While the public marveled at the headlines, some finer details of Jensen Huang's Beijing visit went unnoticed—like the aunt who served him fermented bean juice (douzhi). She shared with amusement: "He didn't even smell it; he just drank it straight from the bowl, it was hilarious." Recalling the moment, two elderly women at the door couldn't stop laughing as they recounted their experience of serving him. "You should have seen his expression, oh my."
At Fangzhuanchang, where a "Jensen Huang Special Menu" poster was created in record time, I asked: "You've already renamed the menu; when will you hang up Jensen Huang's photo in the shop?" The staff member was momentarily taken aback before replying with a smile, "Should be soon."
Then there was the bar owner, reunited this year after meeting last year, with a promise to meet annually from now on... "Look, he gave me a red envelope with my name and his written on it," he said.
Honestly, this story was initially meant to be a compilation from home, guiding everyone through Jensen Huang's half-day Citywalk in Beijing. But then it hit me—since I'm in Beijing and it's the weekend, why not actually retrace his steps in person? So, this Saturday, we followed in his footsteps, visiting Gulou, Nanluoguxiang, and Shichahai one by one. Unexpectedly, along the way, we met many fascinating people, completely unplanned, and heard their perspectives on Jensen Huang.
Since we've already compiled the guide, we decided to share two versions of the "Citywalk: Jensen Huang's Must-Eat List - Beijing Edition" for everyone's convenience. One is a text version, and the other is a route map on Amap. However, a disclaimer: this guide isn't strictly in the order of his stops. Prioritizing ease of exploration, we've refined the route based on our on-site experience to better suit a leisurely tour. It's a complete, end-to-end guide for those wanting to follow his culinary trail. Find it at the end of the article.
Now, let's set off! Jensen Huang's Curated Beijing Tour.
Yin San Douzhi & Yin San Roast Duck (Nanluoguxiang Branch). "What is this?" were the first words Jensen Huang uttered after tasting douzhi, his brow furrowed. While we don't know if it was his first time trying it, one thing's for sure—each sip must have been memorable.
We approached the Yin San Douzhi shop and asked, "Is this what Jensen Huang drank yesterday?" Upon hearing his name, an elderly lady's eyes lit up as if triggered by a keyword. "Yes, that's the one I served him! Have a cup and try it!" I was momentarily confused, recalling my research from the night before: "I thought it was an uncle standing next to him yesterday." The lady proudly explained that the uncle was Yin San's chairman, there for a photo, but she was the one who handed Jensen Huang the douzhi.
Then, we received the same treatment as Jensen Huang. (Not the photo with the chairman, though.) I was trembling with fear. Honestly, I can't handle this stuff. But for the sake of the story and the full experience, I took the plunge. One sip, and tears welled up. It's hard to imagine, but my colleague remained unfazed, even claiming to detect a bean fragrance. To me, douzhi tastes like the smell of a mop that hasn't been used in years, reminiscent of middle school cleaning days. I tried it once last year and swore never to touch it again. Jensen Huang, if it weren't for you, I wouldn't have taken this sip. Give me some stock!!
Tianze Xiang Gulou Mantou (Gulou Branch). A true foodie, Jensen Huang was spotted carrying two eye-catching bags of "Gulou Mantou" on the street. We found the shop offline; it's located just opposite the exit of Nanluoguxiang, with a modest storefront and a nostalgic feel. We boldly walked up and asked directly, "What did Jensen Huang buy?" The staff revealed that he chose the most ordinary steamed buns and sweet bean paste buns. We opted for the same items. The sweet bean paste bun was delicious and very affordable—a steamed bun and a sweet bean paste bun together cost only 4-5 yuan.
Huangwa Zengfu Caishen Temple. A meeting of titans. The esteemed Maybach owner, Jensen Huang, visited the Huangwa Zengfu Caishen Temple. It was like one wealth deity meeting another to exchange insights. The temple is small, but the ceremonial atmosphere is fully immersive. Before entering, they specifically give you a piece of candy for祈福 (prayers for good fortune). (Don't take it to eat! It's meant to be used for worship inside the temple.) No advance booking or entrance fee is required. Staff at the entrance will guide you; just scan the code on-site. They even prepare copper coins for祈福 use. Photography isn't allowed inside, so we won't take you in. The entire experience is free, with all services available for体验. The lines aren't long either; you can basically get through in about 10 minutes. If NVIDIA stock ever turns red, come here and pray (just kidding, please don't take it seriously). Wishing everyone prosperity!! Oops, accidentally pressed the button twice...
