Kaorouji
Time-Honored BrandKaorouji · Beijing · Founded 1848
Kaorouji, a Beijing time-honored brand since 1848, is renowned for its charcoal-grilled lamb. With a century-old technique, it represents the essence of Beijing's culinary culture and is a must-try for authentic local flavors.
Brand Story
Founded in 1848 during the Daoguang reign of the Qing Dynasty, Kaorouji started as a humble stall by Shichahai Lake, where Hui chef Ji Decai sold grilled lamb. His meticulous selection of ingredients, precise knife skills, and perfect heat control earned him a loyal following. Eventually, he opened a shop, which became a famous halal restaurant in Beijing. For generations, the Ji family has upheld the traditional grilling method, using Inner Mongolian sheep and slicing the meat as thin as paper. Marinated with a secret blend of spices and grilled on a cast-iron grate, the lamb is fragrant and tender. Kaorouji has witnessed the evolution of Beijing's food culture and, together with Kaorouwan, is celebrated as 'Nan Wan Bei Ji' (South Wan, North Ji), representing the pinnacle of Beijing-style grilled meat. Its grilling technique is listed as a Beijing intangible cultural heritage, embodying the fusion of halal cuisine and Beijing's regional culture.
Signature Products
Premium hind leg meat from Inner Mongolian sheep, sliced paper-thin and grilled to perfection. Tender, juicy, and free of gamey taste. (Approx. 80-120 RMB per serving)
Selected high-quality beef, marinated and grilled to a silky texture with rich, savory flavor. (Approx. 70-100 RMB per serving)
Crispy on the outside with a rich sesame aroma, the perfect accompaniment to the grilled meats. (Approx. 5-10 RMB each)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Beijing（北京）
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Cultural Note
Kaorouji's grilling technique emphasizes 'three grills': marinating before grilling, flipping during grilling, and seasoning after grilling, with precise heat control. The grill (zhizi) is made of iron bars, ensuring even heat distribution and locking in the meat's juices. The seasonings, including soy sauce, cooking wine, ginger juice, and scallion strips, form a unique recipe. As a halal restaurant, Kaorouji strictly adheres to Islamic dietary laws, reflecting the essence of Hui culinary culture.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "China Time-Honored Brand" (中华老字号)?
A China Time-Honored Brand is a designation by China’s Ministry of Commerce for brands with a long history that inherit products, craftsmanship or services across generations and have operated continuously to the present.
When was Kaorouji founded?
Kaorouji was founded in 1848, originating in Beijing, Beijing, primarily in the Dining field.
What is the signature product of Kaorouji?
Its signature product is Grilled Lamb. See the "Signature / Buy Online" section on this page for more products and shopping links.
Where can I find the official list of China Time-Honored Brands?
You can log into the MOFCOM "China Time-Honored Brand Information Management System", or browse this site’s brand directory — we have profiled 1,451 time-honored brands.
Sources / References
Brand fundamentals (founding year, heritage level, recognition batch) follow official sources such as the MOFCOM time-honored brand list. Story and encyclopedia: