brunch – Beijing Kids

Here’s Where To Take Dad This Father’s Day

Admin — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 03:30:47 +0000

Father’s Day is just around the corner, and there are so many exciting events to celebrate the dads in our lives. Whether you’re looking to treat Dad to a fun day out, indulge in some delicious food, or enjoy family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone in the city.

From special brunches to outdoor adventures, Beijing’s Father’s Day events offer the perfect opportunity to create unforgettable memories with your family.

Check out our curated list of upcoming Father’s Day events that will make this year’s celebration truly special!

Home Plate’s Super Dad

It’s time to celebrate the most hardworking and awesome dads out there! Still, figuring out where to take dad for his special day? Bring the whole family to Home Plate BBQ for a feast fit for a king! Treat your dad to the ultimate “Dad-Approved” BBQ platter and make his taste buds sing! On Father’s Day, Jun 16 (Sunday), every dad who digs into any BBQ platter will get a complimentary glass of Maker’s Mark Bourbon – on the house!

Where: Home Plate BBQ (Sanlitun branch)
When: Jun 16 (Sunday)
Price: Varies depending on menu items selected

Father’s Day at Turkish Feast

On Father’s Day, bring your father to dine at Turkish Feast and receive a complimentary drink! Go and raise a toast to love!

Where: Turkish Feast
When: Jun 16 (Sunday)
Price: Varies depending on menu items selected

Father’s Day at NUO Hotel

Treat your father to an exquisite brunch at N’Joy, featuring a lavish buffet with a variety of international cuisines. The brunch includes a seafood station, a carving station with premium meats, a sushi and sashimi bar, and a selection of desserts crafted by the restaurant’s pastry chef.

To book your table, call 5926 8283.

Where: N’Joy at Nuo Hotel Beijing
When: Jun 16, 11.30am-3pm
Price: RMB 688 per person

Bee+ Brunch at InterContinental Hotel

Bee⁺ Brunch offers a wide selection of rare honey sourced from China, carefully curated and cleverly matched to infuse each dish with a unique sweet and rich layer. Start with the signature amuse-bouche and continue with a seafood platter featuring Gillardeau oysters, scallops, and black tiger shrimp. Indulge on black truffles and prime beef tenderloin, lightly seared in a pan and paired with their signature honey sauce. Enjoy the dessert cart filled with a selection of cakes that give the taste buds free rein in a sweet experience with the brunch’s honey story. Finish off your meal with a Bee-Tit Four, their own unique honeycomb petit four.

When it comes to the kids who’ve yet to grow into taking on a 5-course menu on their own, Bee+ Brunch has a 3-course kids set menu option for RMB 214, or you can let them choose one of the four main course options of minestrone, Hungarian goulash, spaghetti pomodoro, or pumpkin risotto for RMB 88.

Where: InterContinental Beijing Sanlitun
When: Every Saturday and Sunday
Price: RMB 428/person

Fork by TRB’s Summer Steak Promotion

Who doesn’t love a fancy meal at Fork by TRB? It gives you that exclusive fine dining feel right in the bustling hutongs of Houhai and has been turning out memorable dishes since they took over the establishment. This summer, they’ve slashed the prices on their finest cuts of steaks, just in time for Father’s Day. Enjoy your favorite meal for almost half the price. What a treat!

Where: Fork by TRB
When: Every day
Price: Varies depending on menu items selected

FEAST’s BBQ Brunch on Saturdays & Sundays

Get ready for summer with EAST Hotel’s mouth-watering Grill & Chill BBQ Brunch at FEAST (Food by EAST)! Join for a fantastic day of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and great company. And, don’t forget: FEAST has one of the best restaurant Kid’s Corners in town, making them a perfect place for kids to play while parents enjoy some great food in peace.

Where: FEAST at EAST Beijing
When: Every Saturday and Sunday
Price: RMB 398 per person. Kids ages 7-12 are half price and kids 6 and under are free.

Father’s Day at Via Roma

Treat Dad to a memorable meal this Father’s Day with our special tomahawk steak feast.

Exclusive Offer:
The first 24 reservations will receive a custom engraved steak knife!

Book at least ten days in advance.

Where: Via Roma
When: Jun 16
Price: RMB 1,299 for 3-4 people

La Maison Lyonnaise

Come and celebrate Father’s Day. Buy one bottle of house wine and get another for free! Dads love a good wine, so bring the dad in your life where it matters. Good wines, good food, and an authentic French gastronomy experience!

Where: La Maison Lyonnaise
When: Jun 16
Price: Varies depending on menu items selected

Father’s Day at Latina

Every Sunday brunch enjoy a slow-roasted Australian prime rib carved tableside served with beef-dripping roast potatoes, green peas, roasted garlic, roasted bone marrow, and gravy included. This Sunday, post a pic of you giving your dad a big hug on Douyin or Red and get a complimentary bottle of wine.

