A chain eatery opens

Blue Marine, the lastest outlet in a group of restaurants, doesn't disappoint.

Located in Beijing's embassy area near Liangmaqiao, a newly opened restaurant may not catch our eye but for a friend's recommendation. Its name, Blue Marlin, is fresh on Beijing's dinning map; yet, the restaurant chain has already gained ground in a host of China's smaller cities. Now it's landed in Beijing.

There are few successful Chinese brands of Western chain restaurants and bars, especially ones founded by a Chinese boss and chef. Blue Marlin Bar & Restaurant is one of the exceptions.