Best Budget Eats in Beijing, China

Beijing, China, Beijing, Food & Drink, Best Budget Eats

Best Budget Eats in Beijing, China

Jianbing (Chinese Crepes)

1. Jianbing (Chinese Crepes)

Jianbing is a popular breakfast street food in Beijing, known for its crispy outside and soft inside. It includes ingredients such as eggs, cilantro, scallions, and a spicy sauce, folded into a delicate crepe. Ideal for a quick, on-the-go meal without breaking the bank.
  • Availability: Sold at roadside stalls and street markets.
  • Customization: Ingredients can often be customized to your taste.
  • Price: Typically costs less than 10 RMB.
Roujiamo (Chinese Burger)

2. Roujiamo (Chinese Burger)

Often dubbed the "Chinese burger," roujiamo is a snack comprising spiced meat stuffed into a flaky bread pocket. It's a quick and hearty option for meat lovers looking for an inexpensive meal.
  • Versatility: Comes with different types of meat fillings like beef, pork, or lamb.
  • Accessibility: Widely available at street stalls and local restaurants.
  • Tradition: Considered comfort food by locals.
Jiaozi (Dumplings)

3. Jiaozi (Dumplings)

Dumplings are a staple in Beijing, served steamed or fried, and filled with meat, vegetables, or a mixture of both. They're an economical choice for a fulfilling and tasty meal.
  • Filling Options: Numerous filling combinations are available.
  • Dining Experience: Can be enjoyed in both modest dumpling shops and upscale restaurants.
  • Sharing: Great for sharing, making them perfect for group dining.
Yangrou Chuan (Lamb Skewers)

4. Yangrou Chuan (Lamb Skewers)

Known for their spicy and savory flavor, these grilled lamb skewers are seasoned with cumin and chili powder. They are a popular nighttime street snack that satisfies meat cravings.
  • Cooking Style: Grilled freshly on demand.
  • Spice Level: Can be adjusted to your taste.
  • Social Experience: Often enjoyed during late-night outings.
Zhajiangmian (Noodles with Soybean Paste)

5. Zhajiangmian (Noodles with Soybean Paste)

A comforting noodle dish featuring thick wheat noodles topped with a salty fermented soybean paste. It is a budget-friendly choice for those who crave a hearty meal.
  • Texture: The combination of chewy noodles and creamy sauce.
  • Serving Size: Serves as a filling meal.
  • Cultural Significance: A traditional Beijing dish.
Peking Duck Streetside Edition

6. Peking Duck Streetside Edition

Some smaller eateries in Beijing offer a budget version of the famous Peking duck. While not the full-upscale experience, it allows travelers to taste this iconic dish affordably.
  • Simplicity: Quick and straightforward without the typical dining ceremony.
  • Serving: Usually comes in smaller, manageable portions.
  • Authenticity: Preserves essential flavors at a lower price.
Baozi (Steamed Buns)

7. Baozi (Steamed Buns)

Whether filled with vegetables or meat, baozi is a soft and tasty snack found ubiquitously in Beijing. These buns are perfect for travelers looking for something filling and cheap.
  • Portability: Handy for eating on the go.
  • Varied Fillings: Comes in sweet and savory varieties.
  • Availability: Commonly sold in convenience stores and food stalls.
Tofu Fa (Bean Curd Pudding)

8. Tofu Fa (Bean Curd Pudding)

This dessert-like street food consists of silky soft tofu, often topped with sweet syrup or sesame paste. It offers a sweet alternative to heavier dishes.
  • Lightness: Ideal for those wanting a lighter treat.
  • Textures: A mix of smooth and creamy consistencies.
  • Vegan Option: Plant-based and dairy-free.
Laohu Cai (Tiger Vegetable Salad)

9. Laohu Cai (Tiger Vegetable Salad)

A refreshing salad made from coriander, spring onions, and chili, offering a cooling reprieve from heavier street meals. It is both simple and refreshing, perfect for veggie lovers.
  • Freshness: Only made with fresh ingredients for the best taste.
  • Healthiness: Low in calories and high in antioxidants.
  • Complementary Choice: Pairs well with spicy dishes.
Youtiao (Chinese Churros)