Where: Latina
When: Jun 16
Price: Varies

Father’s Day Special Rooftop Workout and Ice Bath Experience

Celebrate Father’s Day with an unforgettable rooftop workout and ice bath experience! Enjoy a fun-filled family day featuring an invigorating HIIT workout, refreshing ice baths, warm hot tub, and calming breath work. Enjoy and rejuvenate while the kids splash around in their own pool. Cap off the morning with a social brunch at QMex Taqueria, enjoying a special 15 percent off tailored for those who attend this event. Don’t miss this perfect blend of fitness, relaxation, and family fun!

Where: JinShang Rainbow Terrace
When: Jun 16 at 10am
Price: RMB 198

Father’s Day Special Yoga in the Park

Join Sandra and Li’l Peaches Family Yoga for a fun morning yoga session followed by a picnic.

Where: Chaoyang Park
When: Jun 16, 9.30am-10.45 am
Price: RMB 100 or 1 Taozi class pass for 1 parent + 1 child

Looking for more family-friendly dining recommendations in the city? There’s a WeChat group for that! Add TBJButler on WeChat and get added to the FamFriendlyEats group.

Images: Courtesy of organizers, Pexels

Elegant Sundays and New Discoveries at Butterfly Brunch

Admin — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 05:00:49 +0000

If you’re looking for the perfect way to pamper mom or to spend a slow-paced morning with your friends, then it’s time to check out the Butterfly Brunch at the Regent Hotel. My recent visit was packed with delicious food, a relaxing ambiance, and a beautiful small garden with actual butterflies that captivated my little girl.

I’m a firm believer that not every excursion with a young child should be focused on them. It’s great to take kids to restaurants that are specifically created for them, but they also need to see and experience new things, and, more importantly, know that while mommy loves them more than anything in the world, that mommy’s entire world doesn’t revolve around them. Sometimes we go to brunches with ball pits and slides where they can go wild, and other times, we go to ones where we can learn to enjoy a different kind of ambiance and discover new foods that they’ve never tried.

The Butterfly Brunch menu is a culinary masterpiece, featuring a wide variety of dishes that cater to every palate. Starting with freshly baked pastries and parma ham sliced right at your table, it’s a feast for the stomach and eyes.

From healthy yogurt bowls to hearty meat dishes, there were plenty of options to suit whatever mood you’re in. The big bowl of yogurt topped with fresh fruit and granola was such a refreshing start to our lazy weekend morning.

For the main course, my personal favorites were the eggs Benedict and beef Rossini topped with foie gras that was cooked to absolute perfection.

And my 3.5-year-old little girl? Well, aside from devouring the freshly baked chocolate danish, she discovered that she absolutely loves Brie cheese. In fact, every day since taking her to Regent’s Butterfly Brunch, she’s asked me for her own little cheese plates. What a delightful way to introduce children to new flavors!

What’s a brunch without a little bubbly? The Butterfly Brunch includes three courses with free-flow sparkling wine (RMB 388) and an option for five courses with free-flow Perrier-Jouët Champagne (RMB 888). The brunch is from 11.30-3pm every Sunday, but they offer diners an extra hour of free flow as a thank you for traveling all the way to the Wangfujing area. They know you’ll probably get stuck in traffic somewhere along the way, because, well, this is Beijing after all, and they want to make sure your brunch is worth the drive.

The Butterfly Brunch isn’t just about the food – it’s about creating lasting memories. The attentive staff at the Regent Hotel go above and beyond to ensure that every guest feels special. For those bringing the kids along, they do have an à la carte menu available that’s filled with comfort foods that kids will love. Or do what I did and share your big portions with them.

Butterfly Brunch is available every Sunday from 11.30am to 3pm (with one extra hour of free-flow drinks).
RMB 388 for three courses with unlimited sparkling wine, house wines, cocktails, soft drinks, coffee and tea
RMB 888 for five courses with unlimited Perrier-Jouët Champagne

Find it:
99 Jinbao Jie, Dongcheng District
东城区金宝街99号
Tel: 8522 1888

Images: Mina Yan

The Big List of Mother’s Day Brunches in Beijing

Admin — Fri, 10 May 2024 03:30:19 +0000

As Mother’s Day approaches, it’s time to celebrate the extraordinary women in our lives with a touch of elegance and culinary delight. In the heart of Beijing, there are plenty of upscale restaurants and charming cafes gearing up to offer unforgettable brunch experiences tailored to honor mothers in the most exquisite fashion. From lavish buffets showcasing international cuisines to intimate gatherings featuring artisanal delicacies, Beijing’s Mother’s Day brunch scene promises to pamper and delight discerning palates while creating cherished memories with beloved mothers. Check out our picks for this Mother’s Day.

Commune Reserve and Commune X Brunch All Day Long

Commune is one of the best places to go for family brunches. Their thick menu has something for everyone, and the outdoor terraces are perfect for this time of the year. And, they’ve made their wide selection of brunch items available all day long now! For Mother’s Day, they’re preparing a free-flow drink deal for RMB 98 that’ll include wines, cocktails, and beers. And for the kids (and kids at heart), there’ll even be a clown making his way around the restaurants at Commune Reserve and all the Commune X locations from noon to 4pm.

