Where to Eat Near the Great Wall: Top Restaurants at Popular Sections

Written by Natalia | Updated December 26,2025

The Great Wall is one of the most rewarding attractions in China. However, the long and kind of arduous walking can also make you feel unexpectedly tired. And in this momenta, most tourists will come to the same practical and urgent question: where can I eat near the Great Wall?

In fact, the dining options along the Great Wall are rich and diverse. You can always find somewhere to eat no matter which section you visit. The abundance of choices may exceed your belief. From convenient tourist food courts to warm farmhouse restaurants, there are all kinds of features.

This guide will recommend restaurants in various sections of the Great Wall in detail, as well as some practical local food information and tips. Continue to look down. I believe that when you read the end, the question of “where to eat” will no longer bother you, and you will also know if you can enjoy delicious food on a trip to the Great Wall.

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• Great Wall Dining Options for Tourists
• Where to Eat at Mutianyu Great Wall
• Dining at Badaling Great Wall
• Restaurants around Jinshanling & Simatai Great Wall
• Dining Options around Other Great Wall Sections
• Quick Guide: Great Wall Section vs. Dining Experience
• Explore the Great Wall with China Xian Tour

Great Wall Dining Options for Tourists

Overview: What to Expect

The dining options are actually more diverse than many tourists expected, but the specific situation also depends on the Great Wall section you visit. In popular and crowded areas such as Badaling and Mutianyu, restaurants and food courts near the entrance are quite a lot. These places usually serve a variety of Chinese and international dishes, snacks and fast food. However, in the less popular sections of the Great Wall, such as Jinshanling and Jiankou, formal dining options are fewer. And there may be only local farmhouses or roadside stalls.

Main Types of Dining Options Near the Great Wall

• Tourist Food Courts

You can find many fast food places in popular scenic spots such as Badaling and Mutianyu. Chinese fast food (noodles, dumplings, rice, etc.) and international fast food are all available.

• Village Farmhouses (Nongjia Yuan)

A family restaurant near the Great Wall. Serve rich northern dishes cooked with fresh local ingredients.

• Upscale International Cafés & Western Restaurants

Most of them are around Mutianyu. They offer Western home-style dishes and coffee.

Budgeting for Meals at Different Sections

Since the Great Wall is a popular scenic spot, the price of food and drink there is usually more expensive. Food courts and small restaurants are the most affordable. The local farmhouse offers a rich set meal at friendly prices. And high-end cafes and restaurants, especially those with beautiful views, are really expensive. If you go to the less-visited sections, be prepared to spend more on food.

Should You Bring Your Own Food? (Pros & Cons)

Many visitors would bring their own food to the Great Wall, especially when visiting quieter sections. Dining options are rather limited in these places. Packing snacks, sandwiches, and water can kill hunger whenever and wherever you want. And this way can save more money compared with tourist food courts. However, carrying food uphill adds weight, and suitable picnic areas near the Wall are limited. Cooking on site is not allowed, so if you bring food, only bring ready-to-eat items.

Where to Eat at Mutianyu Great Wall

Most restaurants around the Mutianyu Great Wall are concentrated at the main entrance. And you can also explore the shuttle/cable station, and area along the road leading from the parking lot to the village. There’s no formal sit-down restaurants on the Wall itself, so visitors usually eat before or after their hike.

Yisonglou Restaurant (翼松楼)

• Address: At the foot of Mutianyu Great Wall, Huairou District, Beijing
• Average Price: ~¥80–150 per person
• Cuisine: Traditional Chinese (Huairou & regional specialties)
• Highlights:

1. Steamed Rainbow Trout — fresh and tender local fish
2. Chestnut-Braised Pork — a regional specialty with Huairou chestnuts
3. Traditional northern Chinese home-style dishes

Talking about restaurants near Mutiantu, then Yisonglou should never be missed. Built against the mountains, it is spacious and scenic, ideal for post-hike meals. The restaurant’s chestnut-braised pork and other local specialties really show authentic regional flavors.

