Bite into Mending Roubing: Unlock Old Beijing’s “Hidden Treasure Flavor”
Dear international friends, as you wander Beijing’s hutongs and alleys, the city offers more than the Great Wall or Forbidden City—it hides countless culinary gems. One of the most iconic? Mending Roubing (Gate Nail Meat Pie). Crispy, juicy, and full of Old Beijing flavor, this meat pie is a small treasure waiting to be discovered! Curious about more traditional Beijing flavors? Explore all our recommended spots on the Beijing Local Food Trails page.
What is Mending Roubing
Named for its round, bulging shape resembling decorative palace gate nails (mending), this snack dates back to the Qing Dynasty. Legend says Empress Dowager Cixi tasted it and praised its flavor, cementing its fame. A perfectly baked Mending Roubing has a golden, crispy crust and a tender, savory filling made from carefully seasoned lean and fatty beef, with scallions and ginger enhancing the aroma. One bite delivers a crunch, followed by rich meat juices—pure Old Beijing magic!
Top Mending Roubing Spots in Beijing
1. Baorui Mending Roubing (Dongsi Main Store) – Old Beijing Classic
- Location: No. 142 Dongsi North Street, Dongcheng District
- Price: ¥8 per pie
- Highlights: A legendary Dongsi shop famous for its consistently plump, juicy pies. The crust is thin yet crispy, while the meat filling bursts with flavor. The lively, bustling space exudes authentic Old Beijing charm.
- Access: Subway Line 5 to Dongsi Station (Exit D), 2-minute walk
- Insider Tip: Expect a queue, especially at peak times. Small dining space adds to the local atmosphere.
- Reservations: Walk-ins only
2. Mending Li (Niujie Branch) – Halal Street Gem
- Location: No. 5-2 Niujie, Xicheng District
- Price: ¥7 per pie
- Highlights: Big, flavorful pies with perfectly balanced meat and spices. Niujie’s bustling Halal food street provides a lively context for tasting other local snacks. The shop is praised for warm service and authentic recipes.
- Access: Subway Line 7 to Guang’anmen Nei Station (Exit C), short walk
- Insider Tip: Public transport is recommended due to traffic. Pies are generously sized; consider sharing if your appetite is moderate.
- Reservations: Walk-ins only
3. Mending Roubing (Gulou Branch) – Drum Tower Favorite
- Location: No. 86 Gulou West Street, Xicheng District
- Price: ¥9 per pie
- Highlights: Extra crispy crust with super juicy filling, making it one of Beijing’s most indulgent Mending Roubing. Perfectly complements sightseeing around the Drum Tower and Shichahai.
- Access: Subway Line 2 or 8 to Gulou Dajie Station (Exit E), 3-minute walk
- Insider Tip: Arrive early on weekends or holidays to avoid crowds; pies are served hot, so watch your fingers!
- Reservations: Walk-ins only
4. Laociqikou Douzhi Shop (Temple of Heaven Branch) – Landmark Combo
- Location: Across from Temple of Heaven North Gate, Dongcheng District
- Price: ¥6 per pie
- Highlights: Combines Mending Roubing with classic Beijing breakfast items like Douzhi (fermented mung bean drink) and jiaogu an (fried dough rings). A must-try for a full Old Beijing morning experience.
- Access: Subway Line 5 to Tiantan Dongmen Station (Exit A), 3-minute walk
- Insider Tip: Douzhi is an acquired taste—sip slowly if trying for the first time.
- Reservations: Walk-ins only
5. Xiangyunxuan (Niujie South Exit Branch) – Authentic Halal Snack Stop
- Location: Bing 8, Niujie South Exit, Xicheng District
- Price: ¥8 per pie
- Highlights: Offers warm, freshly baked pies with a crisp crust and juicy filling. Friendly staff and a convenient location near other Halal eateries make it perfect for a snack crawl.
- Access: Subway Line 4 or 7 to Caishikou Station (Exit D), short walk
- Insider Tip: Parking available nearby; pies are authentic and generously filled.
- Reservations: Walk-ins only
Conclusion: One Bite, A Taste of Old Beijing
Mending Roubing is more than a snack—it’s a window into Beijing’s culinary history. Every crisp bite and savory mouthful tells the story of the capital’s flavors and traditions. Follow this guide, explore the hutongs, and discover the full depth of Old Beijing through these iconic pies. Check out our guide on Best Foods to Try in Beijing for local must-eats beyond Mending Roubing. Discover even more local flavors in our article on Best Places to Eat Local Beijing Snacks.
