Peking duck is one of Beijing’s most famous culinary treasures. Visitors from around the world travel to China’s capital just to taste authentic, crispy-skinned roast duck served with thin pancakes, sweet sauce, and fresh vegetables. The best Peking duck restaurants in Beijing combine tradition, quality ingredients, and welcoming service for international tourists. In this guide, we introduce the top 10 Peking duck restaurants in Beijing that are especially suitable for foreigners, focusing on taste, atmosphere, and accessibility.
1. Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant – Qianmen Branch
Quanjude is arguably the most famous Peking duck brand in China, with a history dating back over 150 years. Located near Qianmen Street, this restaurant is easy for tourists to find. Foreign travelers often choose Quanjude because of its classic reputation and English-friendly menu. The signature specialty here is traditional open-oven roasted duck with perfectly golden, crispy skin. The duck is skillfully sliced in front of guests, showcasing culinary performance art. The pancakes are soft and thin, paired with sweet bean sauce and fresh scallions. Service is professional, though peak hours can be crowded. Booking in advance is highly recommended.
2. Da Dong Roast Duck – Dongsi Branch
Da Dong Roast Duck – Dongsi Branch is popular among foreign visitors because of its modern cooking style and lighter flavor profile. Unlike traditional oily roast duck, Da Dong focuses on crispy skin with less fat, making it more appealing to health-conscious diners. The restaurant offers elegant Western-style seating and professional English service. Presentation is highly refined, often resembling fine dining rather than street-style roast duck. Prices are slightly higher than average, but many tourists consider it worth the experience. The restaurant is perfect for business travelers and first-time Peking duck eaters.
3. Siji Minfu Roast Duck – Dengshikou Branch
Siji Minfu Roast Duck – Dengshikou Branch is famous for being a favorite among both locals and tourists. This restaurant often has long waiting lines, which is usually a sign of excellent quality. The duck skin here is extremely crispy, while the meat remains juicy. Foreign visitors appreciate the friendly staff who are accustomed to serving international guests. The restaurant environment is more casual compared to luxury hotels, but feels authentic and lively. Prices are reasonable, making it an excellent choice for budget travelers who still want the premium Peking duck taste.
4. Liqun Roast Duck Restaurant
Located inside an old Beijing hutong area, Liqun Roast Duck Restaurant offers one of the most traditional dining experiences in the city. This restaurant is slightly harder for tourists to find, but many food lovers say it is worth the effort. The duck is roasted using classic methods, giving the skin a deep golden color and rich aroma. The environment feels nostalgic, reflecting old Beijing culture. Foreign travelers who want an authentic local dining adventure often enjoy this place. English service is limited, but pictures on menus help with ordering.
5. Made in China – Grand Hyatt Beijing
Situated inside the luxury Grand Hyatt Beijing, the restaurant Made in China – Grand Hyatt Beijing is well-known among international travelers. This venue is extremely foreigner-friendly, offering English menus and professional service. The Peking duck here is praised for balanced flavor and consistent quality. The dining space is modern, quiet, and suitable for business dinners or family meals. Guests can watch chefs carve the duck beautifully in front of them. Although prices are high, the overall dining comfort and location make it popular among tourists staying in central Beijing.
6. Duck de Chine – Workers Stadium Branch
Duck de Chine – Workers Stadium Branch is a stylish fusion-style restaurant that attracts young international travelers. The atmosphere is contemporary and artistic, very different from traditional Chinese duck restaurants. The Peking duck here is served with innovative side dishes and premium ingredients. Many foreigners like this place because the menu is available in English and the staff are used to international customers. The duck skin is extremely crispy, while the meat remains tender and flavorful. It’s a great choice if you want modern Beijing dining culture.
7. Jingzun Peking Duck Restaurant
Jingzun Peking Duck Restaurant is known for delivering consistent high-quality roast duck with good service standards. This restaurant is highly recommended for foreign tourists who want a comfortable dining experience without large crowds. The chefs here pay great attention to duck roasting temperature and timing. Visitors can enjoy watching professional carving techniques. The pancakes are thin and soft, allowing easy wrapping. The restaurant environment is clean and modern, and staff members are usually patient when explaining the menu.
8. The Horizon – The Opposite House Hotel
Located inside the fashionable The Opposite House Hotel, The Horizon – The Opposite House Hotel offers luxury modern Chinese cuisine. This restaurant is highly recommended for foreign travelers who prefer a quiet, high-end dining environment. The Peking duck is prepared with refined culinary techniques and beautiful plating presentation. Service is professional and of an international standard. The restaurant is popular among business travelers and tourists staying in the Sanlitun area. Prices are premium, but the dining atmosphere is exceptional.
9. Bianyifang Roast Duck – Chongwenmen Branch
Bianyifang Roast Duck – Chongwenmen Branch is one of the oldest roast duck restaurants in China, with historical roots dating back centuries. Unlike open-oven roasting, this restaurant uses closed-oven techniques, producing slightly softer skin but rich, savory meat flavor. Foreign tourists who enjoy traditional culinary history often visit here. The interior decor reflects old Beijing culture. Service is straightforward and efficient. Prices are moderate, making it a good balance between authenticity and affordability for international travelers exploring central Beijing.
10. Yulin Roast Duck Restaurant
Yulin Roast Duck Restaurant is a lesser-known gem that many foreign tourists discover through local recommendations. The restaurant focuses on classic Beijing roast duck flavor rather than modern fusion styles. The duck skin is crispy and aromatic, while the meat stays tender. The environment is simple but clean, offering a truly local dining experience. English may not be widely spoken, but ordering is manageable using photos or basic menu translation apps. Travelers who want an authentic neighborhood-style roast duck experience often enjoy visiting this hidden gem.
Conclusion
Beijing is the best place in the world to experience authentic Peking duck. Whether you prefer luxury fine dining, traditional hutong atmosphere, or modern international-style restaurants, there is always a perfect choice for you. The 10 restaurants above are highly recommended for foreign visitors seeking great taste and comfortable service. Remember to book ahead during holidays, and enjoy one of China’s most iconic culinary experiences during your trip to Beijing.