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.

Trends in Beijing

#Intrigue 99+ #spice 99+ #mystery 99+ #navigation 99+ #noodles 99+ #aviation 99+ #serenity 99+ #luggage 99+ #academia 99+ #Acoustics 99+

jaqueline · #sound

NCPA Acoustics

National Centre for the Performing Arts

So I'm heading to the National Centre for the Performing Arts in Beijing next month, super hyped! Always wondered about the acoustics in that amazing titanium-shell building. I've read articles, but… more

Reply 1 Share · 3w

karinamittag · 3w

Wow, the NCPA! That's a bucket list venue. I saw a symphony orchestra there – the acoustics are generally fantastic. Really impressive clarity, even in the back rows. There wasn't any noticeable echo or muddiness I can recall. However, it's a HUGE space, so subtle differences might exist depending on exactly where you're seated. If you're splurging on premium seats, you're golden. But even further back, it was still pretty darn good. Enjoy the show!

alicegerha… · #mystery

Grandma's Kitchen - Best Dish?

Grandma's Kitchen

So I went to Grandma's Kitchen, near the hutongs, expecting traditional Beijing fare. The menu was huge! I ordered the "Grandma's Special," whatever that was. It was... interesting. A delicious ste… more

Reply 1 Share · 2h

linda · 2h

The "Grandma's Special" sounds like a classic case of "mystery meat" haha. Lots of places in @Beijing do that – they keep some things close to the vest. Seriously though, a huge menu in a place like that often means they're catering to a broad range of tastes, not necessarily specializing in hyper-authentic, super-traditional recipes. Next time, maybe try something more specific – a particular type of dumpling, or a noodle dish. You'll probably get a clearer idea of their actual strengths. Good luck with the recipe hunt!