Where to Get Authentic Peking Duck in Los Angeles: Top Restaurants for the Best Experience

1. What Makes Authentic Peking Duck?

Peking duck is one of the most iconic Chinese dishes, known for its crispy skin and tender meat. The dish is traditionally roasted until the skin turns golden and crispy, then served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and sliced vegetables. The preparation of the duck is an art form that requires years of practice and skill. Authentic Peking duck should have a perfectly crispy exterior, while the meat remains juicy and flavorful inside.

In order to experience authentic Peking duck, it's essential to find restaurants that uphold traditional cooking methods and sourcing high-quality ducks. The best Peking duck dishes are crafted with care, using time-honored techniques to ensure a perfect balance of texture and flavor.

2. Top Places to Get Authentic Peking Duck in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is home to a variety of top-tier Chinese restaurants where you can enjoy authentic Peking duck. Here are some of the best places to visit:

• Majordomo: Known for its exceptional Peking duck, Majordomo offers a modern take on the classic dish. Their duck is roasted to perfection and served with all the traditional accompaniments, providing an upscale dining experience.
• House of Peking: For a more traditional atmosphere, House of Peking is a renowned spot in LA offering authentic Peking duck with a crispy skin and tender meat. Their decades of experience in preparing this dish make it a must-visit.
• Hwa Yuan: Another standout restaurant for Peking duck lovers, Hwa Yuan serves this iconic dish alongside a variety of other Chinese delicacies. The duck is perfectly cooked and served with a rich, flavorful sauce that enhances the experience.
• Din Tai Fung: Famous for its dumplings, Din Tai Fung also offers excellent Peking duck. Known for maintaining high standards in all their dishes, this restaurant offers a delicious version of Peking duck in a comfortable, family-friendly setting.

Each of these restaurants serves high-quality Peking duck prepared with the attention to detail and precision that makes the dish truly memorable.

3. How to Enjoy Peking Duck Like a Pro

Eating Peking duck is an experience that goes beyond just tasting food. Here’s how to truly enjoy this iconic dish:

• Start with the skin: The crispy skin is the highlight of the dish. Take a moment to savor it on its own, as it’s the perfect combination of texture and flavor.
• Use the pancakes: Once you’ve enjoyed the skin, take a slice of duck meat, place it on the pancake, and add hoisin sauce, sliced vegetables, and a bit of the crispy skin. Roll it up and enjoy the rich, savory flavors in each bite.
• Pair with a drink: Peking duck pairs well with a variety of beverages, from traditional Chinese teas to a light white wine or even beer. The refreshing drink balances the richness of the duck.

By following these steps, you can truly appreciate all the components of Peking duck and enhance your dining experience.