Founded in 1864 by a poultry dealer named Yang Quanren, Quanjude is China's most famous destination for duck. This seven-floor emporium, its 41 dining rooms bedecked in communist-chic red-and-gold decor, is the flagship. The elegantly plated duck, while not the finest in town, hits the spot, and as a bonus you get a numbered certificate of authenticity for your bird.
The restaurant is geared to the tourist hordes (both domestic and foreign), which means booking is advised and service can be peremptory. It also caters for visiting VIPs in its many private rooms. Check out the photos of everyone from Fidel Castro to Zhang Yimou adorning the wall – proof that 'duck diplomacy' is a thing.
For the adventurous foodie, Quanjude offers some serious nose-to-tail eating. As part of a banquet, a series of dishes make use of every part of the duck, from the liver and heart to the webbed feet.