Public embarrassment is inevitable in Beijing – the world can be quite small sometimes, even in a big city. How awkward is it for teachers and students to accidentally meet eyes at a cocktail bar?

If you want to shun situations like this, read on for some open secrets about who goes where in Beijing, from restaurants, amusement parts, to pubs. Let’s just try to avoid the awkward moments all together.

Universal Studios

The one and only Universal Studio in China attracts all sorts of people, especially young couples. We love the Universal globe, the butter bear stand, and the Three Broomsticks. Yet most are gone from these places after scorching noon. I would argue that 2-10pm are the golden hours for adults. Before then, leave it to the youngsters.

Find it:
通州区环球大道与颐瑞东路交叉口西北角
Universal Avenue and YiRui East Lu, Tongzhong District

Chaoyang Park

The Chaoyang Park is large and maze-like, consisting of both roller coasters and picnic grounds, the largest one being “万人广场”. This is where many teenagers spend the weekend. You might see them tipping out gossip with champagne or laughing intimately to a joke in the grass. However, 万人广场 has many lush, green valleys for those who enjoy quietude, and many other picnic grounds are also nearby.

Find it:
北京市朝阳区朝阳公园南路1号
Chaoyang Park South Road No. 1, Chaoyang District
Tel: 65953490, 65065409

Moka Bros

There is no other restaurant that teenagers love more than Moka Bros, especially locations in malls such as Solana or The Place. The menu is trendy yet healthy, the walls are lit with lovely, lulling lights, and the price to quality ratio is ideal. High school students, couples, or friends dive in and out of the glass doors. If you are an adult and have no interest of bumping into students, perhaps the Sanlitun or Xidan Joy City locations will work wonders.

Find it:
呼家楼街道光华路9号天街大厦一层
HuJiaLou street GuangHua raod No. 9 TianJia Building floor 1
麦子店街道朝阳公园6号院蓝色港湾湖畔美食街南街A135号商铺
Maizi street Chaoyang park No. 6 garden HuPanMeiShi South street A135

Baker and Spice

Similar to Moka Bros and practically identical to Wagas. Many international students lunch quickly at Baker and Spice, which can be found in any commercial center. However, the environment is much friendlier to adults because soft jazz and indie pop music obscure any curious conversation. Many elders also sit in a corner with coffee, a Berliner, and books. All are in one, yet one is in none.

Find it:
Multiple locations around the city.

Playhouse Bar

High school students shun the Heaven Supermarket, but they do feverishly embrace a neon pub called Playhouse. It is a rather safe space for teenage clubbing in Sanlitun, furnished with disco temperaments and throbbing with high melodies. The afterparty is friendly towards teachers and parents, but it is wiser to party somewhere else.

Find it:
工体西路6号一层
GongTi West road No. 1 floor 1
Tel: 65060224

Assaggi

Assaggi is an Italian restaurant tucked away in the more modest streets of Sanlitun. The owner is from Venice and greets his guests with Venetian hospitality. The wicker settees are tasteful, if a little bare. The balcony is a luncheon space, decked out with seasonal flowers and trees. The greatest magic of Assaggi is that both adults and teenagers feel at home here. If you must avoid people who take panoramas of food or pose affectedly with food, skip brunch, drift in with the afternoon wind, or sweep inside with a dinner plan.

Are there any places teachers and parents territory that teenagers should not touch? Let us know in the comments below.

Find it:
三里屯北小街一号（德使馆东北角）
SanLiTun Small North street No. 1

Images: Dianping

Writing this, I am a bit upset. After months of a slow return to normal, I had begun to hope that Beijing would have a shot at a normal summer. Out and about, fewer and fewer people were wearing masks, food delivery drivers were allowed to deliver straight to our doors again, and restaurants were beginning to fill up. Then an announcement by the Beijing authorities of several asymptomatic cases linked to the XingFaDi market sent almost all the hard-won progress in Beijing spiraling down the drain.

Many communities around the city retightened their restrictions on movement as authorities embarked on extensive testing and contact tracing, and XingFaDi – which supplies about 70% of Beijing’s fresh produce – was shut down as extensive testing was carried out on the workers at the market. A chopping block in the seafood section of the market also testing positive sparked fears that imported salmon might also be contaminated, prompting the removal and disposal of fresh salmon from stores across the city.

