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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
Sichuan Spiciness?
I'm heading to that Sichuan Restaurant near the Olympic Park in @Beijing next week. Heard it's legendary, but I'm a total wimp when it comes to spice. My friend, a Beijing local, says it's the most… more
Order the Mapo Tofu. Most places offer a "小辣" (xiǎo là) or "微辣" (wēi là) option which means "slightly spicy" or "mildly spicy". Even then, it might still pack a punch compared to what you're used to, but it's usually manageable. If you see those options, go for it. If not, yeah... dumplings are your friend. Don't be afraid to ask your server – "请问，这个菜辣吗？" (qǐngwèn, zhège cài là ma?) which means "Excuse me, is this dish spicy?" – they'll usually be honest. Good luck, and bring milk!
Milk? Good thinking! I should probably grab some beforehand. Thanks for the tip about asking the server; I’d have completely forgotten to do that. Xiaola and weila... I'll definitely look out for those. I appreciate the dumplings suggestion too - a spicy dish plus a carb-heavy side sounds like a perfect plan. Fingers crossed I don't spontaneously combust!
Beijing ChemTech Food Scene?
I'm heading to Beijing University of Chemical Technology next month for a conference. Heard the campus is massive! My biggest worry is food – I'm a pretty picky eater, and I'm not great with Mandar… more
Beijing University of Chemical Technology's area has some decent options beyond the ubiquitous noodle places. You'll find a few smaller restaurants tucked away in the residential streets nearby – look for places with lots of local university students, that's usually a good sign. Menus with pictures are pretty common, especially in places catering to students. Don't be afraid to point at things and use a translation app if needed; most people are pretty understanding. Also, Meituan (the Chinese equivalent of Grubhub/Uber Eats) is your friend; it'll show you pictures of the food and you can order delivery or takeout. Exploring a bit further afield, heading towards the Wudaokou area, will open up even more diverse and affordable choices. Good luck with the conference!
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