This guide helps you embark on a culinary adventure in Beijing by visiting Guijie Street, also known as Ghost Street. This vibrant, nearly 24-hour food street attracts locals, expatriates, and tourists alike.
As you stroll down Gui Jie Street, you’ll feel the lively energy from the distinctive red décor. Storefront plaques, lanterns, and lights create a unique atmosphere.
Gui Jie is a melting pot of flavors, offering various dining experiences. You can enjoy luxurious or simplistic meals. Local restaurants serve a mix of Sichuan cuisine, known for its spicy dishes, and traditional Beijing fare. Popular dishes include crayfish, frogs, hotpots, and the famous Beijing duck. International tastes aren’t forgotten, with seafood and recognizable foreign brands available. There’s something for every palate.
The Origin of Its Street Name
Gui Jie’s name, commonly called Ghost Street, has an intriguing history. Originally, the street was called “Ghost Street” in Chinese. The name combined 鬼 (guǐ, meaning “ghost”) and 街 (jiē, meaning “street”).
In the 1980s, the Commerce Commission renamed it 簋街 (guǐ jiē) to promote its food culture. 簋 (guǐ) is a homonym of 鬼, but represents an ancient bronze food container. This change symbolized the area’s culinary significance. Now it is a “Food Vessel street”. A huge Chinese character “簋” in colorful strokes hanging on the wall at the west end of Guijie Street （Aka Dongzhimen Inner Street) marks this change.
The original name’s roots are found in two Qing Dynasty stories. The first describes vendors selling wares under dim oil lamps and red lanterns, creating a ghostly ambience. The second links to the street’s past with coffin shops due to its proximity to the Dongzhimen gate, used for transporting corpses.
How to Get to Gui Jie
Guijie Street is located on Dongzhimen Inner Street roughly between Dongzhimen Subway Station and Beixinqiao Subway Stations, about 1472 meters long. It offers easy access via public transport.
For those eager to dive into this gastronomic paradise, Beixinqiao Station (北新桥站）, on Subway Line 5, is the closest point of entry on the west side of Guijie Street. Alight here ( Exit A and D), and a short walk to the east will lead you directly into the heart of Gui Jie’s culinary delights.
Alternatively, Dongzhimen Station, served by both Subway Line 2 and Line 13 on the east side of Guijie Street, provides another convenient route. It’s slightly further away but offers a pleasant walk or a quick bus ride to the street.
Five Must-Try Restaurants on Guijie Street
Huda Restaurant and Hua’s Restaurant on Guijie Street
Guijie Street, a famous food street in Beijing, is home to some of the city’s best dining experiences. Among its countless eateries, Huda Restaurant (胡大饭馆） and Hua’s Restaurant （花家怡园簋街店）stand out as two of the most iconic spots. There are totally 4 Huda Restaurants along Guijie Street.
1. Huda Restaurant (胡大饭馆)
Huda Restaurant is arguably the most iconic eatery on Guijie Street, renowned for its fiery Sichuan flavors and vibrant atmosphere. It’s a must-visit for food lovers looking to dive into Beijing’s bustling night food scene.
Highlights:
- Spicy Crayfish (麻辣小龙虾): The signature dish at Huda. Freshwater crayfish are cooked in a rich and spicy Sichuan-style broth, offering a perfect combination of tender meat and bold flavors.
- Sichuan Cuisine: Besides crayfish, Huda serves a variety of classic Sichuan dishes such as spicy boiled fish (水煮鱼) and spicy beef slices (夫妻肺片).
- Late-night Dining: Open late into the night, Huda is the go-to spot for night owls craving flavorful food.
Tips for Dining:
- Be Ready to Wait: Huda is incredibly popular, especially during dinner and late-night hours. Arrive early or use the restaurant’s reservation system if possible.
- Multiple Locations: Huda has several branches along Guijie Street, so choose the one most convenient for you.
Who Should Visit:
- Foodies who love bold, spicy flavors.
- Travelers looking to soak up the lively, authentic Guijie Street vibe.
2. Hua’s Restaurant – Guijie Branch (花家怡园簋街)
Hua’s Restaurant offers a more refined dining experience compared to the bustling atmosphere of Huda. Combining traditional Beijing charm with a touch of elegance, it’s perfect for those seeking a cultural and culinary treat.
Highlights:
- Ambience and Design: The restaurant features a blend of traditional Beijing courtyard style and modern aesthetics. The decor includes Chinese calligraphy and artistic elements, creating a unique dining environment.
- Diverse Menu: Hua’s offers a mix of Beijing cuisine (Peking Roast Duck), Sichuan dishes, and other Chinese classics. Must-try dishes include Beijing-style braised beef (酱牛肉) and Kung Pao chicken (宫保鸡丁).
