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

Authentic Beijing Flavors and Craft Beer: A Complete Review of the Evening Food & Brewery Tour

If you’re looking for a way to experience Beijing beyond the usual tourist spots, this private evening tour offers an engaging blend of local street food and craft beer. While it’s designed to be relaxed and fun, it also gives you a genuine taste of Beijing’s culinary soul with expert guides leading the way. From bustling hutongs to the popular Slow Boat brewery, this experience is perfect for food lovers and those wanting a behind-the-scenes look at Beijing’s evolving food scene.

Three standout features make this tour particularly appealing: the delicious variety of street food tastings, the insightful guide-led exploration of local culinary culture, and the vibrant craft beer scene at Slow Boat Brewery. However, some travelers might find the pace a bit fast if they’re not used to walking and tasting multiple stops in a short span. This tour is ideal for curious travelers eager to combine food, culture, and a little bit of local nightlife in one evening.

Key Points

• Private, tailored experience: Only your group and a dedicated guide for a personalized outing.
• Culinary diversity: Over 20 tastings, including local street specialties and snacks.
• Cultural insights: Learn about the history and traditions behind Beijing’s street food.
• Craft beer focus: Enjoy Beijing’s largest selection of locally brewed beers in a lively taproom.
• Comfortable logistics: Hotel pickup and private transportation ensure smooth transitions.
• Flexible ending: Option to stay longer at the brewery or be dropped off at your hotel.

Why You’ll Love This Tour

This tour offers a fantastic way to get an authentic taste of Beijing while steering clear of the typical tourist traps. The combination of street food exploration and the bustling Slow Boat Brewery creates a fun, relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for those who enjoy experiencing local nightlife and food culture firsthand. The guide, often praised for being knowledgeable and friendly, adds a lot of value by sharing stories and insights you might not find in a guidebook.

One of the best aspects is the variety of food samples—from spicy Ma La Tang to unique snacks like Jiaoquan and Guilin rice noodles, you’ll be introduced to flavors that define Beijing’s street scene. As one reviewer mentioned, the experience of tasting dishes like stinky tofu and hot pot, while sharing stories about their origins, really brings the city’s culinary culture to life.

Another highlight is the Small Boat Brewery Taproom, known for its extensive selection of craft beers brewed locally in Beijing. The included drink gives you a taste of the city’s burgeoning craft beer scene, which is a welcome change from more traditional, often mass-produced beers. Plus, the atmosphere in the taproom is lively and friendly, making it a perfect spot to relax after a walk through the hutongs.

The private nature of the tour ensures you won’t feel overwhelmed or rushed, and the hotel pickup streamlines the evening, removing the hassle of navigating Beijing’s busy streets alone. If you’re a solo traveler or part of a small group, this setup offers an intimate and personalized experience.

What to Expect: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Starting Point: Dongsi Hutong

Your evening kicks off with a hotel pickup at 6:00 p.m., where your private guide will meet you in the hotel lobby. From there, you’ll head straight into Dongsi Hutong, a historic neighborhood filled with traditional Beijing charm. Walking through these narrow alleyways offers a glimpse of the city’s past and sets the tone for your food adventure. Reviewers have noted that guides like Becci and Cactus are not only knowledgeable but also engaging, helping you understand the cultural significance of each stop.

LongFuSi Jie: A Food Lover’s Paradise

Next, you’ll explore LongFuSi Jie, a vibrant street packed with local food stalls. Here, you’ll sample a variety of dishes, including barbecue skewers—from beef to lamb and even chicken hearts—plus some daring options like stinky tofu. The hot pot, Ma La Tang, allows you to pick your preferred ingredients, which are then cooked in spicy, numbing broth. Reviewers have appreciated the helpful guidance of guides in navigating these flavors. As one noted, “Some of the food was outside our comfort zone, but our guide was really helpful in encouraging us to try everything.”

The rice noodles—Guilin MiFen—are also a highlight, made with pork bone stock and topped with peanuts and greens, providing a hearty, local flavor. Expect to spend about an hour here, soaking in the lively atmosphere and sampling a variety of dishes.