“The market has to warm back up to the idea of eating salmon”

Which brings me to my own personal gripe about the current situation. There is nothing like a city-wide purge of fresh salmon ruin a sushi date night dinner! For sushi lovers, the next couple of weeks spell disaster.

Looking through Meituan and perusing through various restaurants’ menus, you will notice all salmon dishes have been pulled. For Japanese restaurants like Hatsune, the sudden turn against salmon amid public health concerns goes beyond having to tweak the restaurant’s robust menu. For Alan Wong, owner of Hatsune, it is an exercise in managing fears, rumors, and waste. “The announcement came on Friday, and on Saturday and Sunday the business was totally dead, “Wong explains of the current situation. Hatsune, like other businesses across the city, had begun to see a return to normalcy after the uncertainty brought about by COVID-19 in the first quarter of the year. News of the market and the produce being in the clear has done little to placate customers. “The market has to warm back up to the idea of eating salmon when it’s already proven that [the disease]is not transferable from fish, and fish do not have any link to COVID-19 cases at all. Still, the market is going to take a long time to get used to that fact,” adds Wong.

Like most Japanese restaurants, Hatsune offers a wide range of dishes aside from salmon

Despite Hatsune and other Japanese restaurants offering a wide variety of dishes, their link to raw salmon continues to see patrons shy away. This is unlikely to change, now that more restaurants are deciding to close their doors until what appears to be a second wave of infections is brought under control. In the meantime, Wong and those like him will have to resort to disposing of their restaurants’ salmon stocks the best way they know how. As Wong rather light-heartedly adds, “ I have been taking many kilograms of salmon home, cooking it and eating it myself. And even if it did have COVID-19, if you cook it then it’s totally destroyed, so I have just been eating it myself.” Hopefully, the rest of the city will warm up to salmon again, and household names in Japanese cuisine in the city can once again reclaim their rightful place on our menus.

KEEP READING: Meet the Young Mind Behind Beijing’s Latest Foodie Sensation, Savour

Photos: Zeus Zou

One of the best parts about living in Beijing is the ease with which you can travel to other parts of Asia and indulge in their cultures, traditions, and that most veritable combination of the two, their food! Unfortunately, due to hectic work and school schedules, we don’t always get the chance to travel as much as we’d like. Thankfully though, our proximity to these fascinating places means that if we can’t go to them, they will inevitably come to us.

Such is the joy of MULU WFC in Wangfujing, which brings together a litany of diverse and unique flavors from all over Southeast Asia, including Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippine, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. In the run up to the opening of their new restaurant, Laksa Queen, MULU WFC’s lunch menu will be taken over by their Street Food Fiesta. From Monday through Friday, 11am-2pm, diners can sink their teeth into regional favorites like Nasi Goreng Jakarta, Singapore Hainan Chicken Rice, Penang Char Kway Teow, Sarawak Laksa, Vietnamese Pho Bo, and Khao Gai Yang for RMB 38 each.

As if the food wasn’t enough, the ambience of MULU WFC also seeks to capture the grandeur and magnificence of Southeast Asian cultures. Home to the largest cave in the world, Gunung Mulu National Park was used as the inspiration for the restaurant’s interior design, which includes a large granite boulder which is home to a white marble statue of the restaurant’s logo, Shammy. The bar counter stands in for the jagged karst pinnacles, and a skylight off in the distance, at the very end of the restaurant, is suggestive of the national park’s cave system, all of which is illuminated by an abstract lighting fixture made up of 1,380 bat-inspired decorations.

Of their new project, Laksa Queen, the restaurateurs explain: “The diverse flavorful street food makes Southeast Asia a truly food paradise. While MULU WFC hopes to redefine Southeast Asian cuisine by showcasing its trend-forward, multicultural side by preparing dishes according to traditional recipes given a new life with modern technologies and plating, Laksa Queen sets to preserve street food culture, which is slowly diminishing in tastes with progressive development in the region, by offering customers the opportunity to taste Southeast Asian delicacies at affordable prices like in Southeast Asia, right here in Beijing.”

MULU WFC is located at 4F, WF Central, Wangfujing Street. Though not open yet, Laksa Queen will be located in Sanlitun.

For more information, click here.

