Best Lunch Deal: Alameda vs. SALT

Alameda and SALT have made their mark on Beijing dining as having great value, and these two restaurants are by far two of my favorite lunch destinations.

They are both so incredible, it’s really difficult to declare which is better when both venues are similar in many ways, yet each have their own unique draw that keeps the business consistently rolling in.

Here’s a breakdown of their similarities:

• Both spots offer 2-3 course set lunch menus (though not at the same price).
• Both serve complimentary bread at the start of the meal, including my all-time favorite mini-cheesey bread rolls.
• Both provide a very clean, contemporary atmosphere that’s always busy. I highly recommend making reservations before-hand for both restaurants
• Both were created and originated by Gabby Alves, who is about to open her third venue called TERRA (which will take over the space known once as The Rickshaw).

ALAMEDA’S SET LUNCH (RMB 60 for 2 courses):

While I too quickly devoured my appetizer at Alameda, here are shots of two main course items – we ordered the duck and the sea bass. Food quality and taste is top-notch and portions are super generous:

SALT’S SET LUNCH (RMB 88 for 2 courses, 108 for 3 courses):

We started off with the yellowtail ceviche with corn and sweet potato chips and pumpkin and coconut soup followed by the broccoli risotto and pork loin with polenta and veggies.  Again, only premium ingredients, mouth-watering delicious and very generous portions for a very satisfying lunch.

CONCLUSION:

While Alameda’s RMB 60 two course lunch deal is pretty tough to beat, SALT’s innovative and constantly changing menu at only RMB 88 for two courses is still a steal.

Details:

• ALAMEDA: Sanlitun Beijie (just 50m south and across street from 3.3 mall),三里屯北; Tel: 6417-8084

• SALT: 2nd Floor (above Frank’s Place), 9 Jiangtai Xilu,将台西路 6437-8457