10. Youtiao (Chinese Churros)

These deep-fried dough sticks are traditionally served alongside a bowl of soy milk for breakfast. Cheap and satisfying, they are akin to savory donuts.
  • Value for Money: Known as an inexpensive fill-me-up meal.
  • Crispiness: Enjoyed for their unique crispy yet airy texture.
  • Eating Time: Traditionally eaten for breakfast.
Douzhi (Fermented Mung Bean Milk)

11. Douzhi (Fermented Mung Bean Milk)

A traditional local beverage with a sour taste made from fermented mung beans, it is often served with breakfast foods. It is a unique taste adventure for those willing to try something new.
  • Uniqueness: An unusual drink not typically found outside of Beijing.
  • Pairing: Usually paired with jiaoquan (fried dough ring).
  • Nutritional Aspect: Rich in protein.
Beijing Noodle Soup

12. Beijing Noodle Soup

Warm and comforting, this noodle soup is filled with local vegetables and meat for a quick and satisfying meal. It is perfect for a chilly day in Beijing.
  • Soup Base: Flavored with local herbs and spices.
  • Customization: Can include a range of ingredients.
  • Serving Size: Great as a filling solo meal or shareable dish.
Jianbing Guozi

13. Jianbing Guozi

A variation of the traditional Jianbing, this version includes a crispy fried cracker roll to give extra crunch. Perfect for those on the go who yearn for a crispy, tangy snack.
  • Crunchiness: Adds an additional element with the cracker.
  • Quick Service: Served efficiently at many street stalls.
  • Popularity: A beloved spin on a traditional dish.
Tanghulu (Candied Hawthorn)

14. Tanghulu (Candied Hawthorn)

Found often at tourist sites, these skewered, sugar-coated fruits are a sweet budget-friendly treat. Their crunchy and sweet nature makes them a perfect dessert after a meal.
  • Variety: Available with a variety of fruits other than hawthorn.
  • Texture: Offers a unique mix of sweet exterior and tart, juicy interior.
  • Portability: Easy to eat while on the move.
Ma La Tang (Spicy Soup)

15. Ma La Tang (Spicy Soup)

This customizable soup allows diners to pick meats, vegetables, and noodles to simmer in a spicy broth. A budget-friendly way to enjoy a variety of flavors.
  • Spiciness: Spice levels can be adjusted to preference.
  • Customization: Choose from numerous ingredients to add.
  • Dining Method: Similar to hot pot but more individualized.
Pancakes with Scallion (Cong You Bing)

16. Pancakes with Scallion (Cong You Bing)

These savory pancakes are a tasty street food made with dough and finely chopped scallions, fried until crispy. Affordable and simple, they are a popular snack or light meal.
  • Affordability: Priced lower than many other snacks.
  • Simplicity: Made with basic and fresh ingredients.
  • Offered: Available from most street vendors.
Eggplant with Garlic Sauce

17. Eggplant with Garlic Sauce

A delicious budget-friendly vegetable dish that's soft and seasoned with a savory garlic sauce. It's an ideal choice for vegetarians seeking a flavorful option.
  • Flavor: Known for its bold taste and aroma.
  • Vegetarian-friendly: Perfect for non-meat eaters.
  • Side Dish: Commonly served alongside rice or noodles.
Fried Rice (Chao Fan)

18. Fried Rice (Chao Fan)

Often made with day-old rice, vegetables, egg, and occasionally meat, this is a hearty, fast, and affordable dish found in small eateries or as street food.
  • Copious Portions: Generous serving sizes make it a filling meal.
  • Quick Prep: Typically served fast for on-the-go eating.
  • Customizable: Ingredients can often be adjusted per personal preference.
Hot and Sour Soup

19. Hot and Sour Soup

A tangy and spicy soup filled with bamboo shoots, tofu, and a variety of vegetables. It provides delightfully strong flavors for minimal cost.
  • Spice and Tang: Offers a balanced palette of flavors.
  • Vegetables: Rich in vegetables, making it healthy and satisfying.
  • Serving: Usually available as a side with larger meals.
White Pea Cake (Lvdougao)

20. White Pea Cake (Lvdougao)

A sweet option for dessert, these cakes are made from white pea flour, providing a dense but delightful treat. Affordable and authentically local, they make for a satisfying sweet bite.
  • Sweetness: Lightly sweet, suitable for someone seeking less intense sugar.
  • Traditional: A historical Beijing dessert with cultural significance.
  • Packaging: Often pre-packed for convenience and transport.