Photos: Asiaholidays.biz, MULU WFC, Enchantingtravels.com

Should five-star dining always be de rigueur for a date night? I’m now in the thick of reviewing restaurants that I can recommend for your special occasions and romantic evenings with your loved one, and I have become even more certain that if where you choose to spend a romantic evening is offering a five-star menu, this ought to come with more than just a five-star price-tag. There has to be substance and all the trimmings, and New World Hotel’s food and beverage options do just that without leaving your pockets weightless.

The Yin on 12 bar sits proudly on the rooftop of New World Hotel. The terrace area is home to its very own alfresco bar and epic marble-encased DJ booth. Couples can sit at the bar and take in the city view at night, or cuddle up on one of the loungers while enjoying table service. I’m always cautious of overly stylized bar concepts, and always feel that the alchemic cocktail mixes on offer need to stand out and reflect the opulence of your surroundings.

Negroni in Beijing

The signature cocktails at Yin do just that, with house takes on traditional and iconic mixes, such as the Old Fashioned, Apple Martini, and Negroni. The menu is concise and tied together with Chinese aromas, ingredients, and flavors. As always, I started with a version of the Negroni – the Negroni in Beijing (RMB 88) offers the classic balance of bitterness and sweetness with a Sichuan pepper kick! I really enjoyed this generously-poured classic with a Chinese twist, featuring rattan pepper oil and smoked sichuan pepper. If you prefer something whiskey-based, definitely go for the Amber (RMB 88), delicate and sweet; the smoked plum infused bourbon and rock sugar is a welcome delight and packs a nice punch.

Amber

Surprisingly, a vodka-based drink stole the show for me. The Apple Blossom (RMB 88), made with green apple and green tea infused vodka, apple juice, and homemade matcha syrup was heavenly. It tasted like candy and was smooth as silk. They’re extremely easy drinking, so take it slow, but definitely worth ordering a second round.

Apple Blossom

I love Chinese food, and lately this option tends to be my go-to when dining out. There is so much on offer and you have a hugely diverse selection of regional flavors to choose from in Beijing. 8 Qi Nian offers elevated Cantonese fare from Chinese Executive chef Tony Guo.

The Indulgent Pork Belly

We asked for a few recommendations (I suggest always doing this when you dine out – you might miss something epic, if you don’t ask) and it was suggested that we try the Chef’s Special, Mei Cai Kou Rou (RMB 140). Prepared by chef Tony Guo, slices of seasoned pork belly on a bed of cabbage in dark sweet gravy were sticky, indulgent, and delicious. I would advise that this be chosen as a shared main, since this dish is quite rich and needs to be tempered with a bowl of plain steamed rice. We tried the signature Fried Grain Rice (RMB 88) made with Chinese sausage, preserved pork, barley, and millet. Colorful and tasty, this was good but best paired with something less rich, as it’s already packed full of salty, woody, and textured flavor. The humungous Pork Rib (RMB 98) was moist and carved like butter, and I would say is the perfect accompaniment to the fried rice dish.

Fried Grain Rice

Our sides, Steamed Scallop and Shrimps (RMB 180), reminded me of dim sum without the translucent dumpling casing, and the Pan-Fried Crispy Cod-Fish (RMB 58), was reminiscent one of my dearly-missed British classics, “fish n chips”. The batter was fine and crispy, the cod flaky, and melt-in-the-mouth. The cod tastes like the sea and doesn’t need any added seasoning. These dishes come in generous portions, so go easy when ordering on an empty stomach. I was too full to sample any dessert but decided to go with a nightcap instead, and enjoyed another generously poured glass, this time, a New Zealand red, Brancott Estate Pinot Noir (RMB 105). Lush.

Pork Rib

Ambience-wise, this place is modern and classy without any uncomfortable airs or graces.The low-key lighting, Chinese-inspired adornments, and low rise tables with comfortable leather seating indoors set the right tone for romance and enjoyment. There’s a resident DJ playing chilled house and a nice mixed crowd of people. This place sits neatly on trend without being pretentious and the service was impeccable: knowledgeable staff and service with a genuine smile. I believe as a whole the bar and restaurant offers value for money and next time I intend to occupy one of their stately premier rooms, starting at RMB 1,300 (also a reasonable price per night).

Round off the evening nicely with a glass of Pinot Noir

I’ve been invited back to enjoy a dessert and perhaps shake a leg or two at one of their famous Saturday Salsa nights! Your next date night plans should be set. Go and enjoy their rooftop bar after an evening of good food at 8 Qi Nian, and come with your dancing shoes on!

