Between flashing skyscrapers and the bustling streets of Shanghai, Lao Zheng Xing has been awarded one Michelin star for its celebration of traditional Shanghainese cuisine. The restaurant combines a non-pretentious ambience and affordable prices, serving classic dishes like drunken chicken, braised pork belly and Shanghai “smoked” fish.

A taste of imperial China at Fuhuazhai Bobo, a traditional Beijing pastry shop. Flaky mooncakes, refreshing jellies and pillowy kidney bean rolls are served in a shop with a distinct Forbidden City feel. A dessert-fueled throwback to the Qing dynasty.

Looking for the best roast duck in Beijing can be a daunting task. I gave Siji Minfu Roast Duck Restaurant (四季民福烤鸭店) a go while on a solo trip in Beijing, joining forces with two women to secure a spot and bypass the queue to try the juicy meat and crispy skin that makes Peking duck Beijing’s most recognisable culinary staple.