When: May 12
Where: Commune Reserve and Commune X
How much: Varies

Munch and Brunch at Feast

Bring mom to Feast for Mother’s Day to enjoy one of the city’s favorite brunches. Feast on oysters, lobsters, jade whelk, and more from their seafood station as well as BBQ pork ribs, beef tenderloin, char-grilled mustard-marinated salmon trout, and roasted lemon thyme-marinated chicken leg hot from the grill. Pamper mom with great food, unlimited wines, beers, and special drinks as you dine to the musical performances from Greg.

When: May 12, 11.30am-3pm
Where: Feast (Food by East)
Price: RMB 428. Half price for kids 6-12. Free for kids under 6

Mother’s Day Brunch and Staycation at St. Regis

Make Mother’s Day a whole-weekend affair at the St. Regis with their brunch and staycation package. Spend the morning dining at The Garden Court, take a stroll in their private garden, and spend the evening relaxing in their private hot spring and pool.

But, if you’re just looking for a place to soak in the sun and enjoy a relaxing morning with your family, The Garden Court has a great selection of seafood including lobster, freshly shucked oysters, caviar, and free-flow wines.

When: May 12, noon-3pm
Where: St. Regis Hotel
Price: RMB 588 per person. RMB 488 if you purchase from the hotel’s WeChat e-shop (scan the QR code in the poster). RMB 300 for kids 7-12. Free for kids under 6

Mother’s Day Deals at QMex

At QMex Bar & Grill and QMex Taqueria there’ll be plenty for moms to smile about this Mother’s Day. Finish your meal with a dessert that’s as sweet as Mom for half price all day long. And, at QMex Taqueria, everyone can enjoy the buy 2 get 1 free deal on mimosas all day.

When: May 12
Where: QMex Bar & Grill and QMex Taqueria
Price: Varies

Mother’s Day Brunch at Dastaan

Show your appreciation for the mothers in your life and treat them to a delicious meal filled with love and gratitude. Reservations are recommended, so make sure to book your table early. Make this Mother’s Day one to remember with a beautiful brunch at Dastaan Indian Cuisine. Celebrate Mom in style this year!

When: May 12, noon-3.30pm
Where: Dastaan Indian Cuisine
How much: Date: RMB 178 per adult. RMB 78 per child ages 5-12. A deal of 20 percent off for all moms.

Mother’s Day Brunch at Zarah

Treat Mom to what she really wants for Mother’s Day: Bottomless mimosas and an extravagant brunch buffet featuring Zarah’s delicious seasonal offerings!

Bring Mom and your family to Zarah on May 12 to indulge yourselves in a relaxing and delicious all-you-can-eat buffet at their Mother’s Day Brunch. From 10am to 2pm, a beautiful selection of cheeses, cold cuts, their famous egg-cooking & DIY jianbing station, healthy salads, homemade cakes, freshly baked breads, and croissants will be waiting for you. All mothers will receive a complimentary glass of a special mimosa!

There’s also Zarah’s all-you-can-eat-and-drink option offering three hours of free-flow high-quality wines, sparkling wine, beers, and Zarah’s secret-recipe cocktails – using fresh and seasonal ingredients!

If you want to be the hero this Mother’s Day, then bring your Mom and come to Zarah to pamper her with their yummy Sunday Brunch and fabulous mimosas! Reservation highly recommended!

When: May 12, 10am-2pm
Where: Zarah
How much: RMB 228 for all-you-can-eat
RMB 388 for all-you-can-eat + 3 hours of free flow
RMB 98 for kids ages 6-12

Butterfly Brunch on Sundays at Regent Beijing

Indulge in a luxurious dining experience amidst the enchanting ambiance of the Butterfly Brunch, where every Sunday transforms into a celebration of delectable flavors and effervescent joy.

Embark on a culinary journey with an exquisite à la carte menu curated to tantalize your taste buds through three sumptuous courses. Elevating your experience, revel in the opulence of unlimited sparkling wine, house wine, cocktails, soft drinks, coffee, and tea, all for RMB 388 net per person.

For those seeking unparalleled luxury, the Butterfly Champagne Brunch awaits, presenting a lavish five-course à la carte menu that promises culinary perfection at every turn. Delight in the sophistication of unlimited Perrier-Jouët champagne, ensuring your Sunday soars to new heights of indulgence. This brunch option is priced at RMB 888 net per person.

Savor every moment as you unwind in the company of loved ones, with the Regent’s brunch affair extending from 11.30am to 3pm, plus an additional hour graciously provided for your traveling convenience. Immerse yourself in the festivities with a free flow of champagne or bubbles for an extended 4.5 hours, allowing you to relish every sip in true leisure.

Join us for an unforgettable Sunday rendezvous, where decadence meets delight, and every moment becomes a cherished memory.

When: Sundays, 11.30am-3pm
Where: The Regent
How much: RMB 388 or RMB 888

Mother’s Day Reimagined at Morton’s

Indulge in an exquisite culinary experience this Mother’s Day with Morton’s Steakhouse Surf ‘n Turf Special! Treat the leading ladies in your life to a memorable dining adventure featuring the perfect combination of land and sea flavors.

