If one can measure the quality of a city by the diversity of its nightlife,
then it is fair to say that Beijing is becoming a cosmopolitan contender. From
super clubs on Gongti Xilu, to ten kuai beers on Sanlitun, Beijingers are
increasingly spoiled for choice when it comes to finding a suitable spot to wind
down, rev up, be seen or get heard.
Over 1,500 votes were cast by our readers to nominate the cr¨¨me de la cr¨¨me
of Beijing's bars and clubs across 20 different categories, determined by 100 of
Beijing's bar experts, boozehounds and nightlife mavens. Each category was
subject to standard statistical testing to determine its validity. We turned
down free cocktails, lifetimes of unlimited beers and tossed out the ballot
stuffers. The top three contenders in each category were selected: one winner
and two runners-up, to whom, on behalf of our readers, we tip our hats. tbj
staffers also make passionately unconvincing arguments for our own favorites, in
the form of Editor¡¯s Picks. A special thanks to Century 21 China Real Estate and
Hotel Kunlun for their support. Oh, enough of the technicalities ¨C let's
announce this year's winners!
tbj presents the toast of 2006. The envelope please ¡
Best Cocktails - Centro
On top for yet another year, Centro owes its continued success to staff that
know the difference between "a dirty Grey Goose on the rocks and a martini."
Readers also cite the overall "quality of the drinks" and "pleasant environment"
as the main draws. Don't forget the cool jazz and the beautiful people,
essential as ever when looking for the ultimate cocktail lounge.
Runners-up -
Alfa, Q Bar
Editor's Pick - Q Bar
If cocktails were judged on their infusion of
legend, Q Bar would take the prize, hands down. George and Echo are as famous
around Beijing for their modesty and integrity as they are for their
mixed-with-love potions. But when it gets right down to it, a drink is a drink
and the aces at Q still make the city's finest.
Best Beer Selection - The Tree
"Get the hops in your teeth!" slurred Mike Graham after voting The Tree as
the place with the Best Beer Selection. We weren't quite sure what he was on
about, but he seemed enthusiastic enough.
Runners-up - Beer Mania, Browns
Editor's Pick - Schindler's Filling Station
Technically a restaurant-but nothing stops you from pulling
up a stool at the bar and ordering one of the sumptuous German lagers on offer
(many are brewed on site), which are served up with expert German efficiency and
care.
