Haowan Ju: The King of Beijing Zhajiang Noodles
When people think of Beijing, they often picture the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and narrow hutongs. But there’s another star you shouldn’t miss—the legendary Zhajiang Noodles. And when it comes to authentic Beijing-style noodles, few places can rival Haowan Ju, a restaurant that has been winning hearts (and stomachs) since 1999.
Here, you don’t just eat; you also get a crash course in old Beijing culture.
1. The Name Says It All
“Haowan” literally means “big bowl.” In old Beijing, noodles weren’t about dainty portions—they were about generosity. A huge bowl piled high with noodles is all about hearty appetite and bold spirit.
2. Signature Noodles: DIY Flavor, Beijing Style
- Traditional Zhajiang Noodles: Hand-pulled noodles with a springy bite, served with eight fresh veggie toppings and a secret soybean paste. You mix it yourself—the ritual is half the fun.
- Da Lu Noodles: Another Beijing favorite, topped with a rich gravy that feels like a warm hug.
3. Side Dishes: Supporting Cast That Steals the Show
Haowan Ju doesn’t stop at noodles. Their lineup of Beijing snacks is just as irresistible:
- Baodu (quick-fried tripe): Crispy yet tender, cooked in seconds
- Zha Guanchang (fried sausage-like snack): Golden outside, soft inside, best with garlic sauce
- Douzhi & Fried Dough Rings: A breakfast combo for the brave (sour fermented mung bean drink + crispy rings)
- Madofu: Stir-fried mung bean jelly with lamb fat, strong local flavor
- Jiemodun (pickled cabbage with mustard): Tangy and refreshing
- Deep-fried Meatballs: Crispy outside, juicy inside, perfect with flatbread
- Roast Duck: Yes, they serve the famous Beijing roast duck too
4. Ingredients: Tradition in Every Bite
- Flour: Only high-gluten flour for chewy noodles
- Zhajiang Sauce: A classic mix of yellow soybean paste and sweet bean paste
- Pork: Hand-cut pork belly, fat and lean balanced
- Veggie toppings: Always fresh and seasonal
- Snacks: All prepared by traditional recipes
5. Cooking Skills: Where Craft Meets Culture
- Hand-pulled noodles: No machines, only rolling pins and elbow grease
- Slow-cooked sauce: Zhajiang simmered over low heat for rich flavor
- Cook-to-order snacks: Everything made fresh
- Traditional methods: Baodu, fried guanchang, all crafted the old-school way
6. Prices: Authentic Yet Affordable
- Traditional Zhajiang Noodles: ¥28–38 per bowl
- Da Lu Noodles: ¥25–35 per bowl
- Baodu: ¥48–58 per plate
- Fried Guanchang: ¥18–25 per plate
- Douzhi & Dough Rings: ¥10–15 per set
(Average per person: ¥60–100)
7. Locations All Over Beijing
Haowan Ju has over 10 branches across Beijing, including:
- Mudanyuan (the original flagship)
- Wangfujing (perfect for tourists)
- Zengguang Road, Shuang’an, Yuegezhuang, Huilongguan… chances are, you’ll find one nearby.
Extra charm:
- Antique-style interiors with wooden benches, birdcages, and old Beijing vibes
- Waiters in traditional outfits, greeting you in the Beijing dialect
- Some branches even host live folk performances like cross-talk comedy
8. Final Bite: More Than Just a Meal
Haowan Ju is more than a noodle shop—it’s a cultural experience. Here, you get to slurp authentic noodles while soaking in the essence of Beijing. If you visit Beijing without trying a bowl of zhajiang noodles here, your trip isn’t truly complete.
