(China daily)
Updated: 2007-03-29 09:35

There are  many gorgeous bars hiding in Beijing's Hutong. They can provide you with more surprises.

Bed Tapas & Bar

Sprawls of cushions and bed-type booths make this a cool hangout. Mon-Tue 4pm-late; Wed-Sun 12pm-late, 17 Zhangwang Hutong, Xicheng District. 8400-1554.

Pass By Bar

Intimate atmosphere and a comprehensive Italian menu. Known for its (often inaccessible and unorganised) book collection until Bookworm came along and stole the show. Daily 9am-2am. 108 Nanluogu Xiang, Dongcheng District. 8403-8004.

Candyfloss Cafe

Nice quiet place for a drink. The interior of the courtyard bar features five-fingered red armchairs, fireplaces. Daily. 35 Dongmianhua Hutong (off Nanluogu Xiang), Dongcheng District. 6405-5775.

Ball House

A red door in a secluded alleyway is home to this pool haven. Pool costs 50 yuan an hour, drinks are on the pricey side. 2pm-late, East of the Drum Tower, Zhonglouwan Hutong (next to Hosanna Caf), behind Gu Lou Xidajie. 6407-4051.

Drum and Bell

Homey atmosphere built in an old courtyard, with roof terrace seating area. You can look across the hutong roofs of old Beijing. Daily Noon-2am. 41 Zhonglouwan Hutong, Dongcheng District. 8403-3600.