DINNER TIME!
January/February 2011
50
restaurants your family will love
Hit the Ice Slip and slide on Houhai Crafty Science Make a creepy crawly Winter Warm-Up Top spots for hot pots
PLUS Ice Festivals Temple Fairs Flat classrooms
beijingkids edition
January 2011
PRICE:RMB짜10.00(DOMESTIC) US$4.95(ABROAD)
DINNER TIME!
50
restaurants your family will love
Hit the Ice Slip and slide on Houhai Crafty Science Make a creepy crawly Winter Warm-Up Top spots for hot pots
PLUS Ice Festivals Temple Fairs Flat classrooms
52
January/February 2011 Contents
34
27
28
Dining
Features 52
Beijing’s Best Family Dining
26
54 60 64 66 68 73 75 78 80
CBD Dongzhimen Houhai Lido Sanlitun Chaoyang Park Liangma Qiao Financial Street Shunyi
Top 5 Places to … Dip into hot pot
Beijing’s best family-friendly restaurants
27
Fast Food Variety is the spice of life
28
Food for Thought Bringing back deviled eggs
Playing 30
What’s Fun In: Houhai Hit the ice and check out the hutongs
Living 21
Snapshot
34
Make your own climbing critter
36
Layering up
22
Noticeboard
39
Health Ms. Nutrition Pick your food fights
25
Family Travels Saunter in Seoul
Updates, recommendations and interesting finds
24
Inside: Friction Action
The Doc is In Why you should eat breakfast
Day Tripper Admire Longqing’s icy sculptures
104 January/February 2011 Contents
20
46
14
Learning 42
When I Grow Up I want to be a Professional Snowboarder
44
Blank Canvas Artwork from Beijing World Youth Academy
46
Debate Club Fighting internet addiction
Essentials 9
Editor’s Note
10
January Calendar
12
February Calendar
14
Top 10 Things to do in January and February
Parenting 48
Spotlight A hightech classroom
50
Home Is Where the Heart Is Saying goodbye to Beijing
51
Beijing Baba
16 20
January/February Events New Arrivals Say hello to Beijing’s smallest
104 The Circuit Happenings in the Beijing family scene
112 Family Favorites The Baran/Wang Family
The friendship cycle
Directories 88 91 92 93 93 95 101 103
Family Dining Family Health Family Life Family Travel Fun Stuff Schools Shopping Sports
《中国妇女》英文刊
2011 年 1 月(下半月)
beijingkids edition 家庭版 WOMEN OF CHINA English Monthly Sponsored and administrated by ALL-CHINA WOMEN’S FEDERATION Published by WOMEN’S FOREIGN LANGUAGE PUBLICATIONS OF CHINA Publishing Date: January 1st, 2011 Adviser 顾 问 中华全国妇女联合会名誉主席
WOMEN OF CHINA English Monthly 中华全国妇女联合会主管/主办 中国妇女外文期刊社出版 本期出版时间: 2011年1月1日 陈慕华 CHEN MUHUA 全国人大常委会前副委员长
Honorary President of the ACWF and Former Vice-Chairperson of the NPC Standing Committee Adviser 顾 问 中华全国妇女联合会名誉主席
彭 云 PENG PEIYUN 全国人大常委会前副委员长
Honorary President of the ACWF and Former Vice-Chairperson of the NPC Standing Committee Adviser 顾 问
顾秀莲 GU XIULIAN 全国人大常委会前副委员长
Former Vice-Chairperson of the NPC Standing Committee Director & Editor-in-Chief 社长 · 总编辑 Chief Editor 主编 Managing Editor Deputy Managing Editor Editorial Assistant Shunyi Correspondent Contributing Writers Editorial Consultant 编辑顾问 Director of Sales Department 广告发行经营部主任 Tel Legal Adviser 法律顾问 Advertising Agency 广告代理 Advertising Hotlines 广告热线 Fax 传真 Printing 印刷 Address 本刊地址
YUN PENGJU 恽鹏举 WEI LIANG 位亮 Imogen Kandel Kara Chin Annie Huang Charlotte Moreau Sonia Cahill, Christopher Lay, Olivia Lee, Millie Malcolm, Richard Saint Cyr, Michael Wester, Xiyun Yang ROBERT MILLER (Canadian) 罗伯特 · 米勒 (加拿大) XIA WEI 夏巍 6522 5376 LI XUESEN 李雪森 Immersion International Advertising (Beijing) Co., Limited 深度体验国际广告(北京)有限公司 5820 7700 / 5820 7883 58207895 C&C JOINT PRINTING CO.,(BEIJING) LTD. 北京华联印刷有限公司 WOMEN OF CHINA English Monthly 《中国妇女》英文月刊 15 Jianguomennei Dajie, Beijing 100730, China 中国北京建国门内大街15号 邮编:100730
国际标准刊号
ISSN1000 9388
国内统一刊号
CN11-1704/C
Age-by-Age Index Babies Celebrate Chinese New Year............................................... 14 Listen to a bedtime story ................................................... 16 Try yoga ........................................................................... 17 Beijing’s newest arrivals ..................................................... 20 Sample spices ................................................................... 27 Eat dim sum....................................................................... 60 A Beijing family’s favorites ............................................... 112
Toddlers Get cozy with a book ......................................................... 15 Play in the snow ................................................................ 15 Foster your creative side .................................................... 15 Get cooking ...................................................................... 18 Save Hello Kitty ................................................................. 19 See Houhai ....................................................................... 30 Tour Seoul ........................................................................ 36
Elementary School Kids Twirl on ice ....................................................................... 14 Visit a temple fair .............................................................. 14 Hit the slopes.................................................................... 15 Paint a picture................................................................... 16 Make a science craft .......................................................... 34 Meet a professional snowboarder ....................................... 42 Try vegetarian duck ........................................................... 62
Middle and High School Kids Go skiing .......................................................................... 15 Slurp hot pot..................................................................... 26 Make deviled eggs ............................................................. 28 Spend a weekend in Longqing ............................................ 39 Debate Internet addiction .................................................. 46 Rock out at Hard Rock Café ............................................... 75 Check out the scene ........................................................ 104
The beijingkids Board Jacqueline Cohen Advertising Agency
Immersion International Advertising (Beijing) Co., Limited
A busy mom of two, Jacqueline has lived in Asia for over 12 years and in Beijing for the past four. A socializing super-mom, Jacqueline knows every nook of this city and everyone in it.
广告代理
Yuliya Mavletbaeva
深度体验国际广告(北京)有限公司 Tel/电话: 5820 7100 / 7700 Fax/传真:5820 7891 Advertising Hotline/广告热线:5820 7700 /5820 7883
Yuliya has lived in Beijing for over eight years. When she’s not looking after her little girl, Yuliya runs parentchildren classes, including Kindermusik, Zumba, and infant massage. Visit her website for details, www.familyfunwithyuliya.com.
General Manager Michael Wester Operation Director Toni Ma Editorial Planning Director Jerry Chan Managing Editorial Planner Imogen Kandel
Laura Johnson-Hill Longtime Beijinger Laura looks after her three girls, as well as helping her husband run Beijing’s famous Plastered T-shirt company. You can find her walking around Nanluogu Xiang. www.plasteredtshirts.com
Deputy Managing Editorial Planner Kara Chin
Christopher Lay
Editorial Assistant Annie Huang Shunyi Correspondent Charlotte Moreau Marketing Manager Skott Taylor Marketing Executives Cao Yue, Cindy Kusuma, Lyn Zhao
Christopher’s many jobs include dad, writer, photographer and all-round nice guy. Catch him in beijingkids’ Beijing Baba column or visit his blog, http://alive.tom.com/chrislay
Art Director Susu Luo Principal Designer Li Xing Advertising Designer Helen He Photographers Song Yang, Judy Zhou Visual Editor Joey Guo
Sandy Macmillan Sandy is a dad of two. Formerly a creative director, he now runs Brand Energies, a funky graphic design and production company. Check out his work at www. brandenergies.com.
Hetal Hemnani
Illustrators Li Xing Sales Manager Elena Damjanoska Sales Team Ashley Lendrum, Keli Dal Bosco, Geraldine Cowper, Lynn Cui, Phoebe Li, Veronica Li,Maggie Qi, Hailie Song, Jackie Yu, Sophia Zhou Finance Alex Wang, Lisa Ji, Judy Zhao Distribution Jenny Wang, Victoria Wang General Inquiries 5820 7100/7700 Editorial Planning 5820 7100/7700 ext 883
Hetal is either busy running the Indian restaurant Ganges, or spending time with her son. If you want to trade recipes with Hetal, e-mail hetalhvh@yahoo.in.
Johanna Selth Johanna is one busy mom. When she’s not looking after her two kids, Johanna supplies Beijing parents with must-have imported baby gear from her store, BabyGro. Contact Johanna at johanna @babygro.com.cn.
Kathryn Tonges
Distribution 5820 7100/7700 ext 870 Fax 5820 7895
Email: info@beijing-kids.com; editorkids@beijing-kids.com; sales@beijing-kids.com; distribution@beijing-kids.com; listing@beijing-kids.
Kathryn Tonges is a teacher, parenting expert, and mother of two grown boys. For more information on parent effectiveness training, contact Kathryn at kathryn.tonges@gmail.com.
com; marketing@beijing-kids.com
www.beijing-kids.com WOMEN OF CHINA
DINNER TIME!
S W
50
January/Feburary 2011
ON THE COVER:
Sophia (2.5) was photographed eating Annie’s much-loved spaghetti. Who said you can’t REGO play with your food? Photo by Mishka Family Photography.
family-friendly eats
《中国妇女》 Beijing’s essential expat family resource
Hit the Ice Slip and slide on Houhai Crafty Science Make a creepy crawly Winter Warm-up Top spots for hot pots
January/Feburary 2011
PLUS Ice Festivals Temple Fairs Flat classrooms
Want To Join? If you think you’d make a valuable contribution to the beijingkids Board, e-mail the editor at imogenkandel@beijing-kids.com.
Editor's Note
Fine Dining Boot Camp
I
t’s no secret that I am the child of hippies. My family grew our own fruit, made our own bread and collected goat’s milk from a local farm every week. Cheese was off the menu, as was ice cream; even our margarine was vegan halal. Nothing in our lunch boxes came in a packet, ever. My father’s pride and joy was his homemade peanut butter, raisin and lettuce sandwiches served on rye bread. How many kids do you think wanted to trade lunches with me? Oddly, this hippy attitude to food was paired with a very strict attitude towards table etiquette. My father’s mother was French and trained her son that children should behave like adults at all times, especially at the dinner table. This in turn was passed on to my brother and I. Dinner was always eaten at the table with knifes and forks held in their respective hands, one was never to slouch or raise their cutlery above their shoulders, and heaven help you if you chewed with your mouth open. For what seemed like years I fought and railed against such strict rules. I picked at my food, I complained that I only like raw carrots not cooked ones, I’d chew with my mouth wide open and scream when I didn’t get my way. But then something inside me changed and I’m fairly sure I can pinpoint the exact moment: My first fine dining experience on my 9th birthday. My mother explained to me how lucky I was that I got to go to a fancy restaurant that people in their 30s would rarely go to, let alone kids in the under age set. I was being treated like a grown up and I was expected to act accordingly. I remember exactly what I had to eat that night: Deep-fried whole whitefish and Kalamata olives followed by a main course of melt-in-your-mouth crab sandwiched by light sheets of pasta, served with a butter sauce.
The editor (age 7), looking prim at her ballet recital
I loved every moment of that meal. I remember looking around and mimicking the adults as I ate. I held my knife and fork in my hands and didn’t chew with my mouth open once. I made polite conversation with my mother and didn’t have a single tantrum. It was almost like being in a play: I knew everyone was watching me, so I felt I had to rise to the occasion. Surrounded by clinking wine glasses and crisp linen, all of those dining etiquette drills made finally made sense. With a love of food and the ceremony that comes with it firmly instilled, I welcome you to the January/February issue and our double restaurant feature. Eating is something to be shared with family, friends and children of all ages. Why not try a new cuisine, expose your children to their first fine dining experience, or invite other families out to share a meal? Ever since my first posh restaurant meal, my parents never hesitated to take me out to dinner – in fact, our nights out together chatting over fine food are some of my most treasured memories. So get out there and make some dining memories of your own, but remember: Don’t slurp your soup!
Imogen Kandel Managing Editor January/February 2011
beijingkids
9
JANUARY MON
TUE
Want your family-friendly event to appear in our next issue? Upload your events at www.beijing-kids.com/events by Feb 14.
WED
THU
FRI
27 7 29 30 31 34 567 13 22 14 10 11 12 23 21 17 18 19 20 30 24 24 25 26 27 28 New Year’s at Mutianyu Great Wall
Ring in the new year at the Great Wall. (6162 6506) www. theschoolhouseatmutianyu.com
Children’s Snow Paradise at The Bird’s Nest
Kid Winter Dance Program
Studio Art: Creative Art with Lulu
Jia You Indoor Football Camp
A “snow paradise” designed for children includes a snow castle, snow maze and snow cube, and chocolate-making. See Ongoing event listing.
For ages 5-8. A special program during winter vacation synthesize program that includes Chinese language, ballet, Chinese traditional dance, drama. See Ongoing event listing.
For ages 5-10. Professional artist Louise Liu from 798 Art District leads children in creative art activities. See Jan 5 listing.
For ages 7-12. FA qualified coaches provide children the opportunity for competition and skill development in a fun environment. See Jan 7 listing.
Baking at The Fig Tree: Yellow Cake
Dulwich Come and Play Sessions
For adults. Learn to bake a yellow cake with no frosting. See Jan 11 listing.
For toddlers. Open to all. Fun activities such as story and song times, movement activities, outdoor and indoor play. See Jan 12 listing.
10
beijingkids
YCIS Chinese New Year Celebration
Making Chinese Desserts for 3-5 years olds
For ages 7 and up. A community event to celebrate the Chinese New Year in true fashion with traditional Chinese performances, dragon dance, Temple fair, food, artisans and more. See Jan 25 listing.
For ages 3-5. Children can come and make some delicious desserts to celebrate Chinese New Year. See Jan 26 listing.
January/February 2011
The Bookworm International Literary Festival 2011 Prologue - David Sedaris
For adults. A reading with one of America’s finest humorist, writer, comedian and radio performer. See Jan 26 listing.
Story Time for Young Children
For ages 3-12 and adults. Come and join us in a cozy library for The Enormous Crocodile. See Jan 14 listing.
Dinner and Hilton Beijing Bedtime StoriesWangfujing New Year’s Eve
For ages 0-10 and adults. Enjoy Enjoy specials scrumptious delights See bufdinner and bedtime. fet-style to commemorate the Jan 7 listing. celebration. See Dec 31 listing.
PHOTOS: DAVID.NIKONSCANON, FOOD THINKERS, DERICAFOX, ANTIGONE78 OF FLICKR AND KARA CHIN
For infants and mothers. A supportive and gentle way for mothers to regain their pre-pregnancy fitness while bonding with their new little one. See Jan 20 listing.
