September 08

With the closing of the Olympic Games, duck farmers in China can finally take a break. Not only is Peking Duck a signature dish in Beijing cuisine, it also topped the list of popular dishes at the Olympic Village, which doubled their daily order just to meet demand.

Quanjude and Dadong are some of the Peking Duck institutions in the country, whereas Made In China, the Chinese restaurant at Grand Hyatt Beijing, has become a favourite among locals and expats alike. Carving of the duck is a ceremony. The duck glistens on arrival and the aroma fills your nostrils. My favourite part of the duck is the crispy skin, which should be eaten alone. Take a piece of the crispy skin and dip it in sugar, and let it melt in your mouth. No wonder the athletes were eating these roast birds for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I would too.

SP