Warm meals for workers comfort both stomach and heart. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

　　As Beijing's chilly winter deepens, some restaurants are extending warmth by feeding the unsung — often low-paid workers, including delivery drivers, taxi drivers and street cleaners — who keep the city going.

　　Offering free dishes for those who sometimes can't even afford discounted meals, the restaurants are making a difference in the lives of many.

　　For example, Wang Hong, owner of Jingchengzhiziwang, a Beijing-style barbecue restaurant in Chaoyang district, has been offering free drinks to delivery drivers and street cleaners since 2012. More recently, he started a free meals project with the assistance of the neighborhood. For him, it's personal.

　　“When I first came to the city, I had nothing. I was a youngster learning the ropes in a restaurant. People helped me even though they didn't know me,“ he said. “This is my way of giving back to society and teaching my child to be grateful.“

　　He welcomes anyone in need, no questions asked. The meals are simple yet hearty — a bowl of soup with rice, steamed buns, or homespun dishes like braised noodles and dumplings.

　　“We try to serve food people like,“ he said. “A plate of fish-flavored pork and scrambled eggs with tomatoes — there's always something to satisfy everyone.“

　　Wang is not alone. Yushiji, a chain of restaurants specializing in lamb soup, is helping by offering discounted meals to people in need. For just 12 yuan, customers can enjoy a hot, hearty meal that usually costs much more.

　　According to the chain's regional manager, Li Jun, customers in need can get either lamb offal soup with a Chinese pancake or stewed noodles with mutton. Noodles are refilled free.