For ages 7 and up. Make your own thin longevity noodles in a minute and dumplings. See Jan 18 listing.
For adults. INN’s guest speakers enlighten you on the origins and the traditional foods and activities popular during the two-week Chinese New Year celebrations. See Jan 24 listing.
For adults. Doctor Blinn from Beijing United Family Hospital will present ways in which you can build a healthy relationship with your child. See Jan 13 listing.
Six-Week Course: Mummy & Baby Yoga
Cookery Class: noodles and dumplings
INN Monthly Meeting
Tea Talk: A Healthy Relationship with your child
Readers are encouraged to double-check event details with the organizers as dates and locations may change.
SAT
SUN
1 2 8 9 15 16 29 23 22 29 30
New Year’s Day Recovery Bubbalicious
Dive into a seafood buffet - the best way to recover from New Year’s Eve festivities. Seasonal Tastes, The Westin Beijing Chaoyang, 7 Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang District (5922 8880)
Hiking in Cuandixia Village
For ages 7 and up. Join Culture Yard on a trip to visit Cuandixia, a gorgeous Ming dynasty village. See Jan 8 listing.
Hilton Beijing Christmas Train
Christmas may be over, but this train is still chugging along - until Jan 9. Hilton Beijing, Dongsanhuan Beilu (5865 5000)
UCCA Children’s Workshop: Making Instruments
For ages 4 and up. Kids can learn all about traditional and modern percussion instruments and techniques from master percussionist Wu Huizhen. See Jan 9 listing.
Spring Festival Dumpling Party And Holiday Dinner
Intelligence Valley (Seasons Series)
Make Chinese dumplings from scratch and then eat them up during a lavish hot pot dinner. See Jan 15 listing.
For ages 7 and up and adults. A flat easy hike – perfect for kids and families. See Jan 16 listing.
Day Trip to Nanshan Ski Resort
Spring Festival Buffet at Hilton Beijing
For ages 3 and up and adults. A day of snow and fun at Nanshan Ski Resort. See Jan 22 listing.
Elements will be serving up a special all-you-can-eat buffet menu featuring Spring Festival classics such as traditional dumplings and niangao (rice cake). See Jan 22 listing.
Chinese New Year at The Familier
Hello Kitty (in Black Wonder Little Jeep Chinese)
For ages 0-10. A fun day of traditional New Year’s food: make dumplings, practice calligraphy and go on a hongbao (red envelope) treasure hunt. See Jan 29 listing.
Engage in interactive games to rescue For ages 3-12. The Little Jeep is the Hello Kitty and Dear Daniel, who have Chinese version of Thomas the Tank Enbeen held captive in the castle. See gine. In Chinese only. See Jan 1 listin Ongoing event listing.
January/February 2011
beijingkids
11
FEBRUARY MON
TUE
Want your family-friendly event to appear in our next issue? Upload your events at www.beijing-kids.com/events by Feb 14.
WED
THU
FRI
31 17 2 3 4 7 8 9 10 11 17 22 18 14 15 16 23 25 21 22 23 30 24 28 1 2 3 4 Reed Drama Camp
Multisports Camp
For ages 7-12. Kids boost their self-confidence and learn to speak clearly and act with poise. See Ongoing event listing.
A five-day camp with swimming, gymnastics and more. See Ongoing event listing.
Longqing Ice and Snow Festival
Tibetan New Year in Qinghai & Gansu Province – 5 Days
Admire ice sculptures. See Day Tripper (p39) for details.
Visit a temple fair at the start of Chinese New Year. See Top Ten (p14) for details.
Learn from an FA qualified coach. See Ongoing event listing.
Talk: Aspergers and Autism
Story Time: Goldilocks and the Three Bears
For adults. A professional in the field of child development, education and health speaks about aspergers and autism. See Feb 10 listing.
For toddlers. Join Dulwich in their cozy library. See Feb 11 listing.
Dulwich Come and Play Sessions
Spoil your sweetheart with a romantic meal for two. For our top picks for date night, see Feature (p52).
For toddlers and adults. Join story and song time, movement activities, outdoor and indoor play. See Feb 9 listing.
Magic Bean House
Ice Skating at Houhai
An American-designed Children’s Museum in China with various exhibits, such as bricks and blocks, car service and green foods. See Directory for listing.
Brave the cold and skate on this frozen lake. See What’s Fun In (p30) for details.
ClubFootball Indoor Football WinterWangfujing Courses Hilton Beijing For ages 5-14.Eve Develop your socNew Year’s
cer skills this winter with one of Enjoy scrumptious bufClubFootball’s Winter delights Indoor Skills fet-style that to commemorate the Programs run from Jan 8-Mar celebration. See event Dec 31listing. listing. 28. See Ongoing
Shakespeare Resuscitated
Obedience training and Puppy Class Courses
For ages 13 and up. An eightweek course to introduce young people to the Shakespearean text through performance. See Ongoing event listing.
Conducted by renowned animal behaviorist Dr. Sara Platto, bring your dog to the indoor fields of O’le for training courses. Courses throughout Jan and Feb. 9am-noon. O’le Climbing (info@saraplatto.com) www. saraplatto.com
12
beijingkids
January/February 2011
PHOTOS: B-DUSS, VIAMOI, GUSTAVO THOMAS, BERLING FAMILY AND THIS YEARS LOVE OF FLICKR
For ages 13 and up. An upper middle-class French family celebrates a birthday in a restaurant. See Ongoing event listing.
Jia You Indoor Football Camp
For ages 7 and up. Start the new year with a great adventure among the Tibetan monks, nomads, temples and giant thangkas. See Feb 5 listing.
Valentine’s Day
Film: Un Air de Famille (Family Resemblances)
Chaoyang Park Temple Fair
Readers are encouraged to double-check event details with the organizers as dates and locations may change.
SAT
SUN
5 6 12 13 19 20 29 27 26 5 6
Children’s Snow Paradise at The Bird’s Nest
A “snow paradise” designed for children includes a snow castle, snow maze and snow cube, and chocolate-making. Ends Feb 20. See Ongoing event listing.
Ditan Park Temple Fair
Visit Beijing’s bigest traditional temple fair with crafts, acrobatics and more. See Top Ten (p14) for details.
China Science and Technology Museum
Emergency First Response Care for Children Course
A day of hands-on exhibits, robots, optical illusions, IMAX films (in Chinese only) and more. See Directory for listings.
See Jan 16 listing.
Zizhuyuan Park
BeYou World
Also known as Purple Bamboo Park. Explore this beautiful park with its lakes, rock gardens, winding paths and bamboo. Daily 6am-8pm (winter). 45 Baishiqiao Lu, Haidian District (6842 5851)
Kids can dress up and portray any of the 48 professions, including firefighters, doctors and pilots in this careerthemed experience center, complete with streets, houses and gardens. See Directory for listing.
Winter Weekend Workshops
Bubbalicious Brunch
From Jan 15-Feb 27, The Learning Center offers weekend enrichment workshops that provide extra curricular support to the regular school curriculum. See Ongoing event listing.
Come to Westin Beijing Chaoyang where Bubbalicious thrills kids with yummy finger-sized appetizers, while grown-ups love the wide range of fresh seafood. See Directory for listing.
Mr. Magic Interactive Bilingual Musical Puppet Show
The Kids Club LittleBookworm Jeep (in Chinese)
Shows include Pinocchio and Cinderella. Every Sat and Sun. See Ongoing event listing.
For ages 3-12. 4 and The up. Little Reading, Jeepgames, is the music activities for little readers. Chineseand version of Thomas the Tank EnSee event listing. gine.Ongoing In Chinese only. See Jan 1 listin
January/February 2011
beijingkids
13
Essentials Events
Jan-Feb Top 10 Try a Temple Fair
Want your family-friendly event to appear in our next issue? Upload your events at www.beijing-kids.com/events by Feb 14.
1
Beijing will hold temple fairs, or miaohui (庙会) to ring in the Chinese New Year from February 2-9. These fairs have traditional performances regional snacks and arts and crafts for sale. Ditan Park has Beijing’s biggest traditional temple fair, featuring crafts by folk artists and kung fu demonstrations. Also check out Longtan Park’s (龙潭庙会, 龙 潭公园) festivities – a fair famous for their local performance competitions including stilt-walking and boat dancing (two people rowing a canoe made of paper). Referred to as the “International Spring Festival Carnival,” Chaoyang Park’s Temple Fair (朝阳公园庙会) displays a mix of Eastern and Western culture in music, dancing and acrobats. 9am-5pm. Price RMB 10. Ditan Park, Andingmenwai Dajien, Dongcheng District (6421 4657); 东城区安定门外大 街地坛公园www.dtpark.com 7am-5pm. RMB 10. Longtan Park, 8 Longtan Lu, Chongwen District (6714 4336); 崇文区龙潭路8号龙潭公园 8am-5pm. RMB 10. Chaoyang Park, 1 Chaoyanggongyuan Nanlu, Chaoyang District (6506 5409); 朝阳区朝阳公园 南路1号朝阳公园www.sun-park.com
2
Modern Takes On Chinese Traditions The Olympic Sports Center Temple Fair (国家奥林匹克中心体育场庙会) is a sports-themed temple fair with yoga, boxing, golf, mixed martial arts, taekwondo and promises of stunt driving displays. For another take on temple fairs, head to Zhongguancun Square, where kids can explore a sports area, a science and technology area and video gaming zone. 9am-5pm. RMB TBD. Olympic Sports Center, South Side of the North Fourth Ring Road (6491 2233); 北四环中路南侧国家奥林匹克中心体育中心体育场 9am-5pm. Free. Zhongguancun Pedestrian Street, Zhongguancun Square, Haidian District; 海淀区中关村广场步行街
Dumplings, or jiaozi are a must-have during Chinese New Year. Due to their resemblance to ancient Chinese money (yuanbao), they represent good fortune. Try a range of savory treasures at Dintaifung or attend one of China Culture Center’s cookery classes to make your own. See Feature (p60) and Jan 8 event listing for details. And don’t forget dessert: Tangyuan (汤圆) is a tender sticky rice ball with a sweet filing and is typically eaten on the last day of Spring Festival. It can be found in the frozen food section at your local supermarket. Drop a few of them in boiling water and serve with the soupy broth. Other traditional chunjie fare include smoked meat, a sticky cake called niangao and flower-shaped bread called zaohua mo.
Do a Triple Lutz
4
Let your little ones twirl to their heart’s content. Take advantage of the frozen lake of Houhai where the adventurous can also test drive their speedy ice bikes. See What’s Fun In (p30). If the lake has not frozen over, try one of Beijing’s indoor winter playgrounds. Le Cool in Guomao, All Star Champion Skating Club in Solana or Ice Zone in Shunyi are all great family-friendly options for skating. See listings for details.
Visit an Ice Festival
5
Ice and snow get carved into their top form at the Harbin Ice Festival, which begins on January 5 and lasts until the end of February. Visit the Ice Lantern Festival for colored lights that glow through ice sculptures. Also, check out the snow sculptures on Sun Island as well as the Siberian tiger and lion park. If Harbin weather is too frigid and the destination too far, consider Longqing Ice and Snow Festival, only 90km northwest of Beijing. See Day Tripper (p39) for details.
14
beijingkids
January/February 2011
PHOTOS: STORYVILLEGIRL, KATTEBELLETJE, IRISH TYPEPAD OF FLICKR, ACBBS.ZOL.COM.CN AND HENDY KRISTIANTO
3
Jiayou jiaozi!
Essentials Events Take a Hike
6
Join Bejing Hikers for a friendly-family hike through Intelligence Valley. It is an easy, flat 5km hike that takes about two and a half hours. Parents should note that there will be some walking on ice. The hike ends with a home-style meal prepared by a local farmer. Hikers can also join the Season Series – where the same hikes are repeated throughout the seasons of the year. See Jan 16 listing for details.
Cabin Fever Cures
7
If the cold weather has you trapped indoors, make the most of your time with some cooking and craft fun. Easy Kids Recipes (www.easy-kids-recipes.com) has kid-friendly recipes from peanut butter banana cookies to peppermint pretzels. For more recipes, visit www.childrensrecipes.com. And for nifty crafts, check out the arts and crafts section of Amazingmoms.com, which has craft project ideas for ages 3 and up. Kids will love making potato prints or a felted apple. Check Cutoutandkeep.net for activities suitable for older children.
Carve Up the Mountains
8
PHOTOS: CALLIOPEL, COLLIMATEUR, HTO2008 AND HORIA VARLAN OF FLICKR AND COURTESY OF BEIJING HIKERS
Beijing has plenty of snow-covered mountains for skiiers and snowboarders. Join The Familier for a day trip to Nanshan Ski Resort, which has long steep slopes for experienced skiiers as well as flat areas for the ski bunnies. Kids will beg to go snow tubing or for a ride down the speedy luge. See Jan 22 listing. In addition, Culture Yard is hosting a weekend trip to Duolemeidi Ski Resort in Chongli County. See Jan 15 listing for details.
Snow in the Bird’s Nest
9
Known as the Bird’s Nest, The National Stadium is hosting its second annual Happy Snow Season. Kids will delight in the “snow paradise” that includes a castle, snow maze and snow cube. There is also a DIY chocolate station. Activities will be inside the stadium as well as at the warm-up fields to the north. For details, see Ongoing event listing under Children’s Snow Paradise at The Bird’s Nest.
Snuggle Up to a Book
10
On Sunday, head to The Bookworm for story telling and games suitable for ages 4 and up. See Ongoing event listing. Or choose your own paperbound adventure from Chaterhouse Booktrader in Shunyi or Poplar Kids Republic Bookstore in CBD. See Directory for listings under Shopping.
