Dining at King’s Joy was an exquisite experience that truly redefined my understanding of vegetarian cuisine. From the moment we were seated, the ambiance exuded elegance, and the service was impeccable, making us feel welcomed and well cared for throughout the evening.
Course Highlights
Seeding - Mango Yogurt
The meal began with a delightful Mango Yogurt, aptly named "Seeding." This refreshing start perfectly balanced the sweetness of the mango with the subtle tang of yogurt, setting the tone for the flavors to come.
Wild Red Mushroom Soup
The Wild Red Mushroom Soup was a revelation. The earthy, robust flavors of the wild mushrooms created a deeply satisfying broth that warmed the soul.
Nerle Grass Seed Bamboo Pith
Next, the Nerle Grass Seed Bamboo Pith showcased a delicate interplay of textures and flavors, with the bamboo pith providing a light, crisp counterpoint to the more substantial grass seeds.
Fresh Jasmine Sautéed Gorgon Fruit with Jasmine Tea
The Fresh Jasmine Sautéed Gorgon Fruit was paired beautifully with Jasmine Tea. The floral notes of the jasmine perfectly complemented the subtle sweetness of the gorgon fruit, creating a harmonious dish that was both fragrant and flavorful.
Clay Pot Warm Mushroom Peach Resin Stew
The Clay Pot Warm Mushroom Peach Resin Stew was a standout. The combination of hearty mushrooms and the unique texture of peach resin resulted in a stew that was both comforting and sophisticated.
Green Sichuan Pepper Bamboo Shoots and Mountain Yam
The Green Sichuan Pepper Bamboo Shoots and Mountain Yam offered a delightful kick of spice, with the crispness of the bamboo shoots and the tender mountain yam providing a satisfying contrast.
Black Diamond - Wild Mulberry Liquor
A palate cleanser, the Black Diamond Wild Mulberry Liquor was rich and smooth, with the deep, fruity notes of mulberries leaving a lingering sweetness.
Fermented Bean Curd in Palmito
The Fermented Bean Curd in Palmito was another highlight, with the creamy bean curd and the tender palmito creating a dish that was both hearty and light.
Quinoa Boletus Wellington with Honey Pineapple Enzyme
The Quinoa Boletus Wellington was a masterpiece. The quinoa and boletus filling was encased in a perfectly flaky pastry, and the Honey Pineapple Enzyme added a delightful touch of sweetness and acidity.
Temitomyces Organic Seasonal Greens
The Temitomyces Organic Seasonal Greens were cooked to perfection, showcasing the natural flavors of the fresh vegetables and temitomyces mushrooms.
Imperial Osmanthus Milk Pudding and Desserts
The meal concluded with a trio of desserts: the Imperial Osmanthus Milk Pudding, Hazelnut Cheese Mung Bean Cake, and Almond Lotus Seed Glutinous Rice. Each dessert was a delicate blend of traditional Chinese flavors and modern culinary techniques, providing a sweet and satisfying end to the meal.
Chef, History, and Accolades
KINGS's JOY was founded in 2012 by David Yin, a devout Buddhist and former technology entrepreneur. The restaurant is located near the Lama Temple, a significant spiritual landmark, which reflects its emphasis on a serene and mindful dining experience. Under the leadership of head chef Gary Yin, the restaurant has flourished. Chef Gary, the founder's son, trained in various prestigious kitchens around the world and brought his creativity and dedication to promoting plant-based cuisine to KINGS's JOY.
The restaurant has received numerous accolades, including being awarded three Michelin stars in the 2021 Beijing Michelin Guide, making it the first vegetarian restaurant in China to receive such an honor. It has also consistently been listed among Asia's 50 Best Restaurants and was recognized by Gambero Rosso as one of the top vegetarian restaurants in the world.
Wine Pairing
The Chinese wine pairing was an excellent value and offered interesting selections that complemented each course beautifully. The variety and quality of the wines enhanced the overall dining experience, making each sip a delightful discovery.
Overall Impression
King’s Joy exceeded all expectations, offering a vegetarian dining experience that was both innovative and deeply satisfying. The unique flavor profiles kept the palate intrigued throughout the meal, and the elegant presentation and superb service made the evening truly memorable. This is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the heights of vegetarian cuisine in Beijing.