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The Best Restaurants in Beijing's Central Business District

Dumplings in a steamer on a table at a restaurant in Beijing, China
Dumplings in a steamer on a table at a restaurant in Beijing, China | © Giulia Fiori / Alamy Stock Photo

Home to some of the capital’s tallest skyscrapers, busiest hotels and biggest shopping malls, it’s only fitting that the city’s central business district is also blessed with a bounty of appetising dining places. Whether you’re after Spanish tapas or hand-pulled noodles, these top restaurants in Beijing’s CBD are sure to satisfy.

Grill 79

Restaurant, European

Located on Level 79 of China World Summit Wing, this restaurant-with-a-view serves modern European cuisine in a refined yet comfortable setting. The menu offers luxurious dishes like Boston lobster and roasted pigeon alongside crowd favourites like burgers and fries. Polished service rounds out the fine dining experience.

F Bistronome

Restaurant, French, European, Vegetarian

With a focus on high-quality ingredients and attentive service, F Bistronome brings a touch of French home dining to the Chinese capital. The China World Mall restaurant offers elegant cuisine like duck-leg confit and foie gras, plus a magnificent Grand Marnier souffle. Order à la carte or pick a set menu (brunch, lunch and dinner). Grab a window seat to take advantage of the restaurant’s stunning CBD vista.

Barolo

Restaurant, Italian

The Ritz-Carlton Beijing’s Barolo is a homely space to enjoy authentic Italian fare. The high-end spot is located just off the main CBD drag and is known for its impeccable service, making it perfect for special occasions. Order a business set meal (two or three courses) for maximum value. The tender braised beef cheek, in particular, is a must-try.

Migas Mercado

Bar, Restaurant, Spanish

With commanding views of Beijing’s CCTV Headquarters, this lively restaurant serves flavourful Spanish fare across multiple spaces, including fine dining and casual dining areas, plus a sprawling terrace. The menu offers a host of tasty options, from tapas and paella to Iberian pork, while the upbeat atmosphere and unbeatable setting ensure a fun-filled experience.

Pak Pak

Restaurant, Thai, Fusion, Asian, Vegetarian

Thai restaurant Pak Pak is a CBD favourite for good reason. The menu, which leans more towards ‘fusion’, features all the classics – pad thai, tom yum soup, papaya salad – while the cheerful atmosphere and warm service help to create a memorable experience. The restaurant’s fresh cocktails and outdoor terrace make for a strong combination during Beijing’s hot and sticky summer.

Country Kitchen

Bar, Restaurant, Hotel Restaurant, Cocktails, Wine, Beer

Humble Northern Chinese cuisine gets the special treatment at Country Kitchen. Feast on traditional Chinese dishes like dumplings, hand-pulled noodles and peking duck, and wash it all down with local Beijing drinks like red currant juice. The restaurant’s open kitchen lends vibrancy to the space, which is decorated in warm, earthy tones, with materials including brick and wood, for an upmarket ‘village restaurant’ feel. For staple Chinese food cooked to perfection, Country Kitchen is a safe bet.

Xiao Susu

Restaurant, Vietnamese

Located in China World Mall, this Vietnamese dining place is the offshoot of popular hutong restaurant Susu, yet ironically – since ‘xiao‘ translates as ‘small’ – it is larger than its hutong sister. Blessed with plenty of seating (including an attractive L-shaped bar) and great views of Beijing’s CCTV Headquarters, Susu serves up quality Vietnamese cuisine, with standouts including the pho and banh mi.

About the author

Dominique is a New Zealand-born Chinese writer based in Beijing. She enjoys running, yoga and eating. Get in contact via her Instagram: www.instagram.com/dommyw

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