beili, Chaoyang District. (6420 4776) 红京鱼, 朝阳区光熙门北里14楼
Kuxia Yizu
Specializes in shrimp, usually of the spicy variety. Sample the Sichuan shuizhu shrimp, Leshan spicy shrimp or the oddly named “Sex and the City” (spicy crawfish). Daily 11am-2pm, 5-11pm. Dongsisitiao Hutong, Dongsi Beidajie, Dongcheng District. (6400 8499) 酷虾逸族, 东城区东四北大街东四四条胡同
Lin’s Kitchen
Owned by the same people behind the Noodle Loft, Lin’s serves up surprising Sichuan fusion cuisine, in stylishly modern surroundings. Daily 11am-10pm. 20 Xidawang Lu (next to Noodle Loft), Chaoyang District. (8777 5855) 林家小馆餐厅, 朝阳区西大望路20号
Noble Club
This massive garden-style restaurant focuses on large groups and fine dining, which make it the perfect venue for impressing business clients or entertaining wedding guests. The menu, divided into Sichuan and Cantonese cuisines, offers a range of seafood and vegetarian options. Daily 11am-11pm. 16B Hepingli Zhongjie, Dongcheng District. (136 6127 2017) 乙十六号商务会所, 东城区和平里中街乙十六号
Sansheng Wanwu
Once a Ming dynasty Daoist temple, now with nouveau-antique tables. Elegant and meticulous cuisine is “folk”, meaning an eclectic selection from around the country. Chef’s choice menu RMB 150/person. Daily 12am-midnight. 37 Yandai Xiejie, Xicheng District. (139 0137 6021, 6404 2778) 广福观, 西城区烟袋斜街37号
Shu Area Legend
Although it’s owned by a movie star, the main attraction here is the spicy fish (lazi yu), a brothy bubbling cauldron of grass carp (caoyu) fillets served over a fire. Daily 11am-midnight. Xingba Lu (across from Nuren Jie), Chaoyang District. (8454 3276) 蜀地传说, 朝阳区女人街斜对面星吧路
The Source
Sichuan food served in a quaint interior. If the weather is fine, you can eat in the breezy courtyard set beneath an ancient date tree, amid rustling bamboo stalks. Daily 11am-2pm, 5-11pm. 14 Banchang Hutong (next door to the Lusongyuan Hotel) Nanluoguxiang, Kuanjie, Dongcheng District. (6400 3736) 都江源, 东城区宽街南锣鼓巷板厂胡同14号
South Beauty
Upscale Sichuan cuisine served in many locations. Fans love the spicy, numbing food and the gorgeous waitstaff. Voted “Best Sichuan” in our 2006 Reader Restaurant Awards. Daily 11am-11pm. 1) 2/F China World, west building, Chaoyang District. (6505 0809); 2) 68 Anli Lu, Sunshine Plaza, East door, Chaoyang District. (6495 1201); 3) Across from the International Hotel, Chaoyang District. (6518 7603); 4) Kerry Centre Mall, North B1, Chaoyang District. (8529 9458); 5) 3/F Pacific Century Place, Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6539 3502) 俏江南, 1) 朝阳区国贸西楼2层; 2) 朝阳区安立路68号阳光广场东侧门; 3) 朝阳区国际饭店对面; 4) 朝阳区嘉里商场B1北侧; 5) 朝阳区工体北路太平洋百货三层
Very Sichuan Restaurant
Traditional lajiao-based delicacies as well as more inventive variations all served up in a suitably un-Sichuanese, post-modern setting. Daily 11am-2pm, 5-10.30pm. 10 Dingfu Jie (opposite Furen University, near Houhai), Xicheng District. (6618 2494) 川流不息, 西城区定阜街10号（辅仁大学对面）
Wan Li
Regional dishes from Sichuan, Guangdong and Chaozhou all feature in this lush hotel restaurant. Daily 11.30am-2.30pm, 5-10pm. Renaissance Hotel, 36 Xiaoyun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6468 9999) 万丽轩中餐厅, 朝阳区霄云路36号国航万丽酒店
