Local Food Gems of Nanluoguxiang: What the Locals Recommend

Nanluoguxiang: A Local’s Guide to Foodie Delights

The first time I stepped into Nanluoguxiang, a friend took me there and said not only does it have authentic Beijing-style hutongs, but it’s also filled with food that makes you want to lean against the wall to walk. Back then, I was a bit skeptical, thinking it was just another tourist trap. But after trying a few old shops, I was hooked! Today, I’m excited to share my carefully curated food guide to Nanluoguxiang with you all, hoping you get the chance to try each place!

Yin San Douzhi Ice Cream: A Cool Choice for Summer

• Location: No. 89 Nanluoguxiang
• Price: 29.5 yuan, second one half price

Never diss "Douzhi"! Beijing folks have a deep love for it. But for friends trying Douzhi for the first time, this ice cream is like a "friendly version" of the classic! I tried both the douzhi flavor and the pea pudding flavor; they’re super refreshing, perfect for a Beijing summer. Plus, it looks great, ready for a snap for your social media!

Ju’er Family: The Best Braised Pork Rice

• Location: No. 63 Xiaojuer Hutong
• Price: Around 40 yuan per person

After wandering around, grabbing a bowl of their braised pork rice is pure happiness! The pork cubes are lean, flavorful, and not greasy; you can refill the rice and sauce for free without any judgment. This place is definitely a gem, and if you have a big appetite, feel free to dig in. The vibe is homey and relaxed, making it a comfortable spot to eat.

Yaoji Chao Gan: A Classic Local Flavor

• Location: No. 311 Gulou East Street
• Price: Around 20 yuan per person

Yaoji Chao Gan is a Beijing time-honored brand, and it’s a taste we grew up with. A bowl of chao gan paired with two pork and scallion buns is a must-have. The flavor of the chao gan is rich, and dipping it in some mustard makes it even better! If you want to try local flavors, this is a must.

Cha Tang Li: Afternoon Tea in Old Beijing

• Location: No. 94 Gulou East Street
• Price: Around 40 yuan per person

Cha Tang is an old Beijing snack that reminds many of their childhood. Cha Tang Li makes a particularly good one that’s not greasy at all. The pastries soaked in hot tea are soft and fragrant; the hawthorn cake and raisins inside instantly take you back to your childhood. Swing by around 4 PM, grab a bowl, and relax by the shop’s entrance—it’s blissful.

Fangzhuan Factory No. 69 Zha Jiang Mian: Great Value Food

• Location: No. 1 Nanluoguxiang
• Price: Around 20 yuan per person

If we’re talking about popular Zha Jiang Mian places, Fangzhuan Factory No. 69 is definitely on the list. Just looking at that huge portion of noodles, my appetite doubles! The taste of the sauce is just right, and when you mix it, the noodles have a great bite. No wonder it’s been Michelin recommended for five years straight!

Wenyu Cheese: A Delicate Royal Cheese

• Location: No. 49 Nanluoguxiang
• Price: 15-25 yuan

Wenyu Cheese is super popular! There's always a line, especially for their red bean double-skin milk. One bite is rich and sweet, but not overwhelming. The texture of the cheese is so silky; it melts in your mouth, and you have to taste it yourself to know how amazing it is—it’s definitely worth the wait.

Beimen Shuanrou: A Top-notch Hot Pot Experience

• Location: No. 56-1 Di’anmen East Street
• Price: Around 100 yuan per person

Eating hot pot in winter feels like a ritual. Beijing people love “hand-cut fresh lamb.” At Beimen Shuanrou, the lamb slices are paper-thin yet chewy. And that flavor after dipping it in sesame sauce? Absolutely incredible! The fatty beef is also highly recommended, tender and juicy, with a rich broth.

Guiwei Grilled Wings: Diverse Late-night Snacks

• Location: No. 20 Heizhima Hutong, Nanluoguxiang
• Price: Around 60 yuan per person

Finally, nighttime! Guiwei Grilled Wings is a must-visit every time I’m in Nanluoguxiang. They have a ton of flavors for their chicken wings, crispy on the outside and tender inside. But beware of the "super spicy" one—it's no joke, so maybe avoid it if you have a weak stomach! They even have grilled marshmallows, sweet and delicious; it’s not busy at night, and eating under the streetlights feels quite artistic.

Daoxiang Village: Traditional Pastries from an Old Brand

• Location: No. 1 Fuxiang Hutong, Nanluoguxiang
• Price: Different pastries have different prices

You really can’t go wrong with Daoxiang Village—just look for the “Sanhe” logo. You can find all the classic Beijing pastries here, like coconut cakes, beef tongue cakes, and date flower pastries, which are great to take home as gifts. Not pricey at all, and the flavors are top-notch.

Lanyuezhai: Delicious Xinjiang Cuisine

• Location: No. 87 Jiaodaokou South Street
• Price: Around 75 yuan per person

If you love meat, you can’t miss this Xinjiang restaurant. Lamb skewers are a must, grilled to perfection, with juicy and flavorful meat. The oil-smeared liver and big plate chicken are also fantastic; paired with fragrant rice, a girl like me could eat until I’m full!

Tips for Your Visit

• Timing: You only need a day in Nanluoguxiang. Avoid weekends or holidays as it’ll be crowded.
• Order of Restaurants: Start with light snacks, then have your main course, and finish with desserts.
• Best Photogenic Spots: Yin San Douzhi Ice Cream and Wenyu Cheese are perfect for Instagram; go early to avoid long lines!

Summary Table of Food Locations

Hope my food guide for Nanluoguxiang sparks some inspiration for you! With lovely weather, make sure to check out Nanluoguxiang soon!