The Schoolhouse at Mutianyu (慕田峪小园餐厅)

• Address: Mutianyu Village, Huairou District, Beijing
• Average price: ~¥180 per person
• Cuisine: International & local fusion
• Highlights:

1. Light Italian-style dishes
2. Homemade desserts & sorbets
3. Fresh local ingredients

The Schoolhouse at Mutianyu is one of the most popular Great Wall restaurants near Mutianyu. The restaurant was originally an old village school. And it naturally attains a warm and comfortable atmosphere. It offers a wide variety of dishes, with both Western and Asian flavors. And there’s also garden seats with beautiful views of the countryside. And all these highlights have made it an ideal place to relax after a day’s tour of the Great Wall.

Yu Jia Ao (渔家傲)

• Address: Near Mutianyu Great Wall commercial village
• Average price: ~¥70–120 per person
• Cuisine: Northern Chinese
• Highlights:

1. Braised meat dishes
2. Dumplings(handmade)
3. Stir-fried seasonal vegetables

Yu Jia Ao is a really famous restaurant favored by people. Here you can discover the authentic Chinese flavor. The hearty traditional dishes are all made with fresh ingredients. This is a cozy and casual place to rest after hiking.

Xiao Shuang QuanSheng Tai LvYuan Restaurant (鑫双泉生态绿园餐厅)

• Address: Mutianyu area
• Average price: ~¥60–100 per person
• Cuisine: Chinese & local specialties
• Highlights:

1. Stir-fried dishes
2. Seasonal local produce
3. Casual dining

This is a simple restaurant loved by hikers and tourists. There are many classic Chinese dishes and they are basically all in reasonable prices and with reliable quality. If you want to quickly enjoy a full meal near the entrance of the Great Wall, this should be your choice.

LINES Great Wall Happy Restaurant (LINES长城欢乐餐厅)

• Address: Mutianyu Great Wall commercial street
• Average price: ~¥120–200 per person
• Cuisine: Western & Mediterranean
• Highlights:

1. Mediterranean and European dishes
2. Steak and pasta
3. Brunch & drinks

LINES is a stylish Western-style restaurant, and it’s right near the Mutianyu commercial street. It is known for its creative menu and relaxed space. So that it’s more suitable for people who want a sit-down lunch after hiking.

Subway (赛百味)

• Address: Near the Mutianyu parking/cable car area
• Average Price: ~¥50–80 per person
• Cuisine: Western-style fast food
• Highlights:

1. Sandwiches
2. Salads
3. Quick, recognizable meals

A should not be unfamiliar to most visitors. It’s a goof choice for international travelers and families who need a quick and easy meal. It’s simple but fulfilling, if you’re short on time and have not fully accepted the bold Chinese flavors, then choose it.

Mu·Cafe (慕咖啡)

• Address: Commercial district at the foot of the Mutianyu Great Wall
• Average Price: ¥40–80 per person
• Cuisine: Café & light snacks
• Highlights:

1. Specialty coffee (seasonal blends)
2. Pastries & light bites
3. Artful, relaxed atmosphere

A charming café with scenic views and cultural creative space. It’s perfect for you to have a coffee break or light snack after walking the Great Wall. It also offers seasonal drinks like chestnut coffee and thematic treats.

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Dining at Badaling Great Wall

The Badaling Great Wall is another popular section. Just like Mutianyu, there are also many dining places near the entrance and tourist area. Go find them near the main entrance and parking lot. There are a lot of different restaurants and they all offer rich and authentic flavors.

Badaling Restaurant (八达岭饭店)

• Address: Inside the Badaling Scenic Area, near the tourist service center
• Average price: ~¥80–120 per person
• Cuisine: Traditional Chinese
• Highlights:

1. Stir-fried noodles and rice dishes
2. Seasonal vegetable dishes
3. Chinese meat specialties

Badaling Restaurant is located opposite the main service center (in the scenic spot), which is quite convenient to find. It attracts tourists with classic Chinese dishes and it has long attaind a solid rating from visitors, it can make your exploration of Badaling even more satisfying.

