(City Weekend)
Updated: 2007-07-12 09:13

Reviewing a bar involves a lot of "what if's" and in the case of this new Spanish-themed hangout, the question is "what if people actually come?" Sangria Club, opened by owner of Souk, is spread over two floors, completely underground.

Aside from a few big parties, though, it's been a slow start and when nobody's around, it's just you and whatever sport is on TV. Fortunately, Sangria Club's namesake drink (RMB30) is fantastic, featuring freshly-sliced apples and a dash of cinnamon. But the real find is the absala (RMB30), vodka mixed with apple juice. It comes in its own little pot and you take it in shots: clean-tasting and packing a punch. Sangria Club also features a full kitchen serving up pub grub, with some unique gems like the Spanish seafood stew (RMB70).

It's the Year of Spain and if sangria tickles Beijing's taste buds then Sangria Club has a chance to become the communal punchbowl for Beijing's year-round fiesta. Perfect for sangria, of course!

Sangria Club
Location: 29 Zaoying Lu
Tel: 010-5867-0248