Fizz from Oz

(China Daily)
Updated: 2009-01-24 08:05

Fizz from Oz

No bar offers a more authentic taste of Australia than Ned's. The cozy watering hole offers a variety of beers from Down Under, including rare finds in China such as Victoria Bitter (VB), Boags, Crown Lager, Cascade, Pure Blonde, along with some of the better known brands like Redback, Fosters, and Tooheys.

By the time Australia's national day rolls around on Monday(Jan 26) the recently opened Aussie-operated pub will also be celebrating 6 months of existence. Swinging its doors wide open to passersby in Nanluoguxiang hutong, the snug space has attracted a loyal following and warm spirited crowd so far. The venue includes a loft area reachable by ladder, just large enough to accommodate two private tables.

Ned's Bar is bustling on the weekends, and buzzing through the weeknights. It's also the gathering place for the football team, Beijing Bombers. The bar's success story can largely be attributed to the hard work and dedication that led to its opening and operation.

Long-term residents and Australian natives, Steve Zonnevold and Trent Lesnia, always dreamed of running their own bar. Joining with local partner, Zhang Yue, the three ambitious owners spent months renovating and transforming Ned's into what it is today. All three have managed the place since it opened, and are the only bartenders. "It's easy to take pride in what you do when you love what you're doing," explained Zonnevold.

In addition to facilitating a haven for Aussies, the owners hope to welcome more expats and locals to their establishment in the year to come.

"We have regulars from Australia, of course, but we also get quite a few Americans that appreciate the place, too," Zonnevold noted. At the same time, Ned's is also deeply committed to celebrating "what's great about Australia and being Australian" in Beijing.

Australia Day Party Time and Place

Start Time: Monday, January 26, 2009 at 11:30am

End Time: Tuesday, January 27, 2009 at 2:00am

Ned's, 84 Nanluoguxiang

Open Daily 5 pm to 3 am

15011362081, nedsbeijing@hotmail.com

Carissa Welton