New World Beijing Hotel, 2/F, 8 Qinian Main Street, Dongcheng District 东城区祈年大街8号新世界酒店2楼 (东打磨厂街 (Head up to 12/F to enjoy Yin On 12 Rooftop Bar).

Photos: Nicole Bonnah, www.beijing.newworldhotels.com

Tucked into an alley slightly off the beaten path in Beijing’s Gulou neighborhood, there is a bar and restaurant serving an Indian-inspired menu. Easy to miss, the aptly named Side Street is housed in a fairly small space, decorated with local art. The brain child of two young entrepreneurs, Side Street fuses together different culinary experiences, namely Indian and American. For their entry into the 2019 Burger Cup, co-owners Uday Phalgun, Purnima Sharma, and cook Henry Timberlake developed three awe-inspiring new burgers with fantastically flavorful twists. Narrowly missing out on 3rd place in this year’s competition, these burgers are still definitely something we recommend you try.

K.O.

The K.O. (RMB 68) – the first of three new additions to the Side Street menu – features two 100g patties, dueling cheeses, IPA caramelized onions and their signature “Secret K.O.“ sauce, whose ingredients (though pressed) the owners would not disclose. Arguably the most meaty of the three, this burger is a prime example of what we imagined a fusion theme would inspire in a dish. Bursting with flavor, the caramelized onions are definitely a highlight which readily merges with the beef.

The Mountain (RMB 75), features BBQ sauce, a mound of keema (Indian Beef Chili), Jalapeños, Frito chips, and pickled red onions, making it an indisputable favorite among loyal patrons. The crunchy Fritos add a wonderful texture to the burger, which radiates aromatic spices. Like “The K.O.“, “The Mountain“ is served with an additional pickle – a welcome, though not overly spicy, surprise with an almost fruity flavor.

Southern Tikka Masala Burger

For those of you seeking to divert from the classic beef burger, Side Street features the Southern Tikka Masala Burger (RMB 58), featuring fried chicken marinated in jalapeño buttermilk, homemade masala gravy, melted cheese, tamarind aioli, and grilled slaw. Crunchy and flaky on the outside while wonderfully juicy on the inside, this chicken is packed with concentrated flavors – delivering in both taste and texture. The fresh veg is a welcome addition to this burger – adding a fresh feel while simultaneously satisfying your plan to eat healthily this summer.

Finally, if you are meat free, Side Street also has you covered as their vegan and vegetarian burgers are among the best in town, including the signature Hutong Hipster, which features a potato and spinach patty paired with a combination of tamarind and spicy mint chutney.

The Mountain

All of these massive burgers are served with a healthily portion of thinly sliced fries, a characteristic which allows them to retain their delicious crunch. This is also great because you don’t need to order it additionally on the side like some burger-focused venues, which makes for an added (ungracious) cost to those seeking the perfect burger experience. Who orders a burger without fries? Needless to say, if good service and fair prices are your game – check out Side Street. You won’t be disappointed.

Side Street

Daily 5pm-late. 113-02 Jiaodaokou Dongdajie, Dongcheng District

东城区交道口东大街113-02

(156 5280 3365)

This article appeared in the beijingkids July-August 2019 Teen Takeover issue

Photos: Kipp Whittaker

All families need dining out staples they can rely on: a place that is kid-friendly, provides ample options for the little ones and the grown-ups at the table, and last but definitely not least, delivers on value for money with deliciously tasty food. Annie’s has long been a place that people depend on to dish out hearty Italian cuisine that’s easy on the pocket and packed full of flavor.

However, many carb-fest-fans provide the restaurant with repeat custom through their online delivery services, and rarely do they venture out with the family to dine in. Newly refurbished Annie’s Ritan is pulling out the stops with a roof-top terrace and an aperitivo night to top all aperitivo nights. It’s clear they’re out to remind us that their spot is not just to be defined as your go-to takeout option, but that this little Italian haunt is indeed family-night-out worthy.

The Suppiger family was the perfect household to sample the food and atmosphere at Annie’s, Ritan. The family of four, consisting of parents, Maggie and Todd, and siblings, four-year-old Jeremiah and two-year-old Sarah have previously been takeout regulars of Annie’s, but never took the time to dine in at the restaurant. To test the waters, the Suppigers brought along Grandpa Yu and Grandma Yu.