January/February 2011
beijingkids
15
KEY
Essentials Events Playing
Food/Dining
Sport
Culture/Education
Wed, Jan 5 3e Playgroup For ages 0-4. Different activities each week. Ayis welcome. RSVP essential. RMB 50 per session. Every Wed and Fri in Jan. 10am-11am. 3e International, 9-1 Jiangtai Xilu (6437 3344, admissions@3eik.com) www.3eik.com
Beijing 2 Fun For ages 2-3. Led by two expert educators, a mommy-and-me program with arts & crafts, music and reading. RMB 150. Every Wed in Jan. 10.30am11.30am. The Familier (5869 2904, service@thefamilier.com)
Studio Art: Creative Art with Lulu For ages 5-10. Artist Louise Liu leads children in creative art activities by using interesting and unusual media from umbrellas to ceramics. RSVP essential. RMB 180. Cost includes snack. Every Wed, Fri and Sat in Jan. 5.30-7pm. The Familier (5869 2904, service@thefamilier.com)
Fri, Jan 7 Jia You Indoor Football Camp For ages 7-12. Designed and led by a FA qualified coach. RMB 600. Jan 7-9. 9am-noon. Dulwich College Beijing, Legend Garden Campus (6454 9127) www.dulwich-beijing.cn
Music Together - Stick Collection: Shunyi For ages 0-6 with adults. Weekly 45minute classes with songs, rhythm chants, movement, and instrument play. RMB 1,100 for ten-week session (family package included). Every Fri in Jan and Feb. 10-10.45am, 4.40-5.25pm. River Garden, Shunyi District (8113 8282 /152 1005 8553/ 151 0154 1674, michoedu@yahoo.com) www.michoeducation.com
Dinner and Bedtime Stories For ages 0-10 and adults. Dinner and stories read by teachers. Dinner price includes entrance. RMB 30 for bedtime story only. Every Fri in Jan. 5pm-7.30pm. The Familier (5869 2904, service@thefamilier.com)
Studio Art: Creative Art with Lulu
Community/Networking
als. In Chinese with English translation. RSVP essential. RMB 50, discounts for UCCA members. 10am-11.30am. UCCA (8459 9269)
Beijing Book Swap and Board Games For ages 7 and up. Swap hundreds of English, French, Dutch and Portuguese books. Please no textbooks, classics, or Chinese-language titles. There will also be several board games. Free. 2pm-6pm. Jianwai Diplomatic Compound Bldg 7, Unit 1-1 (6501 5503)
Cookery Class: noodles and dumplings For ages 7 and up. Make thin longevity noodles and dumplings with a professional cook. RMB 200, RMB 150 for kids under 12. Jan 8, 18 and 29. 6pm-8pm. China Culture Center (6432 9341) www. chinaculturecenter.org
Sun, Jan 9 Survival Chinese: Transportation and directions Learn how to ask for directions, talk to a taxi driver, and how to buy train tickets by yourself. See Jan 9 listing.
Mahjong with Culture Yard For ages 7 and up. Beginners learn the rules of Mahjong. RSVP essential. RMB 70. Jan 9 and 16. 10am-1pm. Culture Yard (8404 4166, contact@cultureyard. net) www.cultureyard.net
UCCA Children’s Workshop: Making Instruments For ages 4 and up. Make instruments with the Ju Percussion Group from Taiwan. In Chinese with English translation. RSVP essential. RMB 50 kid, discounts with UCCA membership. 10.30-11.30am. UCCA (8459 9269)
Baking at The Fig Tree: Macaroons
See Jan 7 listing.
Mon, Jan 10
Make Your Own Bag Kids’ Workshop For ages 4-12. Designer Wei Minghui will help kids design their own book bags from recycled advertising materi-
16
beijingkids
For toddlers with adults. Led by parents in the community. Open to all. Story and song times and movement activities. Free. Jan 12, 19 and 26. 9-10.30am. Dulwich Early Years Childhood Centre (8046 5132, jenni.elliott@dulwich-beijing.cn)
Photography Talk: Night Photography
3e Playgroup
Jia You Indoor Football Camp
For ages 7 and up. See this gorgeous Ming dynasty village. Due to cold weather it is a day trip in Jan, not an overnight. RSVP essential. RMB 350, RMB 300 advance. 8am-8pm. Culture Yard (8404 4166, contact@cultureyard.net)
Wed, Jan 12 Dulwich Come and Play Sessions
See Jan 5 listing. 4.30-6pm.
See Jan 7 listing.
See Jan 5 listing.
Hiking in Cuandixia Village
For adults. Learn to bake a yellow cake with no frosting. RMB 250, RMB 350 for two. Sun and Tue in Jan. 10am-1pm (erin@thefigtree.cn) www.thefigtree.cn
Studio Art: Creative Art with Lulu
Jia You Indoor Football Camp
3e Playgroup
Sat, Jan 8
Tue, Jan 11 Baking at The Fig Tree: Yellow Cake
For adults. Peter Carney gives his best tips and advice on capturing the world at night. No cameras needed. RSVP essential. RMB 35. 7.30pm-8.30pm. Culture Yard (8404 4166, contact@cultureyard. net) www.cultureyard.net
For adults. Every Sun in January. RMB 500, RMB 600 for two. 2-5pm. The Fig Tree (erin@thefigtree.cn) www. thefigtree.cn
See Jan 5 listing.
Looking for more family-friendly events in Beijing? Visit us online at www.beijing-kids.com/events
Chinese Language and Culture Workshops For ages 13 and up. Taught in basic Chinese by a local teacher. RSVP essential. RMB 75/workshop, RMB 250/month (four workshops), RMB 60/workshop (students), RMB 200/month (students). Jan 10, 17, 24 and 31. 7pm-8pm. Culture Yard (8404 4166, contact@cultureyard. net)
January/February 2011
Fri, Jan 14 Story Time for Young Children For ages 3-12 and adults. Listen to the tale The Enormous Crocodile. Copies of the story will be on sale. Free. 9am-9.30am. The Early Years Childhood Centre, Dulwich College Beijing, River Garden Villas, Shunyi District (8046 5132)
Play: The Haygoods See Jan 13 listing.
3e Playgroup See Jan 5 listing.
Studio Art: Creative Art with Lulu See Jan 5 listing.
Music Together Stick Collection – Shunyi See Jan 7 listing.
Dinner and Bedtime Stories See Jan 7 listing.
Sat, Jan 15
See Jan 5 listing.
Ski Trip to Duolemeidi Ski Resort
Beijing 2 Fun
For ages 7 and up. An overnight ski trip to Duolemeidi Ski Resort in Chongli County. Price includes transport, accommodation, an evening meal, entrance fees and equipment. All levels welcome. 7.30am on Jan 15 and a late return on Jan 16. RSVP essential. RMB 1,500, RMB 1,300 (advance). Culture Yard (8404 4166, contact@cultureyard.net) www. cultureyard.net
See Jan 5 listing.
Studio Art: Creative Art with Lulu See Jan 5 listing.
Thu, Jan 13 Tea Talk: A Healthy Relationship with your child For adults. Join Doctor Blinn from Beijing United Family Hospital presents ways to build a healthy relationship with your child. RSVP essential. Free. 9am10am. 3e International, 9-1 Jiang Tai Xi Lu, Chaoyang District (6437 3344, admissions@3eik.com) www.3eik.com
BWYA Open Day For adults. Parents learn more about school life and programs at BWYA. Free. 1.30-3pm. Beijing World Youth Academy. RSVP at admissions@ibwya.net.
Talk: Pre-linguistic Development and Speech and Language Assessment For adults. Join one of Care for Children’s Interest Evenings to meet professionals in the field of child development, education and health. Held on the second Thursday of every month. Open to the community. In Chinese. Free. pm-7pm. Care for Children School, The Centre (8470 2735, reception@careforchildren services.com)
Play: The Haygoods For ages 13 and up and adults. A performing family of seven brothers and one sister from Missouri. Features a variety of different styles of music and instruments. RMB 80-1,080. Jan 13 and 14. 7.30pm-10pm. Beijing Exhibition Theater (6835 4455)
Chinese Paper Cutting Workshop For ages 7 and up. Learn the art of Chinese paper cutting (jianzhi) and use them to decorate your door or windows. RMB 120, RMB 100 for kids under 12. 10am-noon. China Culture Center (6432 9341) www.chinaculturecenter.org
Introduction to Chinese Calligraphy For ages 13 and up. Learn the history, meaning and noble art of calligraphy painting with an experienced teacher. Brushes, ink and paper is provided. RSVP essential. RMB 60. 10am-noon. Culture Yard (8404 4166, contact@cultureyard. net) www.cultureyard.net
UCCA-Creative Studio Children’s Workshop Series: Peculiar Perspectives For ages 4-6. Kids learn about the magic of animated films, and the tricks of the trade used by professional animators. In partnership with Creative Studio Children’s Workshop. In Chinese with English translation. RMB 120/workshop (kid), discounts for UCCA members. 10am-11.30am UCCA Loft, UCCA (8459 9269)
Broadway English Theatre Camp - Treasure Island For ages 6-13. Auditions and an open enrollment on Jan 15 for a Broadway
English theatre camp with poetry, song, and dance. Designed for non-native English speakers. Led by a bilingual crew. Everyone will be cast. Enrollment in camp is RMB 5,500. Auditions: 2pm-3pm. Camp lasts two weeks, Mon-Sat from Feb 7-19, 9am-4pm, ending with a family performance of Treasure Island. Yew Chung Int'l School. Beijing Playhouse (137 1890 8922, performance@beijing playhouse.com)
Spring Festival Dumpling Party And Holiday Dinner Make authentic Chinese dumplings from scratch and eat them with a lavish hot pot dinner. Live folk music. RMB 188, RMB 80 (kids 4-12), free for kids under 4. 4pm-8pm. Dumplng class starts at 4pm. Hot pot holiday dinner starts at 6pm. The Schoolhouse at Mutianyu (6162 6506)
Studio Art: Creative Art with Lulu See Jan 5 listing. 4.30-6pm.
Sun, Jan 16 Intelligence Valley (Seasons Series) For ages 7 and up and adults. The 5km hike is flat and takes about 2 and a half hours. Note: there is some walking on ice. Also a trip to Shentangyu Park and a homestyle Chinese lunch. RSVP essential. RMB 320, RMB 200 (kids under 12). Bus leaves from Lido Starbucks at 8.30am. Return at 5pm. Beijing Hikers (6432 2786, info@beijinghikers.com) www.beijinghikers.com
Survival Chinese: Small Talk Learn to make small talk with your colleague, neighbor or taxi driver. See Jan 9 listing.
Emergency First Response Care for Children Course For adults. A CPR and First Aid training course that provides emergency care for injured or ill children from ages 1-8 and infants. Participants are certified upon completion. In English. RMB 650, RMB 1,100/couple includes all materials, instruction and certification. Jan 16 and Feb 13. 1-5 pm. Place TBD. (steven@sinorescue.com)
Baking at The Fig Tree: Carrot Cake/Cupcakes For adults. RMB 250, RMB 350/couple. 2-5pm. The Fig Tree (erin@thefigtree. cn) www.thefigtree.cn
Ski Trip to Duolemeidi Ski Resort See Jan 15 listing.
Mahjong with Culture Yard See Jan 9 listing.
Mon, Jan 17 Chinese Language and Culture Workshops See Jan 10 listing. Topic: Introduction to Chinese poetry.
Tue, Jan 18 INN Neighborhood Coffee Morning – Sanlitun For adults. Chat with those in the know.
Held on the third Tuesday of each month. 10am-noon. The Bookworm. INN (6586 9507) www.innbeijing.org
Dulwich Come and Play Sessions See Jan 12 listing.
3e Playgroup
Baking at The Fig Tree: Butter Tea Cookies
See Jan 5 listing.
For adults. Learn how to make butter tea cookies. RMB 250, RMB 350/couple. 10am-1pm. The Fig Tree (139 1056 6742, erin@thefigtree.cn) www. thefigtree.cn
Tea tasting and Chinese tea workshop
Beijing 2 Fun See Jan 5 listing.
Studio Art: Creative Art with Lulu See Jan 5 listing.
Thu, Jan 20
For adults. Tranquil Tuesdays Founder and director Charlene Wang will host a tea tasting and share her expertise in the exciting world of Chinese tea. Free. 10.30am-noon. 3e Music and Movement (info@tranquiltuesdays.com)
Cookery Class: noodles and dumplings See Jan 8 listing. 6.30-8.30pm.
Wed, Jan 19 INN Trekkie: Houhai Lake For ages 7 and up. Join new friends and explore the frozen Houhai Lake. 9.30am-2pm. RSVP by January 15 to innbeijing@hotmail.com. www.innbeijing.org
Introduction to Tea at Culture Yard For ages 13 and up. A workshop with tea master Jiang Jianfeng. RSVP essential. RMB 50, RMB 40 (advance). 7.30pm-9pm. Culture Yard (8404 4166, contact@cultureyard.net)
Six-Week Course: Mummy & Baby Yoga For infants and mothers. Led by Celestina Swanson, every class includes fun interactive yoga based exercises and movements for baby to support growth and development. BYO yoga mat. RMB 720 for six weeks. 9.30am-10.30am. The Early Years Childhood Centre, Dulwich College Beijing, River Garden Villas (jenni.elliott@dulwich-beijing.cn)
INN Neighborhood Coffee Morning – Shunyi For adults. Coffee with those in the know. Held on the third Thursday of each month. 10am-noon. Mrs. Shanen’s Bages and Café, Shunyi District (8046 4301) www.innbeijing.org
Lecture: French and Chinese cartoon strips For ages 13 and up. Led by Chinese independent cartoonist Yan Cong, and cartoonist Thibault Voïta. Free. 6.30pm-7.30pm. French Cultural Center, Chaoyang District (6553 2627) www.ccfpekin.org, www.faguowenhua.com
January/February 2011
beijingkids
17
KEY
Essentials Events Playing
Food/Dining
Sport
Culture/Education
Fri, Jan 21
Community/Networking
Franco-Chinese Literary Debate See Jan 21 listing. 10am-12.30pm, 2.30-6pm.
Open House at the Canadian International School of Beijing For adults. An introduction by Principal Mrs. Jill Jollineau, a tour and a Q&A session. Please RSVP. Free. 10am-noon. Lecture Theatre, Canadian International School of Beijing (admissions@cis-beijing.com)
Franco-Chinese Literary Debate For ages 13 and up. For two days, six French authors, including Frédéric Beigbeder, Gérard Macé and Annick Geille, are coming to meet eight Chinese authors for a series of debates. Open to the public. Free. Jan 21-22. 2.30-6pm. Chinese Modern Literature Museum (8461 9071/5522 ext 1104 or 2139) www.ccfpekin.org, www.faguowenhua.com
ACAMIS Basketball Tournament
ACAMIS Basketball Tournament See Jan 21 listing.
Studio Art: Creative Art with Lulu See Jan 5 listing. 4.30-6pm.
Sun, Jan 23 Survival Chinese: Shopping Learn how to everyday items in Chinese. See Jan 9 listing.
Baking at The Fig Tree: New York Style Cheesecake For adults. Sundays and Tuesdays in January. RMB 500, RMB 600/couple. 2-5pm. (erin@thefigtree.cn) www. thefigtree.cn
For ages 7-12. Jan 21-24. Canadian International School of Beijing (6465 7788, admissions@cis-beijing.com) www.cisb.com.cn
Spring Festival Buffet at Hilton Beijing
3e Playgroup
ACAMIS Basketball Tournament
See Jan 5 listing.
See Jan 21 listing.
Studio Art: Creative Art with Lulu
See Jan 22 listing.
Mon, Jan 24
See Jan 5 listing.
INN Monthly Meeting
Music Together Stick Collection – Shunyi
For adults. A special presentation on the culture and traditions of Chinese New Year. RMB 50 covers coffee, tea and pastries. 10am-noon. The Capital Club, 50/F, Capital Mansion, 6 Xinyuan Nanlu (8486 2225 ext 136, innbeijing@hotmail. com) www.innbeijing.org
See Jan 7 listing.
Dinner and Bedtime Stories See Jan 7 listing.
