The Yaobao Lu area is known for its Russian charms – markets, restaurants, and clubs. Dacha, which occupies the north wall of Ritan Hotel, is perhaps one of the luckiest charms for families living in the area. With a motif of Russian rustic luxury, Dacha is outfitted with ultra-comfy couches, cozy fireplaces, and a children’s play area brimming with dolls, stuffed animals, and even bikes and small cars, which the kids are free to ride around the restaurant. Dacha has a large patio, perfect for early fall afternoons or evenings to enjoy Beijing’s short but idyllic autumn.
The kids’ menu features whimsical creations like beef cutlets served with homemade mashed potatoes (RMB 38) arranged to look like an owl; beef meatball soup with noodles (RMB 25); and for dessert, fruits with yogurt served in a hollowed-out apple (RMB 38). Kids will love the cranberry fruit drink (RMB 28), which comes with a silly straw that runs from the cup over one ear, around both eyes, and into the mouth. The adult menu features Russian standbys like borscht and dumplings, as well as fish, pasta, and pizzas. There are song-and-dance performances every evening, but be sure to finish by 8.30pm if you’re out with the kids; that’s when the not-so-kid-friendly shows come on.
Daily 10am-3am. 1 Ritan Lu (on the north side of Ritan Hotel), Chaoyang District (8563 5765, 150 0101 7888, dacha.asia@mail.ru) www.dacha.asia 朝阳区日坛路1号(日坛宾馆北侧)
photo by SUI
This article originally appeared on p24 of the beijingkids September 2013 issue.
Check out the PDF version online at Issuu.com