Annie’s didn’t cut any corners on their visit, and the Suppigers tucked into a spread of Rib-eye steak (RMB 198), Truffle Pizza (RMB 116), their signature Beef Lasagna (RMB 49), Mixed Cold Cuts (RMB 148), Mushroom Soup (RMB 28) served with fresh bread, and a number of awesome sides, followed by sweets.

Todd, who works for the Swiss Embassy, thought all the options were tasty, and homemaker Maggie tucked straight into the steak, which she said she would definitely order again. The kids are great eaters and not the fussy type. There was no turning up their noses at any of the familiar veggie options, such as the house salad (RMB 38) or the grilled vegetables (RMB 35); however, their favorite dish was the kid-go-to plate of fries!

While the parents continued to enjoy the red vino, Barbera D’Alba (RMB 139), the kids demolished the trio of ice cream (RMB 30), and the Tiramisu wasn’t at all a bad second option. The evening was a great start to the weekend, and the perfect send-off for a family who are about to end their adventure in Beijing for a new one in Switzerland. Here’s to the Suppigers and their new Swiss life! Wish them well, and next time you’re thinking of ordering an Annie’s takeout, instead call the kids to grab their jackets and go on down to Annie’s Ritan.

The weather is getting nicer, so sit under blue skies on their rooftop terrace and soak in the new revamped The Godfather theme at the restaurant with movie soundtrack vibes, replicas of the color palette used in the original film, movie memorabilia, and more. Definitely check out their new Aperitivo nights, with free-flow wine and beer with cold cuts, cheese, and other sides from 6pm-9pm every Friday at the Ritan location, every Wednesday at Annie’s The Place, every Thursday at Annie’s Sunshine 100, and every Saturday at Ponte in Lido. You are truly spoiled for choice! As the sign on the door says, “Come as friends, go as family.”

Annie’s
Daily 11am-11pm, Unit 2-3-93, Ritan Highlife, (opposite North Gate of Ritan Park), 39 Shenlu Jie, Chaoyang District. 朝阳区神路街39号日坛公园北门对面日坛上街2-3-93号 (8569 3031)

This article appeared in the beijingkids May 2019 Identity issue.
Photos: Kipp Whittaker

There were schnitzels, goulash, and crème brûlée lavishly spread out for the Thornton family to tuck into, at the number one spot for Czech cuisine in Beijing. Prague Restaurant is the perfect place to get familiar with the diverse and delectable cuisine of a country steeped in rich culture and history.

It may never have occurred to you to take the family out for Czech food, so there’s no better time than the present to introduce you to the wonderful culinary world of Prague, through the exceptional offerings on the menu at this issue’s Dining Out restaurant.

The Thornton family, although originally from Minnesota, have traveled from sunny Orlando, Florida to take up residence in Beijing. Emily is married to Conor Thornton and their two kids, Robert and Lucie, attend The British School of Beijing, Sanlitun (BSB Sanlitun). Conor is a Facility Design Manager with Universal Studios, and Emily, a former preschool teacher, is enjoying expat life here and keeps busy by volunteering as a Daisy Girl Scout troop leader at BSB Sanlitun.

The Thornton’s culinary adventure at Prague Restaurant was a daunting one for the kids, whom Emily described as picky eaters! The Thornton kids love to tuck away Saturday night staples like pizza, and enjoy steak, spaghetti, rice, fruit, and veggies! Neither of the kids is a fan of Chinese food, so this weekday outing was the perfect opportunity for the kids to try something new. Mom and Dad, however, are adventurous eaters and will try just about anything and everything.

From start to finish the Thornton family were given the red carpet treatment. The entire staff was extremely pleasant and showed Mom, Dad and the kids around. The family was seated and introduced to the menu while the manager made some recommendations.

The Thorntons were presented with some of the restaurant’s signature and most decadent dishes, including Deep-Fried Camembert (RMB 69), Pork Schnitzel (RMB 59), Goulash Soup in a Bread Bowl (RMB 49), and the Slow Cooked Braised Beef (RMB 89) in special gravy, perfected by Chef Martin.

Mom and Dad enjoyed everything, while Lucie loved her fries and soda, and Robert demolished the Fried Camembert and the Vanilla Crème Brûlée (RMB 32). Everything was beautifully presented and the portions were just right. The environment is family-friendly and intimate, with a space designed to be inviting and warm.

