Time-Travel BBQ: Taste Juicy Lamb Skewers in Beijing!
1. The Story Behind Long Time Ago Lamb Skewers
In Beijing’s Gulou area, people line up before noon for Beijing lamb skewers. The restaurant “Long Time Ago” blends cave-style décor with futuristic BBQ machines.
Founded in 2008, it redefined Beijing BBQ. With automatic grills and creative design, it quickly grew nationwide.
The founder, Song Ji, started with only 60,000 RMB. Despite setbacks, he believed lamb skewers could be more than food—they could carry culture.
2. Technology Meets Beijing Barbecue
The highlight here is the automatic skewer machine. Guests place meat into slots, and gears rotate the skewers evenly.
This makes Beijing barbecue less smoky and more fun. Diners can watch juicy fat drip, smell roasted cumin lamb, and even join the cooking.
The restaurant also uses eco-friendly smokeless charcoal with a smart exhaust system. The dining space feels both ancient and modern, like a time-travel BBQ.
3. Fresh Grassland Flavors in Every Bite
The real charm of lamb kebabs lies in the meat. Every skewer uses 6-month-old lamb from Hulunbuir grasslands at latitude 48°.
Each juicy lamb skewer blends three cuts: rib, fat, and lean. This creates a layered taste—tender, flavorful, and aromatic.
Unlike many BBQ shops, the meat is never marinated. Only salt, chili, and cumin season the skewers, giving a Beijing street food authenticity.
Dining Experience & Tips for Travelers
At Long Time Ago, guests enjoy private seating, friendly staff, and unique add-ons. They even gift “air from the grasslands” for fun.
Besides lamb, try chicken wings, beef, sausages, or their famous fried rice.
📍 Location: Jiugulou Outer Street, Beijing
🕒 Hours: 11:30–14:00, 16:30–02:00
💲 Price: 100–150 RMB per person
Menus include English and photos. Just say “lamb skewers” to order. Ask for “little spicy” if you prefer mild flavors.
✨ At Long Time Ago, Beijing lamb skewers bridge tradition and modern dining. Visitors say, “This tastes like my childhood.”
It’s more than BBQ—it’s a cultural experience that every food traveler should try in Beijing.
