The Summer Palace in Beijing is an imperial garden that dates back to the Qing Dynasty and has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1998. Historically, the food culture within the Summer Palace was largely reflective of the imperial cuisine, which was a blend of various culinary traditions from across China. The royal kitchen would prepare dishes that catered to the tastes of the emperors and their court, which meant that the food was often elaborate, featuring the finest ingredients, and regional specialties.
Over time, this rich food tradition has evolved, allowing visitors to enjoy a more accessible yet still diverse culinary experience embodying the flavors of both local Beijing cuisine and other Chinese regional styles. While much of the traditional imperial cuisine is not as common in the daily offerings around the Summer Palace, the influence remains in the attention to detail and the quality of dishes served.
Address: Inside Summer Palace, near Tower of Buddhist Incense, Beijing
Famous for: Their imperial court dishes which give a taste of the traditional foods once enjoyed by royalties. Try their Lotus Seed Soup (Veg).
Address: 1 Gongmenqian Street, Summer Palace, Beijing
Famous for: Luxurious dining experience with dishes like Beggar's Chicken (Non-Veg) - a clay-baked chicken with a storied history.
Address: Near the East Gate of the Summer Palace, Beijing
Famous for: Offering a range of traditional Chinese dishes with a focus on freshness and flavor. The Sweet and Sour Fish (Non-Veg) is a highlight.
When visiting the Summer Palace, you'll find a combination of street food stalls and more formal dining establishments, both inside and around the area, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich and varied flavors of Beijing's cuisine.