By Carissa Welton (thatsbj.com)
Updated: 2008-02-26 12:00

One would have to be blind to miss the flashy new visage of what was once Babyface. With a studded fortress of countless blinking lights, spotlights, and searchlights, Richy is the newest bling on the block of the blangingest clubs in Beijing.

Located at Gongti 100 Bowling and Tennis Center, the made-over club claims to set itself apart from its super-club neighbors, though it's not clear how. As if the name weren't a dead giveaway, Richy has transformed the trance dance club into a fresh place to be seen lounging and flashing cash.

Still a part of the Babyface family, yet no longer to be confused with its relative on the west side of town, Richy offers more lounge space seating and table service than before. Private VIP rooms are tucked away at the back of the club, equipped with all the latest VCD pop hits, a glass mirror ceiling, and plush wraparound sofas. According to management, these rooms can handle parties of 20, a feat only imaginable by way of clown-car seating arrangements. Sadly, all of the renovations have been made at the expense of the dance floor, which has shrunk to half its previous size.

Expect to hear top-of-the-billboard-charts hip-hop and R&B from resident DJ Laurie with a live MC performance nightly after 11pm. Drink prices are still in line with area clubs (RMB 35 for beer, RMB 50 for cocktails), but at least for now, there’s no cover charge at the door.

Richy Beijing
Daily 8pm-5am.
6 Gongti Xilu, Chaoyang District
65519081