Evening Food Private Tour with Brewery Taproom Hopping at Slow Boat in Beijing

If you’re looking for an evening that blends local street food with craft beer and personalized service, this private tour in Beijing might just hit the spot. Combining the hustle of bustling hutongs and the laid-back vibe of a renowned brewery, it’s a great way to experience the city’s culinary side after hours.

What we love most about this experience is its intimate setting—a private guide takes you through some of the city’s most iconic food spots, offering insights you won’t get from a larger group. Plus, the chance to relax at the Slow Boat Brewery Taproom, which boasts the largest selection of craft beers in Beijing, helps wind down the night in style.

One thing to consider is that this tour is quite food-heavy, with over 20 tastings, which might be overwhelming for light eaters or those with specific dietary restrictions. Still, it’s perfect for adventurous eaters eager to try everything from stinky tofu to liuzhou luosifen (river snail rice noodles).

This experience suits travelers who love cultural exploration with a culinary twist, want a private and flexible outing, and enjoy beer as part of their social mix. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone eager for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path evening in Beijing.

Key Points

• Private experience ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
• Authentic street food tastings provide a genuine taste of Beijing’s culinary traditions.
• Local guides bring rich insights into food history and culture.
• Craft beer at Slow Boat is a highlight, featuring Beijing’s largest selection.
• Convenient pickup from hotels within Beijing’s 3rd ring road.
• Duration of 3-4 hours makes it an easy evening activity without feeling rushed.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Beijing’s vibrant evening scene, blending food, culture, and craft beer into a seamless package. Starting with hotel pickup, you’ll be greeted by your knowledgeable guide (such as Becci or Cactus, according to reviews) in your hotel lobby at 6 p.m. and whisked off to some of the most iconic hutong neighborhoods.

Exploring Beijing’s Hutongs and Local Food Streets

The first stop is the Dongsi Hutong, a historic area packed with narrow alleys and traditional architecture. While only a brief stop, this area sets the tone for a night immersed in authentic Beijing life. Your guide will share stories about the neighborhood’s past, adding context to what you’ll see and taste.

Next, the tour heads to LongFuSi Jie, a lively street known for its street food. Here, you’ll encounter a broad spectrum of local delicacies. According to reviews, the food options here are quite varied, with highlights like barbecue kabobs – including beef, lamb, and even chicken heart, for those feeling brave. The Ma La Tang, a spicy hot pot of skewered vegetables and meats boiled in fiery Sichuan broth, is another crowd favorite, especially paired with a cold beer or soft drink.

Stinky tofu is on the menu for the more adventurous — a pungent, fermented snack that’s beloved by many locals. As one reviewer put it, “some of the food was a bit outside our comfort zone,” but that’s part of the fun of authentic street eats. The Guilin rice noodles served with pork bone stock, peanuts, and greens are another highlight, showcasing how Beijing’s food scene blends regional flavors.

The Street Snack Tour at Huguosi Hutong

After filling up with several flavors, you’ll visit Huguosi Hutong Snack Street, home to numerous small food stalls and shops. Although the temple that once stood here is gone, the street’s reputation remains. Expect a set menu of 12 different snacks, including Douzhi (a mung bean soy-milk alternative), Jiaoquan (a crispy onion-like ring), and preserved vegetables.

This part of the tour is deliciously informal, giving you a chance to sample more local favorites in a lively, bustling setting. Reviewers note that this segment is quite brief—about 20 minutes—but packed with variety, making it a tasty whirlwind. It’s a good chance to try snacks you might not find elsewhere and to see how Beijing locals snack on an everyday basis.

Wind Down at Slow Boat Brewery Taproom

The final stop is the Slow Boat Brewery Taproom, a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its impressive selection of craft beers. Known for brewing locally in Beijing, Slow Boat prides itself on unpasteurized, preservative-free beers that appeal to craft beer aficionados.

Here, your tour includes a complimentary glass of beer, giving you a chance to relax and chat with fellow travelers or simply soak in the lively atmosphere. The taproom’s reputation for offering the largest craft beer selection in Beijing means you could easily stay longer if you wish. Several reviews mention enjoying extra drinks and hanging out beyond the included one, making it a social highlight of the evening.

Transportation and Timing

One of the advantages of this tour is the private transfer included (if selected), which simplifies logistics and ensures you’re not navigating unfamiliar streets after dark. The entire experience lasts about 3 to 4 hours, making it a manageable evening activity that fits well into most itineraries.

Authenticity and Value

This tour doesn’t just skim the surface—it offers genuine interaction with local food vendors and insights from guides who are well-versed in Beijing’s culinary stories. As one reviewer mentioned, “She was very knowledgeable and a fun person to spend the evening with,” highlighting the value of a private guide who can tailor the experience and share interesting tidbits.

Priced at $99 per person, the overall value is quite compelling considering the multiple tastings, private transport, and the personalized nature of the tour. The food alone, with over 20 samples, provides a full meal experience that would likely cost more if done independently.

Dietary Considerations

While the tour includes a variety of foods, it’s prudent to mention that specific dietary requirements should be communicated at the time of booking. For adventurous eaters, this is perfect, but those with dietary restrictions might want to double-check with the tour provider.

Weather and Clothing

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately (think layers or rain gear, depending on the forecast) is recommended. Since much of the experience is outdoors, comfort and practicality are key.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for foodies who want a deeper dive into Beijing’s street cuisine, especially if they enjoy craft beer and intimate guided visits. It’s especially well-suited for couples and small groups who prefer a personalized touch, and for travelers eager to explore beyond typical landmarks in a relaxed, social setting.

If you’re someone who appreciates learning about local food culture and is open to trying new flavors—some of which may be quite bold—this tour offers a fantastic blend of education, taste, and fun.

The Sum Up

This private evening tour in Beijing offers a unique way to experience the city’s rich street food scene paired with a top-tier craft brewery. It combines cultural insights, authentic flavors, and a relaxed social atmosphere, all tailored to your group’s interests. For those who want a personalized, food-focused adventure with the chance to learn from guides who truly know their stuff, this is an excellent choice.

The inclusion of over 20 tastings ensures you’ll leave full and satisfied, while the visit to Slow Boat Brewery adds a trendy, local vibe perfect for winding down after a busy day. It’s a great way to see a different side of Beijing—away from the tourist crowds and into the heart of its culinary soul.

This tour is especially recommended for curious travelers eager for an authentic, intimate experience that balances history, culture, and gastronomy. It’s a great pick for those who enjoy small-group outings, personalized guides, and a taste of Beijing’s thriving craft beer scene.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 3 to 4 hours, making it a manageable evening activity.

Where does the tour start?
You’ll be picked up from your hotel within Beijing’s 3rd ring road, with most tours starting around 6:00 p.m. in the hotel lobby.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience for just your group, which allows for a more flexible and personalized outing.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes a local guide, all food tastings (over 20 samples), round-trip private transportation (if selected), and one glass of beer at Slow Boat Brewery Taproom.

Can I join if I have dietary restrictions?
Yes, but it’s recommended to advise the tour operator of any specific dietary requirements at the time of booking.

Is alcohol included?
One glass of craft beer is included at the Slow Boat Taproom. Additional drinks can be purchased separately.

What kind of food will I taste?
Expect a variety of local street foods, including barbecue kabobs, stinky tofu, hot pot skewers, and Guilin rice noodles, among others.

Can I stay longer at Slow Boat Brewery?
Absolutely. Several reviews mention enjoying extra drinks and hanging out at the taproom after the tour ends.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions, but dressing appropriately is advised for outdoor segments.