Yuxiang Renjia
Consistently good Sichuanese food in a pleasantly rustic-themed environment. Daily 10.30am-10.30pm. 1) Bldg 4, 1011 Jianwai Soho, 39 Dongsanhuan Lu, Chaoyang District. (5869 0653); 2) Hepingli Nankou, across from the Guojia Linye Ju, Chaoyang District. (8422 0807); 3) 20 Chaoyang Dajie, 5/F Lianhe Dasha, Chaoyang District. (6588 3841); 4) North of Sanyuan Dongqiao, Chaoyang District. (8451 0380); 5) 1200m east of the Xisanqi Huandao, Haidian District. (6271 3963); 6) 6/F Parkson Shopping Center, Fuxingmen, Xicheng District. (6602 3706) 渝乡人家, 1) 朝阳区东三环中路39号建外 Soho 四楼1011; 2) 朝阳区和平里南口国家林业局对面; 3) 朝阳区朝阳大街20号联合大厦第五层; 4) 朝阳区三元东桥北侧; 5) 海淀区西三旗环岛向东1200米路南; 6) 西城区复兴门百盛购物中心第6层
Yu Xin
Real Sichuanese recommend this as the most authentic place in town. Scitech branch is always packed. Daily 10am-11pm. 1) Shizhang Binguan, 2 Huixin Nanli, Chaoyang District. (6497 6277); 2) 5A Xingfu Yicun Xili, Chaoyang District. (6415 8168); 3) 1/F Jingtai Bldg, 24 Jianguomenwai Dajie, 100m west of Scitech Shopping Centre, Chaoyang District. (6515 6588); 4) 1A Xi Yangwei Hutong, Kuanjie, Dongcheng District. (6405 6398); 5) 1/F Chang’an Grand Theatre, 75 Jianguomennei Dajie, Dongcheng District. (6517 1012); 6) 7/F Scitech Tower, 111 Xidan Beidajie, Xicheng District. (6618 3918) 渝信, 1) 朝阳区惠新南里2号院市长之家宾馆内; 2) 朝阳区幸福一村西里甲5号; 3) 朝阳区建国门外大街24号京泰大厦1层; 4) 东城区宽街西扬威胡同甲一号; 5) 东城区建国门内大街75号长安大戏院首层; 6) 西城区西单北大街111号西单赛特广场7楼
Taiwan
Light, sweet dishes that use ginger and basil prominently. Includes seafood, small dishes and snacks.
Alexander Creek Park
Healthy, holistic Taiwanese fare that is MSG free. Daily 10am-10pm. 203 Jixiangli, Chaowai, Chaoyang District. (6552 5296) 鼎溪园, 朝阳区朝外吉祥里203号
Bellagio
Voted “Best Late Night Dining” in our 2006 Reader Restaurant Awards. Moneyed hipsters satisfy their midnight munchies at this hip, Taiwanese eatery. Don’t miss the stunning shaved ice desserts. Daily 11am-4am. 1) 6 Gongti Xilu, south of the Gongti 100 Bowling Alley, Chaoyang District. (6511 3533); 2) 35 Xiaoyun Lu, beside Kiss Disco, Chaoyang District. (8451 9988) 鹿港小镇, 1) 朝阳区工体西路6号(工体100南边); 2) 朝阳区霄云路35号
Da Cheng Jia (Goody House)
This convenience store serves up dou jiang and great breakfasts. It is also a popular place for late night snacks. Daily 24 hours. Corner of Xindong Lu and Gongti Beilu (behind Jingkelong), Chaoyang District. (6416 4757) 大成家, 朝阳区新东路与工体北路交叉口（京客隆的后边）
Fanqian Fanhou
Offers tasty Taiwanese homestyle favorites. Daily 10am-10pm. A13 Warehouse Complex, Nanxincang, Dongsishitiao, Dongcheng District. (6409 6510) 饭前饭后, 东城区东四十条南新仓古仓群A13
Shinyeh
Opulent, bold and extravagant Taiwanese restaurant that’s sure to appeal to debutantes and dakuan hungry for a midnight feast. Daily 11.30am-3pm, 5.30pm-4am. 6 Gongti Xilu (ground floor of the Gongti 100 bowling alley), Chaoyang District. (6552 5066) 欣叶, 朝阳区工体西路6号(工体100一层)
Tanjia
Invented by an official of the Qing dynasty. Uses only the finest ingredients with cooking styles derived from Guangdong cuisine. Notable dishes include chicken with mushrooms and duck with crab.