When: May 11-May 12
Where: Morton’s
How much: RMB 888

Delicious Buffet at The Balcony

Enjoy Mother’s Day at the Grand Hyatt for their scrumptious lunch and dinner buffet. Take in the view and enjoy their selection of seafood, cold cuts, and roasts.

When: May 12
Where: The Balcony at The Grand Hyatt
How much: RMB 358-RMB 388

Half-Off Prosecco at Bottega

Starting from May 12, when you order any pizza at Bottega you can get a bottle of La Gioiosa Prosecco rosé for 50 percent off.

When: May 12-20
Where: Bottega
How much: Varies

FAN Brunch at the Mandarin Oriental

As Mother’s Day approaches, it’s time to celebrate the extraordinary women in our lives with a touch of elegance and culinary delight. Mandarin Grill’s Mother’s Day brunch scene promises to pamper and delight discerning palates while creating cherished memories with beloved mothers.

When: Every weekend from 11.30am-2pm

Where: Mandarin Oriental

Price: RMB 688 per person

Mother’s Day at the Ritz Carlton

Treat Mom to an unforgettable culinary journey at The Ritz-Carlton this Mother’s Day. Indulge in the epitome of sophistication with our exclusive brunch offerings, designed to elevate the celebration to new heights of elegance and flavor. Choose from two exquisite options: a decadent three-course meal or an opulent five-course extravaganza, each meticulously curated to delight the senses and create lasting memories. Elevate the experience with our free-flow drink option, allowing you to toast to Mom’s special day in style while enjoying the impeccable service and luxurious ambiance that define the Ritz-Carlton experience.

When: Every Saturday and Sunday
Where: The Ritz-Carlton Beijing
Price: RMB 398 and RMB 588

Mother’s Day Brunch in the Clouds

Treat your mom this Mother’s Day to a special Love Journey at the Peak of Beijing with various dining experiences and events. The Michelin award-winning Grill79 at China World Summit Wing, Beijing, offers Sunday Brunch in the Cloud on May 12. Savour luxurious “Chocolate Wagyu” Mayura beef, lobsters, and caviar, while overlooking the view of the Forbidden City. Enjoy a Mother’s Day special offer: complimentary brunch for one mom with bookings of three persons. Available from noon to 2.30pm, RMB 788 per person including free flow of sparkling wine and soft drinks.

When: Every Sunday
Where: Grill79 at China World Summit Wing
Price: 788 per person

Texas-Style Spring BBQ Buffet at Café Royal

Indulge in a culinary feast! Treat yourself and your beloved mom to a lavish Mother’s Day dining experience at Café Royal, featuring tantalizing Tex-Mex flavors and BBQ delights paired perfectly with beer to ignite your weekend! Enjoy classic favorites like roasted beef brisket, pork ribs, sashimi, oysters, scallops, hot dogs, hamburgers, fried corn cakes, spicy fried corn cakes, Mexican tortillas, Texas meat platter, and fried chicken cutlets.

When: May 12
Where: Cafe Royal at Nuo Universal
How much: RMB 338 per adult. RMB 170 per kid ages 3-11
Reservations: 010-5732 6330

Images: Courtesy of organizers, Pexels

Beijing Hutongs’ Best Kept Secret Brunch?

Vivienne Tseng-Rush — Wed, 17 May 2023 07:00:40 +0000

Since I discovered Mulu during last year’s CFFC charity dinner, I have been dying to try their all-you-can-eat weekend brunch, which is a rather exclusive affair limited to approximately 30 customers each day. This is so that customers can stay and enjoy their meal for as long as they want without being rushed. This laid-back luxury is certainly part of the charm of Mulu – a restaurant that prides itself on sustainable quality ingredients and inventive yet familiar Southeast Asian flavors.

So when Mother’s Day rolled around this year, I decided that would be the occasion for me to enjoy this special brunch. I contacted their customer service on WeChat to make a reservation, and paid a down payment of RMB 500, which is understandable given the conditions stipulated earlier. This payment is refundable should you cancel with advance notice.

Mulu is tucked inside the Xinsi hutong in central Beijing, and is just a short walk down the narrow hutong streets from the main roads. An iconic colorful samurai cat guards the doorway and you’ll notice the elegant Mulu deer logo at the entrance. Given the warming weather these days, we opted to sit out on the shady terrace that overlooked the surrounding hutong courtyards. Bugs were not a problem at all and a steady cool breeze kept us comfortable for the most part.

The interior decoration at Mulu smacks of Southeast Asian culture with modern touches of kitsch and sophistication. The courteous wait staff were always prompt and full of smiles for us as they introduced each dish with its unique ingredients and cooking methods. I later discovered that most of the young attendants had been sponsored by Mulu owner Jasmine to come to China to study, and then stayed on to work for the family-owned restaurant.

