7 Must-Try Dining Spots in the 798 Art District

The 798 Art District isn’t just a cultural hub; it's also a food paradise that can surprise your taste buds at any time. As a “local” of 798, I've turned it into my personal cafeteria while grabbing bites here and there during work. Today, I want to share my favorite seven places—each one has been tried and tested countless times and can stand the test of time. You might come to 798 for the exhibitions, but after trying these delicious dishes, you might think that just coming for the food makes the trip worth it!

Si Xi Rice Noodles: A Reliable Delicious Choice

I've been eating at this place for 6 years; it’s truly a hidden gem in 798. They say their luosifen (snail noodles) rank among the top three in Beijing, and the quality has always been consistent, so I never get tired of it. The noodles have great texture, the broth is layered, and the sourness and spiciness are just perfect. Every time, I must order the luosifen and their signature mixed noodles. Sometimes, I'll add a portion of beef fried noodles or spicy boiled noodles. The combo is just to die for! Moreover, their desserts, like sweet soups, are also a highlight—having a bowl after the meal feels like a sweet ending for my taste buds.

Average cost: about 40 yuan
Recommended dishes: luosifen, signature mixed noodles, beef fried noodles, spicy boiled noodles.

Menglin Kitchen: Homestyle Dishes Straight from Childhood

The first impression I had of Menglin Kitchen was its simple decor, kind of like stepping into a relative's home. This place specializes in Sichuan cuisine, and both the atmosphere and the dishes have a homestyle quality. I recommend the Yibin Ran Noodles; it’s definitely a “one-bite soul food” experience. The stir-fried beef is super appetizing, and the spicy pork and chicken pot is perfect for sharing with friends. The owner is quite interesting and seems to love collecting nostalgic trinkets, which fill the entire place and make you want to take a closer look.

Average cost: about 93 yuan
Recommended dishes: Yibin Ran Noodles, stir-fried beef, spicy pork and chicken pot.

Jiaodong Liu Mama’s Juicy Dumplings: A Hidden Snack Treasure

This place is tucked away in a small alley in 798; at first glance, it looks like a café, but once you eat there, you realize it's a handmade dumpling shop! The dumplings are made fresh, and the quality made me feel genuinely impressed. The first time I tried the scallop dumplings, the skins were thin and smooth, and the filling was delicious. They really pay attention to detail too; they even offer free American coffee and corn soup. It’s a great value for lunch or dinner. If you have room for more, pairing it with a side dish like crispy spiced ribbon fish or jelly tomato is just perfect!

Average cost: about 50 yuan
Recommended dishes: scallop dumplings, crispy spiced ribbon fish, radish shreds dumplings, jelly tomato.

Eat Factory: A Fusion of Yunnan Flavors

This Yunnan fusion restaurant takes an artistic approach, and the hydrangeas at the entrance are perfect for all your social media snaps—great for a meal with friends. I recommend their spicy Yunnan shrimp and Dali green plum pork ribs; both dishes have a very unique flavor, and you can't go wrong with any rice noodles you order. The atmosphere is quiet and comfortable, making it a perfect spot to unwind.

Average cost: about 98 yuan
Recommended dishes: tofu rice noodles, spicy Yunnan shrimp, Dali green plum pork ribs.

M Little Buy Japanese Snack Bar: Affordable Japanese Cuisine

From Sanlitun to 798, M Little Buy offers unmatched value without breaking the bank. Their Japanese set meals, especially the teriyaki chicken rice, always leave me questioning how it can be so cheap yet so delicious! I always leave satisfied, and the beef sukiyaki also has a high order rate. The place is pretty simple in decor, but the service and flavors are warm enough to make you feel at home.

Average cost: about 82 yuan
Recommended dishes: teriyaki chicken rice set, beef sukiyaki.

Wan Small Kitchen Sichuan-style Frogs: Perfect for Gatherings

If I’m dining with friends, my first pick is definitely this Sichuan-style frog tavern. The food not only hits the taste buds but also adds to the lively atmosphere of the gathering. The double-flavored grilled frogs and the Sichuan skewers are must-orders, and you can adjust the spiciness based on your preference. There’s a wide variety of dishes, so everyone’s different tastes can be satisfied every time!

Average cost: about 85 yuan
Recommended dishes: double-flavored grilled frogs, Sichuan skewers.

Xi San Yi Noodles: A Tranquil Noodle Spot

Xi San Yi Noodles is low-key tucked away in a corner of 798. Though the place is small, it feels cozy. They really focus on the details in their noodle dishes, like pea paste noodles and shredded chicken cold noodles, which are surprisingly memorable. It’s a nice spot for a quiet solo break or a cozy gathering with friends—comfortable and healing.

Average cost: about 50 yuan
Recommended dishes: pea paste noodles, shredded chicken cold noodles.

That’s my food map for 798, covering a variety of flavors from Sichuan to Yunnan, Japanese cuisine, and dumplings, perfect for solo dining or group gatherings. Next time you head to 798, you can use this as a reference; you’re sure to find your favorite dish!