Hidden along a hutong (traditional alleyway), Amilal is a charming and little Dongcheng gem. Warm wooden accent pieces add a touch of warmth to the place, while the crowd of young expatriate professionals always has it buzzing with activity. Secluded and off the beaten path, the bar is located in a renovated courtyard home. A carefully curated selection of whiskey's, Latin American wine, and local brews make up the offerings and live music can be found playing throughout the week.
Tucked away in Beijing's popular neighborhood of Dong Cheng, Great Leap Brewing is popular among locals and visitors alike. Past the imposing grand iron door, this brewpub sits in an area that is roomy yet retains a sense of charm and character thanks to the buzzing atmosphere. Rather renowned for using spices and other ingredients in their brews, you can find hints of coffee beans and peppercorns, giving these beers a unique flavor. Pale ales, porters, and lagers are some brews that are customer favorites and must try here. Try the local favorite, the Honey Ma Blonde.
This underground club is one of the most popular electronic dance music, or EDM, venues in the entire city. The Lantern Club is at the forefront of Beijing's nightlife scene, yet understated enough to allow the music to break free of needless gimmicks. From its international DJ's, world class audio and visual systems, and its crossover shows that incorporate music and visual art performances, there's truly no other place like it. Encouraging up and coming artists, The Lantern Club hosts DJ workshops, and puts out weekly podcasts hosted by Acupuncture Records.
Expect a whiskey experience like no other at Johnnie Walker House, one of the biggest bars of the premium brand in the world. The second outpost in China, this high-end whiskey bar will feel like you've walked into the lap of luxury. Whiskey connoisseurs will be enthralled by their rare blends, customized versions and fusion pairings, that will surely take drinking this distilled beverage to a notch higher or probably more. With contemporary decor, earth-colored walls, and hints of the Johnnie Walker brand's historic past, this handsome bar is certainly impressive. Head downstairs to admire the 10000 copper pipes on the ceiling, this impressive display is supposed to simulate a distillery, then sit on a posh sofa and enjoy sipping on a glass of whiskey.
The Local, in Sanlitun, is a great destination for kicking back with friends and enjoying some good beers. The pub features a good selection of Belgian brews and other international craft beers, alongside succulent pub fare like tacos and wings. The Local is also home to a huge projection screen, making it the perfect place for watching the big game. If the game you were looking forward to isn't on when you walk in, just talk to the friendly staff and they will make sure you get to see it.
Tucked away along a Hutong, a traditional Chinese alleyway dating back to the dynasty era, the Mao Mao Chong bar is known for its innovative cocktails and low key atmosphere. Owned by a husband and wife duo, the bar is decorated by their very own artwork. Aside from the cocktails, the drink menu also features a plethora of international beer and wine labels. In case you feel hungry, the pub entices you with small, gourmet bites which include their famed delicious flatbread pizzas.
This small and cozy bar in Shuangjing is a hidden gem. Lonely on a very quiet street and away from the hustle and bustle of Guomao, Grinder's is still at the heart of where everything happens. Its friendly owners are frequently there chatting with customers and adding a special family-friendly atmosphere. Grinder's serves foreign beers at reasonable prices (CNY10 to CNY50), and has also become famous for their amazingly big and delicious sandwiches. With no loud music and no TV, Grinder's is a real place to relax and enjoy yourself. You won't think much of it when you see it from the outside, but inside, expats will feel at home. -Marina Burana
Beers89 is a beer lover’s paradise in Beijing. Most people associate the Orient with cocktails but this sports bar changes it all. With their exciting variety in beers and the brands on the menu, you will feel like you are in beer heaven. Couple this with the great food, small bites and finger food to entice your taste buds. Ambiance is armospheric, with music playing in the background and the service is fast, attentive, and friendly.
The Local, in Sanlitun, is a great destination for kicking back with friends and enjoying some good beers. The pub features a good selection of Belgian brews and other international craft beers, alongside succulent pub fare like tacos and wings. The Local is also home to a huge projection screen, making it the perfect place for watching the big game. If the game you were looking forward to isn't on when you walk in, just talk to the friendly staff and they will make sure you get to see it.
Hidden along a hutong (traditional alleyway), Amilal is a charming and little Dongcheng gem. Warm wooden accent pieces add a touch of warmth to the place, while the crowd of young expatriate professionals always has it buzzing with activity. Secluded and off the beaten path, the bar is located in a renovated courtyard home. A carefully curated selection of whiskey's, Latin American wine, and local brews make up the offerings and live music can be found playing throughout the week.
With its delicious sausages and an amazing beer selection, Schindler's Tankstelle is a favored spot in Beijing. The fare is reasonably priced,the service excellent, and there is even a view of Ri Tan Park. Whether you are a Westerner longing for food from home or a local who enjoys Western fare the beer, potatoes, bread and yes the sauerkraut will satisfy your fix.
Timezone 8 is an addition to the already booming 798 art district social scene. It has become quite popular with the art crowd of the area, who prefer to relax at this cozy lounge-cum-bar in the evenings, all the way till late night. The bar has an unusual and refreshing selection of labels, with a variety of Japanese and American lagers being available, in addition to cocktails such as mandarin orange cocktail. The bar also has a great happy hour offer and is known for hosting several quizzes and themed parties. With a good selection of accompaniments and salads, this bar is a sure crowd puller.