The Best Halal Food Restaurants in Beijing

Beijing is home to a large Muslim population, particularly the Hui ethnic group, and offers a variety of delicious halal food options. Whether you are in search of traditional Chinese Muslim dishes or modern halal cuisine, Beijing’s halal restaurants cater to all tastes. Below are some of the best halal food restaurants in Beijing, including their specialties and useful travel tips.

1. Niujie Qingzhen Supermarket Restaurant (牛街清真超市餐厅)

Located in the famous Niujie area, which is Beijing’s Muslim quarter, this restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. It serves a variety of traditional halal dishes such as Beef Noodles (Niurou Lamian), Lamb Kebabs, and Peking Roast Duck (Halal Version).

  • Address: No. 18 Niujie Street, Xicheng District, Beijing
  • Specialties: Halal Peking Duck, lamb kebabs, and cold beef salad
  • Travel Tips: Visit Niujie Mosque, Beijing’s oldest mosque, just a short walk away. The area is known for its Muslim-friendly markets and halal bakeries.

2. Hongbinlou (鸿宾楼)

One of the most famous halal restaurants in Beijing, Hongbinlou has been serving delicious Hui Muslim cuisine since 1853. The restaurant is known for its rich history and classic dishes such as Lamb Hotpot, Sesame Lamb, and Beef Stir Fry.

  • Address: 11 Xuanwumen Outer Street, Xicheng District, Beijing
  • Specialties: Lamb hotpot, sesame lamb, Hui-style beef
  • Travel Tips: Hongbinlou is a fine dining establishment, so it’s recommended to make reservations ahead of time, especially during weekends.

3. Jubaoyuan (聚宝源)

Famous for its Halal Mongolian Hotpot, Jubaoyuan is one of the most popular spots in Beijing for enjoying a flavorful lamb hotpot meal. The restaurant offers an authentic hotpot experience with fresh lamb, vegetables, and noodles cooked in a savory broth.

  • Address: No. 5 Niujie Xili, Xicheng District, Beijing
  • Specialties: Mongolian lamb hotpot, freshly made sesame buns
  • Travel Tips: Be prepared to wait in line during peak hours, as this restaurant is highly popular among locals. It’s best to arrive early to secure a table.

4. Xiyuan Qingzhen Restaurant (西苑清真饭庄)

Xiyuan Qingzhen is an excellent choice for those looking to experience authentic Beijing Muslim cuisine in a casual and traditional setting. Their menu includes dishes like Lamb Skewers, Braised Lamb, and Lamb Dumplings.

  • Address: No. 25 Xiyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing
  • Specialties: Braised lamb, lamb dumplings, hand-pulled noodles
  • Travel Tips: The restaurant is located near the Summer Palace, making it a convenient stop after exploring the historic site.

5. Ziguangyuan Muslim Restaurant (紫光园)

Ziguangyuan is a popular chain of halal restaurants in Beijing, offering a wide variety of Hui Muslim cuisine. Known for its affordable prices and tasty food, the restaurant serves dishes like Lamb Kebabs, Beef Stir-fry, and Steamed Buns.

  • Address: Various locations around Beijing, with a flagship branch in the Chaoyang District
  • Specialties: Lamb skewers, beef stir-fry, spicy stews
  • Travel Tips: Ziguangyuan is a great place for a casual meal. The restaurant can get busy, so be prepared for a wait during meal times.

6. Crescent Moon Muslim Restaurant (新月餐厅)

Located in the heart of Beijing, Crescent Moon offers a taste of Xinjiang cuisine, known for its bold flavors and spices. The restaurant specializes in Lamb Kebabs, Nang Bread, and Big Plate Chicken (Dapanji).

  • Address: No. 16 Dongsi 6th Alley, Dongcheng District, Beijing
  • Specialties: Dapanji, lamb kebabs, nang bread
  • Travel Tips: This restaurant is a hidden gem tucked away in a hutong (narrow alleyway). It’s a great spot for trying authentic Xinjiang dishes in a cozy setting.

7. Yijinyuan Muslim Restaurant (伊锦园)

Yijinyuan is a large restaurant known for its fusion of traditional Hui Muslim and Beijing-style cuisine. The menu includes classic dishes such as Lamb Stew, Beef Hotpot, and Hand-pulled Noodles.

  • Address: No. 120 North Xinhua Street, Xicheng District, Beijing
  • Specialties: Lamb stew, beef hotpot, noodles
  • Travel Tips: The restaurant is spacious and great for family dining or large groups. It is located close to several historic sites, making it a convenient dining stop during sightseeing.

8. Afunti Restaurant (阿凡提餐厅)

Afunti is a lively restaurant that specializes in Xinjiang cuisine and offers a unique dining experience with live Uyghur music and performances. Their signature dishes include Roast Lamb, Lamb Kebabs, and Pomegranate Chicken.

  • Address: No. 26 Dongsishitiao, Dongcheng District, Beijing
  • Specialties: Roast lamb, pomegranate chicken, lamb kebabs
  • Travel Tips: Afunti is popular for its entertainment, making it a great choice for a fun night out. The lively atmosphere and delicious food make it a must-visit for halal food lovers.

How to Get There and Travel Tips

  • Metro: Most halal restaurants in Beijing are easily accessible via the city’s extensive metro system. For example, you can take Line 4 to reach Niujie Street, a hub for halal food in the Xicheng District.
  • Taxis and Ride-hailing Apps: Beijing’s taxis and ride-hailing apps like Didi are convenient for getting to restaurants, especially during off-peak hours. Be sure to have the Chinese address on hand to show the driver.
  • Timing: Fridays can be particularly busy at halal restaurants due to the large Muslim community attending Jumu’ah prayers, so plan accordingly if you want to avoid long waits.
  • Explore Muslim Quarters: Niujie Street is the heart of the Muslim community in Beijing. It’s not only home to great halal restaurants but also has mosques, markets, and shops selling halal products and snacks.

Beijing offers a fantastic variety of halal food that reflects its rich Muslim heritage. Whether you’re in the mood for Uyghur kebabs or Hui-style beef stew, these restaurants provide an excellent halal dining experience for locals and travelers alike.