Where to Find the Best Peking Duck in the U.S.
If you’re a fan of Chinese cuisine, then you’ve probably heard of Peking duck. It’s a dish that’s famous for its crispy skin, tender meat, and the unique flavors that come from the combination of spices and herbs. I remember the first time I tried it—at a small, yet renowned restaurant in New York City. The experience was so unforgettable that I started a quest to find the best Peking duck in the U.S. After sampling many versions of the dish across various cities, I’ve compiled a list of places that are truly outstanding. If you're on a similar journey to find this iconic Chinese dish, let me share my top picks with you!
1. Why Peking Duck is a Must-Try Dish
Peking duck has a rich history that dates back to the Imperial Court of China, and it’s one of the most beloved dishes in Chinese culinary traditions. The preparation of Peking duck is an art form in itself. The duck is typically air-dried, then roasted in an oven, which gives it that signature crispy skin. The meat is usually served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and scallions, creating the perfect combination of textures and flavors in every bite.
For me, part of the appeal of Peking duck is the experience—it’s not just about eating, but about savoring every element that goes into the dish. The crispy skin contrasts beautifully with the tender, juicy meat, and the pancakes and sauce add layers of flavor that are hard to beat. It's no surprise that I keep returning to places that serve it well, each time trying to get closer to the perfect Peking duck experience.
2. Best Places to Find Peking Duck in the U.S.
2.1. Da Dong – New York City
Da Dong is known for its modern take on traditional Peking duck. Located in the heart of New York City’s bustling Midtown, Da Dong stands out as one of the best places to try this iconic dish. The Peking duck here is roasted to perfection, with the skin so crispy it practically shatters with the lightest touch. They also offer a variety of unique side dishes that complement the duck beautifully. What’s even more impressive is their attention to detail in the presentation—it’s a feast for the eyes as much as it is for the palate.
The restaurant’s refined atmosphere and impeccable service make it a top choice for both locals and tourists looking for an authentic, upscale dining experience. The Peking duck here is served in several courses, including the classic pancakes and hoisin sauce, making it a complete experience. I’ve been to Da Dong multiple times, and each visit has been consistently impressive.
2.2. Beijing Duck House – Los Angeles
If you find yourself in Los Angeles, Beijing Duck House is a must-visit. Tucked away in the heart of the city’s Chinatown, this restaurant has become famous for its Peking duck. What makes Beijing Duck House stand out is the combination of authenticity and affordability. The duck is roasted in a traditional wood-fired oven, which adds a depth of flavor you just can’t replicate with other methods. The skin is perfectly crispy, and the meat is juicy and flavorful.
What I appreciate most about Beijing Duck House is that they don’t just focus on the Peking duck; the entire menu is full of delicious Chinese dishes that will have you coming back for more. The atmosphere is casual, but the food speaks volumes. If you’re craving a flavorful Peking duck in LA, this is the place to go.
2.3. Peking Duck House – New York City
Another gem in New York City, Peking Duck House is a long-time favorite of locals and visitors alike. This restaurant has been serving some of the best Peking duck in the city for decades. The duck here is carved tableside, which adds an interactive element to the meal. The crispy skin is complemented by tender meat, and the pancakes are soft, making for a perfectly balanced bite every time.
Located in the East Village, Peking Duck House provides a more traditional dining experience, and the service is always top-notch. I’ve had the pleasure of dining here with friends, and we always leave satisfied. If you’re in NYC and craving classic Peking duck, Peking Duck House is a spot you can’t miss.
2.4. Mission Chinese Food – San Francisco
Mission Chinese Food in San Francisco offers a creative and modern twist on traditional Chinese dishes, and their Peking duck is no exception. The dish is served with a variety of unique sides, including a rich, flavorful duck sauce that takes the experience to another level. The duck itself is perfectly crispy, and it’s served with all the classic accompaniments, including pancakes and scallions. The fusion of classic and innovative flavors here makes for an unforgettable meal.
What I love about Mission Chinese Food is that it’s not just a place for Peking duck, but for a whole new approach to Chinese cuisine. The funky decor and lively atmosphere make it a great spot to enjoy a fun meal with friends or family. If you’re in San Francisco and want a twist on traditional Peking duck, this is the place to try.
2.5. The Duck House – Chicago
Located in Chicago, The Duck House specializes in Peking duck, and it has become a favorite among locals for its delicious take on this classic dish. The duck here is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a rich, flavorful taste that’s both savory and satisfying. The presentation is also top-notch, with the duck served alongside all the traditional accompaniments and a beautiful array of dipping sauces.
The Duck House offers a cozy, inviting atmosphere that makes it the perfect spot for a special occasion or a casual meal with friends. It’s also worth noting that they offer a variety of other Chinese dishes that complement the Peking duck perfectly, making it a great place to explore new flavors while enjoying a familiar favorite.
3. What Makes a Great Peking Duck?
Having tried Peking duck in many places, I’ve come to realize that the best versions share a few common characteristics. First and foremost, the skin must be crispy—this is the hallmark of a well-prepared duck. The meat should be tender and juicy, without being greasy. The pancakes should be light and soft, providing a perfect balance to the richness of the duck. And of course, the hoisin sauce should be flavorful without overpowering the other elements of the dish.
What truly elevates a great Peking duck is the attention to detail in both preparation and presentation. In my experience, the best restaurants serve the duck with a variety of accompaniments that allow you to personalize each bite—whether it’s more sauce, extra scallions, or a special seasoning mix. This attention to detail is what separates an average Peking duck from an unforgettable one.
Conclusion
If you're craving authentic, delicious Peking duck in the U.S., the places I've mentioned in New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Chicago are a great starting point. Each restaurant brings its unique flair to this iconic dish, but they all share the common goal of delivering a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Peking duck or trying it for the first time, I highly recommend giving these spots a visit.
If you want to explore even more options or get additional recommendations on Chinese cuisine, I recommend checking out Chinese Food for the best food recommendations and dining experiences!