Mixue Bingcheng (Inside Nanluoguxiang). The most unexpected and viral moment has to be—Jensen Huang drinking Mixue Bingcheng. For just 8 yuan, you can get the "big shot's choice": Peach Four Seasons Spring. Snow King (Mixue's mascot) reacted swiftly, instantly applying to be a thermal solution supplier (just kidding). Netizens' memes have been endless. Many people came specifically for this drink, even a primary school-aged child who dragged their mom over, insisting on Peach Four Seasons Spring. We followed the trend and bought a cup. Don't laugh, but as someone who doesn't usually enjoy sweet drinks, I had never tried Snow King before. One sip... I have to say. It's actually quite good!! I'm sold, I'm sold. Jensen Huang's influence is strong—not just with graphics cards, but with奶茶 (milk tea) too.
Ziguangyuan Yogurt Station (Nanluoguxiang Branch). We also bought two bowls of the skin-on yogurt offline, one jasmine flavor and one original. But the老板 wasn't entirely "pleased"; upon learning we were collecting Jensen Huang's stops, he strongly recommended we both get the original flavor. "You're already here, why not try the same one?" In the end, we got one of each. The original flavor was indeed tastier. But there was a sad moment. Because we took it to Fangzhuanchang to eat, alongside炸酱面 (Zhajiangmian) and yogurt... and douzhi... My colleague and I played dice, and whoever lost had to take a sip of douzhi. I lost three times in a row... Why do people insist on torturing themselves? Thank you, skin-on yogurt, for helping me recover a bit from douzhi hell.
Fangzhuanchang 69 Zhajiangmian (Nanluoguxiang Branch). Jensen Huang has truly arrived, trying Beijing's炸酱面 that most attracts out-of-town tourists. Overnight, the shop even gained a "Jensen Huang打卡套餐" (check-in set). I was shocked—opening the mini-program for ordering, the first thing I saw was "Same as Leather Jacket战神" (Warrior). Friends wanting to check in, don't go to the wrong branch; Jensen Huang ate at the flagship store (the one inside is a branch). It was here that Jensen Huang was served a large bowl of炸酱面, which he happily slurped at the entrance. After his visit, the already long lines at this popular spot grew even longer. Personal experience: arriving at 11 a.m. on a weekend, the wait was still about half an hour. If you don't want to wait, be sure to avoid peak hours; don't come right at mealtime. Alternatively, you can take it to go. It only takes a few minutes. But the queue can be fun too—you can crouch by this window (polished to a shine) and watch how the炸酱 is made. Witnessing the process for the first time, bubbling away, was very therapeutic, like a cooking scene from a Miyazaki film. Whether it tastes good depends on personal preference, as some people aren't used to the炸酱 sauce. But the portions are truly generous, and you can get extra noodles and toppings, emphasizing fullness. The shop displays some historical photos. As we left, we joked with the staff: "You renamed the menu so quickly, how come you haven't hung up Jensen Huang's photo yet?" She smiled and said, "Should be soon."
Beijing Sanhe Daoxiangcun (Nanluoguxiang Branch). Next is where Jensen Huang did some giving. Offering douzhi, receiving pastries in return (just kidding). He bought a bunch of items from Daoxiangcun and shared them with passersby. Important note: Jensen Huang accurately identified the authentic Sanhe Daoxiangcun among numerous山寨 (knockoff) versions. We asked the staff, and they said he bought枣花酥 (jujube flower pastry). It's the thing pictured below. Since we didn't run into Jensen Huang that day, we treated ourselves, pretending it was from him. Delicious, highly recommended.
