Run by health-conscious Buddhists, but not by monks, this nearly unknown vegetarian gem specializes in boiled-at-the-table soups, large enough to feed 2-4 people per soup (88 yuan). They also offer two ginormous menus of incredible vegetarian food, including some of the best fake meat dishes in Beijing, and lots of light vegetable-only options as well. The atmosphere is fair but not great, but that's more than made up for by the absolutely scrumptious food. I have yet to order something off the menu I dislike.

There are several Seven Treasures Pond locations, but these are very loosely franchised, not all are of equal quality. The owners of this branch make their own pickled ginger, plum seeds and dates fermented in wine, which are really quite good - ask for a plate, they'll be happy to bring it out.

Don't miss their signature soup (fake meatballs with watercress, five spice, jujubes and youcai), the potatoes and fried "chicken", and the Singapore noodles.

Choice Chinese Review, April, 2012

Veggie Delight

The faint smell of incense sets the mood for a unique meal at Seven Treasures Pond, a vegetarian restaurant decorated with Buddhist paintings and jars of homemade pickles. The “house meatball soup with bok choy” (¥88) is addictive, with deep savory notes and calming vermicelli noodles and goji berries. Extreme craftsmanship and attention to detail is not only found in the flavor and texture of the “Taiwanese sausage” (¥28), but also in its delicious imitation pockets of fat. The star of our meal was the “sweet and sour pork with pineapple” (¥48), even tastier than its usual meaty counterpart. But we’d forgo the slightly salty wild mushroom and vegetable pot (¥68) for any of the “meat” options on the menu.

Ruoyang Jin