Beijing’s drinking scene combines ancient traditions with modern flair. The best tours weave through historic hutong neighborhoods, where centuries-old courtyards now house craft beer bars and local haunts.
I’m especially fond of the unlimited beer tours – they pair perfectly with street-side dumplings and grilled skewers.
The Imperial Palace dining tours stand out for their unique setting and royal court cuisine.
For serious foodies, the private street food excursions hit up to 20 different vendors, offering the most comprehensive taste of local life.
Let’s explore Beijing’s most worthwhile drinking tours.
Key Points
- The Beijing Hutong Walking Food and Beer Tour offers a small-group experience with multiple food stops and unlimited beer and sodas.
- The Authentic Old Beijing Hutong Food and Beer Private Tour provides a personalized experience with 5-6 food and drink tastings, including unlimited beer and sodas.
- The Beijing Imperial Dining Experience allows visitors to dine at a former Qing-dynasty royal palace with exquisite gardens and live performances.
- The Beijing Hidden Gems Guided Food Tour explores hidden culinary gems in hutong alleyways, featuring local dishes and unlimited beer and sodas.
- The Private Beijing Night Tour includes dinner at an authentic dumpling restaurant and a visit to a craft beer brewery for sampling.
Beijing Hutong Walking Food and Beer Tour at Hidden Restaurants
The Beijing Hutong Walking Food and Beer Tour at Hidden Restaurants from Lost Plate provides a unique opportunity to explore Beijing’s historic alleyways and sample local cuisine.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, this small-group tour offers an immersive experience, including four food stops equivalent to dinner and unlimited beer and sodas.
Highlights include trying Beijing hotpot, noodles, beef buns, and spring pancakes, as well as a craft beer tasting at a local brewery. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the significance of the dishes and the local culture.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and accommodates vegetarians.
With a 99% recommendation rate from 815 reviewers, this tour is a must-try for food and history enthusiasts visiting Beijing.
Read our full review: Beijing Hutong Walking Food and Beer Tour at Hidden Restaurants Review
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Authentic Old Beijing Hutong Food and Beer Private Tour
Authentic Old Beijing Hutong Food and Beer Private Tour offers a captivating exploration of Beijing’s historic alleyways and local culinary delights.
For $80 per person, you’ll embark on a 30-review, 100% recommended journey, complete with 5-6 food and drink tastings, unlimited beer and sodas, and a yoghurt or frozen yoghurt pop.
An English-speaking guide will lead you through the narrow hutongs, handling transportation and assisting with gratuities.
This private tour accommodates dietary preferences and additional language guides upon request.
With 5-star ratings across the board, it’s an excellent way to learn about Beijing’s authentic culture and cuisine.
Read our full review: Authentic Old Beijing Hutong Food and Beer Private Tour Review
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Beijing Imperial Dining Experience at Bai Jia Da Yuan Restaurant With Houhai Lake Bar Tour
Enjoy the grandeur of Beijing’s imperial past at the Bai Jia Da Yuan Restaurant, a former Qing-dynasty royal palace and protected cultural heritage site.
Dine amidst exquisite gardens, a lantern-festooned courtyard, and costumed staff, while enjoying colorful live performances from Chinese operas.
This 5-hour tour also includes a walking tour of Houhai Lake’s illuminated landmarks and vibrant bar scene.
With high traveler recommendations, a 4.5-star rating, and accessibility features, this experience offers an authentic taste of imperial China paired with the lively nightlife of modern Beijing.
Just be aware that food quality can vary, so manage your expectations accordingly.
Read our full review: Beijing Imperial Dining Experience at Bai Jia Da Yuan Restaurant With Houhai Lake Bar Tour Review
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Beijing: Hidden Gems Guided Food Tour With Beer and Tastings
Explore Beijing’s hidden culinary gems through this guided 3.5-hour food tour, which takes you on a journey through the historic hutong alleyways.
For $75 per person, you’ll sample local dishes like mutton hotpot with craft beer and 100-year-old Beijing noodles. Savor an endangered Muslim dish favored by Empress Cixi and traditional spring pancakes.
Included are 4 food stops equivalent to dinner and unlimited beer and sodas. With a maximum group size of 10, you’ll enjoy personalized attention from a live English-speaking guide who provides insights into the hutongs and culinary history.
Reviewers praise the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, as well as the generous food portions and enjoyable atmosphere.