Fushan
Expensive but classic Tanjia cuisine. Daily 11am-2pm, 5-9pm. 1/F Kuntai Hotel Huilongguan, Haidian District. (8179 5588 ext 6071) 府膳, 海淀区回龙观昆泰大酒店1层
Tanfu Cuisine Restaurant
Looks like it was invented by an official of the Qing dynasty on crack. The menu matches the decor in terms of opulence, definitely more for the budding dakuan than the budget diner. Daily 11am-2pm, 5-9.30pm. 2 Guangdongdian Nanjie (around the corner from the Kerry Centre), Chaoyang District. (6586 5086) 谭氏官府菜酒楼, 朝阳区官东店南街2号旺座中心北楼西配楼
Tanjia Restaurant
The home of Tanjia cuisine. Government-sanctioned gourmet eats worth their weight in gold ingots. 11.30am-2pm, 6-9pm. 33 Chang’an Jie, 7/F, Bldg C, Beijing Hotel, Dongcheng District. (6513 7766 ext 1389) 谭家菜, 东城区长安街33号北京饭店C座7层
Tibetan
Features mutton and yak meat in a variety of cooking styles as well as the barley-based tsampa.
Gesangmedo
Enjoy buttery yak fare at this gorgeous eatery, but beware of the over-the-top floorshow, which begins every evening at 9pm. Daily 11am-midnight. Xingfuercun Shangye Building, 2/F, Xindong Lu (across from the Canadian Embassy), Chaoyang District. (6417 9269) 格桑梅朵, 朝阳区幸福二村商业楼二层(加拿大大使馆对面)
Makye Ame
Hearty food in one of the coziest dining rooms in the city. Great for a post-work Tibetan decompression. Authentic Tibetan atmosphere, food and beverages with super-comfy couches. Daily 11.30am-2am. 11A Xiushui Nanjie, Jianguomenwai, Chaoyang District. (6506 9616) 玛吉阿米, 朝阳区建国门外秀水南街甲11号
Xinjiang & Muslim
No pork but plenty of lamb dishes best represented by everybody’s favorite lamb skewers (yangrou chuan’r), best eaten with various Arabic-style flat breads (naan).
Afunti
Over-hyped and now over-priced. Busloads of tourists pack this high-end Xinjiang style restaurant every night. Stage plays host to the Afunti band with patrons occasionally dancing on the tables. Daily 10.30am-11pm. 166 Chaoyangmennei Dajie, Dongcheng District. (6527 2288, 6525 1071) 阿凡提, 东城区朝内大街166号
Alamuhan
With nine branches spread across China this chain offers the whole Xinjiang experience; dancing shows, delicious food and of course the chuan. Daily 9.30am-10pm. 2/F, 19 Haidian Lu (opposite the south gate of Peking University), Haidian District. (6563 3969) 阿拉木汗餐厅, 海淀区海淀路19号2层（北大南门对面）
Crescent Moon Muslim Restaurant
This clean, atmospheric neighborhood dive is possibly the best in town. From the homemade yogurt (RMB 3) and the all-Uighur staff to the king of mutton chuan’r (RMB 5), this courtyard-nestled gem is as authentic as it gets. Daily 9am-11.30pm. 16 Dongsi Liutiao (alley number six, 100m west of Chaonei Beixiaojie), Dongcheng District. (6400 5281) 弯弯的月亮, 东城区东四六条胡同
Grape Restaurant
Eat Xinjiang faves like mutton skewers and hand pulled noodles in its airy and spacious environment. Pleasant but expensive. Requisite singing and dancing happens nightly. Daily 11.30am-midnight. Qicai Beilu (next to Laitaihuahui Alley), Chaoyang District. (6465 6565, 6467 6467) 丝路驿站食府, 朝阳区七彩北路莱太花卉南侧
Jinse Loulan Canyi Guangchang
Xinjiang-style eatery that roasts a whole goat every day outside their front door. Daily 11.30am-2pm, 5.30-11.30pm. 8 Xinjiekouwai Dajie (across from East Gate of Beijing Normal University, inside the leather shoe factory complex), Xicheng District. (6202 9666/4888) 金色楼兰餐艺广场, 西城区新街口外大街8号北师大东门对面皮鞋厂院内
