Jinli Skewers (金利烤串)

Jinli Skewers (金利烤串) is a multi-branch barbecue chain in Yanji, the capital of the Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture in Jilin province, China. It is recommended by local diners for Yanbian-style charcoal barbecue, the regional tradition in which lamb skewers (羊肉串) are seasoned with cumin and chilli and grilled over glowing charcoal. Because the chain has several branches across the city, there is no single street address; visitors typically pick the branch nearest their hotel, and the item's location is listed as the city centre. The menu follows the usual Yanji skewer-house pattern: lamb skewers as the headline, grilled beef, and cold noodles as the traditional cooling finish. Skewers are ordered by the dozen and arrive in batches, and diners often add vegetables, mushrooms and bread. The dining rooms are casual and sociable, with bright lighting, shared tables and a lively noise level, especially on weekend evenings; there is no dress code. Beer is the standard drink, along with tea and soft drinks, and there is no wine programme. A meal costs about CNY 50-90 (USD 7-13) per person depending on how many skewers are ordered. The restaurants are open daily with evenings the busiest period, and visitors should check Dianping for the hours of each branch. Reservations are usually not necessary; the chain works walk-in, and the most practical advice is to choose the branch closest to the hotel, since the menu is consistent across locations. Compared with the single-branch Fengmao Skewers near Yanbian University, Jinli is more convenient for travellers staying in the centre of Yanji who want a barbecue dinner without a long ride.