Gastro Esthetics DaDong
Beijing, China Mainland
⭐1 Star
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
The Peking duck chain’s flagship in town got a makeover in 2021 and was re-branded as the chain’s most exclusive branch. The signature roast duck only uses 22-day-old birds, and is served with condiments like pancake, cucumber, scallion, minced garlic and bean sauce. Braised sea cucumber is a sensational tour de force – spiny sea cucumber from Kanto, Japan is prepared tableside à la minute. Seasonal seafood and mushroom dishes are also the highlights.
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
Three unique/unconventional aspects of Gastro Esthetics DaDong, Beijing:
Architectural Design Breaking Traditional Stereotypes
The restaurant features curved forms that break the conventional stereotype of Chinese restaurants, creating a dynamic spatial experience. The use of black mirrored stone floors produces a water-like effect, reflecting abstract forms that make guests feel as if they are walking into a living "landscape painting." The entrance lobby’s curved walls and a glowing red acrylic structural column under a sculpted black staircase add to the unique sensory aesthetics and spatial narrative.Exclusive Use of Young Ducks for Signature Peking Duck
Gastro Esthetics DaDong serves its signature roast duck exclusively using 22-day-old birds, which is younger than typical Peking duck preparations. This choice contributes to the dish’s renowned crispy skin and succulent meat, served with traditional condiments and carved tableside, emphasizing freshness and exclusivity.Tableside Preparation of Rare Ingredients
The restaurant offers a tableside preparation of braised spiny sea cucumber sourced from Kanto, Japan, prepared à la minute. This theatrical and rare ingredient presentation elevates the dining experience beyond typical Chinese cuisine offerings.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred Gastro Esthetics DaDong in Beijing are:
22-day-old baby duck: Used for their signature roast duck, prized for its crispy, low-fat meat. The duck is served in multiple ways, including paired with luxurious Kaluga Queen caviar, wrapped in lettuce, or traditionally with sweet bean paste and cucumber strips.
Kaluga Queen caviar: A premium ingredient paired with the roast duck to add a rich, creamy, and nutty dimension, balancing the oiliness of the duck skin and enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Spiny sea cucumber from Kanto, Japan: Featured in a braised sea cucumber dish prepared tableside, valued for its soft and chewy texture and regarded as a prized ingredient in Chinese cuisine.
Double-boiled bird’s nest: Used in a delicate dessert simmered with crystal sugar, prized for its nutritious benefits and silky texture, often accompanied by water chestnut pearls for added texture and visual appeal.
Condiments such as scallions, cucumber, minced garlic, and bean sauce: Essential accompaniments to the roast duck, enhancing the traditional flavors and textures of the dish.
These ingredients highlight the restaurant's focus on premium, carefully selected components that elevate classic Beijing dishes through refined techniques and luxurious pairings.
Menu & Pricing
Current Offerings & Prices
Tasting Menus
- Gastro Esthetics Tasting Menu: ¥1,288 (approximately $190 USD)
Signature Dishes
- Peking duck: ¥188 (approximately $28 USD) per half bird
- Braised sea cucumber: ¥128 (approximately $19 USD)