Read our full review: Beijing: Hidden Gems Guided Food Tour With Beer and Tastings Review
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Private Beijing Night Tour With Mr. Shi’s Dumplings, Great Leap Brewing and Houhai Lake
This private Beijing night tour offers an opportunity to savor local culinary delights, discover the city’s vibrant craft beer scene, and learn about the serene ambiance of Houhai Lake.
You’ll start with dinner at Mr. Shi’s Dumplings, where you’ll enjoy authentic water-boiled and pan-fried jiaozi.
Next, you’ll visit Great Leap Brewing, one of Beijing’s first craft breweries, and sample a refreshing glass of beer.
The tour then takes you on a night stroll along Houhai Lake, where you’ll soak in the moonlit views.
Throughout the 4-hour experience, your knowledgeable guide will provide insights into the local culture and history.
This private tour ensures personalized attention and flexibility, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an authentic Beijing adventure.
Read our full review: Private Beijing Night Tour With Mr. Shi’s Dumplings, Great Leap Brewing and Houhai Lake Review
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Evening Food Private Tour With Brewery Taproom Hopping at Slow Boat in Beijing
Frequently, travelers to Beijing seek an immersive experience delving into the city’s vibrant culinary and craft beer scenes.
The Evening Food Private Tour with Brewery Taproom Hopping at Slow Boat offers just that. Led by a local guide, you’ll explore Beijing’s hutong alleyways, sampling up to 20 mouth-watering street food items like river snail rice noodles and stinky tofu.
The highlight is a visit to the Slow Boat Brewery Taproom, where you’ll enjoy a complimentary glass of beer.
With a private transfer option and flexible cancellation policy, this tour provides a well-rounded and convenient way to experience Beijing’s dynamic food and drink culture.
Read our full review: Evening Food Private Tour With Brewery Taproom Hopping at Slow Boat in Beijing Review
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Private Guided Walking Tour in the Hidden Bars of Hutong, Beijing
For those seeking a captivating evening immersed in Beijing’s vibrant hutong culture, the Private Guided Walking Tour in the Hidden Bars of Hutong offers an unparalleled experience.
Starting at 7:30 PM, this 5-star rated tour guides you through several hidden bars and cocktail lounges, with optional transportation via bike, walking, or tuktuk.
Indulge in delectable Chinese cuisine, unlimited baijiu, craft beers, and cocktails.
The tour is private, allowing your group to fully immerse in the city’s unique nightlife.
Though not wheelchair accessible, it’s a fantastic option for those seeking an authentic Beijing adventure.
At just €142.09 per person, it’s a must-do for discerning travelers.
Read our full review: Private Guided Walking Tour in the Hidden Bars of Hutong, Beijing Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Visit the Tour Locations on My Own?
Yes, you can visit the tour locations on your own. Many of these destinations are open to the public, so you can explore them independently without booking a guided tour. Just be mindful of any entrance fees or operating hours.
Are the Tours Suitable for Vegetarians or Dietary Restrictions?
The tours are generally suitable for vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions. Many of the stops offer non-alcoholic and vegetarian-friendly options. It’s best to check with the tour operator in advance to ensure your needs can be accommodated.
How Much Time Is Typically Spent at Each Location?
The amount of time at each location typically varies, but you can expect to spend around 1-2 hours exploring and sampling the offerings. The tour’s pace and schedule are designed to provide a well-rounded experience.
Are the Tours Wheelchair-Accessible or Suitable for Limited Mobility?
The tours are generally wheelchair-accessible, with staff able to assist guests with limited mobility. However, some venues may have steps or other access challenges, so it’s best to inquire about specific accessibility needs when booking.
Can I Book the Tours in Advance or Do They Have Limited Availability?
You can typically book these tours in advance to secure your spot, as availability may be limited, especially during peak seasons or high-demand periods. It’s best to make reservations early to ensure you get the tour you want.
Recap
You’ll find the best drinking tours in Beijing cover authentic local cuisine, historic hutongs, and trendy breweries. From walking food and beer tours to private dining experiences, these tours offer a well-rounded taste of the city’s vibrant food and drink scene. Whether you prefer hidden gems or iconic landmarks, there’s a Beijing drinking tour that’ll suit your interests. Just pick the one that sounds most appealing and get ready to eat, drink, and explore.