Plant-based pioneer: Nestled in Beijing’s vibrant Sanlitun district, Lamdre is a pioneering plant-based restaurant owned by Zhao Jia and Chef Dai Jun. The duo shares a vision that transcends mere vegetarianism, promoting a way of life that prioritizes health, sustainability, and a deep respect for nature. The restaurant's name, derived from Tibetan Buddhism, signifies the journey towards enlightenment, mirroring their commitment to exploring the potential of plant-based cuisine, while offering nourishment to those who practice and cherish mindful living.

What to expect: Upon entering, guests are greeted by a harmonious blend of natural light and minimalist design, featuring a pitched roof skylight that illuminates the space. The serene ambiance of the main dining room is complemented by handpicked ceramics and art, offering a holistic and calming retreat from the bustling streets.

 A culinary expedition: The menu at Lamdre changes with the seasons, showcasing the diversity of ingredients sourced from the rich soils and culinary traditions of the East. Signature offerings include tofu made from Heilongjiang soybeans steeped in a matsutake and wakame broth, and ginkgo nuts with peach gum paired with Yunnan mushrooms in a Guizhou-style sour soup. Sustainability is paramount, with the team spotlighting ingredients that are organic, natural, and biodynamic, forging connections with local farmers and markets to ensure the freshest produce. Chef Dai frequently embarks on research trips to discover lesser-known ingredients that reflect China's biodiversity.

Chef bio: Chef Dai Jun brings over three decades of culinary experience to Lamdre, having honed his skills in renowned vegetarian establishments such as King’s Joy and Shan He Wan Duo Vegetarian Restaurant. His transition into vegetarian cuisine was serendipitous; initially trained in Cantonese and Chaozhou cooking, he discovered a passion for plant-based dishes that challenge his creativity. This move has afforded him the Black Pearl Best Chef Award 2025, along with other accolades for the restaurant, like a No. 97 on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024 and the 2024 One to Watch Award that same year, a Michelin star, and Two Diamonds in the Black Pearl Restaurant Guide 2025.

Lamdre, Room 01, 1F, Block 14, Courtyard 4, Gongti North Road, Chaoyang, Beijing

This article was originally written for and published on the Asia's 50 Best Restaurants website here.