Sat, Jan 22
Spring Festival Buffet at Hilton Beijing
Day Trip to Nanshan Ski Resort For ages 3 and up and adults. A day of snow and fun. RMB 380 (ski package), RMB 180 (non-ski package). The Familier (5869 2904, 138 1159 8903, service@thefamilier.com)
Photography with Peter Carney For ages 13 and up. Award winning photographer Peter Carney includes an introduction to photo techniques followed by shooting and editing sessions in the surrounding hutongs and historic area. BYO camera. RSVP essential. RMB 300. 1pm-6pm. Culture Yard (8404 4166, contact@cultureyard.net) www. cultureyard.net
Talk: Chinese foot-binding For adults. The talk introduces the history, the detailed process of binding feet, and the custom. Talk conducted in English. RMB 40. 2pm-3pm. China Culture Center (6432 9341/1041, info@chinaculturecenter.org) www. chinaculturecenter.org
Spring Festival Buffet at Hilton Beijing
beijingkids
ACAMIS Basketball Tournament
of City Life (都市风光) with an intro by Troma's Andy Deemer. In Chinese with English subtitles. Free. 7.30pm-9pm. Jiang Hu Liveshow Bar, 7 Dongmianhua Hutong, Jiaodaokou Nandajie, Dongcheng District (6401 4611)
take a tour. Free. 9am-11am. Harrow International School Beijing. RSVP at visit@harrowbeijing.cn.
Spring Festival Buffet at Hilton Beijing
For adults. Coffee with those in the know. Held on the fourth Thursday of each month. 10am-noon. Cosy Café, 1/F, Leisure Fitness Center, Bldg 7, Richmond Park, Yard 9 Fangyuan Nanli (8457 8359) www.innbeijing.org
See Jan 22 listing.
Wed, Jan 26 Making Chinese Desserts For ages 3-5. Celebrate Chinese New Year with making desserts. RMB 15 goes towards ingredients and donations to the Dulwich Panda Fund. 3.30pm-5pm. The Early Years Childhood Centre, Dulwich College Beijing, River Garden Villas, Hou Shai Yu Bai Xin Zhuang, Shunyi District (8046 5132, jenni.elliott@dulwichbeijing.cn)
INN Neighborhood Coffee Morning – Lido Area
Spring Festival Buffet at Hilton Beijing See Jan 22 listing.
Fri, Jan 28 Studio Art: Creative Art with Lulu See Jan 5 listing.
3e Playgroup
The Bookworm International Literary Festival 2011 Prologue – Dave Eggers
See Jan 5 listing.
For ages 13 and up. The Bookworm International Literary Festival runs from March 4-18. Join The Bookworm for the Prologue on January 26, 27 and 29 and buy advance tickets for the festival in March. On Jan 26: American writer, publisher and philanthropist Dave Eggers speaks about his expansive literary career and inspiring writing initiatives. Eggers’ first book, A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius, was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize. RMB 150. 7.30pm. The Bookworm (6431 2108)
See Jan 7 listing.
Dulwich Come and Play Sessions See Jan 12 listing.
Spring Festival Buffet at Hilton Beijing See Jan 22 listing.
Music Together Stick Collection – Shunyi Dinner and Bedtime Stories See Jan 7 listing.
Sat, Jan 29 Chinese New Year at The Familier For ages 0-10. Make dumplings, practice calligraphy and go on a treasure hunt. RMB 100, RMB 50 kids. 2-5pm. The Familier (5869 2904, 138 1159 8903, service@thefamilier.com)
The Bookworm International Literary Festival 2011 Prologue – David Sedaris For adults. See Jan 26 listing. David Sedaris hosts another reading. More information to come. RMB 50. 7.30pm. Location TBD. (6431 2108)
See Jan 21 listing.
3e Playgroup
Chinese Language and Culture Workshops
See Jan 5 listing.
Studio Art: Creative Art with Lulu
Beijing 2 Fun
See Jan 5 listing. 4.30-6pm.
See Jan 10 listing. Topic: Wong Karwai movies.
Tue, Jan 25 Chinese New Year Family Fun Night For Nursery to Grade 5. Canadian International School of Beijing (6465 7788, admissions@cis-beijing.com)
YCIS Chinese New Year Celebration For ages 7 and up. A community event with traditional Chinese performances, dragon dance, food, artisans and more. Free. 10am-2pm. Yew Chung International School (info@bj.ycef.com)
Baking at The Fig Tree
A special all-you-can-eat buffet menu featuring Spring Festival classics such as traditional dumplings and niangao (rice cake). RMB 248. Jan 22-27. 6pm-8pm. Hilton Beijing, 1 Dongfang Lu, Dongsanhuan Beilu (6466 2288)
18
See Jan 22 listing.
Looking for more family-friendly events in Beijing? Visit us online at www.beijing-kids.com/events
For adults. On Sundays and Tuesdays in January. (erin@thefigtree.cn) www. thefigtree.cn
Chinese Movie Night For ages 13 and up. Come watch Scenes
January/February 2011
See Jan 5 listing.
Studio Art: Creative Art with Lulu See Jan 5 listing.
Thu, Jan 27 The Bookworm International Literary Festival 2011 Prologue – David Sedaris For adtuls. See Jan 26 listing. Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk reading with David Sedaris. RMB 150. 7.30pm. The Bookworm (6431 2108)
Sanlitun Campus Music Concert For ages 4-11 and adults. BSB’s Primary school musicians: Primary choirs, string ensembles, clarinets and more. Free. 6am-7pm. BSB, Sanlitun Campus (8532 3088) www.britishschool.org.cn
Harrow Upper School Open Day For ages 13 and up. Everyone is welcome to visit Harrow’s Upper School campus. See a typical school day and
Cookery Class: noodles and dumplings See Jan 8 listing.
Sun, Jan 30 Survival Chinese: Ordering Food Learn how to order dishes in a Chinese restaurant. See Jan 9 listing.
Mon, Jan 31 Chinese Language and Culture Workshops See Jan 10 listing.
Fri, Feb 4 Music Together Stick Collection – Shunyi See Jan 7 listing.
Wed, Feb 9 Dulwich Come and Play Sessions For toddlers and adults. Led by parents in
the community and open to all. Join story and song time, movement activities, outdoor and indoor play. Feb 9, 16 and 23. 9am-10.30amDulwich Early Years Childhood Centre, Dulwich College Beijing, River Garden Villas, Shunyi District (jenni.elliott@dulwich-beijing.cn).
Thu, Feb 10 Talk: Aspergers and Autism For adults. Join a Care for Children’s Interest Evenings. On the second Thursday of every month, the FSC hosts presentations by a range of professionals in the field of child development, education and health. In English. Free. 6-7pm. Care for Children School, The Centre (8470 2735, reception@careforchildrenservices.com)
Fri, Feb 11 Story Time: Goldilocks and the Three Bears For toddlers. Copies of the story will be on sale after story time. Free. 9-9.30am. Dulwich Early Years Childhood Centre, Dulwich College Beijing, Shunyi District (8046 5132)
Music Together Stick Collection – Shunyi See Jan 7 listing.
Sun, Feb 13 Emergency First Response Care for Children Course See Jan 16 listing.
Wed, Feb 16 Dulwich Come and Play Sessions See Feb 9 listing.
Fri, Feb 18 Music Together Stick Collection – Shunyi See Jan 7 listing.
Wed, Feb 23 Dulwich Come and Play Sessions See Feb 9 listing.
Fri, Feb 25 Music Together Stick Collection – Shunyi See Jan 7 listing.
PHOTO: CHRISTOPHER LAY
BISS Flat Classroom Conference The Flat Classroom™ Conference is a unique conference including students and educators to envision the future of education as they use leading technology tools such as wikis, blogs, social networking and multimedia/digital storytelling. Smaller groups will work with leading world-class presenters in a “flattened” environment where virtual participants also join in the conversation from remote corners of the world. USD 350 (leadership workshop), USD 195 (student summit). Feb 25-27. 8am-5pm. Beijing BISS International School. RSVP essential. (conference@flatclassroom.org) www. flatclassroomconference.com
Sat, Feb 26 BISS Flat Classroom Conference See Feb 25 listing.
Sun, Feb 27 BISS Flat Classroom Conference See Feb 25 listing.
Ongoing Children’s Snow Paradise at The Bird’s Nest A “snow paradise” designed for children includes a castle, snow maze and snow cube, and a DIY chocolate station. Aside from the playground inside the stadium, the warm-up fields to the north also have festivities. RMB 120, RMB 80 (kids under 12). Ends Feb 20. 9am-6pm. The Bird's Nest, National Stadium Road South, Chaoyang District (8437 3118)
Hello Kitty Black Wonder A 20-million RMB castle to celebrate Hello Kitty’s 30th birthday. Play interactive games to rescue Hello Kitty and Dear Daniel in the castle. RMB 180, RMB 150, RMB 120. 10am-9pm. North side of Beijing Workers Stadium's East Gate. Book tickets at www.damai.cn/ticket_21600. html (Chinese only) or 400 610 3721 (English available)
Jia You Indoor Football Camp For ages 7-12. Led by FA Qualified coach Gary Saunders. RMB 650 for five days. Jan 31-Feb 4. 1pm-4pm. Dulwich College Beijing, Legend Garden Campus, 89 Capital Airport Road, Shunyi District (julie.pankratz@dulwich-beijing.cn)
Reed Drama Camp For ages 7-12. The Helen O’Grady Drama Academy will be conducting this five-day camp to help kids speak clearly and act with poise. RMB 1,600 for five days. Jan 31-Feb 4. 9.30am-12.30pm. Dulwich College Beijing Riviera Campus Beijing Riviera (julie.pankratz@dulwich-beijing.cn)
www.westchina.net.cn
The Bookworm Kids Club For ages 4 and up. Come along for Sunday sessions of reading, games, music and activities for little readers. RMB 30. 11am-noon. The Bookworm (6586 9507)
Mr. Magic Interactive Bilingual Musical Puppet Show New shows every two weeks. Shows include Pinocchio, Cinderella, Race of the 12 zodiac animals and more. Mr. Magic also does birthday parties. RMB 80, RMB 60 (booked through Mr. Magic). Every Sat and Sun. 11am-1pm. National Puppet Theatre, Sanhuan. Mr. Magic (139 1062 6049)
ClubFootball Indoor Football Winter Courses For ages 5-14. Led by FA/UEFA-qualified coaches. All levels welcome. Springbreak courses and March holiday courses (Mar 21-25) at ISB; see website for details. Approximately RMB 800 for a nine-week course. Jan 8-Mar 28. Midweek and weekend options available. 8am-noon. ISB, BCIS, YCIS, BSB Sanlitun, CISB, Andeli, Zhongguancun. ClubFootball (5130 6893/4/5/6, coaching@wanguoqunxing. com) www.clubfootball.com.cn
Shakespeare Resuscitated For ages 13 and up. An eight-week course to introduce young people to the Shakespearean text through performance. Led by Lee Simpson, who has trained at the Central School of Speech and Drama. No previous experience is necessary. RMB 1,200. Eight Weeks: Every Mon from Jan 17-Mar 21 (No classes on Jan 31, Feb 7). 3.40-5.40pm. Dulwich College Beijing, Legend Garden Campus (julie.pankratz@dulwich-beijing.cn)
Multisports Camp
Winter Weekend Workshops
For ages 5-12. A five-day camp with swimming, gymnastics, soccer, basketball and mini tennis. Groups divided by age and ability. RMB 1,600 for five days. Jan 31-Feb 4. 9am-noon. Dulwich Legend Sports Centre, Dulwich College Beijing, Legend Garden Campus (6456 1208, julie.pankratz@dulwich-beijing.cn)
From Jan 15-Feb 27, join a weekend enrichment workshop to provide extra curricular support to the regular school curriculum. Courses specific to children from preschool age through eighth grade. Maximum of eight students. Oneon-one tutoring available. The Learning Center (8046 3886, learningcenterbeijin g@gmail.com)
Winter Camp in Italy For ages 6-16. Kids and parents can head to Italy an 11-day winter camp with O’LE Italian Football School. The camp includes two series A games, five days of football training, hotel accommodation and food. RMB 18,000, RMB 24,000 kid. Feb 5-15. Cesena, Italy (6776 0708, jose.cao.ole@gmail.com) www. olefootball.com.cn
Ladies Tennis League - Beginners For women. Improve fundamentals and play competitively. Classes tailored to suit each player's ability. Thu: Jan 13, 20, Feb
17, 24 and Mar 3, 10, 17, 24. 9-10.30am. Holiday Inn Lido Health Club. RSVP at www. sportsbj.org or 6430 1370.
Ladies Tennis League – Intermediate to Advanced For women. Improve your fundamentals with Sports Beijing coaches and play competitively. Tailored classes. Max eight players. Every Mon: Jan 10, 17, 24 and Feb 14, 21 and 28. 8.30am-10am. Holiday Inn Lido Health Club. Register at www.sportsbj. org or 6430 1370.
Baby Yoga with Incy Wincy For kids with an adult. Age groups: newborn, 3-6 months, 6-8 months and 8-12 months. Relaxing, nurturing ways to keep a happy, healthy baby. RMB 990 (for 8 classes, paid in full upon enrollment). Tue: 1010.45am, 11.15am-noon. Fri: 10-10.45am, 11.15am-noon. Incy Wincy Yoga (5952 7001, angelina@incywincyyoga.com)
Kid Winter Dance Program For ages 5-8. Check online for more winter dance programs for ages 9-12 and teens. Chinese language, ballet, Chinese traditional dance, drama. Class size is one to six kids. Beginner level. RMB 5,290. Tue-Sat from Jan 11-30. 11am-1.05pm. Golden Int’l Dance Academy (6708 9567 ext 15) www. goldendancing.com
Obedience training and Puppy Class Courses Conducted by renowned animal behaviorist Dr. Sara Platto, bring your dog to the indoor fields of O’le for training courses. Courses throughout Jan and Feb. 9am-noon. O’le Climbing (info@saraplatto.com) www. saraplatto.com
Film: Vivez Libre (Making Plans for Lena) For ages 13 and up. Lena soldiers on through life as best she can with her two kids. In French with Chinese and English subtitles. 105 min, comedy. RMB 20. Jan 7-10. 5pm. French Cultural Center, Guangcai International Mansion, 18 Gongti Xilu, Chaoyang District (6553 2627)
Film: Un Air de Famille (Family Resemblances) For ages 13 and up. An upper middle-class French family celebrates a birthday in a restaurant. 110 min, comedy. In French with Chinese and English subtitles. RMB 20. Jan 15, 16, 21, 23 and 26. 3pm. French Cultural Center (6553 2627)
Tibetan New Year in Qinghai & Gansu Province – 5 Days For ages 7 and up. A five-day trip with West China celebrating Tibetan New Year in Qinghai province and Gansu province. Feb 5-9. 8am-7pm. West China (inquiry@westchina.net.cn) www. westchina.net.cn
Tibetan New Year in Qinghai & Gansu Province – 10 Days For ages 7 and up. Join a 10-day trip with West China adventure tours celebrating Tibetan New Year celebrations in Qinghai province and Gansu province. Feb 9-18. 8am-7pm. Qinghai and Gansu province. West China (inquiry@westchina.net.cn)
Mush, mom, mush! See Ongoing event listing under Children’s Snow Paradise.