Kaorou Ji
Serving Qingzhen (Muslim) cuisine to Beijingers since the Qing dynasty. Try their house speciality: barbecued lamb and steamed sesame buns. Daily 11am-11pm. 14 Qianhai Dongyan, Xicheng District. (6404 2554) 烤肉季, 西城区前海东沿14号
Tian Chi
Fresh roasted rack of lamb and exquisitely thin hand-pulled noodles. Daily 10am-midnight. West gate of the Nationalities University, Haidian District. (6842 4595) 天池, 海淀区民族大学西门
Tian Shan Pai
This Xinjiang and Muslim eatery does brisk business with its classic and reasonably-priced fare. Try the roast leg of mutton (kao yangtui RMB 68) or the grape-cooked fish (putao yu RMB 58). They also stock a good selection of Xinjiang wine. Daily 10am-10pm. 7 Chunxiu Lu, Dongcheng District. (6416 8831) 天山派食府, 东城区春秀路7号
Xinjiang Fanzhuang
Fresh mutton flown in daily from Urumqi and Hami melons and grapes for sale at discounted prices. Daily 11am-9.30pm. 1 Chegongzhuang Beili, Xicheng District. (6836 2795) 新疆饭庄, 西城区车公庄大街北里1号
Xinjiang Islam Restaurant
Hearty Xinjiang cuisine from the people who know it best in Beijing: the staff of Xinjiang province’s Beijing representative office. Daily 11am-10pm. Xinjiang Provincial Government Office, 7 Sanlihe Road, Xicheng District. (6830 1820) 新疆伊斯兰饭庄, 西城区三里河路7号
Xinjiang Red Rose
The rowdy Red Rose packs ‘em in with nightly music and belly dancing performances. Good for kebabs, but no place for the quiet conversationalist. Voted “Best Xinjiang” in our 2006 Reader Restaurant Awards. Daily 11am-11pm. Inside 7 Xingfu Yicun alley, opposite Workers’ Stadium North Gate, Chaoyang District. (6415 5741) 新疆红玫瑰餐厅, 朝阳区工人体育场北门对面幸福一村7巷内
Yunnan
This cuisine is a moderate balance of a light use of spices paired with fresh and tender ingredients.
Anyuan #5 Restaurant
Fresh ingredients and an award-winning dining room designed to satisfy your Yunnanese cravings. Daily 10am-2pm, 4.30-10pm. 2/F, 5 Anhui Beili Anyuan, Chaoyang District. (6497 9173) 安元五号餐厅, 朝阳区安慧北里安园5号2层
Cai Yunjian
This inexpensive restaurant specializes in qiguo ji, a delectable chicken dish served in a special double-decker steamer, Dai barbecued fish (Daishi kaoyu) and Pineapple Rice (bolo fan). But the real test of any Yunnan restaurant is how well they make their “crossing-Bridge Noodles” (guoqiao mixian) - and to this extent, they take the cake. Daily 10.30am-11pm. Lanqiying Chengfu Lu, Haidian District. (6261 0731) 彩云间云南傣族菜馆, 海淀区成府路蓝旗营
Da Li Courtyard
With unobtrusive décor, soothing music and the easy-going hospitality of the patrons, it’s a pity the food doesn’t quite measure up to the ambience. Expect to pay a minimum of RMB 100 per person for this set-menu-only restaurant. Daily 10am-9.30 pm. 67 Xiaojingchang Hutong, Gulou Dongdajie, Dongcheng District. (8404 1430) 大理, 东城区鼓楼东大街小经厂胡同67号
Fenghuang Zhu
This cozy, hut-like Yunnan joint dishes out decent, reasonably priced yunnan fare (pinapple rice RMB 15) and a great assortment of exotic liquors. Don’t miss the beautiful mint salad appetizer. Daily 10am-12am. 128 Jiugulou Dajie, Xicheng District. (6402 0227) 西城区旧鼓楼大街128号
Golden Peacock Dai Ethnic Flavour
