Honest Review of Trying Geoduck Rice and Fried Stinky Tofu at a Seafood Restaurant in Beijing

During my trip to Beijing, I wanted to fully immerse myself in the local vibe, so I visited a famous seafood restaurant. From the entrance, there were tanks filled with live seafood, and among them, one thing caught my eye... geoduck. Yes, I tried geoduck rice, which is rare even in Korea.

🐙 Geoduck Rice... Surprisingly Good

It wasn’t as fishy as I expected, with a chewy texture and strong seasoning that made it feel like a great pairing with alcohol. It was served lukewarm, which initially threw me off, but as I kept eating, I found it oddly addictive.

🍢 Variety of Chinese Seafood Dishes

Steamed clams, grilled abalone, chili-sauce-coated fried squid, and more... All the dishes were heavily seasoned and rich in spices. It might be a bit overwhelming for Korean taste buds, but if you enjoy the distinct flavors of Chinese cuisine, it’s a real treat.

🤢 Fried Stinky Tofu... Challenge Completed

The smell was like opening the gates of hell... but since it was fried, it felt less intimidating. The outside was crispy, while the inside was soft with a texture somewhat like cheese. I managed one piece thinking, "Oh, I can handle this," but by the second piece, I was done. It’s a one-time experience I’m satisfied with.

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📌 Overall
The restaurant had more locals than tourists, and there wasn’t a single English word on the menu. Using Google Translate and lots of gestures, I managed to order, which added to the charm of the experience. If you want to dive into the local food scene in Beijing, I highly recommend it! Just be prepared for strong spices and unusual flavors if you’re not used to them.

Post by 마시쩌이 | May 28, 2025