Let’s talk about the food, because there is a lot to say and yet few words do it justice. In sum: I would claim that there is no other cuisine like that of Mulu’s here in Beijing. Styled as Nanyang-French fusion, Chef Addison’s skill and daring in blending flavors and cooking methods is guided by his obvious love for his hometown (Ipoh, Malaysia) food, while his culinary training stays his hand to ensure each creation isn’t overpowering. The seafood offerings best exemplified this with the French oyster and pickled mango with quinoa combination, as well as the kalamanasi piment d’Espelette with the Japanese akagai blood clam. I won’t seek to dissect every dish, but I will point out that you are welcome to ask for seconds (or more!) of your favorite plates, which my son happily did with the kaya toast, devouring four helpings of it. But overall, my family’s favorite would be the Dutch milk-fed veal ribeye; the most tender, juicy and tasty beef complimented with perfectly mashed potato puree with natural jus that I was tempted to lick off the plate. Instead, I washed it all down with an absolutely refreshing pandan lemongrass mocktail that even my child drank copiously.

Note: Even though there is a menu you can refer to, be prepared to be surprised as dishes come and go with the season as well as with Chef Addison’s inspirations. I will say that the surprise is most likely to be an enjoyable one, though!

The Weekend All-You-Can-Eat Brunch at Mulu is definitely a must-try for Beijingers at least once, but for those who appreciate a lazy weekend spent with good company and even better food and drink, Mulu will probably lure you back in weekend after weekend…

Mulu Weekend Brunch
11am-3pm (or past that, really)
RMB 688/person, additional RMB 388/person for free flow wine and beverages

Available only by referral and reservation in advance. Quote jingkids to make your reservation at Mulu via their WeChat ID: ilovemulu2

Images: Vivienne Tseng-Rush, Mulu

KEEP READING: The Restauranteur & Chef Family Behind Hidden Gem MULU

Start Planning Easter Early! See What’s Happening in Beijing

Admin — Tue, 28 Mar 2023 05:00:40 +0000

Easter is coming up on Apr 9, and while some of the most popular Easter brunch places in town are still finalizing their details and have yet to announce what they’ve got planned this year, others are close to being sold out! By the time Easter rolls around the weather is usually nice enough for some outdoor fun, and if past experience serves correct it’s one of those holidays where every family wants to go out so the best events will be booked early!

So plan ahead, and check out what’s already in store on Easter weekend.

The Peninsula Beijing and Their Annual Easter Events

I took my daughter to The Peninsula for their epic easter egg hunt when she was barely one year old and she had the time of her life! This year, The Peninsula and Peter Rabbit are collaborating for Easter to bring guests an experience that’s straight out of the storybooks. And like with all Peninsula Hotel events, they know what we parents truly, truly want – great photos to share with friends, family, and followers!

Their Peter Rabbit-themed afternoon tea is already available online, and the adorable friendship between a bunny and a bear is one that’ll bring back our fondest childhood memories.

As for their epic Easter egg hunt and activity class, you’ll need to book your spot ASAP! It’s not even April yet and most of their spots have already been sold out. It’s pricy, but it’s THAT good!

This year the kids will be making a Peter Rabbit Easter egg with the help of The Peninsula chefs, of course. Following their crafting session, they’ll head outside for the annual Easter egg hunt!

Find it:

8 Goldfish Lane, Wangfujing, Beijing, 100006

Comptoirs de France

After three years, Comptoirs de France’s egg hunt will resume on Apr 9 (Sunday)! Enjoy a beautiful Sunday and an unforgettable egg hunt with your children in East Lake Villas Park.

The egg hunt will take place from 9am to 11am and is open to kids ages 2-10.

Seats are limited. No car parking is provided. Please take public transportation.

To see a list of their already available Easter products, please scan the QR code below.

Find it:

East Lake Villas, East Lake Club 1st floor

Cafe Royal’s Spring BBQ Brunch

Celebrate Easter brunch at Universal Beijing’s Cafe Royal. On Easter Sunday their team will be setting up their (now annual) outdoor Easter brunch on the lawn where guests can enjoy live cooking stations, meet and greet some of their favorite Minions, and win awesome lucky draw prizes! Definitely book your seats in advance by calling 5732 6330.

Date: Apr 9, 2023
Time: Noon-3pm
Price: RMB 398 per adult, RMB 198 for kids 3-11 years old

Find it:
NUO Resort Hotel, No.1 Sunrise Avenue, Tong Zhou District, Beijing

Buffet and Egg Hunt at The Orchard

The Orchard is one of those daytime getaways where you sort of feel like you’ve left the hustle and bustle of the city behind without having to do any real traveling.

This year for Easter they’ll be setting up a delicious buffet for families, followed by an Easter egg hunt for kids.

Pricing:
RMB 398 for adults
RMB 198 for kids under 11
Free for kids under 5

Find it:
Cuigezhuangxiang Hegezhuangcun
Beikou Guo Park, Chaoyang

For more Easter events, scan the QR code below.

Images: Mina Yan, Courtesy of organizers

Is NUO’s Brunch Worth the Price?

Julie Wolf — Wed, 09 Nov 2022 05:00:45 +0000

When I first arrived in Beijing back in 2019, the brunch at NUO hotel was legendary. NUO was the place everyone said to go to celebrate a special event and enjoy the best of expat life. I kept meaning to go, but somehow never managed to check it off my gastronomic hit list. Then Covid hit and, well, buffets were not exactly encouraged. NUO brunch took a hiatus. But foodies everywhere can rejoice because it is back and my friends, it lives up to its reputation!