Worth traveling across town for. Try the pineapple rice and the spicy lettuce salad, but get there early if you don’t want to wait for a table. Daily 11am-9.30pm. 16 Minzu Daxue Beilu, Weigongcun, Haidian District. (6893 2030) 金孔雀傣家风味餐厅, 海淀区魏公村民族大学北路16号楼一层
Hall of Clouds
With an airy dining room and wide selection of southern specialties, this is a bright Yunnan outpost in the rarely visited northeast corner of Beijing. Novices to Yunnan cuisine will appreciate the set menus, which suggest dishes for parties of two to eight. Daily 9.30am-midnight. Near Beijing International Exhibition Center, across from the Radisson SAS Hotel, Chaoyang District. (6462 2945) 云满堂, 朝阳区国展皇家大饭店对面(力鸿花园北门)
In & Out
This airy third-floor Lijiang-themed restaurant, perched above the Sanlitun Jenny Lou’s offers pleasant but uninspiring Yunnan favorites. Daily 11am-midnight. 1 Sanlitun Beixiaojie, Chaoyang District. (8454 0086/6467 5235) 一坐一忘, 朝阳区三里屯北小街1号
Jia 21 Hao
Taiwanese pop star Gao Mingjun has involved some seriously style-conscious buddies in creating his latest venture: a spacious and trendy restaurant for Yunnan minority cuisine, drinks and relaxing. Daily 11am-10.30pm. 21 Beitucheng Donglu, Chaoyang District. (6489 5066) 甲21号, 朝阳区北土城东路甲21号
Middle 8th Restaurant
Comfortable and hip Yunnan restaurant. Try the Yunnan-style spare ribs and the dragon beans. There is also a seperate and slightly down-market barbecue section diagonally opposite the original store. Daily 10.30am-2pm, 5.30pm-midnight. Sanlitun Zhongjie Zhongba Lou, Chaoyang District. (6413 0629) 中八楼, 朝阳区三里屯中街中八楼
No Name Restaurant
Burrowed within Houhai’s hutongs, this stylish Yunnan eatery attracts trendsetters eager to escape Yinding Qiao’s neon, noise and tourists. The most compelling reason to visit might be the rooftop terrace. Daily 11am-12pm. 1 Da Jinsi Hutong, Xicheng District. (6618 6061) 西城区大金丝胡同1号
South Silk Road
Opened by a Beijing-based artist, this super hip restaurant’s interior is minimalist with down-home Yunnanese specialties and their own brand of rice wine. Voted “Best Yunnan” in our 2006 Reader Restaurant Awards. Daily noon-10pm. 1) 2-3/F, North Bldg 4, Area 2, Anhuili,, Chaoyang District. (6481 3261); 2) 3/F Building D Soho New Town, 88 Jian’guo Lu, Chaoyang District. (8580 4286); 3) 12-13, 19A Shichahai Qianhai Xiyan, Xicheng District. (6615 5515) 茶马古道, 1) 朝阳区安慧里2区4号北楼2-3层; 2) 朝阳区建国路88号Soho现代城D座3楼会所; 3) 西城区什刹海前海西沿甲19号12-13 室
Xie Hou
This cozy joint is decked out with a mix of Yunnan and Tibetan furniture and luscious plant life. The service is a bit unpolished but helpful. Beers range from RMB 10-25 and pair nicely with shaokao on the open air deck one level up. Daily 10am-12am. Side door, 50 Houhai Beiyan, Xicheng District. (8404 6707) 邂逅, 西城区后海北沿50号旁门
Yijiayao Cafe and Restaurant
Traditional “Yi” cuisine from Yunnan and Sichuan served up in a minority chic setting. Try the jia zhutong jiu, which comes encased in a section of bamboo along with a complimentary song courtesy of the ethnically costumed waiters. Daily 9.30am-2pm, 5-10pm. Bldg 14 Anhuili Area 1 (near Nameless Highland Bar), Yayuncun, Chaoyang District. (6494 7188) 彝家肴, 朝阳区亚运村安慧里1区14号
Yunnan Guoqiao Mixian