- Family-Friendly: The spacious dining area is ideal for group meals or family gatherings.
Tips for Dining:
- Make Reservations: While not as crowded as Huda, Hua’s can still get busy during peak hours.
- Explore the Menu: Don’t miss the signature dishes and their popular dessert options, such as almond tofu (杏仁豆腐).
Who Should Visit:
- Diners who value a relaxed and elegant dining atmosphere.
- Travelers interested in Beijing cuisine or fusion dishes.
Which One to Choose?
- Choose Huda Restaurant if you’re seeking a lively, authentic Guijie food experience with spicy Sichuan dishes, Spicy Crayfish in particular.
- Choose Hua’s Restaurant if you prefer a quieter, upscale environment with a broader menu selection, Peking Roast Duck in particular.
Why not try both? Start with one for dinner and finish at the other for a second round of food exploration! Enjoy your Guijie Street adventure! 🎉
3. Guijie Zai Zai (簋街仔仔)
- Famous For: Barbecue and street-style snacks.
- Why Visit: With a lively atmosphere and a variety of grilled dishes, Guijie Zai Zai is ideal for sharing with friends. Whether it’s skewers, seafood, or small plates, the menu is packed with crowd-pleasers.
4. Beiping Three Brothers (北平三兄弟)
- Famous For: Copper hot pot (铜锅涮肉).
- Why Visit: This restaurant specializes in traditional Beijing-style hot pot, with thinly sliced lamb cooked in a copper pot. The meat is tender, and the dipping sauces are authentically flavored, making it a perfect choice for hot pot enthusiasts.
5. Peng Ji Iron Pot Intestines (彭记铁锅肥肠)
- Famous For: Braised pork intestines (铁锅肥肠).
- Why Visit: Known for its rich and savory stewed pork intestines, this restaurant pairs its signature dish with crispy flatbread for an irresistible combination. A true hidden gem for adventurous eaters!
From fiery crayfish to hearty hot pot and street-style barbecue, these restaurants each bring something special to the table. No matter what you’re craving, Guijie Street offers a culinary adventure you won’t forget!
The Culinary Highlights of Ghost Street
The street is renowned for its round-the-clock service. Almost all eateries are open day and night. Though you can visit any time, the evening is when Gui Jie truly comes alive. Red lanterns cast a warm glow, and happy diners fill the air.
Hot and spicy crayfish
One of the signature dishes of Guijie Street, this spicy crayfish is famous for its bold, aromatic flavors. Each crayfish is carefully selected, prepared, and cooked in a rich, specially made spicy sauce. The broth is thick and flavorful, delivering a balanced heat that’s not overly numbing or overpowering.
Peking Roast Duck
Hua’s Restaurant on Guijie Street is renowned for its expertly crafted Peking roast duck, a dish that exemplifies Beijing’s rich culinary heritage. Cooked to perfection, the duck boasts a crispy, golden-brown skin and tender, juicy meat. Each duck is roasted using traditional techniques, ensuring authentic flavors and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Served with thin pancakes, sweet hoisin sauce, and fresh scallions, it’s an experience as much as a meal. Hua’s elegant ambiance and meticulous attention to detail make it one of the top destinations for savoring this iconic Beijing delicacy.
Zhajiangmian (炸酱面)
A traditional Beijing noodle dish, Guijie Street’s zhajiangmian stands out for its chewy, springy noodles and rich, savory soybean paste. Paired with seasonal vegetables and thin tofu skin, it’s a dish that leaves a lasting impression.
Grilled Oysters and Seafood (烧烤海鲜) on Guijie Street
Grilled oysters and seafood are a staple of Guijie Street’s vibrant night food scene. Fresh oysters, scallops, squid, and other seafood are expertly seasoned with garlic, chili, soy sauce, and herbs before being grilled to perfection. The smoky aroma and the combination of juicy, tender seafood with bold, savory flavors make this a must-try dish.
These items are often paired with cold beer, creating a casual and social dining experience. Many barbecue stalls and smaller eateries along Guijie specialize in these street-style delicacies, making it easy to indulge in this classic treat.
Yude Fu Traditional Lamb Hot Pot (裕德孚老北京涮羊肉)
Yude Fu is a legendary destination for traditional Beijing-style lamb hot pot. Known for its exceptional quality, the restaurant hand-slices its lamb, offering premium cuts like cucumber strips, tenderloin, and sirloin, all prized for their tenderness and flavor.
The hot pot is served with a classic copper pot, using charcoal for a consistent and authentic heat source. Paired with rich sesame-based dipping sauce and fresh vegetables, the experience is both hearty and satisfying. Yude Fu’s commitment to tradition and quality has earned it a reputation as one of the best places to enjoy lamb hot pot in Beijing.