When you first walk into the beautiful lobby you are invited for a welcome drink at a cozy and elegant bar that feels like a place Cary Grant or Humphrey Bogart would have frequented. Then you head into the dining space, N’Joy, and the wonderland that is their global buffet.

Pride of place goes to the raw bar, where the star of the show is the oysters shucked to order next to the chilled boiled crabs, scallops, and mussels. There is also a sushi table, a western breakfast station with eggs to order, a carving station with pork, chicken, and beef, a corner dedicated to dim sum, and stations for Indian, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Don’t forget the charcuterie station where I counted no less than six types of Italian meats and at least a dozen international cheeses. A salad bar is also available with an assortment of fresh produce. There is a waffle and crepe station and an assortment of pastries available – you know, just in case your plate isn’t already overflowing. Everything is amazingly fresh and high quality – the staff must start prepping 24 hours in advance or the management is keeping house elves in the basement à la Harry Potter because it’s truly a magical feat.

But this is just the starter. I strongly encourage you to pace yourself because, in addition to the buffet, specialty dishes are delivered to your table, including prime rib carved to order, garlic lobster, truly amazing warm garlic bread, and my favorite: caviar and blintzes. Then of course there is the whole tuna that is ceremonially cut and served by the chefs mid-meal.

But leave a little room because you are going to want dessert. Both your inner child and your actual children will be thrilled with the chocolate fountain and cotton candy machine, as well as the make-your-own-sundae bar with plenty of toppings from fresh fruit to gummy worms. There are more cakes than I could count and delicious little petit fours, as well as puddings, candied nuts, and cookies.

Just when you think you can’t eat another bite, delivered to your table is a lovely chocolate mousse.

The price of this wonderful foodie paradise is RMB 588, and you get what you pay for. Everyone I’ve attended with always found something they loved (not just liked). Along with your seemingly endless meal, you have access to unlimited soda, juice, coffee, and water. There are free-flow packages available (RMB 158 for wine, RMB 288 for bubbles, and RMB 428 for champagne) but I just didn’t want to take up valuable real estate in my stomach with liquid.

PRO TIP: Order a bottle of bubbly for the table to share because nothing goes better with fresh oysters than cold champagne. Just don’t try to drink four hours’ worth of it on top of all that food…you’ll hurt yourself.

So the question is, is the experience worth the price? For me, yes. This was a lovely afternoon spent with friends over excellent food in a beautiful location. Well-behaved children will enjoy it as well, and I would encourage parents to bring coloring books or cards so the kids can play while they socialize. I wouldn’t do it every weekend but for the occasional special event or treat yourself moment it was a lovely option for a lazy Sunday.

To see everything that was on offer check out our video here and scan the QR code above to make your reservations.

Images: Julie Wolf and Vivianne Tsing Rush

KEEP READING: Choc-A-Lot Has An Ultimate Sticky Bun That Lives Up To Its Name

Family-Friendly Halloween Events This Weekend

Admin — Tue, 25 Oct 2022 03:00:06 +0000

Scan the QR code below to check out Beijing’s most comprehensive list of Halloween events!

We’ve also taken the liberty to share a few kid-friendly ones for the family.

Ongoing – Halloween Celebrations at Universal Studios Beijing

Gru and his crew have dressed up for Halloween and say hello to diners every morning at breakfast.

Find it:
Universal Studios Grand Hotel
环球影城大酒店

Oct 29-30 – Halloween Weekend Getaway for the Family at Shangri-la Shougang Park

Immersed in the century-old industrial atmosphere, Shangri-La Shougang Park, Beijing turns into a fantasy plant this spooky season: The vampires and elves appear… They might be your partners, chasing the “black widow” with you. Remember to ask for candies from your friends along the way and look for your treasure! Another unique feature of the hotel is the on-site children’s playground buds where parents can spend high-quality entertainment time with their children. Immersive and interactive games are designed to stimulate the creativity and explorative nature in children. The buds playground will undoubtedly add some memorable highlights for our families’ quests during their stays.

For more info, call 8829 8888.

Find it:
Qunming Lake West Street, No. 68 Shijingshan Road, Beijing

Oct 29 – Side Street Kids Halloween Party, Jianguomen

Bring the kids for a Halloween party on Sat, Oct 29 starting at 11am. Enjoy a magic show and balloon show by the special Halloween clown, face painting, treat bags, and a special kids menu. For the parents, enjoy happy hour all day long!

Find it:

Bldg N28 2/101-102 17 Jianguomenwai Dajie (behind Nola), Chaoyang District

朝阳区建国门外大街17号楼2/102-102 （Nola后面）

Oct 30 – Feast’s Trick or Treat

One of the most family-friendly brunches in town. For Halloween, bring the family for a full buffet with free-flow selection of drinks for RMB 444 per person. Dress up in your costume for a chance to win prizes. Plus, kids who dine at Feast’s Halloween brunch get a free pass to the haunted house! Free for kids aged 3 or under; half price for kids aged 4-12.