There’s also a little light entertainment for the kids, with the Czech national mascot taking up residence on the first floor of the restaurant. The mascot is a replica of one of Czechia’s most famous cartoons, Mole, created by Czech animator Zdenek Miler. After fried cheese, get the kids and go and say hello! And maybe learn a few phrases in Czech to impress friends at school.

Mom and Dad were so impressed with their culinary journey through Prague and the excellent service that they returned just a few days later to enjoy beer pong! Yes, you read right; if awesome, delicious Czech food isn’t enough to entice you to try something new and exciting, then you’ll always have beer pong to fall back on as an excuse to jump on the express train to Prague.

What are you waiting for?

Prague Restaurant
Daily 11am-2am. 1/F, 1, Compound F, Sanlitun Nanjie, 4 Gongti Bei Lu, Chaoyang District. 朝阳区工体北路4号院80号楼1层F区1号. (152 0128 8544)

This article first appeared in the beijingkids April 2019 Exploring Beijing issue.
Photos: Uni You

Glo Kitchen and Fitness is all about cultivating healthy living by making it easier for the whole family to make nourishing choices, not just for the day or a week, but for life. Their ethos is centered around clean eating and fitness, and their warm and inviting family-friendly restaurant is the perfect way to introduce healthy but yummy plates and bowls to the little (and not so little) ones in your lives. Go hard or go home if you want to Glo from within, and enjoy meals that are lovingly and thoughtfully made using fresh and natural ingredients.

One family who abandoned their usually meat-laden dinner dishes for something a little more wholemeal for the evening was Economics teacher, Rajeev Singh, his homemaker wife, Zong Bin (Rose), and their rambunctious and insanely cute three-year-old twins, Aryn and Arnav. The family of four likes to enjoy traditionally cooked meaty curries and rice when at home, in addition to Chinese fare. Raj, who is originally from India, likes to spice it up with cuisine native to the land of spice and all things nice, while also making room to enjoy weekend staples like pizza with the family.

The twin boys were unusually open to new foods due to their diverse Chinese and Indian background. At home, they love chomping away on home-cooked meals such as Chinese stir-frys, Indian bread (chapatti), and meat curries, so it was interesting to see how much they enjoyed foods with more subtle but just as yummy flavors.

Glo rolled out the red carpet and showed the family around their fitness and health domain. A family spread consisting of the Black Bean Quinoa Burger (RMB 42) and Multi-grain Chia Burger (RMB 42) (in both regular and mini sizes for the boys); Salmon Energy Bowls (RMB 68); Vegan Lasagna (RMB 58); Tex-Mex Breakfast Bowl (RMB 42); and if that wasn’t enough, their signature Cauliflower Rice Sushi Bowl (RMB 48), was laid out for the family to dig in and sample.

The twins in true trooper-style polished off the Salmon Bowls, delighting their proud father, the Veg Lasagna was a hit with mom, and the Sushi Bowl a winner for dad. Both parents were impressed with the presentation of the burgers, and thought the space was intimate and cozy. Raj remarked that Glo was the perfect dining spot for people who are looking to embrace a healthier lifestyle and make healthier food choices. For a family that’s used to having meat in their burgers, the vegan alternatives impressed, evidenced when Raj noted that they “taste almost like meat!”

At Glo Kitchen, they believe that taste should never be compromised when eating healthy food. They cater to a variety of dietary needs, and the Singh family thought there was something for everyone. Why not opt for a healthier lunch or dinner for you and the family, and choose from a range of options, that include keto, gluten-free, vegan, Paleo, and vegetarian selections. Each packaged dish displays its nutritional value, and their menu strictly avoids sugar, MSG, and processed meats, without abandoning the land of taste buds. While you’re at it, check out Cross-Fit Slash in the basement, and get you and the kids moving!

Glo Kitchen and Fitness, CBD
9am-9.30pm. CBD Unit 103A-B, Guanghua Lu Soho 1, 22 Guanghua Lu. 朝阳区光华路22号光华路SOHO 103A-B室 (Kitchen: 5385 4960, Cross Fit: 5385 4961)

This article first appeared in the beijingkids March 2019 Sustainability issue.
Photos: Uni You

Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, and to take the stress out of choosing where to treat that special someone to dinner, we have put together a selection of ten deals, with something for everyone, whether your wallet is still hurting from Chinese New Year or you’re looking to splash out. It’s also worth noting that with Valentine’s Day falling on a Thursday, some restaurants are serving set menus at the weekend as well – check event listings for details.