Great Wall Food Court (八达岭美食广场)

• Address: Right outside the Badaling Great Wall entrance
• Average price: ~¥40–80 per person
• Cuisine: Mixed (Chinese & fast food)
• Highlights:

1. Chinese noodles and rice dishes
2. Snacks and drinks
3. Fast food options

The Great Wall Food Court might be the most convenient place to haunt for food near Badaling. It’s right outside the main gate, and here you can find vaious food stalls and restaurants, which serve fulfilling and classic quick meals: noodles, rice dishes, dumplings, etc. It’s perfect for visitors who want a quick and affordable lunch.

Qing-Feng Steamed Dumpling Shop (庆丰包子铺)

• Address: Near Exit 58 at the Badaling Great Wall area
• Average price: ~¥25–40 per person
• Cuisine: Chinese dumplings & buns
• Highlights:

1. Classic steamed buns
2. Pork & vegetable dumplings
3. Quick breakfast or snack

Qing-Feng is a popular Chinese dumpling chain and one of the most budget-friendly places to eat near Badaling. It is known for its freshly made steamed buns and no-frills efficiency. You can have the buns as breakfast, luch or just snacks. And it’s quite near a main exit and pedestrian street.

KFC Badaling (肯德基)

• Address: Badaling Commercial Street, near the Great Wall Museum
• Average price: ~¥40–70 per person
• Cuisine: Western fast food
• Highlights:

1. Fried chicken & burgers
2. Fries & soft drinks
3. Quick, familiar meals

KFC’s name should be known by all people. And for those who want something more familiar, it’s an ideal choice. It’s ideal for families, children, or anyone who wants a simple, quick meal without waiting.

Yuan Fu Restaurant (缘福吃住客栈)

• Address: A short taxi ride from Badaling Great Wall (near walking street)
• Average price: ¥90–150 per person
• Cuisine: Northern Chinese
• Highlights:

1. Braised pork specialties
2. Northeastern set meals
3. Rich, flavourful sauces

Yuan Fu offers a more traditional Chinese dining experience. It only takes a short walk or cab ride to reach here from the wall entrance. Portions of the dishes are generous, making it suitable for families or groups.

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Restaurants around Jinshanling & Simatai Great Wall

Jinshanling and Simatai’s surrounding area is more remote than the two listed above, so dedicated restaurants are relatively more limited. Most visitors eat in Gubei Water Town (古北水镇), a historic canal town at the foot of Simatai. And some would eat at local guesthouse/farmhouse restaurants near Jinshanling’s entrance. You can find both regional Chinese cuisine and Western-friendly option here. And the best thing is the scenic settings are incredible.

William Edgar Boutique Hotel Western Restaurant (威廉·埃德加西餐厅)

• Address: Inside Gubei Water Town, Miyun District (near Simatai Great Wall)
• Cuisine: Western & fusion
• Average price: ¥120–220 per person
• Highlights:

1. European-style mains and seasonal dishes
2. Excellent presentation and relaxed atmosphere
3. Great choice if you want Western food after a long wall hike

This is a upscale restaurant in Gubei Water Town, and it is well-rated for its Western and fusion cuisine with high quality service. Indeed, it’s one of the best sit-down meal options near Simatai after a day on the wall.

Gubei Roast Duck (古北烤鸭王)

• Location: Gubei Water Town, Miyun District (near Simatai)
• Average Price: ¥120–200 per person
• Cuisine: Beijing/Cantonese roast duck
• Highlights:

1. Classic Beijing roast duck
2. Local dishes with northern flavours
3. Cozy indoor seating with traditional décor

This is one of the most highly reviewed restaurants in Gubei Water Town. Its succulent roast duck is definitely the specialty but you can also find a range of northern Chinese dishes. It’s a satisfying dining choice after a day exploring Jinshanling or Simatai.