Find it:
2/F, EAST Beijing, 22 Jiuxianqiao Lu, Chaoyang District
朝阳区酒仙桥路22号东隅北京酒店2层

Oct 29-30 at Shangri-La Hotel

Beijing Shangri-La Halloween theme party is a fun, creative, surprising, and funny event from October 29 to October 30 for RMB 1,388. The package features a one night stay in a Jingge deluxe room, one day buffet breakfast for two children, and one child room upgrade. For RMB 200 you can upgrade to Xinge super deluxe room, and for RMB 300 you can upgrade to a Jingge executive suite. Early check-in is at 12 noon and late check-out is until 4:30 pm.

Participating families receive 20% off dining and spa programs. An additional RMB 318 will be added for the second child in the same group (limited to two children in the same group). For more info call 8882 6833.

Find it:
29 Zizhuyuan Lu (just off Xisanhuan Lu), Haidian District
海淀区西三环紫竹院路29号

Oct 30 – Harry & The Witches Fairy Halloween at Atmosphere

The family package for RMB 688 includes a desert buffet for two adults and one child. RMB 128 for an additional child. Spend an afternoon enjoying a clown and magic show and face painting. Kids leave with a goodie bag in hand to get Halloween started. Advanced reservations are required.

Find it:
80/F, China World Summit Wing, 1 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District
朝阳区建国门外大街1号北京国贸大酒店80层

Oct 30 – SPOOK-Tacular Brunch at Zarah

Zarah will be turned into a Haunted Café, where you can enjoy our all-you-can-eat brunch buffet, featuring some frightening Halloween specials such as Spider Deviled Eggs, Rotten Spaghetti, Coconut Hummus Bats, Cups of Dirt, Sweet Ghosts etc. Check out MAMONAHI’s spooky corner for kids from 12 noon to 2pm on the second floor! Martina Morrocchi & Blanca Rosa will organize plenty of fun-filled kids’ activities such as face painting, ghost bowling, pumpkin stomp, and spider web walking, as well as a “Best Evil Laugh” contest etc.

Enjoy an all-you-can-eat brunch for adults for RMB 228 or include the all-you-can-drink option as well for RMB 358.

Halloween activities organized by MAMONAHI are included in the Kids Brunch at RMB 150 per kid (3-12 years). For their own safety kids below 6 years old must to be accompanied by a parent to join the activities.

Find it:
46 Gulou Dongdajie, Dongcheng District
东城区鼓楼东大街46号

Oct 30 – Family-Fun Halloween “Booffet” at Kempinski Hotel Beijing

Signature’s Restaurant will hold a spooky party for you and the little ones which are packed with scary cake, fearful pumpkins, and more creative-themed eats. Highlights include Prawn Pyramid, Beef Tongue Scream Salad, Wolf’s Legacy Beef Medallions with Blood Lake, Halloween Turkey Saltimbocca, Halloween Pumpkin Stuffed with Chestnut and Philadelphia Cheese, and Scary Pumpkin Face Pie for dessert, as well as a varied individual salad bar with Greek Freak Salad and Dark Rock Roasted Pumpkin Salad with Goat Cheese for vegetarians.

While the adults are enjoying their free-flow beer and wine, the kids can be entertained with holiday-themed face painting and joining the Trick or Treat team for sweets or enjoying some time in the Kids Movie Room.

Adult: RMB 538/Person, Children 6-11 years old: RMB 268/Person, Children 2-5 years old: RMB 128/Person.

Find it:
Beijing Lufthansa Center, 50 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District
朝阳区亮马桥路50号
Tel: 6465 3388

Images: Courtesy of organizers, Pexels

Forgot about Mother’s Day? These Local Businesses Have You Covered!

Julie Wolf — Thu, 05 May 2022 03:00:01 +0000

The past few weeks have been a little… chaotic, to say the least. So, you can be forgiven if you forgot that this coming Sunday is Mother’s Day. It’s a little late for TaoBao to help you but don’t worry, all of these local businesses can make sure you get a gift that will make it look like you planned ahead.

For the traditionalist: Blooms are a classic for a reason, Studio Flowers will make sure a perfect bouquet shows up just in time to brighten mom’s day. Bonus points if you send one to the home and one to the office.

For the Domestic Goddess: She makes it look easy (it’s not). Between work, online learning, and trying to use all the food we panic-bought before it rots, mom is likely to be more than a little stressed. Some aromatherapy might be in order. Local teachers and owners of Tallow Candle can put together a homemade box of candles that smell like anything from baking cookies to fresh-cut grass. All are non-toxic and environmentally friendly.

For Super Mom: Unwinding at the spa isn’t the only way of de-stressing. Sometimes you just gotta’ hit something. Help mom finds her inner warrior and shake up her fitness routine with Warrior One.

For the Cosmo Mama: It’s about the little luxuries. Whether mom has a signature scent, a favorite face mask, or just loves the latest MAC lipstick line, Marsha will hook you up. Send a photo of the product and she will track it down for you!

PRO TIP: Get a few of mom’s favorite indulgences and arrange them into a gift basket for a little extra wow factor.

