As the winter chill fades and cherry blossoms begin to bloom, Beijing transforms into a culinary paradise. Spring is the perfect time to explore the city’s vibrant food scene, where seasonal ingredients take center stage. From street food stalls to high-end restaurants, the capital offers an array of dishes that capture the essence of the season. Here’s your ultimate guide to the must-try spring delicacies in Beijing.
Spring in Beijing isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s a feast for the senses. The city’s culinary traditions are deeply rooted in seasonal eating, and spring brings fresh, tender ingredients that inspire both classic and modern dishes. Whether you’re a foodie or a casual traveler, these dishes will leave you craving more.
A quintessential spring dish, Chun Bing is a thin, delicate pancake wrapped around fresh vegetables and meats. Traditionally eaten during the Lichun (Beginning of Spring) festival, these pancakes symbolize new beginnings.
What’s Inside?
- Shredded leeks
- Stir-fried pork or duck
- Crisp cucumber and radish
- Sweet bean sauce
Where to Try It:
Head to Li Qun Roast Duck Restaurant for a modern twist or any local hutong eatery for the authentic experience.
No visit to Beijing is complete without a bowl of Zhajiangmian. In spring, chefs often use lighter, fresher versions of the fermented soybean paste, paired with seasonal vegetables like young bamboo shoots.
Why It’s Special in Spring:
- The sauce is less heavy, allowing the spring veggies to shine.
- Often served with a side of garlic sprouts, a spring favorite.
Pro Tip: Try it at Haozhe in Dongcheng District—their handmade noodles are legendary.
Spring evenings in Beijing call for street food adventures, and Yangrou Chuanr (grilled lamb skewers) are a must. The meat is tenderized with cumin, chili, and a hint of sesame oil, making it irresistible.
Best Spots:
- Wangfujing Snack Street for the tourist-friendly vibe.
- Ghost Street (Guijie) for late-night cravings.
Around the Qingming Festival, these sticky rice balls stuffed with sweet red bean paste or sesame become a seasonal staple. Wrapped in fragrant Aiyu leaves, they’re a delightful mix of sweet and herbal.
Fun Fact:
Locals believe eating Qingming Guo brings good health in the new season.
Beyond the classics, Beijing’s spring menu has some underrated stars.
A rare seasonal treat, Xiangchun are tender toon tree sprouts with a unique, slightly bitter taste. They’re often tossed with tofu or scrambled eggs.
Where to Find It:
- Dali Courtyard in Xicheng District serves a fantastic version.
Unlike the deep-fried version, spring Chunjuan are light and packed with foraged greens like shepherd’s purse.
Try It At:
- King’s Joy (a Michelin-starred vegetarian spot).
Freshly harvested in spring, Longjing (Dragon Well) tea is a perfect palate cleanser. Many teahouses in Houhai offer lakeside tea-tasting sessions.
A refreshing, tart drink made from seasonal hawthorn berries—great for digestion after a heavy meal.
Spring in Beijing is a culinary journey waiting to be explored. From the first bite of Chun Bing to the last sip of Longjing, every flavor tells a story of renewal and tradition. So pack your appetite and dive into the season’s best—your taste buds will thank you.
Copyright Statement:
Author: Beijing Travel
Link: https://beijingtravel.github.io/travel-blog/beijings-spring-food-delights-musttry-dishes.htm
Source: Beijing Travel
The copyright of this article belongs to the author. Reproduction is not allowed without permission.
Beijing, a bustling metropolis steeped in history, is also a gateway to some of China’s most stunning natural landscapes. For urban dwellers craving fresh air and adventure, the mountains and valleys surrounding the city offer perfect weekend hiking getaways. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a c
Beijing, a city where ancient dynastic history collides with a pulsating modern energy, offers more than just the Great Wall and Forbidden City. For the discerning traveler with a taste for luxury and personal expression, the city has emerged as a surprising and exhilarating destination for high-end
Forget everything you thought you knew about beer in China. While Tsingtao and Yanjing have long been the familiar names associated with Chinese brews, a quiet revolution has been fermenting in the capital’s hutongs and trendy districts. Beijing’s craft beer scene has exploded from a niche interest
As winter blankets Beijing in a shimmering layer of frost, the city transforms into a dazzling spectacle of ice and light. Among the most anticipated winter attractions are the Chinese New Year Ice Sculptures, a breathtaking fusion of artistry, culture, and seasonal celebration. These frozen masterp
Beijing is a city that effortlessly blends ancient history with modern dynamism. Among its many attractions, sports events have become a major draw for both locals and tourists. Whether it’s catching a football match at Workers’ Stadium, attending the China Open tennis tournament, or experiencing th
There’s something magical about Beijing in the spring. The harsh winter winds soften into gentle breezes, cherry and peach blossoms dust the city in soft pinks and whites, and the energy shifts as both locals and visitors pour into the streets, parks, and hutongs, eager to soak up the sunshine. It’s
The air turns crisp, carrying the faint scent of incense and candied hawthorns. Red lanterns begin to bloom like fiery flowers against the grey winter sky, strung across ancient hutongs and modern avenues alike. For a history lover, Beijing during Chinese New Year, or Spring Festival, is not merely
Beijing, a city steeped in history and culture, is also a paradise for food lovers. While the capital is famous for its Peking duck and lamb hot pot, vegetarian travelers might wonder: Can I enjoy authentic Beijing cuisine without meat? The answer is a resounding yes! From ancient Buddhist temples t
There’s a rhythm to Beijing that first-time visitors often miss. They see the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the bustling hutongs, and the futuristic skyline of Guomao. They taste the Peking duck and hear the echoes of history in every corner. But for those who listen a little closer, there’s anoth
As the winter chill fades and cherry blossoms begin to bloom, Beijing transforms into a culinary paradise. Spring is the perfect time to explore the city’s vibrant food scene, where seasonal ingredients take center stage. From street food stalls to high-end restaurants, the capital offers an array o