Discover Chinese Food in Beijing Guijie Street
Introduction
Beijing’s Guijie Street, also known as Ghost Street, is a paradise for Chinese food lovers. This lively food street is famous for authentic Chinese cuisine, local delicacies, and a mix of traditional food and modern flavors. Tourists and locals gather here every night for tasty Chinese dishes, spicy hotpot, and late-night snacks. If you want to explore the true taste of Chinese food culture, Guijie is the place.
1. The History of Chinese Food on Guijie Street
Guijie Street has a long history linked to Beijing nightlife. It began in the 1990s and quickly became a hub for street food and traditional cuisine. In the past, it was called Ghost Street due to midnight markets lit by oil lamps. Later, the government renamed it Guijie, meaning an ancient bronze food vessel. This new name gave the street cultural depth, connecting heritage food and culinary traditions.
2. Famous Chinese Dishes You Must Try
Guijie Street is packed with restaurants offering unique Chinese food experiences. The highlights include spicy crayfish, Beijing-style hotpot, and classic dumplings.
- Huda Restaurant: Known for spicy crayfish and crabs, perfect with beer.
- Huajia Yiyuan: Offers modern Beijing dishes like roast duck.
- Yude Fu Hotpot: Famous for thin-sliced lamb and sesame sauce.
- Tiangongyuan Snacks: Best for dumplings and traditional fried liver.
- Zai Zai Crayfish: A rival to Huda, offering bold flavors.
- Beiping Brothers Hotpot: Warm hotpot with tender lamb and wide noodles.
- Dongxinglou: A heritage restaurant serving Beijing and Shandong dishes.
- Hu Xiaopang: Affordable spicy crayfish spot.
- Hahajing Deli: Street snacks like spicy duck neck and duck intestines.
- Qimen Hotpot: Another old Beijing hotpot choice with authentic taste.
These restaurants show how Chinese food combines local snacks and regional specialties into one lively street.
3. Tips for Exploring Chinese Food Culture at Guijie
Walking along Guijie Street is not only about eating but also about culture. The red lanterns, crowded restaurants, and late-night vibe capture the charm of Chinese food culture.
- Route: Start with snacks, enjoy spicy crayfish, then try roast duck or hotpot.
- Tips: Expect long queues at popular spots. Many dishes are spicy and oily, so pair them with beer or sour plum drink.
- Culture: Visit the bronze Guijie sculpture near Dongzhimen Bridge and nearby attractions like Yonghe Temple during the day.
Guijie Street shows how traditional eats blend with modern city life, making it a must-visit for anyone who loves authentic Chinese food.
Conclusion
Guijie Street is more than a late-night food street. It is a cultural landmark where Chinese food, history, and modern nightlife come together. From spicy crayfish to hotpot, every dish tells a story of Beijing. When night falls, grab a plate of crayfish and taste the real spirit of Beijing’s food culture.
