Must-Try Foods In Summer Palace (Beijing) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Summer Palace, Beijing, China

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.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Summer Palace, Beijing, China

1. Peking Duck (Non-Veg) - Famous for its crispy skin and succulent meat, often served with pancakes and sweet bean sauce.
2. Dim Sum (Both Veg and Non-Veg options) - Small, bite-sized portions of food served in small steamer baskets.
3. Zhajiangmian (Non-Veg) - Wheat noodles topped with a thick sauce made of salty fermented soybean paste and minced pork.
4. Jiaozi (Both Veg and Non-Veg options) - Traditional Chinese dumplings filled with vegetables or meat and usually served with a dipping sauce.
5. Vegetarian Mock Duck (Veg) - A wheat gluten-based dish designed to resemble the texture and flavor of duck.
6. Hot and Sour Soup (Both Veg and Non-Veg options) - A popular soup with a spicy and tangy flavor profile.
7. Kung Pao Chicken (Non-Veg) - A spicy stir-fry dish made with chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers.
8. Mapo Tofu (Both Veg and Non-Veg options) - Soft tofu set in a spicy sauce, typically made with fermented bean paste and minced pork or beef, but can also be made vegetarian.
9. Mooncakes (Veg) - Traditionally eaten during the Mid-Autumn Festival, these come with various sweet fillings.
10. Chinese Barbecue (Non-Veg) - A variety of meats can be barbecued, including lamb skewers seasoned with cumin and spices.

Top Famous Restaurants in Summer Palace, Beijing, China

Tower of Buddhist Incense (Fan Zhongyan Culture Restaurant)

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).

Aman Summer Palace's Chinese Restaurant

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.

The Summer Palace Kitchen

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.