January/February 2011
beijingkids
19
Essentials New Arrivals
o t o l l e H Say t s e l l a m S Beijing’s
Harry Yu n-Jie
Want to share your new arrival with our readers? E-mail a photo (at least 1MB in size) of your little one with his or her full name, nationality, birth date, hospital and parents’ names to editor-kids@beijingkids.com. Due to space constraints, we can only publish photos of babies born after June 1, 2010.
Grierson
British/Ch inese. Born Mu Yong to Jennie on Jul 2 a Grierson a t Beijing U nd nited Fam ily Hospita l.
binsDoan o R vid m a i l y and Wil to Hayle
Nozanin Halimova
Tajik. Born Sharofat Ashurova and Parviz Halimov on Apr 8 at Amcare Women’s and Children’s Hospital.
Emma Brooke Flenner
American. Born to Robyn and William Flenner on Apr 15 at Beijing United Family Hospital.
Liu Tanis toJaMicchelyllenChow-Liu and
Thomas Francis Haenle III
American. Born to Liz and Paul Haenle on Mar 19 at Beijing United Fami ly Hospital.
20
beijingkids
January/February 2011
Born v 8 at British. n on No al. Robinso y Hospit ed Famil it n U g Beijin
rn Canadian. Bo Oct 6 at Caleb Liu on pital. d Family Hos Beijing Unite
Living Snapshot
Layering Up Parents at beijingkids Santa on Ice
Interview and photos by Kara Chin
Kelly Charles
Silvia Merlo
Katie Xu
Alison Thompson
Where are you from? Australia How many children do you have? Two daughters: 4 and 8 years old. They go to The British School of Beijing. Where do you like to shop? Yashow has big sizes. And the new Gap in Joy City is great. What do you like to eat? My favorite place in Beijing is Yipin Xiaolong (next to Eric Paris Salon, Sanlitun) for Shanghai dumplings. Do you have a favorite spot in Beijing? Sanlitun, because we live quite close. How would you describe your style? Comfortable and last minute. Favorite outdoor activity: Probably ice skating. I’m keen to try the snow hill in Chaoyang Park. How do you stay warm in the winter? Lots of clothes and spicy food. And hot chocolate.
Where are you from? Argentina How old are your children? My daughters are 5 years old and 16 months old. How long have you been living in Beijing? Four months. Where do you like to shop? Any of the markets. What do you like to eat? We cook our own food – a mix of Chinese, Argentinean and Mexican. Favorite spot in Beijing: I like the Temple of Heaven. But mostly, I like going for long walks and talking with locals to practice my Chinese. Describe your style. Practical and comfortable. Favorite outdoor activity: Strolling around with the kids. Favorite indoor activity: I am home schooling the kids, so we do lots of arts and crafts and reading. Favorite park: Ritan Park How do you stay warm? Lots of layers!
Where are you from? Hangzhou province, China. What do you do? I’m in corporate finance. How old is your daughter? She is 5 years old. Where do you like to shop? Yashow Where do you go out to eat? Union Bar and Grille, Chef Too, Element Fresh and Annie’s. Favorite spot in Beijing: Chaoyang Park How would you describe your style? Casual Where is your outfit from? My dress is from a pregnancy store called I’m Mama. It’s near a women’s OBGYN hospital on Yaojiayuan Lu. Favorite activities: We like indoor swimming at our clubhouse, ice skating at Solana and rollerblading at Chaoyang Park. How do you stay warm? We went to the Philippines last year. This year, we’ll be here – so hot chocolate!
Where are you from? The UK What do you do? I’m the marketing director for 3e International. How old is your son? Milo is 4 years old. How long have you been living in Beijing? Seven years. Where do you like to shop? Everywhere. I shop a lot at Solana and Select in Lido. Where do you like to eat? Mostly child-friendly restaurants, like Annie’s and Element Fresh. Favorite Beijing spot: Si’de Park Where is your outfit from? My blazer and boots are from Nali Patio. And my jeans and cardigan are from Select. Favorite outdoor activity: Gardening. My son has his own vegetable patch. How do you stay warm? We stay snuggled up at home with the dog. Also, a big roast dinner.
January/February 2011
beijingkids
21
Living Noticeboard
What’s Happening in Beijing? ISB String Quartet Plays Music for Charity
Crossroads is a string quartet made up of four ISB junior students: Krystal Koh, Shang Loh, Madi Hockaday and Emily Chang. The quartet volunteers their skills at company, private, and school events in return for voluntary donations. The group performed at last October’s Green Cow Organic Harvest Festival, raising over RMB 2,000. All of the proceeds from this performance will go towards a larger effort to provide the Love and Hope Center with funds to build a heating system at their new location. The quartet hopes to continue their fundraising efforts by playing at events, in addition to providing free performances for the residences of orphanages and old-age homes.
If you’d like Crossroads to perform at your next event or gathering, contact Krystal Koh at krystal_germaine_@hotmail.com. For more information on the Love and Hope Center, visit www.aisee.org.
ISB studen ts playing m usic for a go od cause
HoK Launches After-school Activities in New Facility
After completing construction on their new Chaoyang campus, House of Knowledge International Kindergarten is launching a diverse line-up of extracurricular activities for parents and kids. Open to the general public, newcomers can sign up for ballet, hip hop, yoga, kung fu, tai chi, art tutorials, body strengthening, stretching classes for sore backs and more. For details and registration, visit www.house-of-knowledge.net.
Arms up and plie
Dulwich Appoints New Headmaster
Neal McGowa n joins Dulwich
Neal McGowan will join Dulwich Beijing on January 10 as the new Headmaster. Born, raised and educated in the town of Musselburgh, just outside Edinburgh, he’s had a number of headships in both Scotland and England. McGowan says his “strong interest in internationalism, global education and multiculturalism were big attractions in applying for the post.”
Thanks to the Yew Chung International School of Beijing’s Wish Tree project, the school was able to amass a truckload of donated gifts, including warm hats and gloves. The donations will go to nearly 300 children, who were orphaned by the devastating earthquake in Qinghai Province last April that killed 2,698 people. Organized by the YCIS Parents Organization, the Wish Tree project is donating the presents with the assistance of Roundabout charity distribution center.
irit of giving ts in the sp YCIS studen
22
beijingkids
January/February 2011
PHOTOS: ISB, HOK, YCIS BEIJING AND DULWICH
YCIS Beijing’s Wish Tree Project Gives to Orphans in Need
On the Market PLANTS
Yuquanying Plant & Flower Market. Mon-Fri 8.30am-5.30pm, Sat-Sun 8.30am-6pm. 55 Nansanhuan Xilu, Fengtai District (6353 8637) www. e-hua.com.cn 玉泉营花卉市场, 丰台区南三环西路55号 Good buys: Tulip bulb (RMB 6). Setose asparagus (wenzhu 文竹, RMB 10-20). Chrysanthemum (juhua 菊花, RMB 20). Moth orchid (hudielan 蝴蝶兰, RMB 30-35/plant). Kaffir lily (junzilan 君子兰 RMB 100). Bodhi tree (puti 菩提, RMB 16,000). Artificial lily (RMB 15-25). Best time to go: Before noon. Fewer people and a better selection. Tip: Bargain, aiming for 70 percent of the opening price. Other items for sale: garden machinery, greens, craft items, root sculptures, aquariums and Chinese paintings.
PETS
New Guanyuan Bird and Fish Market. Daily 9am-5.30pm. Guangyuan Dasha, northeast corner of Zizhu Qiao, Xisanhuan Lu, Haidian District 新官园花鸟鱼虫市场, 海淀区西 三环路紫竹桥广源大厦 (近紫竹 桥东北角) Good buys: Spiders (RMB 100), scorpions (RMB 40), chinchillas (RMB 320) Best time to go: Weekdays, when it’s less busy.
Tips: • The few stores selling dogs and cats are best avoided. • If you’re buying “weirder” things, get your vocabulary prepared beforehand. Before buying any animal as a pet, ask: What size will it grow to? What kind of climate does it need? What kind of a cage/tank does it need? What will it eat? How much will it cost to look after? Overall, are you really able to look after it? If not, don’t buy it. Don’t miss: Store located at Aisle 3, Shop A-18 sells small pigs as pets. (159 1053 8222, 134 0101 4395) Other items for sale: flowers, pipes, vinyl and antiquated record players and recording equipment (Aisle 1, Shop 38; 151 0168 2318).
TOYS
PHOTOS: SUI
Tianyi. Daily 7.30am-5.30pm. 4/F, 259 Fuchengmen Dajie, Xicheng District 天意新商城, 西城区阜外大街259号4层 Good buys: Cross-stitch patterns, jigsaw puzzles, comic-book toy figures, posters and calendars. Best time to go: Early morning, though the market is always busy with wholesale buyers. Tips: • Calmer than Yashow and the Silk Market and fewer foreigners. • No haggling here, unless items over a few hundred kuai.
January/February 2011
beijingkids
23
Health Ms. Nutrition
The Big Picture
Picking your battles at the dinner table
G
etting kids to eat right is a universal issue for parents. Be it in a Beijing courtyard or a San Francisco apartment, the idyllic picture of a mother eating peacefully with her two children seated at the table as father comes home just in time for dinner is for advertisements only. The reality is messier. It’s easy to get hung up on details, so here is a selection of big picture strategies that have got me through the hard times. Vow to never fight over food Getting into drawn-out battles often backfires with the child turning against a particular food if pressed too hard. This is especially likely if the child feels their opinion is not taken into consideration, and it can lead to them to become even more defiant. The best thing you can do is to have some basic ground rules that work for your particular situation and then make sure everyone sticks to them (including ayi). For example: Limit treats like hamburgers or sweets to weekends only. Also, read up on the use of active listening skills to help you understand the reason for your child’s dislike of something. You might be surprised to find that it is not the broccoli itself, simply a matter of presentation for younger children or cooking style for older kids. Food is food, nothing else We are all born with the natural drive to eat until we are full and drink when we are thirsty. But by the time we have reached adulthood, external cues generally overshadow our internal ones so we end up eating and drinking for reasons that have nothing to do with hunger or thirst. Whenever you find yourself offering your child some food or drink for comfort, reward or even just to keep them out of your hair for a few minutes, remember that those potent, hard-to-break eating habits form in childhood. For example, if you have the habit of giving your child a treat after mealtimes, ask yourself, why is that so? Was it a common practice in your childhood? Were sweets used as a reward for finishing your meals when you were a child? How might learning to finish your plate every time have affected your own weight management? Kids can dislike what you like No matter how much variety we offer our babies, they will develop their own opinions earlier than we think. As adults we have our own distinct likes and dislikes, but teenagers, kids and even 9-month-old babies do too. Some tastes need to be acquired over time. Strong cheeses, grapefruit and even something as simple as ginger can trigger the wrinkling of little noses. Older children face external influences such as peer groups, social pressure and even their school’s nutrition syllabus. We might not agree with their tastes, but we should at least understand them. Keep the big picture Regardless of whether your child is 5 weeks or 5 years old, you can still have a positive impact. There will be good days and bad days and their interest, intake and outlook on their food will vary from week to week. Forget about fighting over the last bite and remember that the food pyramid wasn’t built in a day.
Got a question? Singaporean Olivia Lee (olivianutrition@gmail.com) has an MSc in nutrition and provides nutrition counseling.
24
beijingkids
January/February 2011
If you have the habit of giving your child a treat after mealtimes, ask yourself, why is that so?
The Doc Is In
The Most Important Meal Why you should never miss breakfast
D
id you know that the US Center for Disease Control predicts that one-third of all Americans will have diabetes by the year 2050? This scary statistic is not just an American phenomenon; China already has more diabetics than any other country. The main culprit is always obesity and an unhealthy diet - lifestyle patterns that are set as children, and which are very difficult to change later on. A crucial step to improving your diet is to ensure you eat a nutritious breakfast. The 20-30 percent of children and teens skipping breakfast may think it’s no big deal, but the long-term consequences of skipping breakfast can be serious enough to warrant a family discussion. We all know that eating breakfast is important, but just how important is it? Fortunately, there are a slew of new studies that can help parents convince their kids to eat breakfast. And for parents who are skipping the most important meal of the day, it may convince them to start taking their own advice. The importance of eating breakfast was covered in a fascinating 20-year study recently published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. In this study, researchers asked 2,000 school children about their breakfast habits, then followed up with them 20 years later and assessed their health. The results were striking. Those kids who skipped breakfast for all those years had waists 2 inches larger. As adults, these same kids also had higher insulin levels, which leads to diabetes. They also had higher total cholesterol including “bad” cholesterol, LDL - both of which cause clogging of the arteries and eventually lead to heart attacks and strokes. Children who skip breakfast actually end up more obese than those who eat breakfast. The main reason for this is because breakfast-skippers get very hungry by lunchtime and end up binging more, usually with less healthy mid-morning snacks and bigger lunch portions. These bad routines slowly lead to larger waists, and year after year these effects turn into more serious health issues as adults. But it’s not just long-term health that’s at stake; many studies suggest that proper breakfasts and overall nutrition help to improve memory, test grades and school attendance. A study published in 2008 in Pediatrics, showed that high school teens who ate breakfast felt much more alert and more positive, with improved short-term memory. The type of breakfast is also important. The bulk of research suggests what is obvious to parents: Complex whole-grain cereals, fruits, nuts, and dairy products are the best options. Quick energy bursts from sugary cereals give kids an immediate high, which wears off just as quickly, and their brains and body are dragging along come lunchtime. And there’s evidence to back this up: Studies have shown that short-term morning memory and test scores are lower with a high simple-sugar breakfast. So, the next time your kids try to run out the door before eating breakfast, sit them down in front of a bowl of Wheaties with yogurt and tell them how breakfast helps improve not only their grades but their health - both now, and in their future.
Children who skip breakfast actually end up more obese than those who eat breakfast
Need more info? American Dr. Richard Saint Cyr works at International Medical Center Beijing and runs a blog, www.myhealthbeijing.com January/February 2011
beijingkids
25
Dining Top 5 Places to …
Dip into Hot Pot Ding Ding Xiang
Hatsune
This Beijing institution continues to expand its empire, with a number of branches now open around town. The restaurant is a multiple winner of the “Best Hot Pot” in the Beijinger annual Reader Restaurant Awards, and it’s clear why: Thick, flavorsome dipping sauce, reasonable prices, and a clean, lively ambiance in which to boil up your meal DIY style. Start by cooking the meat, which adds flavor to the soup, then add some veg and get dipping!
