When it comes to culinary delights, few dishes are as iconic and revered as Peking duck. This beloved Chinese dish has been a staple of Beijing’s culinary scene for centuries, and for good reason. The combination of crispy-skinned, tender duck, served with a side of pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce, is a match made in heaven. But with so many restaurants serving Peking duck in Beijing, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the city’s best Peking duck spots.
Understanding Peking Duck
Peking duck, also known as Beijing roast duck, is a dish that originated in Beijing over 600 years ago. The dish is made by roasting a specially bred duck, known as the White Pekin, over an open flame. The duck is puffed up with air to make its skin crispy, then roasted to perfection. The resulting dish is a harmonious balance of flavors and textures, with the crispy skin giving way to tender, juicy meat.
Where to Eat Peking Duck in Beijing
Beijing is home to countless restaurants serving Peking duck, each with its own unique take on the classic dish. From high-end establishments to humble street stalls, there’s something for every budget and taste. Here are some of the best places to try Peking duck in Beijing:
The Classics
These iconic restaurants have been serving Peking duck for generations and are a must-visit for any food enthusiast:
- Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant – This legendary restaurant has been serving Peking duck since 1864 and is a must-visit for any food enthusiast. The restaurant’s signature dish is the “Quanjude-style” Peking duck, which is roasted to perfection and served with a side of pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce.
- Ding Ding Xiang Roast Duck Restaurant – This popular restaurant has been featured in numerous food guides and is known for its tender, juicy duck and crispy skin. The restaurant’s menu also features a variety of other Chinese dishes, including noodles and dumplings.
The Trendy Spots
These modern restaurants offer a unique take on the classic Peking duck dish: (See Also: Where to Eat in Assos Kefalonia? Culinary Delights)
- Zhengjia Roast Duck Restaurant – This trendy restaurant offers a modern take on the classic Peking duck dish, with a focus on using high-quality ingredients and creative presentation. The restaurant’s menu also features a variety of other Chinese dishes, including noodles and dumplings.
- Da Dong Roast Duck Restaurant – This popular restaurant has been featured in numerous food guides and is known for its tender, juicy duck and crispy skin. The restaurant’s menu also features a variety of other Chinese dishes, including noodles and dumplings.
The Street Stalls
These humble street stalls offer a more affordable and authentic Peking duck experience:
- Wangfujing Snack Street – This popular street food market is a must-visit for any food enthusiast. The market features a variety of street stalls serving everything from Peking duck to noodles and dumplings.
- Qianmen Snack Street – This historic street food market is a great place to try authentic Peking duck at a fraction of the cost of a restaurant. The market features a variety of street stalls serving everything from Peking duck to noodles and dumplings.
Tips for Eating Peking Duck
Eating Peking duck is an experience like no other. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your meal:
How to Eat Peking Duck
Eating Peking duck is all about the experience. Here’s how to do it like a pro:
- Start by tearing the duck into small pieces and placing them on a pancake.
- Add a few slices of scallion and a dollop of hoisin sauce.
- Roll up the pancake and take a bite. Repeat as necessary.
What to Order
When ordering Peking duck, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Make sure to order the “Peking duck” dish, as some restaurants may offer variations on the classic recipe.
- Ask for the duck to be served with pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce.
- Consider ordering a few sides, such as noodles or dumplings, to round out your meal.
Recap
In this comprehensive guide, we’ve covered the best places to eat Peking duck in Beijing, from classic restaurants to trendy spots and humble street stalls. We’ve also provided tips on how to eat Peking duck like a pro and what to order when you’re at the restaurant. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or just looking for a unique dining experience, Peking duck is a must-try dish in Beijing. So go ahead, take a bite, and experience the flavors of China’s capital city for yourself. (See Also: Where to Eat in Lubbock? Foodie Guide)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best way to order Peking duck?
A: When ordering Peking duck, make sure to ask for the “Peking duck” dish, and specify that you want it served with pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce. You can also ask for a few sides, such as noodles or dumplings, to round out your meal.
Q: How do I know if the Peking duck is authentic?
A: Authentic Peking duck is characterized by its crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. Look for restaurants that use high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods to ensure an authentic experience.
Q: Can I eat Peking duck if I have dietary restrictions?
A: While Peking duck is typically served with pancakes and noodles, many restaurants offer gluten-free and vegetarian options. Be sure to ask your server about dietary restrictions and options when ordering.
Q: How much does Peking duck cost?
A: The cost of Peking duck varies depending on the restaurant and location. On average, a plate of Peking duck can cost anywhere from 50-200 RMB (around $7-30 USD). High-end restaurants may charge upwards of 500 RMB (around $70 USD) per plate. (See Also: Where to Eat in Arran? Island Delights)
Q: Can I take Peking duck back to my hotel?
A: While it’s technically possible to take Peking duck back to your hotel, it’s not recommended. Peking duck is best consumed fresh, and the crispy skin may become soggy if transported. Instead, consider ordering takeout or delivery from a reputable restaurant.