For the Fashionista: The carpool lane is her runway. For a new Hermès scarf, a classic pair of Channel sunglasses, or chic Kate Spade earrings Po & Liz are my first call. They always let me know what is in stock and available fast. The quality has always been great with easy returns if something is not quite right.

For the Spa Mama: Anything that gives mom one less thing to worry about is always a good idea. Alice Beauty is offering a special on laser hair removal so she can cross shaving off her to-do list this summer. They also offer amazing facials, manicures, and a host of other beauty services. Contact for details, appointments or to get gift certificates.

For the Bunch Mama: …Because she probably is missing free flow right now: If brunch out isn’t an option this weekend, make sure mom has a perfect breakfast in bed cocktail to go with her eggs and waffles with the help of Jacqueline. Whether you need a bottle (or case) of prosecco for the makings for a perfect Aperol spritz or if mom has a discerning palate for Italian reds, Jacqueline will help you find the perfect poison (so to speak) and ship them right to your door in time for a lovely Mothers’ Day tipple.

Images: Pexels, Studio Flowers, Tallow Candles, Canva, Weheartwine

KEEP READING: Panic Groceries About to Go Bad? Try this.

The Best Easter Brunches in Beijing

Julie Wolf — Tue, 12 Apr 2022 03:00:42 +0000

The best part of Easter is brunch. Getting all dressed up, and then sitting, sipping, and eating away the afternoon with good friends is a long-standing tradition. Here are some of our favorite spots to celebrate.

The Peninsula Beijing: Easter Family Brunch accompanied by live jazz. Plenty of options across multiple buffet stations, including a chocolate show stopper. A chocolate egg decoration class and egg hunt through the hotel will keep kids busy and potentially win them prizes!

Sunday, Apr 17 from 11.30am to 3.30pm

RMB 680 per person

Find it:
8 Jinyu Hutong, Dongcheng District
东城区金鱼胡同8号
For reservations call 8516 2888 Ext 6759 or email thelobbypbj@peninsula.com.

Feast by EAST: Brunch here is always a good idea, but they turn it up a notch for the holidays and Easter is no acceptance. A full buffet, including everything from the traditional lamb, ham, and eggs to sushi, curry, and cake, is accompanied by free-flow drinks. For the kids, there is not only the play area and ball pit, but there is also an Easter egg hunt and an egg decorating contest. Get the family dressed to impress because there is a prize for the best-dressed child.

Sun, April 17 from 11.30am to 3pm

RMB 468 per person, but kids ages 7-12 are half price, and children under age 6 enter free

Find it:
22 Jiuxianqiao Lu, Chaoyang District
朝阳区酒仙桥路22号
For reservations call 8414 9898 or email restaurantreservations@east-beijing.com.

InterContinental Hotel: Ajit and his team make everyone feel like royalty at their Bee Brunch, and I’m sure Easter will exceed even their excellent service. The brunch will run all weekend and is a choice between three and four courses with a free-flow option. To keep the party going, you will be gifted a dozen of their famous hot cross buns to take home.

Apr 16-18 from 11.30am to 3pm

From RMB 268 to RMB 528

Find it:
1 South Sanlitun Road, Chaoyang District
朝阳区南三里屯路1号
Tel: 6530 8888
For reservations scan the QR code below.

The Local: Our favorite casual hangout is offering an à la cart brunch menu with a few extras to celebrate the holiday. Free hot cross buns are served with every brunch main, and if you reserve a table early, there will be Easter treats for children twelve and under, and half a dozen cage-free eggs from a small farm to take home.

Sun, Apr 17 from 11am to 3pm

Find it:
Courtyard 4, Jidian Yanjiuyuan, 4 Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang District
朝阳区工体北路4号机电研究院4号院
Tel: 6591 9525
For reservations scan the QR code.

NUO Hotel: This is the iconic, high-end Beijing brunch at the NUO Hotel, famous for its massive assortment of luxuries including steak, shellfish, and whole salmon, as well as a dessert table complete with a chocolate fountain. The brunch is definitely pricey and doesn’t include a free-flow option, but for the holiday they are offering a welcome drink at 11am and a family photoshoot so that you can show off your adorable matching outfits in a beautiful setting.

Sun, Apr 17 from 11.30am to 3pm (11am welcome drink in the lounge)

Price: RMB 628 buffet only

Find it:
2A Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District
朝阳区将台路甲2号
Tel: 5926 8888
For reservations scan the QR Code.

Kempinski Hotel: The garden brunch buffet and egg hunt at Kempinski Beijing include face painting and a petting zoo!

Sun, Apr 17 from 11.30am to 3pm

Price: RMB 468 per adult / RMB 198 per child

Find it:
50 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District
朝阳区亮马桥路50号
Tel: 6465 3388
For reservations scan the QR code.

Didn’t like any of the Easter brunches we recommended? Fret not! Check out the most comprehensive list of Easter events on our website.

KEEP READING: Best Easter Eats According to Beijing’s Foodie Emperor

Images: EAST Beijing , InterContinental Hotel, FEAST (Food by EAST), TRB, The Local, the Beijinger