A little taste of Yunnan with unpretentious and reasonably priced fare. Daily 24 hours. 15 Dongzhimennei Dajie, Dongcheng District. (8167 2567) 云南过桥米线, 东城区东直门大街15号
Yunnan Yinxiang
Dine on Yunnan specialties in an exotic, rustic atmosphere. The menu features the region’s famous cheese and ham, but don’t set your heart on a certain dish — not all menu items are always available. Daily 10.30am-10.30pm. 16 Dongsanhuan Beilu (in the alley behind the La Popo sign), Chaoyang District. (8595 1277) 云南印象, 朝阳区东三环北路16号(辣婆婆牌子后面巷内)
Yunteng Shifu
Consistent, fresh Yunnan cuisine. Specialties to try include the mint leaf salad, fried goat’s cheese, pine needle salad and the mushroom dishes such as fried mushroom slices and dried mushrooms in spicy oil. Meat dishes galore as well, but quite easy to piece together a vegetarian meal here. Daily 11am-10pm. Yunnan Provincial Government Office, 7 Donghuashi Beili Dongqu, Chongwen District. (6711 3322 ext 7105) 云腾宾馆食府, 崇文区东花市北里东区7号
Zhejiang
Includes cuisines from Hangzhou and Shaoxing. Light dishes using ingredients that are fresh and tender with a mellow fragrance.
Crab Apple House
Takes its name from the 100-year-old tree that stands in the center of this beautifully converted courtyard. Serves up a variety of regional cuisines including Imperial, Cantonese, Jiangsu, Hubei and Chaozhou in a truly relaxed and intimate setting. Daily 10am-10pm. 32 Xiheyan, Xuanwumen, Xuanwu District. (8315 4678) 海堂居, 宣武区宣武门西河沿32号(国华商场旁边)
Kong Yiji
They do brisk business with their zuixia (drunken shrimp), dongporou (Dongpo Pork) and huangjiu liquor. Daily 10am-2pm, 4.30-10.30pm. 1) 322 Dongsi Beidajie, Dongcheng District. (6404 0507); 2) South shore of Shichahai, Deshengmennei Dajie, Xicheng District. (6618 4915/17) 孔乙己, 1) 东城区东四北大街322号; 2) 西城区德内大街什刹海后海南岸
Qu Na’r
Homestyle cooking in an arty, post-modern environment. This is art star Ai Weiwei’s latest brain child and we’re not disappointed. Try the plum wine infused with red bayberries. Daily 4.30pm-2am. 16 Dongsanhuan Beilu (In the alley behind the La Popo sign), Chaoyang District. (6508 1597) 去那儿, 朝阳区东三环北路16号(辣婆婆牌子后面巷内)
Xihu Chuan Cai
Funky minimalist setting contrasts with traditional Hangzhou cuisine. Try the lao ya mian (RMB 20) or the songsao yugeng - a thick fish soup. Daily 11am-2pm, 4.30pm-10.30pm. 6 Di’anmen Xidajie (Ping’an Dadao), Xicheng District. (8400 2929) 西湖船菜, 西城区地安门西大街6号
Ying Yuan
The decor of this state-owned restaurant, opened by the neighboring sports college, consists of plastic bamboo and mismatched furniture. Offers Hangzhou-style dishes and views of Qianhai. English menu. Daily 10am-2am. 51-3 Di’anmen Xidajie, Xicheng District. (6611 2597) 樱苑, 西城区地安门西大街51-3号
Zhang Qun Jia
Don’t expect to find this place - you’re not meant to. With only one table in a single room, it really does feel like someone’s home. Make sure to book a few days in advance; the traditional Suzhou cuisine and intimate atmosphere make it worth the wait. Daily 10am-midnight. 5 Yandai Xiejie, Xicheng District. (8404 6662) 张群家, 西城区烟袋斜街5号
Zhang Sheng Ji
Decorated with Hangzhou style wood carvings and serves succulent stewed duck. Daily 11am-2pm, 5-9pm. District 3, 26 Anzhen Xili, Chaoyang District. (6442 0006) 张生记, 朝阳区安贞西里三区26号