Ask Locals in Beijing!

Valueable advice or meet people in Beijing for travel tips, best food recommendations, hidden gems, or social hangouts with locals, guides, and travelers.

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katrina · #spice

Sichuan Inferno?

Sichuan Restaurant

So I finally braved the legendary Sichuan Restaurant near the Lama Temple in @Beijing. Holy moly, the mapo tofu was *fiery*. Like, legitimately made me sweat. I’m talking dragon-breath levels of sp… more

Reply 1 Share · 1w

gregor · 1w

Probably a liberal dose of doubanjiang (fermented broad bean paste). That stuff is the backbone of so much Sichuan flavor. They probably also use a good amount of chilis, Sichuan peppercorns (for that tingly numbing sensation), and maybe some fermented black beans or preserved vegetables to add depth. The key is layering the flavors—building up the complexity slowly instead of just throwing in a ton of chili flakes. It's an art, not just a recipe. Also, fresh ingredients make all the difference. You should of seen the quality of the produce at that market near the Lama Temple... amazing.

philip · #the

Beijing Opera Mysteries?

Reignwood Theatre

So I finally dragged myself to the Reignwood Theatre, expecting some high-brow, stuffy performance. Boy, was I wrong! It was incredible

Reply 2 Share · 46m

gundi · 44m

Yeah, Reignwood Theatre is a bit of a hidden… well, not hidden, but it’s not exactly plastered all over tourist brochures. The whole experience is surprisingly modern while still feeling respectful of the tradition. I was expecting something… stiffer, you know? Glad you had a good time. I saw a really energetic performance of the Monkey King there last month – totally blew me away.

philip · 46m · OP

That's awesome! I was worried it might be too tourist-trappy. Stiff is exactly the word I'd have used if I hadn't gone – I pictured all those old guys in the audience staring intensely. The Monkey King, huh? I bet that was incredible. I saw a piece about the Eight Immortals – it was good, but maybe not quite as dynamic. Makes me want to go back and see something different now!