The original, and most famous, spot to feast on Beijing's famous roast duck, Quanjude has many locations around the capital. Affordable food (a duck that feeds 2/3 people goes for 168 RMB), combined with authentic atmosphere, makes this an essential stop during any trip to Beijing.

Expect to wait at peak meal times, but the service is quick and efficient, and the food is totally worth it. Also, forgo ordering any additional soups (they throw in a complimentary duck broth at the end of the meal), but instead consider a nice vegatable or mushroom dish.

At first glance, the menu may seem a little steeply priced; disregard the super-expensive "designer" duck combinations and go for the classic 'kaoya' (pronounced cow-yah).