And the worst restaurant in Beijing is...
by oerkenbo about Huajiayiyuan
The worst restaurant in Beijing? Now that's a competition more fierce than the Olympic Gold.
I love Chinese food and I think the world of what you find in Hong Kong, Taipei and Toronto. I even think there are many good ones in New York and London. Finding one that's satisfying in China seems to be a really elusive goal.
Huajiayiyuan is another one of Lonely Planet's incomprehensible picks. They have a few locations in Beijing. Despite the one right across the street from the Sofitel Wanda where we stayed, we went to the one on Dongzhimen Street because it's housed in a traditional courtyard house.
And that's where supreme disappointment lay waiting.
When we arrived we were told to wait. No one gave us a number, or any instructions what we were waiting for. 15 minutes later, I asked them "You told us to wait 15 minutes ago. What exactly are we waiting for?" That was when they realized they had forgotten us.
Once seated, we were given the same nonchalant, almost rude service you get in a lot of restaurants in China.
But the food was the worst. Duck was supposed to be a specialty, but we again got the "we ran out of...". The braised duck dish we got, tasted like shreds of an old mop with soy sauce added. While that house specialty certainly took the cake, the rest of the dinner was totally forgettable at best.
The only saving grace -- the lady attendant in the men's room was really very personable. If you like greasy, salty, chewy food that would pull your denture out, this is the place for you.
Forum Posts
Travelling with 2 yr old - need child friendly decent accomodation
by 1Karan
Hi:
We will be traveling to Beijing next month for the first time and are looking to stay at one of the good hotels in the tourist area/ shopping area. We have a 2 yr old with us so need a child friendly hotel with big rooms and several eating options, western food, even indian if possible.
Looking to spend 150-200 USD a night!
Tripadvisor rates G Hotel, and Park plaza and Hilton quite high but I just want to make sure if they are right for us..any suggestions would be much appreciated...Thanks so much for your advice and help....
Re: Travelling with 2 yr old - need child friendly decent accomodation
by greencargirl
If you're looking to spend that amount, you can choose from one of many good international hotels. Our favorite chain in China (when going the 5 star international route) is Shangri-La, hands down, for service and comfort. They have great food options for kids too (a buffet with everything, and I do mean everything!)
Most international hotels, though, will have a buffet restaurant, and should have plenty of food options for your child. The differences you'll find will be in the quality of service, how new and nice the facilities are, and the range of food.
If I were you, I'd try to pin down more exactly where you want to stay in terms of districts. Beijing is surprisingly sprawling, and getting from place to place can take forever within the city. Figure out where you want to visit, and find out which are the best hotels in close vacinity within that district.
Have a great trip!
Re: Travelling with 2 yr old - need child friendly decent accomodation
by 1Karan
Thanks so much for your response!
Re: Travelling with 2 yr old - need child friendly decent accomodation
by 1Karan
Thanks so much for your response!
Re: Travelling with 2 yr old - need child friendly decent accomodation
by easttours
Hotel G is an Artistic Boutique. Not necessarily great for kids though - I think he/she is still too young to appreciate those.
Hilton Wangfujing and Park Plaza are in better location. Park Plaza offers the best value. Just ask your agents to request a crib for your child.
Wangfujing is the right area to stay at, there are many restaurants, night markets and it's a pedestrian only region so that you feel safe enough if the little run is running around.
Re: Travelling with 2 yr old - need child friendly decent accomodation
by 1Karan
Thanks so much...I think we'll go with Park Plaza then!
Re: Travelling with 2 yr old - need child friendly decent accomodation
by wharwell
The Sofitel Wanda Beijing is currently the top-rated hotel in China, and they sometimes have rooms for under US$200. We have stayed there on several occasions and always enjoy it.
