Leigh Tanner

With its sleek interior, spacious private rooms and array of fresh ingredients, it is the attention to detail so apparent in all aspects of Haru Teppanyaki and Sushi Bar that sets this restaurant apart. Soft lights, modern furniture and textured wood dominate the space, creating a refreshing atmosphere in which to enjoy the excellent and unobtrusive service. For small groups, the sushi bar is a great option. However, what differentiates Haru from other restaurants is the ease with which families are accommodated and made comfortable. Every dining party is given a private room complete with individual service and its own chef. As its name suggests, teppanyaki as well as sushi are on the menu for this intimate dining experience. The classic California Roll (RMB 40) is a great option for those squeamish about raw fish, but for the more adventurous types, the Cherry Roll (RMB 78) is worth a try, combining tempura shrimp, avocado, tuna and eel sauce.

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As the muggy Beijing heat begins to lift this month, take advantage of the city's rich cultural history by trying out the treasure trove of activities in and around Ditan Park. Smell the incense at Lama Temple, try your hand at flying a kite or cool down at the Ditan Ice Arena. The park itself is a gathering place for local residents, and an afternoon stroll around the grounds will reveal aspiring Peking Opera singers, tai chi groups and avid kite-fliers. As Ditan is conveniently located in the center of the city, there's no reason why you can't make this a regular autumnal day out.

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Tucked away from the urban landscape of Beijing, the only sound you'll hear among the greenery of the new Ras restaurant is the hum of cicadas. Large trees loom overhead and the low boundaries of the brick patio allow for perfect sight lines to keep an eye on playing children. With an extensive outdoor area, Ras is perfectly situated for an indulgent afternoon or evening of Ethiopian fare. Large canvas umbrellas, good-sized tables and a variety of seating options grace the patio, accommodating groups or families of any size. For the winter months, the inside space provides a glimpse of Ethiopian culture through traditional art and décor, including mesobs - traditional hand woven tables. The menu features an array of barbeque options as well as the stews and injera bread distinct to Ethiopian cuisine. With the change in location also comes the addition of a children's menu, integrating authentic Ethiopian dishes with well-known crowd pleasers like fries and chicken wings.

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For many of us, summer brings simple pleasures: picnics in the park, pistachio ice cream, walks with the dog. However, for those with severe allergies these basic activities can trigger miserable sneezing fits, nasal congestion, itchy eyes and even rashes. Seemingly harmless to most people, a spectrum of substances found in everyday life can cause debilitating allergic reactions. So what can we do about it?

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International Food Warehouse (IFW)
Only available on their weekday a la carte menu, International Food Warehouse's fish and chips is the priciest of all our picks, but well worth it for the authentic taste. Parents will appreciate the attentive service and sleek décor.
Mon-Fri 7.30am-10pm, Sat-Sun 10.30am-10pm. B1/F, Park Life, Yintai Center, 2 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District (8567 1568)
朝阳区建国门外大街2号北京银泰中心悦·生活地下1层

Orange Tree Bistro
What's better than nibbling on fried fish and potatoes while sitting outdoors? If the weather permits, then Orange Tree Bistro's courtyard and rooftop deck are a perfect fit. The kids are free to run around as you sit back and enjoy the view.
Daily 11am-11.30pm. 27 Dashibei Hutong (near Yandai Xiejie, north of Houhai lake), Xicheng District (6401 7797)
西城区大石碑胡同27号（后海烟袋斜街附近)

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