John Bull is one of the oldest bars in Beijing and bills itself as the city's only real British-style pub. The heavy-wood decor and menu cries out pub, but the atmosphere does not, except when there is sport on TV. The Guinness could be better, but the fish and chips are among the best in the city. The classic Yorkshire pudding and bangers and mash are reasonable approximations.

While John Bull offers 'pub food' under the genial guidance of a new chef, the menu has been extended to include a la carte lunch and dinner dishes that cater for all tastes. Whether you are in need of a quick snack or something more, the menu offers traditional fare in fish and chips and shepherd's pie, and more exotic staples such as chicken-stuffed pita sandwiches and delicious seafood chowder.As a genuine English pub, it also features live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday by Chito-Solo, a band specializing in oldies and country music.

John Bull Pub
Location: No. 44 Guanghualu, Chaoyang (North of the Jianguomenwai diplomatic compound, on the corner of Guanghua Road)
Opening time: 11am-0:30am
Tel: 010-65325905/6502