Delicious, bite-sized sushi rolls aside, this Californian sushi restaurant offers something rather unique on its menu: Paper pot hot pot. Yes, you read correctly – the container used in this hot pot is made of paper. Japanese paper hot pot limits the amount of fat diners can consume in one sitting, giving it an advantage over its bronze or earthenware counterparts. If you don’t pierce the pot with your chopstick, it can go on burning for around three hours. In keeping with the traditional Japanese diet, seafood and vegetables are the main ingredients. This lighter version is usually only part of a meal and ordered in addition to other dishes.
Daily 10.30am-2pm, 4.30-10pm. North of Yuyang Hotel, 8 Zhongjie Xinyuanli, Chaoyang District. (6465 0514); 珍滋味港式火锅, 朝阳区新源里中街 8号鼎鼎香
Daily 11.30am-2pm, 5.30-10pm. 2/F, Heqiao Bldg C, 8A Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (6581 3939); 隐泉日本料理, 朝阳区光 华路甲8号和乔大厦C座2层. See Directory or Feature (p71) for other location.
Swissotel Beijing
Pure Lotus Vegetarian
Okay, so fondue isn’t hot pot, but it’s the European equivalent. Sample the Swissotel’s delicious and cheesy version of this winter classic. The sauce is made of melted cheese seasoned with garlic flakes and white wine. Diners can dip chunks of bread and vegetables to their heart’s content – who cares about fat content when bite sized parcels of veg taste this good? Alternatively, opt for a sweet chocolate fondue - perfect for a treat on a chilly afternoon.
This newer Holiday Inn Lido location supplements the original venue near the Tuanjiehu Subway stop intersection. Pure Lotus offers a serene dining experience with exquisite meat-free versions of Chinese classics made from vegetables, as well as tofu in its infinite forms. A close cousin to hot pot, try the “cheese” fondue made from wheat bran, oil leaf, and olive oil – it’s a none-too-bad substitute for the real thing.
Daily 11.30am-2pm, 5.30-10pm. 2 Chaoyangmen Beidajie, Dongcheng District. (6553 2288); 港澳中心瑞士酒 店, 东城区朝阳门北大街2号
Daily 11am-11pm. 3/F, Holiday Inn Lido, Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District (8703 6668, 6437 6288); 朝阳区丽都假日饭店三层,首都机场将 台路净心莲 Daily 11.30am-midnight. 1A Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang District (8454 3838); 朝阳区工体北路甲1号兆龙饭店对面
Korean Goryeo This place specializes in Korean-style hotpots, with large chunks of beef, potato and tofu stewed in a thick soybean paste soup base. At the table, there is often the option of cooking thinner slices of raw meat and vegetables in the stew. Needless to say, kimchi flavors are prevalent and a hearty appetite is required.
Ding Ding Xiang’s mouth-watering selection of hot pot treats
26
beijingkids
January/February 2011
Also check out Hai Di Lao Hot Pot. See Feature (p70) for details.
PHOTO: SIMON LIM
Daily 11am-10pm. 1-09, Bldg 1, 39 Courtyard, Shenlu Jie, Chaoyang District (8561 2577); 朝阳区神路街39号院1号楼1-09号高丽王朝牛排酱 汤小火锅
Fast Food
Variety is the Spice of Life A
Exploring new flavors with your baby
fter experimenting with different baby purees for our daughter Jade, we decided it was time to spice up her world a bit. An advantage of making homemade baby food is your ability to play with flavors. We found that adding some herbs and spices in our recipes widened our choice of ingredients and helped expose Jade to a range of new tastes, textures and aromas. Many baby books we read recommend waiting until the infant is 8 months or older to introduce spices and herbs but Jade was doing so well with foods that we started adding a little spice in her meals at 6 months old. And boy, did she love it. One of her favorite meals includes chicken, pumpkin and cumin; and for dessert: poached apple and pear with cinnamon. We also found that cinnamon is good for
tummy upsets and diarrhea. Another benefit of using spices and herbs is that it brings out the best in food without the need of any sugar or salt. I think introducing new aromas and flavors to Jade early on really opened up her taste buds, and I am proud to say that she has grown to become an adventurous, adaptable and passionate eater. So next time you’re whipping up a baby puree, try adding some of these spices and herbs: vanilla, basil, cumin, cinnamon, rosemary, dill, lemon zest, ginger, mint and nutmeg. Like any other new food, follow the “four day wait” rule when introducing new flavors. Geoffrey Weckx
Chicken Puree (2 servings) 1 chicken breast fillet, chopped coarsely ¼ pumpkin, chopped coarsely 1¼ cup water Place ingredients in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Boil uncovered, until pumpkin softens and chicken is cooked through. Blend in an electric processor with cumin and a dash of olive oil or water until smooth. Fruit Puree (10 servings) 5 Apples 5 Pears Peel, slice and steam fruit. Blend in an electric processor with cinnamon until smooth.
PHOTO: JUDY ZHOU
Note: The information shared here is meant as a guide and does not replace professional medical advice. Please discuss the introduction of any new foods or drinks with your baby’s doctor.
Geoffrey Weckx is the owner of W Dine and Wine, and lives in Beijing with his wife Belina & 1-year-old daughter Jade. W Dine and Wine, 22-1 Dongzhimenwai Dajie (opposite the Canadian embassy) (6416 9838) www.w-dinewine.com
January/February 2011
beijingkids
27
Better the Devil You Know Reviving a classic canapĂŠ
text by Xiyun Yang; photos by Mishka Family Photography
28
beijingkids
January/February 2011
I
Dining Food For Thought
’m a little embarrassed to be writing about deviled eggs. For those of you keeping up with the culinary trendsetters, you are surely laughing at me. Deviled eggs? That’s like wearing ... well, there’s been a recent spat of such terribly bad fashion that I can’t even pick an appropriate simile. Deviled eggs may not have the glamour of a home-made charcuterie plate and they may have slid from their position as clever 60’s sophistication to their current culinary rung of populating Tupperware parties, but they are seriously delicious. I haven’t been to many cocktail parties, so I don’t really know where I’ve cultivated my vision of deviled eggs as quintessential cocktail fare. Too much Mad Men perhaps? It is quite the 60s housewife as far as preparation is concerned. Those full skirts and tiny waists beckon me to abandon any thoughts of trendy ingredients like smoked salmon and goat cheese, let alone oven roasted anything. “Come,” they say, twirling in a whirl of cigarette smoke and perfectly matte red lipstick, “Boil some eggs!” To which I can only acquiesce. But deviled eggs should not be relegated to the old-fashioned corner forever. With its creamy texture and lightly flavored base, it can hold up to all sorts of re-interpretations. To cut down on the fat and punch up the zing, I swap out the traditional mayonnaise for yogurt and mustard. A puttanesca twist with anchovies and capers. A topping of marinated shredded beets. A pinch of garam masala for a curried twist. A blend of pesto or spicy roasted peppers. The possibilities are endless.
Basic Deviled Eggs 12 large eggs 1 tablespoon mustard 1 tablespoon thick Greek style yogurt 2 dashes Worcestershire sauce 1 dash Tabasco sauce salt and pepper to taste Place eggs in a pot and cover with cold water. Bring the pot to a boil, then remove from heat and let sit for 10 minutes. Run eggs under cold water. Peel and half the eggs, then scoop out the yolks and mash them together with remaining ingredients. Spoon or pipe the mixture back into egg whites. Refrigerate until serving. Additions: Anchovies and olives Chop up two anchovy fillets, 4 capers, 2 olives, and a very small bulb of garlic. Chop up all ingredients very finely and mash with egg yolks. No need to add additional salt.
Beets Grate a raw beet and mix with 1 bulb minced garlic, 3 tbsp red wine vinegar, 3 tbsp olive oil, salt and pepper to taste. Leave to marinate for an hour. Top every egg with a spoonful of beet salad. Peppers Roast one large spicy pepper directly over an open flame on the stovetop until blackened. Place the roasted pepper in a bowl and cover until it cools. Peel the skin off, but do not rinse the pepper under the tap. Remove the seeds and veins. Chop finely and mix with egg yolks. Pesto Make a batch of pesto in a blender with 3 cloves garlic, 3 cups basil, ¼ cup of almonds, pine nuts, walnuts or sunflower seeds, ¼ cup of grated Parmesan and enough oil to get the blender working. Substitute the yogurt in the Basic Deviled Eggs recipe with a tablespoon of pesto. Freeze the leftover pesto and use it for pasta. January/February 2011
beijingkids
29
Playing What's Fun In
30
beijingkids
January/February 2011
Houhai
Beef-up your hutong history, grab a slice and hit the ice text by Annie Huang; photos by Judy Zhou
L
ocated in the center of Beijing, Houhai is known for its traditional hutongs, lively nightlife and of course, its lake of the same name. Houhai is just one of three lakes that make up the larger Shichahai lake area; the other two being Xihai and Qianhai. The three lakes are usually referred to simply as Houhai, undoubtedly the show off of the trio. Despite its reputation for being a nightlife hot spot, one should not overlook Houhai’s natural beauty and historical landmarks, most notably the Drum and Bell Towers. Not to mention the labyrinth of hutongs and the numerous shops selling everything from artisan chocolates to quirky souvenirs. When Houhai lake freezes over, it’s the perfect spot for ice skating outdoors. So brave the winter weather and take a day to explore one of Beijing’s most beautiful hutong districts.
January/February 2011
beijingkids
31
1
2
3
4
5
7 6
8
9
N 32
beijingkids
January/February 2011
院 南 路
路 西 土 城
NGSI
北 辰 西 路
HUN LU
S
tart your Houhai adventure on (northwest) and Houhai (southeast). Cross the Di’anmen Xidajie at Lotus Market bridge and 50m ahead lies Yandai Xiejie (4). Lotus Market 荷花市场 (1), located at the south entrance This cool hutong has shops selling all kinds of Di’anmen Xidajie (parallel to Houhai lake), to Qianhai. The entrance is clearly gifts and souvenirs from places such as Tibet and Xicheng District marked by a traditional archway displaying India, as well as a few local brands. Also worth a 西城区地安门西大街 the characters 荷花市场, or Lotus Market. look is Cocoa Ballet (5), which sells high quality If you don’t read Chinese, look for the large artisan chocolates in a variety of flavors, such as Quanjude 全聚德 gathering of rickshaw drivers who are eager hazelnut, rum, mango and passionfruit. Pick and 57 Di’anmen Dajie, Xicheng District (inside to take you on a hutong tour around the area. choose flavors to your heart’s content as prices Xichahai Sports school, but take the entrance Go straight through the archway and follow it are calculated by weight (RMB 29 per 50g). from Qianhai Xiyan) (66171570/ 6612 8557) along Lotus Lane. The view of Qianhai lake Keep strolling along Yandai Xiejie until you 西城区地安门大街57号什刹海体校内 is magnificent from here, even in the dead see another archway, and this will take you to of winter. Grab a quick bite at one of the Di’anmenwai Dajie. Walk north for less than five Xiao Wang Fu 小王府 many restaurants that line the path, including minutes and you’ll come across the Drum and 15 Qianhai Beiyan, Xicheng District (6617 5558) Starbucks, Quanjude (famous for it’s Peking Bell Towers (6). Dating back to 1200s, the 西城区前海北沿15号 duck) or Xiao Wang Fu. Drum Tower housed 24 drums, beaten on each When the path splits into a fork, walk along hour of the day. Today, the drums are beaten for Ice Skating on Qianhai Qianhai Beiyan until you see an Ice Skate visitors every half hour between 9-11.30am and D i’anme n Xidajie (oppos i t e t he nor t h Rental Booth (2), where you can stop for 1.30-5pm. To the north of the Drum Tower is the gate of Beihai Park), Xicheng District the highlight of the day: ice skating! There Bell Tower, containing a 500-year-old bronze bell 西城区地安门西大街 DATUNLU EAST 望京西 are skates, bicycles and two-seater chairs with 10cm thick walls. On a clear day, views from WANGJING XI OLYMPIC available for hire. The skates will set you back the towersGREEN are a photographer’s dream. Hutong Pizza 胡同比萨 approximately RMB 15 for three hours, plus a Between the towers, there is a courtyard with Daily 11am-11pm, 9 Yindingqiao Hutong, deposit of RMB 300, while the carts will cost some nice cafés (and more rickshaw drivers). Houhai, Xicheng District (8322 8916) approximately RMB 20 for the whole day and a The appropriately named Drum and Bell 西城区银锭胡同9号 新 路 RMB 志 50 deposit. Café (7) offers hot drinks and snacks, while Next, head to Hutong Pizza (3) to refuel. Walk the nearby Jianjinjiu bar hosts regular concerts Yandai Xiejie 烟袋斜街 along Qianhai Beiyan until you see Yindingqiao forOLYMPIC popular CENTER local bands like Hanggai, as well as Yandai Xiejie, Houhai, Xicheng District HUIXINXIJIE BEIKOU Hutong on your left (before the bridge). Walk bilingual workshops on improv performances. 西城区烟袋斜街 straight through the small hutong until you If time permits, walk back to the Drum see a large orange sign. Hutong Pizza offers Tower. Then head east along Gulou Dondajie to Cocoa Ballet Chocolate Art Salon 可可芭 a variety of pizzas, snacks and hot drinks in a Nanluoguxiang (8), where there are plenty 蕾巧克力艺术沙龙 BEITUCHENG cozy setting. more chic shopping and dining options awaiting XITUCHENG Daily 11am-11pm. 30 Yandai Xiejie, Xicheng SHAOYAOJU After you’ve sated your hunger, return to the HUIXINXIJIE NANKOU you. For older kids, or even just Mom and Dad, District (133 8137 7712) ANZHENMEN bridge known asMUDANYUAN Yingding Qiao.JIANDEMEN It is over 500 consider booking tickets to see one of the plays 西城区烟袋斜街30号 TAIYANGGONG years old and marks the divide between Qianhai at the independent Penghao Theater (9). GUANGXIMEN Drum and Bell Towers 钟鼓楼 HEPINGXIQIAO Daily 9am-5pm. Drum Tower: RMB 20, RMB 10 SANYUANQIAO (students); Bell Tower: RMB 15, RMB 8 (students). Di’anmen Dajie, Dongcheng District (6401 2674) 东城区地安门大街 LIUFANG HEPINGLI North St. Drum and Bell Café 鼓钟咖啡馆 Daily 1pm-2am. Zhonglouwan Hutong, Dongcheng District (8403 3600) YONGHEGONG GULOUDAJIE ANDINGMEN Lama Temple 东城区钟楼湾胡同41号 JISHUITAN LIANGMAHE 学 院 路
KOU
Playing What's Fun In
BEIXINQIAO
XIZHIMEN
CHEGONGZHUANG DONGSI
FUCHENGMEN
XIDAN
DI FUXINGMEN
TIAN’ANMEN EAST WANGFUJING
DONGDAN
Penghao Theater 蓬蒿剧场 35 Dongmianhua Hutong, Nanluoguxiang, Dongcheng District (south gate of the Central CHAOYANGMEN Academy of Drama, between Nanluoguxiang HUJIALOU and Jiaodaokou Nandajie) (6400 6452/72) 朝 东城区东棉花胡同35号 (中央戏剧学院南门, 阳 南锣鼓巷和交道口南大街之间) 路 东 大 桥 路
DENGSHIKOU
Nanluoguxiang 南锣鼓巷 Nanluoguxiang, Dongcheng District 东城区南锣鼓巷 TUANJIEHU DONGSI SHITIAO 工人体育场东路
ZHANGZIZHONG LU
Jianjinjiu 疆进酒 Zhongku Hutong, Dongcheng District (8405 0124) 东城区中库胡同2号 DONGZHIMEN NONGYEZHANLANGUAN
JIANGUOMEN
January/February 2011
JINTAIXIZHAO
YONG’ANLI
GUOMAO
beijingkids
33
DAWANG
Friction Action
Make your own climbing creature text by Ben Bravery and Tim O’Mahony; photos by Sui
ng time
rati lus deco inutes p m 0 3 : Time lty: Easy
Difficu
ls board Materia cm piece of card straw
20 ing 20cm x of drink lengths best) m c rk 5 o w o Tw fibers l ra tu a n String ( tape Scotch or paints rs o crayons s , s il Scis c n e pens, p Colored
Ben Bravery and Tim O’Mahony work for Beijing-based Kexue Communications. They perform science shows and workshops for schools, birthday parties and other functions. For details, visit www. kexuecommunications.com, e-mail info@kexuecommunications.com, or call 8415 5034.
