People will have the chance to explore the art of making Beijing smothered roast ducks and hear about the fascinating stories behind this old brand name as one exhibition hall dedicated to this time-honored craft opened Thursday in Beijing.

Beijing roast duck can be generally divided into two types: hanged roast ducks, with Quanjude as the representative, and smothered roast ducks.

Pianyi Fang, one of the oldest restaurants of smothered roast duck, opened up an area of 2,500 square meters for an exclusive exhibition hall for the duck culture.

The method of making smothered roast ducks is presented through an array of bronze sculptures. Over forty pieces of relics are on display, telling a history of 592 years of this old brand restaurant.

"This restaurant is quite interesting" said a young visitor," I can learn about not only the essence of Chinese cuisine but also the history and historic figures."

The cooking of Beijing roast ducks has been listed in the intangible cultural heritage list. Lei Guoxiu, president of Pianyifang Roast Duck Group, said it is a good practice to preserve the traditional crafts and culture by setting up exhibition halls and called for more old brand names to join in.

(CRI June 20, 2008)