International city means international cuisine in every possible way.  The best way to eat a delicious meal is to stumble upon a small Chinese restaurant in a Hutong and use pointing and miming to get what looks tasty to you.

Here are a few additional recommendations:

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Chinese

Da Dong (22 Dongsishitiao, Doncheng District, Beijing, +86-10-5169-0328) Without a doubt the most delicious duck you’ll ever taste.  Full presentation service as well as a 300-page menu make Da Dong a must-visit.  Free wine while you wait for your table.  Quite possibly the best meal this writer has ever had.  $18 per person including duck and a cocktail.

The Local (Everywhere) Look for neon lights and wooden numbered tables, then sneak in armed with either a food translation guide or a wandering eye.  Just point to what looks good on other tables.  The sweet and sour pork (pronounced: Goo-Laos-Row) is delectable.

Western

Element Fresh (The Village at Sanlitun, Sanlitun Road, Chaoyang District) Offering a mix of western and pan-Asian fair, their brunch menu definitely has the most rewarding entrees on offer.  Don’t miss the chocolate banana soy protein power shake.  It’s perfect after a big night out.  $13 per person.

Blue Frog (The Village at Sanlitun, Sanlitun Road, Chaoyang District, +86-10-6417-4030) The best burger in Beijing.  The Sanlitun branch has an enormous outdoor patio perfect for al fresco dining and stargazing (when stars decide to turn on).

Bits & Bobs

Sanlitun – This bustling bar district is also home to Vietnamese, Mexican and British cuisine as well as several kebob vendors.  Get it to go and eat on the street like the Chinese do.

Supermarkets – Chinese supermarkets are a tourist attraction in and of themselves.  Don’t miss the rice, tea and fish sections.  More “traditional” fare is also available.

Baozi – Stuffed buns are the perfect breakfast food.  Look for big round bamboo steamers.  They come in both meat and vegetable varieties.  20 cents per bun.