Yibin: A Taste of Authentic Sichuanese Cuisine in Beijing

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For those seeking a taste of authentic Sichuanese cuisine in the heart of Beijing, Yibin is a must-visit restaurant. A winner of the 2023 Michelin Bib Gourmand award, Yibin takes its name from the city of Yibin in Sichuan, which is famous for its spicy and flavorful food.

At Yibin restaurant, the kitchen is helmed by chefs from the city of Yibin itself, and most of the ingredients used in the restaurant are also shipped directly from there to create a truly authentic experience. This attention to detail is evident in every dish served at the restaurant.

The Lizhuang Boiled Pork shouldn't be missed

One of the standout dishes at Yibin is the Lizhuang Boiled Pork 李庄白肉 lǐzhuāng báiròu (RMB 69). One of the restaurant's signature dishes, it’s a must-try. Tender, thin slices of pork are paired with a salty and spicy dipping sauce that balances the flavors perfectly. This dish is named after the city of Lizhuang in Sichuan province, which is famous for its pork dishes.

Another standout dish is the Yibin Noodles 宜宾燃面 yíbīn ránmiàn (RMB 29), a staple dish in the region. The noodles are served with bean sprouts and dressed in a nutty, spicy sauce made from Sichuan pepper and toasted sesame seeds. These noodles are pretty spicy so be warned!

Yibin noodles are a staple in Yibin and are great for sharing

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Another great dish for spice lovers is the Sichuan-Style Spicy Chicken 川香辣子鸡丁 chuān xiāng làzi jīdīng (RMB 86). This is a classic Sichuanese dish, and Yibin's version is exceptional. Chicken is coated in a spicy and numbing sauce with notes of garlic, ginger, and scallions. It’s a favorite among regulars at Yibin and no trip here is complete without it. The dish name includes the Sichuanese word for chili (辣子 làzi), and once you take a look at the dish, you’ll see why!

Spice lovers won't be able to get enough of the the Sichuan-Style Spicy Chicken

The interior decoration of Yibin has a distinct Sichuanese style, with bamboo lanterns decorating the space throughout. The wooden tables and chairs, along with the warm lighting, create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The staff at Yibin are friendly and welcoming and are always happy to recommend dishes or help with any special requests.

One thing to keep in mind when visiting Yibin is that it can get quite busy, especially during peak hours. Expect to wait for at least an hour for a table, as the restaurant does not take reservations for groups smaller than eight people. However, the wait is well worth it, as the food and atmosphere at Yibin are truly exceptional. Whether you're a fan of spicy food or simply looking to try something new, Yibin is sure to impress. So why not gather some friends and head to Yibin for an unforgettable dining experience?

Yibin 宜宾招待所

28 Xizhong Hutong, West Side of Xizhong Jie, Xicheng District
西城区西中街西侧西中胡同28号
Hours: 10.30am-8pm
Phone: [phone]
 

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Images: Yufei Zhang

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