Huguosi Hutong Snack Street: A Sweet and Savory Finish

Your exploration continues at Huguosi Hutong, a street renowned for its snack offerings. Although the temple that once gave the street its name no longer exists, the street remains a beloved food destination. Here, you’ll taste about 12 different local snacks, including the tangy and fermented Douzhi, crispy Jiaoquan, and preserved vegetables. One reviewer describes this part as a “fabulous” tasting journey with great variety that captures the essence of Beijing’s street food culture in just 20 minutes.

Wrapping Up at Slow Boat Brewery

After filling your stomach with delicious bites, you’ll head to the Slow Boat Brewery Taproom. This place is known for its largest selection of craft beers in Beijing, brewed without preservatives or chemicals. A complimentary glass of beer is included, giving you a taste of the city’s craft brewing scene, which has gained quite a following.

The taproom offers a lively, unpretentious vibe that’s perfect for unwinding after a busy evening of walking and tasting. Reviewers have commented on the friendly knowledgeable staff and the diverse beer selection, making it an enjoyable way to end your night. If you’re inclined, you can opt to stay longer, soaking in the atmosphere or trying more brews, though the tour ends with the drop-off back at your hotel unless you choose otherwise.

Practical Details and Insights

Duration and Timing

This 3 to 4-hour experience strikes the right balance—long enough to enjoy multiple stops without feeling rushed. Starting at 6:00 p.m., it fits well into an evening plan, especially if you’re eager to explore at night or want a relaxed way to kick off an evening in Beijing.

Transportation and Comfort

The tour includes round-trip private transport, which is a major plus considering Beijing’s traffic and the challenge of navigating the hutongs on your own. If you opt for the with transfer option, your guide will handle logistics, allowing you to focus solely on the experience. For those not using this option, be prepared for some walking, but the route is manageable and within the city’s core.

Cost and Value

At $99 per person, this tour offers a lot—between the multiple tastings, guide expertise, and craft beer, it’s a great value for a curated, private experience. The inclusion of more than 20 tastings and a beer makes it a substantial evening activity, especially for food and drink enthusiasts.

Dietary and Weather Considerations

The tour is suitable for most travelers, and guides are happy to discuss dietary requirements if notified in advance. Since it runs in all weather conditions, dressing appropriately and bringing an umbrella or raincoat on rainy days is wise.

Authenticity and Unique Insights from Reviews

Reviewers have highlighted that guides like Becci and Cactus are really knowledgeable and personable, often going beyond just tasting to share stories about Beijing’s culinary origins. One reviewer said, “She was very knowledgeable and a fun person to spend the evening with,” which enhances the experience beyond just food.

The local guides also help in navigating the menu, encouraging guests to try unfamiliar dishes, and explaining their cultural significance. This personal touch makes the experience feel special and authentic, rather than a generic tour.

Final Thoughts

This private evening tour in Beijing offers a wonderful blend of street food, cultural insight, and craft beer. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy tasting a variety of local flavors, learning about their background, and relaxing in a casual, lively environment. The private setup ensures personalized attention and the flexibility to extend your time at the brewery or return to your hotel.

While the pace can be brisk, the guides’ expertise and the variety of delicious samples make it a worthwhile experience. Whether you’re a foodie, a craft beer enthusiast, or simply curious about Beijing’s night scene, this tour provides a well-rounded, enjoyable introduction to the city’s vibrant culinary life.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup at hotels within Beijing’s 3rd ring road is included, making logistics hassle-free.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, starting at 6:00 p.m. with hotel pickup.

How many food samples can I expect?
You’ll taste over 20 different local street food items, from snacks to hot dishes, along with a beer at the brewery.

Can I customize my dietary restrictions?
Yes, please advise any dietary requirements at the time of booking so guides can accommodate your needs.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 4 can join for free, but note that the minimum drinking age is 18.

What if I want to stay longer at the brewery?
You can opt to spend more time at the Slow Boat Taproom after the tour, as the guide will be happy to see you off there.

This private evening tour in Beijing offers an authentic, fun, and delicious way to experience the city’s culinary scene—perfect for those eager to combine food, culture, and craft beer in one memorable night.