This guide was last updated in July 2025. Restaurant information, including hours, prices, and availability, may change. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details before visiting.
Beijing’s culinary landscape has evolved dramatically over the past decade, with Middle Eastern cuisine carving out a significant niche among international dining options.
From traditional Lebanese mezze to Persian kebabs, the capital offers authentic flavors that transport diners across continents.
This comprehensive guide examines the city’s premier Middle Eastern establishments, providing detailed insights for both residents and visitors seeking genuine culinary experiences.
Our Selection Methodology
Our recommendations are based on extensive research including:
- TripAdvisor ratings and verified customer reviews
- Local dining publications like The Beijinger
- Official Beijing government tourism recommendations
- Personal visits and taste testing
- Authenticity verification through cultural community feedback
Top 5 Middle Eastern Restaurants in Beijing
1. One Thousand and One Nights (1001 Nights)
Cuisine: Lebanese/Pan-Middle Eastern
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
A crowd favorite known for entertainment value with belly dancers on stage and delightful hummus, kebabs, rice dishes and delicious salads.
This establishment has maintained its reputation as Beijing’s most atmospheric Middle Eastern dining destination.
Signature Dishes:
- Traditional hummus with warm pita bread
- Lamb shawarma with yogurt sauce
- Mixed grill platter featuring various kebabs
- Baklava with honey and pistachios
Ambiance: Authentic Arabian décor with live entertainment, perfect for special occasions and group dining.
2. Alameen Arabic Restaurant
Cuisine: Palestinian/Lebanese
Overall Rating: 4.2/5
This unassuming but welcoming Middle Eastern haven behind the German embassy is owned and managed by a Palestinian/Lebanese pair.
The restaurant offers an intimate dining experience with consistently high-quality traditional dishes.
Signature Dishes:
- Hummus and baba ghanoush (both RMB 20)
- Kibbeh (RMB 25 – fried croquettes stuffed with minced beef)
- Hummus with meat (30RMB)
Ambiance: With Al Jazeera news on the TV, Arabic calligraphy on the walls and patrons puffing on hookahs, dining at Alameen is like riding a magic carpet straight to Lebanon.
3. Persepolis Restaurant
Cuisine: Persian/Iranian
Overall Rating: 4.3/5
Persepolis brings authentic Persian flavors to Beijing with traditional cooking methods and imported spices.
The restaurant excels in grilled meats and rice dishes that showcase the complexity of Iranian cuisine.
Signature Dishes:
- Tender lamb kebabs with saffron rice
- Pomegranate-glazed meatballs
- Hearty Persian lentil soup
- Mint yogurt beverages
Ambiance: Elegant Persian décor with traditional music, creating an authentic Tehran dining atmosphere.
4. Al Safir Restaurant
Cuisine: Mediterranean/Levantine
Overall Rating: 4.1/5
Al Safir has built a reputation for its diverse menu spanning Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines.
The restaurant uses traditional Arab culinary techniques enhanced with oriental spices.
Signature Dishes:
- Fresh falafel with tahini sauce
- Chicken and lamb shawarma
- Mutabal (smoky eggplant dip)
- Grilled mixed seafood platter
Ambiance: Modern Mediterranean setting with outdoor terrace seating available.
5. La Medina
Cuisine: Tunisian/North African
Overall Rating: 4.0/5
While technically North African rather than Middle Eastern, La Medina earns inclusion for its exceptional quality and authentic Maghreb cuisine.
The restaurant offers a rare opportunity to experience Tunisian flavors in Beijing.
Signature Dishes:
- Traditional couscous with merguez sausage
- Brik pastry with egg and tuna
- Tunisian-style tagines
- Makroudh date pastries
Ambiance: Authentic Tunisian décor with traditional music and hospitality.
Restaurant Comparison Table
| Restaurant | Cuisine Type | Price Range | Halal Certified | Delivery Available | Reservation Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1001 Nights | Lebanese/Pan-ME | ¥80-150/person | Yes | No | Yes (weekends) |
| Alameen | Palestinian/Lebanese | ¥60-120/person | Yes | Limited | No |
| Persepolis | Persian/Iranian | ¥70-140/person | Yes | No | Recommended |
| Al Safir | Mediterranean/Levantine | ¥65-130/person | Yes | Yes | No |
| La Medina | Tunisian/North African | ¥75-135/person | Yes | No | Yes (dinner) |
Location and Contact Information
Alameen Arabic Restaurant
- Address: Sanlitun West 5th Street West 2 (behind the German Embassy), Chaoyang District
- Nearest Metro: Tuanjiehu Station (Line 10)
- Phone: Contact through delivery apps or visit directly
- Hours: Daily 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Other Restaurant Locations
Note: Due to the dynamic nature of Beijing’s restaurant scene, we recommend calling ahead to confirm hours and availability. Some establishments may have relocated or updated their contact information.
Dining Tips for Middle Eastern Restaurants in Beijing
Cultural Considerations
- Most establishments are halal-certified, catering to Muslim dietary requirements
- Alcohol availability varies by restaurant – call ahead if this is important
- Friday prayers may affect lunch service hours at some locations
Ordering Recommendations
- Share mezze platters for the best variety and value
- Ask about daily specials featuring seasonal ingredients
- Many restaurants offer set menus that provide good value for groups
Payment and Tipping
- Most restaurants accept WeChat Pay and Alipay
- Credit cards are accepted at upscale establishments
- Tipping is not expected but appreciated for exceptional service
Seasonal Considerations
Spring/Fall: Ideal for outdoor dining at restaurants with terraces
Summer: Indoor dining recommended due to Beijing’s heat and humidity
Winter: Perfect season for hearty stews and warm Middle Eastern comfort foods
Alternative Options
For those seeking additional Middle Eastern dining experiences:
- Maiden Tower for Azerbaijani cuisine
- Turkish restaurants in the Sanlitun area
- Lebanese cafés in the CBD district
Conclusion
Beijing’s Middle Eastern restaurant scene offers authentic flavors and cultural experiences that rival those found in the region itself.
Whether you’re seeking a casual lunch or an elaborate dinner with entertainment, these establishments provide diverse options to satisfy any craving for Middle Eastern cuisine.
The key to enjoying these restaurants lies in understanding that each offers a unique cultural perspective – from Palestinian home cooking at Alameen to the theatrical experience of 1001 Nights.
We recommend visiting multiple establishments to fully appreciate the diversity of Middle Eastern culinary traditions represented in Beijing.