Grilled Fish Bar (烤鱼吧)

• Location: Gubei Water Town pedestrian streets
• Average Price: ¥100–180 per person
• Cuisine: Seafood & grilled fish
• Highlights:

1. Spicy grilled fish speciality
2. Fresh local fish selections
3. Great pairing with beer or tea

This one is also a popular local favourite. It specializes in fiery grilled fish and seafood dishes, often served with vegetables and sauces that reflect local cooking styles. It pairs exceptionally well with cold beer or tea, so try this combination if you’re interested, and let them wash away your tiredness.

Wangjinglou Flavor Restaurant (望京楼Flavor)

• Location: Central area of Gubei Water Town
• Average Price: ¥130–250 per person
• Cuisine: Shandong (Lu) cuisine / local northern flavors
• Highlights:

1. Classic Shandong dishes
2. Terrace dining with views

This restaurant is known for its authentic Lu cuisine (one of Chinese Eight Cuisines). And dishes here are typically with rich, savory flavors, all made by traditional cooking techniques. They combines classic Shandong recipes with local northern styles, so you can expect some really typical Chinese tastes.

Tanghe Halal Restaurant (汤河清真餐馆)

• Location: Gubei Water Town
• Average Price: ¥60–110 per person
• Cuisine: Halal & northern Chinese
• Highlights:

1. Hearty halal-style Chinese dishes
2. Lamb and beef stews
3. Popular with local and international visitors

Tanghe Halal Restaurant is known for its savoury halal-style meals, especially lamb and beef dishes stewed with rich spices. This is perfect for those who’re looking for halal food with Chinese flavors, and dishes here are all warm and filling.

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Dining Options around Other Great Wall Sections

Jiankou Great Wall

The Jiankou Great Wall is less visited than other sections as it’s primitive and undeveloped, however, quite popular among professional hikers. The magnificent ridges and steep hillsides here are particularly famous, but the formal dining options are very limited. There’s no full-service restaurant here. So most hikers can only eat in a nearby village or an inn in Xizhazi Village. In Xizhazi Village, you can find some home-style Chinese dishes, such as stir-fry and rainbow trout. These restaurants are usually family-run, but you’ll have to expect simple dishes and a simple environment. Thus, if you are not used to this dining mode, we recommend you to bring your own snacks or plan to eat before and after hiking.

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Huanghuacheng Great Wall

In Huanghuacheng, you can see the magnificent scenery of the intersection of the Great Wall and the reservoir. And such an amazing scene also gives it the name “Lakeside Great Wall”. Compared with the Great Wall near Beijing, it is more quiet and less commercialized. Since there are not many commercial dining places, most tourists would like to bring their own food. Or you can dine at several local small restaurants or snack stalls near the entrance. They simply serve some relatively basic Chinese staple foods, such as noodles, dumplings, etc (quite fulfilling). Of course, there are also shops selling bottled drinks and snacks. Many hikers would enjoy their picnic food by the reservoir after hiking.

Juyongguan Pass

The Juyong pass is a historic fortress close to Beijing. Compared with Jiankou and Huanghuacheng sections, this section has more convenient dining options, and you can easily find them near the foot of the mountain. And these places are basically casual eateries and small restaurants serving home-style Chinese cuisine and local specialties. And there are also snacks at food plazas near the entrance. A popular nearby option is Juyongguan Great Wall Hotel Restaurant, which has good reviews for its Chinese dishes and convenient location near the wall.

Quick Guide: Great Wall Section vs. Dining Experience

Explore the Great Wall with China Xian Tour

The Great Wall of China is one of the most famous and amazing wonders in this world, and it’s also a landmark blending ancient history with breathtaking landscapes. While some people prefer the well-restored sections like Badaling or the rugged, there are also visitors attracted by the adventurous stretches of Simatai and Jinshanling. And if you are now planning a Great Wall tour but don’t know where to start, you can contact China Xian Tour to make a tailor-made Great Wall tours for a more curated adventure.

We can customize your journey, which can give you a hassle-free, memorable experience. We offer personalized itineraries, private transfers, and your guide will also be there 24/7 to support you in all aspects. With our help, all you need to do along the way is make unforgettable memories and fully enjoy your time in this Great Wall adventure.