Make wine your Valentine at Signature’s

What says “Valentine’s Day” better than free-flow wine? That’s exactly what Signature’s at the Kempinski Beijing Lufthansa Center is offering, alongside a seafood spread, beef Wellington, homemade sausages, Beijing duck, and dessert for just RMB 368 per person. We can’t help but feel like this would be a good option for Galentine’s, as well. RMB 368 per person. 6-10pm. Signature’s Restaurant

Romance by the river at Fiume and Lievito

Both Fiume and Lievito will be offering a set menu of wintery Italian classics for RMB 599 per couple (a steal as far as we’re concerned), as well as deals on selected bottles of wine from as low as RMB 99. Book early to grab a table by the window with a view over the Liangma River. RMB 599 per couple. 5-9.30pm. Fiume and Lievito 

Classic romance at Mosto

There are few more reliably romantic restaurants than Mosto, and as usual they have come out with a tasty-looking menu for Valentine’s Day. Share starters like yellowfin tuna causa and French oysters with caipirinha sorbet with that special someone, then choose a main course from options such as Icelandic cod and Josper-roasted beef. Book ASAP for this one, tables will go quickly. RMB 498 per person. 5.30-10.30pm. Mosto

Let love bubble over at Red Bowl

Maybe hot pot doesn’t scream “romance” to you but just think of all those potential cute moments where you both reach for the same morsel of meat at the same time. Red Bowl at Rosewood Beijing are offering a hot pot set menu filled with premium ingredients and accompanied by free-flow sparkling wine for RMB 1,688 or RMB 1,200 when purchased via their WeChat store. RMB 1,688 per couple. 5.30pm-1am. Red Bowl

Sample wines made by couples at The Merchants

In an interesting twist on the usual “meal and wine pairing” formula, Meishuguan wine bar and restaurant The Merchants has prepared a selection of wines made by couples. Enjoy a five-course dinner accompanied by the aforementioned wines for RMB 788 per person. RMB 488 per person, RMB 300 for wine pairing. 7pm-midnight. The Merchants

Buy a steak in love at O’Steak

Where better to celebrate a festival of romance than at a French restaurant? O’Steak has two French-themed menus available, one priced at RMB 428 per person and one priced at RMB 888 per couple. Both menus feature their signature steak, as well as French classics like lobster bisque and escargots. Oui oui! Menus from RMB 428. 11am-11pm. O’Steak

Flash the cash at Opera Bombana

If you’re flush with cash and really looking to splurge then Opera Bombana is the restaurant for you. Their six-course menu is packed with luxe ingredients like black truffle, king crab, and wagyu beef. Add a wine pairing for RMB 888 per person, because why not? RMB 1,888 per person. 6-10.30pm. Opera Bombana

Romance defined at TRB Hutong and TRB Forbidden City

When it comes to Beijing restaurants it doesn’t get much more romantic than TRB. Whether you want to dine in a secluded temple or with views over the Forbidden City, both of their locations will be serving a luxurious six-course menu packed with ingredients like scallops, langoustine, and foie gras. RMB 1,888 per person (RMB 1,388 per person Feb 15-17). 11.30am-10pm. TRB Hutong and TRB Forbidden City

Valentine’s Party at Zarah

If the idea of a romantic dinner surrounded by cheesy decorations fills you with dread, head over to Zarah, where they are ignoring the mushy stuff and throwing a Saint Valentine Remembrance Party. They’ll have happy hour all night, with wine by the glass for RMB 30 as well as a three-course set menu priced at RMB 188 per person or RMB 376 per couple. No fairy-tale romances allowed. RMB 188, RMB 376 (per couple). 7pm-1am. Zarah

Share the love at Jing Yaa Tang

Many Chinese dishes are designed for sharing, so what better cuisine to choose for Valentine’s Day? Chef Li Dong from Jing Yaa Tang has put together a menu of sharing dishes, including the restaurant’s signature roast duck, and a selection of desserts infused with Chinese flavors like baijiu and jasmine tea. RMB 999 per couple. 6-10pm. Jing Yaa Tang

While we’re on the topic of love… can a Pig ever truly love a Snake?

More stories by this author here.

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Photos: Pixabay, courtesy of the venues