A stone's throw from the famous Lama Temple, King's Joy (or Jing Zhao Yin) presents a singular dining experience that is somehow simultaneously spiritual, luxurious and vegetarian.

Restauranteur David Yin's homage to a sustainable, healthy lifestyle has attracted a big following among celebrities, dignitaries and the well-heeled. Who would have thought an upscale vegetarian-only concept would attract such a large following from Beijing's elite? Well...it's that good. Definitely on the fancier side of vegetarian, set menus start from 399 RMB and feature creative meatless offerings like SWEET AND SOUR MONKEY'S HEAD MUSHROOMS.

While the food sings a high note, the ambience helps King's Joy strike a pleasant chord. A quiet harmony governs this sleek mashup between a traditional Chinese courtyard house and modern western restaurant (designed by architect Yung Ho Chang). Guests are treated to a live harp performance most afternoons. In addition to the interior restaurant seating, customers can also choose to dine amongst a grove of small bamboo trees at the rear of the space. King's Joy also features an area that celebrates the traditional Chinese tea ritual – a refined way to begin or end your meal.

So when you find it's time to cleanse both your mind and body, there's nothing wrong with doing it in style .