34
beijingkids
January/February 2011
Playing Inside
1
On your piece of cardboard draw the outline of your favorite climbing bug or animal. Make sure the widest point of the creature’s body is at least 7cm across.
2
Decorate and cut out your creature.
3
Using Scotch tape, stick the straws in the shape on an upside down V on the back of your creature. The straws should be about 1cm apart at the top end of your creature, and about 5cm apart at the bottom.
4
Cut a piece of string 4m long. Thread the string through the straws so the two ends of the string hang down from the widest point of the upside down V below your creature.
5
Place a pencil through the loop of string at the top of your creature. To make your creature climb, one person needs to stand a stool or high surface (parental supervision advised), while holding onto each end of the pencil. Meanwhile, a second person holds the dangling ends of the string - one end in each hand. Pull down on one end of the string, then pull down on the other. Continue doing this and watch your creature climb up the string. (Pictured above.)
Science snapshot The string in your climber looks smooth, but if you were to look at it under a microscope it would look rough. When you pull down on the string it grips the edge of the straw with friction, and pulls your animal higher and higher. If you coat your string in oil you will find that the animal doesn’t climb, as the surface of the string is too smooth. This is called lubrication.
January/February 2011
beijingkids
35
Lotte World - the Disneyland of Seoul
Heart and Seoul The Schrijvers van Zenden family visits South Korea
The Cost The total cost was around USD 2,188. Airfare cost USD 980, hotel accommodations cost RMB 758, and other expenses (food, transport, shopping, sightseeing) came to USD 450. The Plan The family planned a five-day trip to Seoul flying Asiana Airlines (but Air China tends to have better deals). The flight took only 90 minutes, making Seoul a quick getaway. They stayed at PJ Hotel, conveniently located near Myeongdong. The family took the airport bus to the hotel, which stops about a block away. However, the walk from the bus stop to
36
beijingkids
January/February 2011
the hotel required them to travel under a strange underpass, which was a little scary in the middle of the night. In the bright of day, it is actually a quaint street, with nothing to fear save for the occasional speedy motorcycle and the fishy smell from nearby Korean restaurants. The Sights The itinerary included seeing the lovely Gyeongbokgung Palace, which was very manageable with small children in tow. It was fun watching the changing of the guards and the view of the mountains in the background was amazing. Shopping along Insadong, a shop-lined street with funky, albeit touristy wares, was fun. Parents should note that shop owners are not as child-friendly in Seoul as they are in Beijing. On their third day, they went to Lotte World, Korea’s version of Disneyland. It is mostly indoors, easy-to-navigate and doable in about
PHOTOS: COURTESY OF THE SCHRIJVERS VAN ZENDEN FAMILY
The Travelers Gigi Schrijvers van Zenden, her husband Teddy, and their daughters Gabrielle (4) and Regina (1).
Playing Family Travels
A serene amble up to Myeongdong Ca tholic Cathedral
e bokgung Palac auty of Gyeong Taking in the be
five hours. Gabrielle had to be coerced to do the balloon ride, which gives a bird’s-eye view of the entire place, but for the most part, she loved it. They also enjoyed the parade. Their fourth day was dedicated to shopping. Seoul’s markets are definitely pricier than their Beijing counterparts, but they stock really cool items that you just don’t see in Beijing. In Dongdaemun, the clothing market dubbed Pyounghwa Fashion Town is outrageously unending. The family only managed to peruse one aisle of the first floor of the three-storey building before throwing in the towel. Gangnam Terminal Underground Shopping Center is also worth a look. Their day ended with a meal at Burger King, a Krispy Kreme donut and a taste experiment in peculiar ice cream flavors. Their fifth and last day was a Sunday, so the family went to Myeongdong
January/February 2011
beijingkids
37
Playing Family Travels should eat street food at their own risk. The family recommends trying little baked dough balls, similar to Hong Kong pancakes, but with a delicious filling. The Worst Part In the airport bus on the way back to the airport, Gabrielle threw up. However, the people on the bus were very nice, offering plastic bags for the “undesirables” and packets of wet wipes to help with the clean up. Most Unexpected Event Seoul appears to be divided into shopping zones, with some items sold only on certain streets. Adjacent to the hotel was a row of printer stores, behind it a street selling bathroom supplies, and not much farther were lighting shops. Opposite the hotel was a row of shops with big windows displaying pets for sale. Customers can sit at a table and choose a pet to play with. of bibimbap Waiting for a yummy serving
Catholic Cathedral, a beautiful church that sits atop a hill. After the service, they wandered around the area (really interesting, even at 10am) and found a congee restaurant, which provided them with a yummy breakfast. Gigi swears it’s the best congee she’s ever had. The Best Part Seoul was fascinating, clean, orderly, and fun, with a good mix of things to do. The food in Seoul proved to be a highlight. Each restaurant has its own style of bibimbap (mixed rice) and it quickly became the staple meal for Gigi. The street food is fantastic and the city seems hygienic enough for it to be safe; but, as a general rule, travelers
38
beijingkids
January/February 2011
Family Friendly Features A lot of people speak English and there is never a shortage of people willing to help out. Once at a subway station, a woman clearly in a rush, stopped to give the family directions and even walked quite a distance to show them how to get to Lotte Mart – the only supermarket they managed to find besides convenient stores. The food was enjoyable, especially for Gabrielle who loves noodles. Also, the coffee shop Coffee Bean is everywhere and is a fun treat when you need a break from all of the sight-seeing. Tips The family recommends going to Seoul at the end of October when the weather is nice and warm, and not too chilly at night. The subway is great for getting around. Nandaemun Market was unimpressive, but that’s possibly because the shopping is so great in Beijing.
Playing Day Tripper
Ice Ice, Baby
Chill out at Longqing Gorge’s Ice Festival by Gabriel Monroe; adapted from Beijing Excursion Guide
PHOTO: QUANJING
C
an’t face the distance, price gouging and arctic conditions of Harbin’s Ice Festival? Fortunately, the industrious residents of Longqing Gorge have established a worthy alternative: the Longqing Gorge Ice Sculpture Arts Festival, which attracts visitors in the dark heart of winter, while providing Beijingers with a comparatively convenient and high-value winter wonderland. The ephemeral statuary on display is made entirely from ice drawn from the adjacent reservoir. Clean and translucent, the ice glows lucidly in the evenings. As a compliment to such time-honored ice park standards as Lego-land ice block structures, in the past, Longqing has displayed ice dragons, ice mushrooms, a giant ice Chinese chessboard, an ice maze and even a plastic 101 Dalmatians display with blinking eyes. If you count filing copyright infringement lawsuits against Chinese villagers among your hobbies, Longqing Gorge Ice
Sculpture Festival is definitely for you. For speed freaks, the ice park offers a long ice toboggan ride and a freeze-burn-your-britches ice slide. All of these treats are a warm up for the biggest attraction: the international ice and snow sculpture competition, usually housed in a tent. Expect several constellations made up of large ice structures around which orbit smaller human-sized sculptures. The most impressive aspect of the festival, these hand-carved sculptures depict all manner of animals, birds, sea critters and legendary beings. Whether they’re sphinxes and mermaids or buzzards and dancers, the local ice chiselers’ skill, sense of humor and imagination are on full display. In fact, this wealth of artistic talent might just make Harbin blush. This is not entirely surprising if you know that Longqing’s ice slangers have held the festival for over 20 years. The modest display of January/February 2011
beijingkids
39
Playing Day Tripper
Even cherry blosoms bloom here
Greetings from an igloo
“fossilized” crabs, fish and crawdads frozen into blocks of ice, waiting to be served in the spring at a local restaurant, reveals a festival-freezer type of innovative thinking. The most beautiful feature of the ice park is probably the “natural” frozen waterfall dripping down from the dam wall. This eyeful of bristling ice sabers creeps down gracefully about 20 meters, looming over a mock plum tree in full blossom. Who would have thought that scarlet-dyed corn kernels masquerading as plum flowers could bring tears to your eyes? The scene achieves an idyllic harmony by combining the artistic energy of water, humans and vegetables. It is the perfect aesthetic climax to a far-out day.
Tips 1. Longqing Gorge is close enough to Beijing for a day trip, but staying overnight is advised, especially if you are going there by public transport. 2. Stay warm and don’t forget to pack a hat, gloves or mittens, a scarf and warm socks. 3. Visit the ice festival after dark. Seeing the ice sculptures lit up at night is well worth braving the bitter cold.
Other Attractions
Restaurants
Baihua Cave 百花洞 The 320m long cave, named Hundred Flower Cave in English, claims to house over 1,650 types of flowers, shrubs and trees. In reality, the flowers are fake but if you love Chinese kitsch,you’ll adore this spectacle. (RMB 10)
Wang Gui Feng Nonjiayuan A restaurant famous for its farmyard-style casserole (香土火盆 锅). It’s a traditional winter dish in Yanqing County consisting mainly of tofu, cabbage and streaky bacon cooked over an open stove. Accommodation is also available here for less than RMB 100 per night (slightly more expensive on weekends).
Shenxianyuan Temple 神仙院 Shenxianyuan Temple is also known as Immortal Temple. See if you can spot the stones on the cliff that resemble a chessboard. Also worth noting is the tree that lies near the cliff’s edge. Supposedly, rubbing against the trunk of this tree cures illnesses but getting close enough is extremely dangerous as the tree leans out over the cliff face, thus resulting in potential injury. Ah, the irony. (RMB 30) Jingang Temple 金刚寺 Look out for a hill that resembles a pen dipping gently into the water as if it were a pool of ink. Close by, there is a karst cave, called Minting Coins Stove. During the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), two brothers created fake money here in an effort to save the poor. (RMB 10)
40
beijingkids
January/February 2011
27 Guchengdajie, Guchengcun, Jiuxian Town Yanqing County (6919 1329 Chinese only); 延庆县旧县镇古城村古城大街27号 王桂凤农家院 Wang Jia Diyidayuan Savor some delicious and hearty casseroles. Accommodation is available here for less than RMB 100 per night (slightly more expensive on weekends). 53 Guchengdajie, Guchengcun, Jiuxian Town Yanqing County (6919 1625, Chinese only); 延庆县旧县镇古城村古城大街53号 王家第一大院
A-maze-ing
Accommodation
PHOTOS: TAQPETS AND HKINUTHIA OF FLICKR
The area has some small guesthouses and hotels that cost an average of RMB 100-200 a night. Consider Happy Holiday Hotel (three stars) for something more “upscale”. A standard double room starts at RMB 338 per night. Happy Holiday Hotel. Longqing Gorge, Yanqing (5105 5555/5688/5086, Chinese only) www.happyholiday.com.cn (Chinese); 北京快乐假日大酒店
Longqing Gorge Ice Sculpture Arts Festival 龙庆峡冰灯艺术节
Getting There Located 90km northwest of Beijing. By bus: Take bus 8 from the 328 bus station near Qianmen and Andingmen subway stops (weekends only). Alternatively, take bus 919 from Deshengmen to Yanqing County (延庆县), then change to bus 920 to Longqing Gorge. By train: Take the S2 diesel train from Beijing North station to Yanqing County and get off at Nan Ciaoyuan station (南菜 园站), then change to bus 920 to Longqing Gorge. By car: Take the Badaling Expressway (八达岭高速公路) to Yanqing, then get onto the Jingzhang Highway (京张高速公 路) and follow the signposts to Longqing Gorge.
Daily mid Jan-late Feb. 8.30am-9.30pm. RMB 100 (adults), RMB 50 (senior citizens and students), free (kids under 1.2m). (6919 1020, Chinese)
January/February 2011
beijingkids
41
I Want to Be a Professional Snowboarder Wang Lei gets big air for a living
O
42
beijingkids
January/February 2011
PHOTOS: JUDY ZHOU
riginally from Jilin province, Wang Lei is a Chinese professional snowboarder and an overall sports enthusiast. Trained in gymnastics since the age of 7, he joined the Army Team and National Team Training School at the age of 11. Switching from ski jumping to snowboarding in 1997, Wang became a professional boarder in 2004 and is sponsored by Burton, Anon, and Gravis. He has been profiled as China’s number one snowboarder (Taxi Magazine, November 2009), and was featured on CCTV 5 in the film Go Snowboarding, which aired in December of 2009. Last winter in Beijing, Wang competed with snowboarders from around the globe, placing 9th in the invitation only 2010 Red Bull Nanshan Open – China’s biggest slope style snowboard competition. Wang’s favorite international slopes include Mayrhofen and Flachauwinkl in Austria, and Cardrona in New Zealand. Based in Beijing, Wang continues to compete as well as teach his favorite winter sport. Before heading to Nanshan Ski Resort to practice some new tricks, Wang spoke with Canadian International School of Beijing students about how snowboarding became both his passion and his job. Kara Chin
Learning When I Grow Up
“Medals are not really important for me; I just enjoy this sport”
Michael George Zhou, 10, US Where did you learn to snowboard? I learned snowboarding at Yabuli, Helijiang province (northern China).
Amit Avraham, 10, Israel Is snowboarding dangerous? I don’t think it’s too dangerous if you learn with an instructor. When you’re snowboarding [as a beginner], do it on flat ground so you can’t gain speed; so if you fall down, you can’t get hurt. You also have a lot of equipment to protect you.
William Rhee, 9, South Korea Do you need money to snowboard and where do you go? You can rent everything from the ski resort. There are 13 ski resorts around Beijing. In Jindushan Ski Resort in Changping District, we have a Burton Learn-To-Ride (LTR) center where they have snowboarding equipment and instructors for kids. I also go snowboarding a lot at Nanshan Ski Resort, because they have big jumps.
