When it comes to Beijing cuisine, few names resonate as strongly as Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant. Nestled in the bustling heart of Wangfujing, this iconic spot promises an authentic slice of Beijing's culinary heritage. But does it live up to the hype? Let's dive in.

First off, the roast duck. Oh, the roast duck! It’s every bit as succulent and flavorful as you’d expect from a place with such a storied reputation. The skin is crispy, the meat tender, and the Beijing style flavors are on point. A solid 7 out of 10 in my book. The other dishes? They play a supporting role, but the star remains the duck.

We arrived early, and boy, did that pay off. The service was fast, like lightning-fast. However, the interaction was minimal—most of the staff don’t speak English, which might make the experience a bit impersonal for some. Average service, let's say.

Now, let's talk prices. Brace yourself, because Quanjude is not for the faint of wallet. It’s expensive, undeniably so. The environment is clean, which is always a plus, but when it comes down to it, the overall experience feels a tad overpriced.

Would I repeat the order? Probably not. There are better options in Beijing, like Siji Mingren Roast Duck Restaurant, which I personally prefer. But would I recommend Quanjude? Probably. It’s a piece of Beijing’s culinary history, after all. Just manage your expectations and your wallet.

So, there you have it. Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant: great taste, pricey, and a slice of Beijing you might want to experience at least once. Just remember, sometimes the legend is better than the reality.