Strolling through the 800-year-old Beijing hutongs, the aroma of jianbing guozi wafts through the air amidst the gray tiles and blue bricks. Locals line up for a taste of douzhi, a perfect blend of modern and traditional. Let me guide you on an exploration of this ancient city's unique food streets to uncover the authentic flavors of old Beijing.

Wangfujing Snack Street: A Century of Beijing's Culinary Memories

Walk through the bustling Wangfujing Street, and you'll find a snack street full of vibrant energy. It's the perfect place to experience old Beijing snacks and feel the dynamic vibe of modern Beijing.

Must-Try Foods

• Donkey Roll (驴打滚) : Legend has it that this dessert was first discovered by Emperor Qianlong during a disguised visit. The combination of melt-in-your-mouth glutinous rice and sweet red bean paste became a royal delicacy, now a staple during festivals for Beijing locals, symbolizing reunion and happiness.
• Fermented Mung Bean Milk (豆汁儿) : A traditional Beijing breakfast rich in protein, perfectly paired with crispy fried dough rings, ideal for vegetarians.
• Candied Hawthorn Stick (糖葫芦) : Originating from the Song Dynasty, traditional Chinese medicine suggests it aids digestion, while modern techniques preserve its classic flavor.

📍 Wangfujing Snack Street Info
* Location : Intersection of Wangfujing and Dong'anmen Streets, Dongcheng District
* Hours : 10:00-22:00 (Extended in summer)
* Average Cost : 50-100 CNY (Approx. 7-15 USD)
* Transport : Exit C, Wangfujing Station, Line 1 Subway
* Tips : Most stalls offer picture menus, some vendors speak English, recommended to visit before evening

Nanluoguxiang: A Culinary Journey in Hutongs

Established during the Yuan Dynasty, Nanluoguxiang was once home to high-ranking officials. Now this 800-meter-long hutong not only preserves traditional Beijing snacks but also embraces innovative new snacks, making it a place to linger.

Specialty Food Recommendations

• Yaoji Fried Liver : A century-old shop, a must for breakfast
• Buer Peking Duck : Famous for Peking duck in the hutongs
• Wenyu Cheese : Traditional cheese with a delicate texture

🍽️ Nanluoguxiang Food Guide
* Location : Nanluoguxiang, Dongcheng District
* Best Time : 10:00-20:00
* Average Cost : 100-150 CNY
* Features : Traditional snacks and creative foods coexist
* Tips : Crowded on weekends, recommended to visit on weekdays

Guijie: A Symbol of Beijing's Night Food Culture

Guijie, renowned for its nighttime snacks, is the best place to experience Beijing's nightlife.

Must-Eat Foods

• Crayfish : Varieties of flavors, especially garlic
• Grilled Skewers : Lamb skewers, chicken wings, and more
• Mala Tang : Choose your ingredients, with a savory broth

📍 Guijie Food Guide
* Location : Dongzhimen Inner Street (Gongti North Road)
* Hours : Afternoon to late night
* Average Cost : 150-200 CNY
* Transport : Dongzhimen Station, Line 2 Subway
* Tips : Crowded late at night, recommended to book in advance

Qianmen Dashilan: A Concentration of Old Beijing Flavors

This is where traditional Beijing snacks are concentrated, with many century-old shops.

Recommended Old Brands

• Duyichu : Century-old hotpot
• Quanjude : Authentic Peking duck
• Huguosi Snacks : Traditional pastries

🍽️ Qianmen Dashilan Guide
* Location : Intersection of Qianmen Street and Dashilan Street
* Hours : 9:00-21:00
* Average Cost : 100-300 CNY
* Features : Concentration of old brands, traditional cuisine
* Tips : Avoid dining during holiday peaks

Practical Tips

🌟 Special Tips for Foreign Tourists :

• Most restaurants accept Visa/Mastercard, cash also recommended
• Use Google Translate offline package or voice translation apps
• Spice levels: Mild 🌶️, Medium 🌶️🌶️, Hot 🌶️🌶️🌶️
• Vegetarian/Halal certifications: 🌱/☪️
• Common allergens (peanuts, seafood, gluten) are labeled in English

1. Best Visit Times
2. Breakfast: Nanluoguxiang (8:00-10:00)
3. Lunch: Qianmen Dashilan (11:30-13:30)
4. Dinner: Wangfujing Snack Street (17:00-19:00)

5. Late Night: Guijie (after 20:00)

6. Transport Suggestions

7. Subway is the most convenient mode

8. Each food street has a dedicated subway station

9. Consider buying a day pass for unlimited entries

10. Food Exploration Tips

11. Check vendor hygiene ratings via QR code or Beijing Food Safety website

12. Use the Dianping International app for English reviews
13. Some old brands support WeChat mini-program reservations (with English interface)
14. Follow each shop's ingredient traceability information

These food streets not only embody Beijing's culinary culture but are also carriers of the city's memory. Whether it's traditional Beijing snacks or innovative new foods, they are worth savoring slowly to experience the unique charm of this city.