Shake Shack Draws a Crowd of Burger-Lovers in Taikooli

Despite Wednesday's downpour, burger fans queued for over an hour to sink their teeth into Beijing’s latest beef – the much anticipated Shake Shack.

Being a Midwestern American, this was my first experience with Shake Shack. I had heard mixed reviews, mostly to the effect of “good, but overrated.” Now that I’ve tried the famous burger right here in Sanlitun’s Taikooli, it seems that the appeal for me is mainly nostalgic. Essentially, it’s a higher quality version of a burger that you would find at any American theme park. One thing is for sure, however – Beijinger’s seem to like it, adding fierce competition to this year’s upcoming Burger Cup.

The branch seemed to be prepared for its own popularity, as well, placing the restaurant in not one, but two separate buildings, with a sizable outdoor dining area to boot. Taikooli Mall also seemed to celebrate the arrival, placing a large bulldog statue with fry-and-shake sunglasses and a burger t-shirt at the entrance.

If you, too, are a Shake Shack virgin, be sure to try the fries. Crinkle cut and served with a nacho-cheese (RMB 34) – again, the sort you would find at an American theme park) – they’re fairly unique in the Beijing French fry scene. Wash it all down with the brand’s specialty Brooklyn-brewed Shackmeister Ale, or go local with a Worker’s Pale Ale or Flying Fist IPA (RMB 51-RMB 66 each) from Jing-A.

There are a few other items on the menu, including beef hot dogs, chicken burgers, and of course, the titular “concrete” shakes, including a Beijing specialty, the Hutong Hawthorn (RMB 45). Bringing your pup along too? Treat him or her to a “Bag o’ Bones” (RMB 30).

We’re not sure when, if ever, the lines will die down, but if you’re in the area and have a long lunch break, Shake Shack is worth a try. Our new favorite burger in the city? Probably not, but we’ll certainly be back for more.

Shake Shack
19 Sanlitun Lu, Taikooli South, Chaoyang District
朝阳区三里屯路19号三里屯太苦里南区

READ: Hot & Spicy 2020 Begins TODAY! Clear Skies and Fiery Bellies Projected All Day

Images: Joey Knotts