All this month, we’ll be introducing 50 picks for some of the best family-friendly restaurants in Beijing. These reviews originally appeared in the January/February 2013 issue of beijingkids (see end of post).
Royal Smushi House 皇家慕喜
Type of cuisine: European
English menu? Yes, with pictures and descriptions
General kid-friendliness of menu: Small sandwiches are perfectly kid-sized and aren’t spicy.
Best dishes for adults: The Little Mermaid (salmon and egg salad; RMB 28), A Happy Family (four mushrooms, asparagus, and bean sprouts; RMB 28), afternoon tea sets (RMB 198-398 for two)
Kids’ menu? No
Best dishes for kids: Naughty Child (crab meat, bell peppers, avocado, and couscous; RMB 28), Snow White (tomatoes and mozzarella; RMB 28), hot dog (RMB 40)
Kids’ play area? No
Play areas nearby: Sanlitun Village and Tuanjiehu Park further southeast
Kid-friendly staff? Yes, speaks English and is moderately attentive
Bathroom: The clean and spacious sit-down bathroom is located on the second floor, up a spiral staircase. There is no changing table.
Seating: Indoor and outdoor seating with tables and chairs
Price: RMB 300
Credit card accepted? Yes, both foreign and local
Parking? Only street side parking
Must-order item: Any of Royal Smushi House’s dainty, stacked Danish breads or smørrebrød. Each costs RMB 28.
In a nutshell: Boasting colorful and super cute décor, Royal Smushi House has the trendiness factor going for it. The restaurant’s claim to fame is smørrebrød or smushi, stacked open sandwiches consisting of rye bread and various toppings. These dainty creations are certainly eye-catching, but the small portions are unlikely to completely satisfy grownups. Try the lunch sets for RMB 90-110, which include three or four smushi, soup, and coffee or tea. In addition, Royal Smushi House boasts a separate cafe and bakery, each with their own offerings. The restaurant itself is suitable for a quick, casual bite – but be aware, it can add up.
Daily 7am-10.30pm. 12 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District (6416 9664, info@royalsmushihouse.cn.com) www.royalsmushihouse.cn.com 朝阳区东直门外大街12号
Also try: Crêpanini, Bocata, Le Petit Gourmand
Photo Courtesy of Joey Guo