Naming a bar after the most boring of Microsoft programs is a questionable marketing ploy: even "Word" would be better (at least it doubles as hip hop slang) or "Power Point," in keeping with Beijing venues Power House and D-Power.

Anyway, Excel it is, and luckily the venue is a little more interesting than its spreadsheet namesake. Nicely done out in deep reds and dim lighting, the bar feels intimate rather than cramped. Furthermore, proprietor Kelvin has good musical taste, playing unobtrusive, ambient tracks-a refreshing change to the Enya/Righteous Brothers loop played next door at the Painter's Village bar.

However, drink prices disappoint (this is, after all, Houhai), with beers starting at RMB 25. Perhaps not the most sensible business strategy, as RMB 10 beers rule a few doors down at Houhai Zoo, but at least Excel is one of the more understated offerings to appear on the waterfront in recent months.

Excel
Location: 7 Baimi Xiejie, Xicheng District
Open time: 11am-late
Tel: 010-64977807