Sichuan-Style Boiled Fish (水煮鱼) on Guijie Street
Sichuan-style boiled fish is a must-try dish on Guijie Street, celebrated for its bold and spicy flavors. This dish features tender fish fillets simmered in a rich, red chili oil broth infused with Sichuan peppercorns, garlic, and a variety of aromatic spices.
The fish is incredibly soft and absorbs the deep, spicy, and numbing flavors of the broth. Often served with bean sprouts or other vegetables, it’s a perfect choice for those seeking an authentic Sichuan culinary experience. Many restaurants on Guijie Street, like Sichuan Renjia, specialize in this fiery and flavorful dish.
Dining Budget at Guijie Street
Gui Jie offers an authentic taste of Beijing’s vibrant culinary scene. When you visit, you’re not just going for a meal; you’re stepping into a lively, sensory-rich experience.
In terms of budget, Gui Jie caters to a wide range of preferences. The average cost per person ranges from a modest CNY 50 to around CNY 200, striking a balance between affordability and quality.
While some visitors have noted the occasional overpriced menu, the majority of restaurants offer reasonably priced, delicious meals.
Guijie Street Nearby Attractions
Guijie Street’s central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Beijing’s cultural gems.
- Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple) (1.5 km): This renowned Tibetan Buddhist temple boasts intricate carvings and a serene atmosphere, perfect for spiritual reflection.
- Wudaoying Hutong (1.5 km): A trendy alley lined with hip cafes, boutique shops, and charming courtyards, offering a blend of traditional and modern vibes.
- Temple of Confucius and Guozijian Museum (1.8 km): Dive into Chinese philosophy and education history at these beautifully preserved sites dedicated to Confucian ideals.
- Drum and Bell Towers (3.5 km): Iconic symbols of old Beijing, these towers offer panoramic views and a glimpse into ancient timekeeping traditions.
- Shichahai (4 km): A scenic area of interconnected lakes perfect for a leisurely stroll, boat ride, or sampling local snacks.
- Yandai Xiejie and Nanluoguxiang (3.8 km): Charming hutongs with unique shops, street food, and a taste of Beijing’s vibrant hutong life.
Explore these spots to enrich your Guijie Street visit!
Hotels Near Guijie Street, Beijing
There are several hotels near Guijie Street offering a range of options. Here are some recommendations with details:
1. Beijing Dongfangmao Hotel (Guijie Beixinqiao Subway Station Branch)
北京东方茂酒店(簋街北新桥地铁站店)
Address: 101 Jiaodaokou East Street, Andingmen Subdistrict, Dongcheng District, Beijing
Features: Well-maintained facilities, efficient and friendly front desk staff, suite upgrades available.
Price: Competitive, around 500–600 RMB for the location.
Rating: 4.6/5
2. Qianyuan Hotel 北京乾元酒店
Address: Dongzhimen Inner Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing
Features: Convenient transportation, close to Guijie Street and Lama Temple, fully equipped.
Rating: Not available.
3. 161 Hotel (Beijing Lama Temple Courtyard Branch)
161酒店(北京雍和宫四合院店)
Address: No. 46, Beixinqiao Santiao, Dongcheng District, Beijing
Features: Within a 5-minute walk of Beixinqiao Station (Line 5) and Lama Temple Station (Line 2), offers traditional Chinese-style rooms.
Rating: Not available.
4. Youxi Jingmo Hotel (Beijing Lama Temple Branch)
有戏·静默酒店(北京雍和宫店)
Address: Dongzhimen Inner Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing
Features: Convenient transportation, a variety of accommodations including luxury hotels and boutique inns.
5. Qiuguo Hotel (Beijing Dongsi Guijie Branch)
秋果酒店(北京东四簋街店)
Address: Building 48, No. 93, Dongsi Shisitiao, Dongcheng District, Beijing
Features: Excellent location with multiple room types available.
These hotels offer great locations, convenient transportation, and a range of amenities to suit different travelers’ needs. Choose the one that best fits your preferences for a more comfortable and convenient stay!
Guijie Street, or Gui Jie, is more than just a food destination; it’s a vibrant slice of Beijing’s rich cultural tapestry. This legendary street, with its intriguing history and bustling contemporary scene, offers a unique blend of traditional and modern flavors that cater to every palate.
Whether you’re seeking a taste of authentic local cuisine or a spicy Sichuan adventure, Gui Jie promises an unforgettable dining experience. With this guide, you can easily plan your Beijing itinerary and include a night out in Gui Jie – it’s an experience that epitomizes the heart and soul of this magnificent city. To experience more Beijing local flavors, please visit Top 12 Foods in Beijing you may try.
