Erli Zhuang (North Fourth Ring Road)-二里庄

With more than 20 locations scattered around town, this is one of Beijing’s most popular
Korean BBQ places. And sure enough, it’s an easy favorite, winning "Best Korean" in the Beijinger’s 2011 Restaurant Awards. Good for crowds or on a budget. If you could eat a horse, grill yourself an entire cow (quan niu)for RMB 120.

A good place for pazhulian, soy-braised pig’s face, and xuechang, blood sausages. A dish traditionally served during Chinese New Year, the sausages are more tender than tofu.

Student-oriented (what else could a Wudaokou bar be?), Club Taku is cavernous but comfortable, a little shoddy, but ultimately a fine place to hang out. Big draws begin and end with all-you-can-drink nights. A good place to stay up late, get a little toasty and dance.