Q.
Where can I buy unusual foods in Beijing?
A. One of the best places to find unusual foods in Beijing, is at the Donganmen Night Market. This is a great place to be in the evening. The night market is just off of Wangfujing St, near the Xindongan Mall. Here you can buy many unusual foods, Mongolian barbecued lamb, sweet rolls, drinks, and much more. Even if you don't buy anything, it's definitely a site to see.
Q.
What kinds of unusual foods am I likely to find in Beijing?
A. While one might consider some food items in China bizarre and even distasteful, it is good to consider the times of severe famine many Chinese suffered even as recently as the late 1960's when tens of millions died of starvation in the Great Leap Forward. Many would have been extremely happy to eat some of the unusual foods on today's menu: Starfish, Cicata, Scorpion, SeaHorse, StinkyFish, Dog, Snake Soup, etc...
Q.
Is it safe to eat these foods?
A. No. It is not "Entirely Safe" to eat these foods in China, however many travelers do eat them quite frequently and never get sick. If you are concerned, try to only eat foods from places that appear to have a cleanlier environment and make sure you have stomach pills in case you need them.
Q.
How do I eat chicken feet?
A. Although eating chicken feet is an acquired taste, those who love to eat chicken feet will swear by it. It is a delicacy in its own right. You pick up a chicken foot with your chopsticks and place the entire foot in your mouth. Proceed to chew all the skin and tendons and finally spit the remaining bones on your plate.
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