Wanchun Jinfu Teahouse

Located within the Forbidden City, Wanchun Jinfu offers a royal afternoon tea experience. It's very popular, with people queuing up from 9:30 AM for tickets (150 available). Visitors touring in the afternoon can join the online queue at 11:30 AM. The teahouse features classic coffee, desserts, and herbal teas. Highly recommended is the lychee and bayberry drink, a refreshing, sweet-sour beverage perfect for summer.

Address: Palace of Earthly Tranquility East Courtyard, Forbidden City

Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Corner Tower Cafe

Situated near Shenwu Gate, this cafe can be accessed without purchasing a ticket to the Forbidden City. It offers a variety of coffee drinks that blend with the historical environment. The menu is frequently updated based on seasons and festivals. Both indoor and outdoor seating is available, providing a comfortable place to relax on nice days.

Address: Shenwu Gate, Forbidden City

Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Peking Chamber

Peking Chamber is a go-to spot for roast duck in Beijing, with long lines at every location. The Forbidden City branch is especially popular due to its excellent views. It specializes in Beijing cuisine, with the signature roast duck available in whole or half portions.

Address: No. 11 Nanchizi Street, Beijing

Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:30 AM - 9:30 PM

The Sweet Hutong

A creative studio tucked away in a hutong, the Sweet Hutong is filled with nostalgic vintage items that evoke the feeling of the past. It's open by reservation and offers meticulously crafted desserts, including a variety of cakes and adorable pastries, blending taste with a sense of nostalgia.

Address: No. 8 Ciqiku Beixiang

Hours: Thursday to Sunday, 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Yuebin Restaurant

As the first privately-owned restaurant in China, Yuebin Restaurant has maintained its popularity over the years with its homestyle dishes. The vintage menu and the use of an abacus for billing add to its nostalgic charm. Must-try dishes include the garlic pork knuckle and sweet and sour spare ribs.

Address: No. 43 Cuixiang Hutong, Beijing

Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

The Southern Fish

A sophisticated hutong restaurant, the Southern Fish offers a tranquil and pleasing dining environment. The menu features Hunan cuisine, with standout dishes such as smashed chilies with century eggs and stinky tofu.

Address: No. 2 Daxiangfeng Hutong, Shichahai area

Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Translator: LI An

Reviewer: BAI Jing

Eateries