Tuoyi (XCARTOYS). We heard Jensen Huang bought toy cars for his grandson at this store. He purchased this "Winter Cabbage" model, and the staff said it's already sold out online due to his visit. The store has already posted his photo and autograph. This was the most memorable stop for me. The老板's face lit up when mentioning their recent reunion: "He promised to come back every year from now on."
On a Saturday afternoon, Shichahai was surprisingly quiet. The bar owner, Brother Yang, with his long hair, sat at the entrance. Anyone speaking with him would likely notice his always-smiling eyes. Before entering, I exchanged a glance and a smile with Brother Yang, too shy to directly ask about Jensen Huang. We sat down and ordered two drinks, averaging 88 yuan per person. I had a Whiskey Sour. The drinks were great, and there was a live singer. But during a bathroom break, curiosity got the better of me, so I went to chat with Brother Yang. "I heard Jensen Huang was here yesterday?" Upon hearing the name, Brother Yang started scrolling through his phone. I felt a bit awkward, my mind racing—maybe I shouldn't be prying. Suddenly, he shoved his phone in front of me. Swiping through photos one by one, he narrated his story with Jensen Huang. "The seat you're sitting in is exactly where he sat when he came. We met last year, and this year he specifically sought me out again." Who says there aren't many spectators in life? Last July, photos of Jensen Huang's night stroll around Houhai were captured clearly from eighteen different angles by ubiquitous onlookers... Then, Brother Yang showed me a photo with Jensen Huang from last year. And the red envelope from this year. It had Brother Yang's name and Jensen Huang's own name written on it. Honestly, this was the most romantic part of the trip for me. I don't know if Brother Yang and Jensen Huang have contact information. But judging by Brother Yang's perpetually smiling eyes, this promise seems like it will continue indefinitely. Jensen Huang, oh Jensen Huang. Such a nostalgic man, and so romantic too.
By the way, it's quite a coincidence. Remember what Brother Yang told us? The seat we sat in upon entering was the exact one Jensen Huang occupied that day. But we didn't choose it intentionally. That table was the only remaining window seat available that day. Quickly opened the stock app to absorb some财神 (wealth deity) vibes (just kidding).
Qingyunlou Restaurant. Dinner can be had here. It was also where the staff proactively invited Jensen Huang up,不得不说 (it must be said), Jensen Huang is very approachable. Truly, the brave吃货 (foodies) get to enjoy the world first, haha. This weekend, the "Jensen Huang同款座位" (same seat as Jensen Huang) was already highly sought after. One family, parents with their daughter, also came specifically for Jensen Huang. Learning we were there for the same reason, the father excitedly invited us to share the seat Jensen Huang had used. It's this one. He said, "You must order Beibingyang; Jensen Huang drank it too." Unfortunately, the foam was gone by then, so it didn't photograph well. (P.S.: Foam PTSD—instantly reminded me of AGI泡沫 (bubble).)
Chaofu Linyuan (Forbidden City Branch). Okay, our journey ends here. But if you still have energy, you can follow Jensen Huang's late-night second round. Chaofu Linyuan is where Jensen Huang was last seen. Unexpectedly, he was still around in the evening, enjoying Chaozhou cuisine.不得不说 (It must be said), Mixue Bingcheng's liquid cooling effect is indeed good; he even took off his leather jacket. According to the server, the location used to be a famous opera house, visited by Emperor Yongle and Empress Dowager Cixi.
OMTok, the行程 (itinerary) concludes here. Honestly, I initially set out just to collect Jensen Huang's打卡点 (check-in spots). But chatting along the way, I encountered many, many unexpected little surprises. The douzhi auntie, the Fangzhuanchang staff, bar owner Brother Yang... None of us knew each other. But just mention "Jensen Huang," and each and every one of them would flash that knowing smile. It was just a day of wandering and eating. But somehow, in this aimless stroll, we inadvertently found many special meanings for this journey.
By the way, if you also want to偶遇 (bump into) Jensen Huang on the street, two tips: First, always carry a gold or green marker pen—his favorite colors. Second, he's willing to sign almost anything, especially items related to NVIDIA or graphics cards. Of course, you could also try something no one has done before—bring a blank check... If successful, remember me when you make it big.
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