Review of a Beijing local hotspot - Rougui Xiaozi (肉桂小子)

I wanted to find a truly local restaurant, so I went to this place recommended by a local friend. Even before lunchtime, there was already a long line at the entrance, and everyone in line was Chinese locals. That alone gave me confidence in the place. The restaurant was small but bustling inside. The menu was entirely in Chinese, with no English at all, so I chose dishes based on the pictures and even got recommendations from the staff. The signature dishes were 'Xiaolongbao,' 'Malaxiangguo,' and handmade dumplings. The Xiaolongbao was bursting with juicy flavor, and the Malaxiangguo was spicy but had a strong aroma that was incredibly addictive. The unique taste of the spices lingered in my mouth, making me keep reaching for more. I understood why locals lined up for this place after just one bite. It felt like I was eating authentic Chinese food, completely different from the tourist spots. The lively atmosphere inside the restaurant added to the charm. If you're planning your itinerary, make sure to dedicate a day to visit this restaurant—you won't regret it. Location: In an alley near Chaoyang District (Rougui Xiaozi 肉桂小子)