Tipsy Travel: Beijing Local Food and Bar Crawl night in Hutong

If you’re looking to spice up your Beijing experience beyond the standard sightseeing, this food and bar crawl offers a fantastic way to explore the city’s lesser-known side. This guided evening takes you through winding Hutong alleys, revealing off-the-grid restaurants, secret bars, and underground clubs—all with a local touch. It’s a perfect blend of authentic flavors, lively nightlife, and a sprinkle of adventure.

What really makes this tour shine is the expert guides, who seem to have a sixth sense for uncovering Beijing’s hidden hotspots and weaving together a seamless, fun-filled night. The itinerary is well-paced, covering everything from traditional dumplings to craft cocktails, and ending with some real nightlife secrets. But, it’s worth noting that with so many stops packed into 4-5 hours, the experience is quite intense—so bring your appetite and dance shoes.

One potential consideration is that this is a group tour with a fixed schedule, which might not suit travelers looking for a completely private or relaxed experience. However, for those wanting an energetic, authentic night out and a taste of Beijing’s underground scene, this tour hits the mark. Overall, it’s best suited for curious explorers eager to see the city’s vibrant, lesser-seen side and enjoy some top-notch food and drinks along the way.

Key Points

• Authentic local flavors at off-the-beaten-path eateries and hidden bars.
• Knowledgeable guides who are passionate about revealing Beijing’s secret spots.
• Diverse experiences, from traditional dumplings to innovative cocktails and underground clubs.
• Balanced pace—enough time at each stop without feeling rushed.
• Great value considering it includes food, drinks, and exclusive access to hidden venues.
• Flexible options for snacks and non-alcoholic drinks to accommodate all preferences.

A Night in Beijing You Won’t Forget

This tour is designed for travelers who want more than just a surface-level peek at Beijing. It’s about diving into the local scene, tasting authentic flavors, and experiencing the city’s nightlife in a very intimate, behind-the-curtains way. We love how the itinerary combines culinary delights with vibrant nightlife—each stop feels like uncovering a small treasure chest.

Starting at Laoshi Dumplings, we’re introduced to some of the best dumplings in Beijing—spicy, sweet, and fried fusion options that locals swear by. Our guide emphasizes that no drinking should start on an empty stomach, and indeed, the dumplings are a perfect, satisfying beginning. Reviewers mention frequent praise for this spot, with Dennis noting that “every customer who tried it loves them,” and highlights the flexibility in food choices, including Chongqing spicy noodles and baozi.

Next, we head to North Luogu Lane, a historic Hutong area with a 740-year-old heritage. Here, a trendy brewery with a gorgeous balcony makes for a lively, scenic stop. The beers are some of the best in Beijing, and on hot days, the smoothies or mulled wine in winter add a fun, refreshing twist. This stop is also free, allowing us to relax and soak in the local atmosphere without extra cost—making it a smart addition for those watching their budget.

The cocktail experience at Annei Avenue is a highlight. Upstairs from a popular brewery, this “house-made” cocktail lab is run by a professional bar owner who treats mixology as an art. Watching the bartender craft drinks with house-made ingredients, you realize that this isn’t your average bar. The cocktails are said to be among the best ever tasted, and the interactive element—sitting at the bar, watching the process—adds an engaging, memorable touch.

Moving on, Fangjia Hutong’s TIKI bar offers a tropical escape. Think Hawaiian vibes, shisha, and a youthful crowd eager to have fun. Playing a drinking game here keeps the energy high, and those who want to linger can enjoy the relaxed, artsy environment. The bar’s popularity with Beijing’s younger crowd makes it a lively, informal setting, and the shisha, while extra, offers a nice added touch.

The secret club at Baochao Hutong is a true hidden gem. You cross a nondescript restaurant, go upstairs, and then open a closet door to find a stylish, 1930s-inspired lounge. Live music and cultural events fill the evening, and the DJ past midnight keeps the party going. Reviewers have loved the artsy, hipster vibe—one describes it as a “relaxed, artsy hipster joint.” The guide lets the group stay as long as they want, which is perfect if you’re ready to dance the night away.

Finally, for those wanting to keep the party alive, Wudaoying Hutong’s underground rock club offers a raw, energetic scene. It’s a great spot to experience the Beijing nightlife scene beyond the mainstream, with a mix of old Hutong charm and modern Western influences. This part of the tour is free, giving you the chance to explore the local underground music scene and enjoy a nightcap.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price tag of $158 per person is quite reasonable considering what’s packed into the experience. For this, you get a hearty dinner of dumplings and noodles, snacks like baozi and nuts, and alcoholic beverages—including unlimited Baijiu shots, craft beers, and cocktails. Plus, bottled water is provided, and all fees and taxes are covered.

The dinner at Laoshi Dumplings is a standout, with flexible options that satisfy all tastes. Reviewers praise the dumplings, with Dennis noting their popularity among customers. The craft beers in North Luogu Lane and the house-made cocktails at Annei Avenue add a layer of sophistication often missing from typical bar crawls.

However, tips are optional, so if you feel the guides go above and beyond, a tip is appreciated but not expected.

Practical Details

The tour begins at 19 An Nei Da Jie at 6:30 pm, and it wraps up back at the starting point, making logistics simple. The group size is kept intimate enough for personal attention but large enough to create a lively atmosphere. It’s suitable for most travelers, with the only real requirement being a willingness to try new foods and drinks.

The duration of 4 to 5 hours means you get a full evening of fun, but be prepared for a fairly active pace—there’s a lot to see and taste. It’s recommended for those who enjoy socializing, exploring, and discovering hidden sides of the city.

The Sum Up

This Beijing night tour offers a fantastic blend of culinary adventure, craft drinks, and underground nightlife. The experience is especially valuable for travelers who want something authentic, off-the-beaten-path, and lively. The guides are clearly passionate about sharing their favorite spots, making each stop feel like a genuine discovery.

If you’re interested in tasting local Beijing flavors, sipping innovative cocktails, and experiencing the city’s vibrant underground scene, this tour checks all the boxes. The included food, drinks, and exclusive access to hidden venues make it a great value for a memorable night out.

While it’s not ideal for those seeking a quiet, relaxed evening, it’s perfect for energetic explorers, first-timers eager to see more than the usual tourist spots, or anyone looking to dance and mingle into the early hours. This tour captures the heart and soul of Beijing’s underground scene—authentic, fun, and a little mysterious.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, the tour offers non-alcoholic options such as cider and virgin cocktails, and participation in drinking is optional.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs approximately 4 to 5 hours, starting at 6:30 pm and ending back at the meeting point.

Are there vegetarian options available?
While the tour features Chinese dumplings and noodles, specific dietary options aren’t detailed. It’s best to ask the guide about vegetarian choices upon booking.

Do I need to prepare or bring anything?
Just bring your enthusiasm and appetite! The tour includes water, food, and drinks; comfortable shoes and a sense of adventure are recommended.

Can I join the tour if I don’t speak Chinese?
Absolutely. The guides speak English, and the experience is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for international travelers.

Is this a private tour?
No, this is a group activity, but only your booked group participates, ensuring a personalized experience within a lively group setting.

This comprehensive, authentic journey through Beijing’s hidden nightlife and local flavors promises an evening full of surprises, great food, and lively drinks—perfect for those eager to see the city’s vibrant, lesser-known side.