Distinctive eating places in Beijing

(CRIENGLISH.com)
Updated: 2008-04-01 09:37

Going out for a rich meal or even a simple cup of coffee is an enjoyable experience that can enrich our daily routines. Today, we will highlight several distinctive restaurants and bars in Beijing with special appeal.

1. Yizhan, or Free As A Bird Bar &Restaurant

Stone Grilled Food in Free as A Bird Bar/Restaurant [Photo source: freeasabird.cn]

You cannot simply call Yizhan a bar or restaurant. It is more like a special gathering place for backpackers and those who long to be. Backpackers from around the world often congregate here to share their travel experiences. Yizhan provides various entertainment facilities for its guests, such as a projector and musical instruments. The bar regularly hosts themed parties.

The food at Yizhan is delicious. One of the most popular dishes is "Jiang Hu Yi Jia Yu", or spicy Hunan catfish with vegetables and tofu. The menu offers different types of stone grilled food, mostly in the Hunan style. Wine and drinks of various price levels are also available. Special drinks include "Meizi Jiu" from Yunnan and Indian Masala tea.

Address:

30 Beixinqiaotoutiao Hutong, Guijie, Dongcheng District

Take the No.5 subway line to Beixinqiao station. Yizhan is three minutes away on foot.

2. Sculpting in Time Caf

Sculpting in Time Cafe [Photo source: sinaimg.cn]

Situated at the foot of the Fragrant Hills on the western outskirts of Beijing, Sculpting in Time caf offers a natural environment in which to take a break. From the sofas by the window, customers can gaze out at the beautiful mountain scenery and the cats lying under the jujube trees in the Japanese and Mediterranean-style courtyard, or they can just read books from the caf's library in the sunshine.

Drinks include standard Italian-style coffees such as espresso, cappuccino and latte. Simple but tasty pasta with bacon, tuna or cheese are available for hungry customers, as well as delicious but inexpensive desserts such as cheesecake, tiramisu, blueberry cake, and muffins.

Address:

50 Maimai Street, Fragrant Hill, Haidian District

Take a bus from the downtown Beijing to Xiangshan or Fragrant Hills. The restaurant is relatively well-known in the area, so it is not difficult to find from the bus stop.

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