Calvin Zhang, 10, China Do you like your job?
Jacobo Innocenzi, 10, Italy Did you ever think snowboarding is too hard for you? Some tricks are very difficult, like jumping 30m and doing a 1080, which is spinning three times around. I can do a 720, front flips and back flips.
Dana Jun, 11, South Korea How many seconds can you stay in the air? About one and a half seconds to two seconds. But when I was 15 years old and ski jumping, I could long jump 80m for 3.5 seconds.
I love my job.
Namisa Sun, 9, Canada Did you ever get hurt while snowboarding? When I was a beginner and in a lot of contests – doing big jumps, big kickers over 20m and rails – I would fall down sometimes and get hurt. But this is my job, so I take care of myself. If you don’t warm up or really concentrate on doing a trick, you will fall down and get hurt. You need to concentrate and focus.
Min Jue Soh, 9, Malaysia Have you ever fallen like in the cartoons? Yes, many times. If you fall down in the soft snow in the backcountry, you keep rolling and rolling.
Hyeon-Se Jo, 11, South Korea How many medals do you have? I competed at Nanshan Open a few times and I have maybe five medals for snowboarding. I have other ones for skiing. Medals are not really important for me; I just enjoy this sport.
Tianke Li, 9, Canada Do you ever want to be in the Olympics? Snowboarding in China started around 2004 and we didn’t have a team before. So I don’t have a chance to go to the Olympics, but I can teach and take care of other snowboarders like Liu Jiayu [who competed in the 2010 Winter Olympics].
Gloria Kim, 11, South Korea Is there another profession you would like to do? I like to do many sports, like basketball and football. In the summer, I like swimming, kitesurfing, windsurfing and horse riding.
Sophia Konovalova, 10, Russia If you go into a restaurant, do a lot of fans crowd you? Not yet.
January/February 2011
beijingkids
43
Learning Blank Canvas
Students from
Beijing World Youth Academy fill January/February’s
Blank Canvas
Angela Li, 16, China
Dawn Kim, 16, South Korea
Harry Wang, 17, China
44
beijingkids
January/February 2011
Learning Blank Canvas
Kathy Ju, 16, China, performance art
Jordan Disch, 17, US, performance art
Ronnie Kim, 17, South Korea January/February 2011
beijingkids
45
Plugged In Are we addicted to the Internet?
Pictured left to right: Melinda Melcher, US, 16, lived in Beijing for six years Benjamin Tan, Singapore, 15, lived in Beijing for 14 years Francesca Cociani, Italy, 17, lived in Beijing for three years Maximilian Afnan, UK, 16, lived in Beijing for five years
T
he Internet has become part of our daily lives and we can hardly imagine life without it. We rely on it for work, education and entertainment. It’s also essential for keeping in touch with friends and family. And at times, we find it difficult to unplug ourselves from it. beijingkids sat down with students from Dulwich College Beijing to discuss the role of the Internet in their lives and how they keep their Internet usage in check – most of the time. Annie Huang
How many hours do you spend on the Internet each day? Francesca: About three hours for school and one and half hours for personal reasons. Melinda: I’m always connected to the Internet; e-mail is always open. But I usually use it for bursts of time. Ben: At home, I probably spend five to six hours. But a lot of the times it’s in the background so it’s easy for me to access. I don’t use it for six hours straight.
Francesca: Talking to friends and researching things for school.
46
beijingkids
January/February 2011
PHOTO: SUI
What do you spend most of your time doing on the Internet?
Learning Debate Club
“If my Internet fails for two or three hours, something inside me dies” Melinda: My dad has always worked with technology companies. He’s the definition of a computer geek, so he’s addicted to the Internet. But my mother still doesn’t know how to operate a MacBook Air after having it for three years. Ben: When I was young, my mom used to say that the Internet is bad and addictive, but now she has a laptop and carries it around all the time. And I think she’s slightly embarrassed by the fact that she finds it very useful.
Is Internet “addiction” a problem? Francesca: I think for some people, especially with Facebook, it’s a serious problem. They get worried or upset when they don’t have access to the Internet. Ben: If my Internet fails for two or three hours, something inside me dies. I try to call somebody for help or comfort. It’s an addiction, and I accept it. But it’s the norm now, so people don’t really see it as an addiction. Also, I don’t think it’s an addiction to the Internet, but an addiction to always communicating with people. Melinda: When the Internet goes out in our house, my sister and I will both go through a few minutes of panic, but then I’ll just do something else. Max: I think the Internet makes procrastinating easy.
What’s the best way to manage the amount of time you spend online? Francesca: Instead of your parents putting a limit on the time you use the Internet, just tell yourself to turn it off and do something else. I think it’s all about being responsible. Ben: I think it’s about self-discipline. There’s only so much that your parents can do before you feel like they are infringing on your rights. You just need to force yourself. It’s something you learn.
Melinda: I usually spend most of my time talking to people, trying to get stuff done or reading the news. Ben: Catching up with friends. A lot of them don’t live in Beijing.
Are social networks such as Facebook an adequate substitute to connecting face-to-face?
Francesca: If all my friends and family members lived in Beijing, I wouldn’t spend as much time talking to them online.
Melinda: Facebook may not be a perfect or even a good substitute for face-to-face interaction, but it’s the best thing we have [for communicating with people outside Beijing].
Do you think teens are addicted to the Internet?
Francesca: I think it’s good if you use it to talk to people you wouldn’t talk to everyday, but I find it extremely sad when people have friends they only know on Facebook.
Melinda: I think it’s not so much the Internet that teens seem to be addicted to as the idea of communicating with other people, and Facebook seems to be a very convenient way of doing that.
Ben: I don’t see Facebook as a replacement for face-to-face contact. But being in an international community is hard because people move and you are not with your relatives and friends a lot of the times; Facebook can really lessen that burden.
Are your parents addicted to theInternet, too?
Max: I wasn’t interested in Facebook until I moved here and now I can keep in contact with people in the UK.
Max: If they are, they don’t tell me.
January/February 2011
beijingkids
47
The World is Flat
Bringing technology into the classroom
48
beijingkids
January/February 2011
In a nutshell, what is the Flat Classroom Conference? It’s a gathering of educators and students, with the purpose of envisioning the future of education while using emerging technologies to connect, communicate, collaborate and create products that can be used in the future to join communities and classrooms.
And what happens over the course of the three days? In addition to developing skills with Web 2.0 and instructional design for global collaboration, participants will work in teams through a process of pitching ideas, refining and finally creating multimedia artifacts to share with others. Virtual participants connect via platforms such as wikis, blogs, live streaming and chat facilities.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF JULIE LINDSAY
A
ustralian Julie Lindsay has been the E-Learning Coordinator at BISS since 2009. A 13-year expat, she has taught in Qatar, Zambia, Kuwait and Bangladesh. In fact, it was her many overseas experiences that lead her to co-founding the Flat Classroom Conference, a unique event for students and educators that aims to create global connections in the classroom via technology. The second of these conferences takes place in Beijing in February, featuring participants from across the spectrum of Beijing’s international schools, as well as local Chinese schools and visitors from over ten countries. In the busy lead-up to the conference, we talked to Lindsay to find out how technology is shaping our schools. Michael Wester
Parenting Spotlight
“Gone are the days where we have to teach technology for the sake of it”
complete a global collaborative project. We knew our online projects were producing amazing ideas and influencing pedagogy and changing lives. We wondered how powerful actually being face-to-face for a few days could be for students and educators.
What was your schooling like when you grew up, technology wise? [Laughs] Well as a high school graduate from the 70s, school was very low tech! We had mobile nothing, except maybe a cassette player. I don’t remember one computer at school, ever!
When I was a teen, I was teaching my parents how to program their VCRs. Now, my daughter is teaching me how to use my iPhone. How do you keep up with your students? I don’t! I also do not feel the compulsion to keep pace. I have a teenage daughter who teaches me a lot all the time. At the same time, I teach her a lot about how to use the technology professionally, not just socially. I don’t believe that having digital fluency is ageist. We have many older teachers who are adopting and adapting technology for education. In many respects, there is a terrible gap with current teacher colleges where new teachers are coming into schools without an understanding of global collaboration or how to use new technologies to support learning.
As an avid supporter of technology in the classroom, what do you see as its primary benefits?
Students and educators discover new approaches to learning
What do you expect attendees to walk away with? Educators will leave the conference understanding how to connect, communicate and collaborate globally, and with skills and contacts in hand to start projects. Students will leave the conference with leadership skills, technology skills, presentation skills, and a better understanding of diverse cultures and collaboration.
What was your original inspiration for starting this conference? Our motivation was to bring together people who wanted to learn about how to ‘flatten’ their world for learning – in other words, how to collaborate successfully with others online, successfully design or
Technology in the classroom provides opportunities for creativity and supports differentiation. Gone are the days where we have to teach technology for the sake of it. With mobile computing and wireless connectivity, the technology should be invisible. Users have choices now. Information does not have to be all in text format. Multimedia and video is the new essay.
What about the drawbacks? Well, digital citizenship education and being aware of how to use the technology responsibly and reliably is important. Rate of change is a challenge, as is the cost of change. Health issues need addressing as well – things like addiction and ergonomics.
The three-day Flat Classroom Conference takes place at BISS from February 25-27. Enrollment is limited to a maximum of 200. For details, see Events (p19) and visit www.flatclassroomconference.com.
January/February 2011
beijingkids
49
Parenting Home Is Where the Heart Is
Home Time
All good things must come to an end Beijing is exotic, chaotic and toxic, all in the same breath
by Sonia Cahill
“G
irls, time to get up,” I called from the hallway. “Mum slept in again so we’ll have to move super fast this morning.” I loathe getting out of bed in the dark. “No!” shrieked Miss 4 from deep beneath her bedding. “I don’t want to go to kindy today!” “You don’t want to go to kindy,” I repeated calmly as I sat on the edge of her bed. “No,” she said adamantly, uncovering her head. “I don’t want to wear thermals. I don’t want to wear a big coat. And I don’t like my boots!” “Well, I’ve just checked the temperature and it’s minus 6°C so you’ll need to wear your warm clothes today.” “It’s really yucky outside. I can’t even see Chaoyang Park!” said Miss 7 from behind the curtain. “Another indoor play day,” I muttered. No need to check the air quality data this morning; I could smell the coal dust without even leaving the apartment. “Tell you what,” I said, turning my attention back to Miss 4. “If you go to kindy for 13 more days, you can have six weeks off and when you start at your new kindy, you can wear summer dresses to school every day. We can live in a house with a backyard that you can run around in whenever you want. How’s that sound?” Her eyes lit up with excitement. “Okay,” she said eagerly. “But only if we can have a trampoline.”
With that brief conversation, I suddenly realized the higher purpose of our repatriation to Australia – a “normal” lifestyle for our children. They yearn to live in a house with a yard full of green grass where they can play barefoot. They long to ride bikes outdoors rather than along the corridors of our apartment building. They want to climb trees, plant a vegetable patch and own a dog. They want to play outside without wearing layer upon layer of thermals and convincing an adult to take them downstairs in an elevator. They want blue sky, sunshine and fresh air, to see rainbows after sun showers and stars in the night sky. They crave the “normal” we so desperately wanted a break from. After more than two years in Beijing, we’re slowing our pace and returning home to Brisbane. Our time in Beijing has been a life-changing experience. We’ve celebrated good times and weathered the bad. There have been moments I’ve loved, others I’ve loathed. I’ve marvelled as the seemingly impossible miraculously appears and vaporises just as quickly. I’ve learned that “yes” means “no” more often than not, but “no” can mean “yes” if the question is rephrased. I’ve met some amazing and inspirational people who I will cherish forever. And while it has been a privilege to live here, I know that it’s time to move on. To be honest, Beijing and I have always had a love-hate relationship. We can start a day as the best of friends then be fighting ‘til the death within hours. We argue, swear, scream and cry; then we laugh and become friends once more. More recently, Beijing and I have called a truce – I avoid those aspects that I know will annoy me and in return, Beijing rewards me with a smile. But at the end of the day, all good things must come to an end. After one last trek up the Great Wall, one final bargain from Yashow and a boozy farewell champagne brunch, we will shed our puffy jackets, thermals and Ugg boots in favor of the sweltering Australian summer. As the winter cold begins to bite, we will zip our suitcases and bid farewell to Beijing with a lifetime of memories and a 20ft container of treasures. To everyone who has the chance to live in this intoxicating metropolis, make the most of every opportunity you have. Beijing is exotic, chaotic and toxic, all in the same breath. It’s enchanting yet offensive, harsh yet welcoming, challenging yet rewarding. Beijing has touched my soul and altered my perspective of life, love and everything in between. Be sure to enjoy the experience.
50
beijingkids
January/February 2011
ILLUSTRATION: ILLUSTRATION: FEDERICA SERAVESI LI XING
Australian Sonia Cahill is a freelance writer and consulting editor feeling her way through daily life in Beijing, with husband Dan Baird and their daughters Zali, Asha and Elise.
Parenting Beijing Baba
Hello and Goodbye The cycle of friendship in Beijing by Christopher Lay
B
friendships coming and going, my wife Savvy and I are not ones to sit idly by pining for the past. In October, we met a new family, this one a blend of Cambodian, Sri Lankan and American cultures, and even though Bo and Ushan have older children, already their family has become part of the bedrock of our Beijing experience. When Thanksgiving rolled around in November, it was only natural that we gathered together over a blend of traditional turkey-day eats and Asian cuisine to introduce some of their friends to our friends. It’s moments like these that encourage me whenever a good friend from Beijing does depart on another chapter in their life. Sure, I’ll miss them, but I know there will be new friends to meet to fill the void they’ve left behind.
Christopher Lay comes from the small town of Ashland, Oregon, US. He is the father of 3-year-old Reina and husband to Savvy Him. He is afreelance photographer and writer in Beijing. Visit his photo blog at www.alivenotdead.com/chrislay.
ILLUSTRATION: FEDERICA SERAVESI
ack in 2008, when I learned we were moving from Shenzhen to Beijing, I was apprehensive at first. We had lived in Shenzhen for three years, but it had taken me nearly two years to really find a circle of like-minded souls that I could comfortably hang out with (mostly slacker artist types). Considering how long it took to find this crowd in Shenzhen, I was concerned that it would take a similar amount of time to network with the artist community in Beijing. Turns out my concerns were unfounded – it took about two weeks. Twenty-three years ago, when I first relocated overseas, I began to experience what I’ll call the cycle of friendship for lack of a better phrase. At the age of 19, living in Haifa, Israel while volunteering at the Baha’i World Centre, the ebb and flow of friends coming and going was heart wrenching. Sometimes the loss of a good friend or a companion was nearly unbearable. But as I’ve grown older, and hopefully a bit wiser, I’ve come to recognize this cycle of friendship as an organic part of living abroad. An expatriate arrives somewhere, makes friends, both foreign and domestic, and due to circumstances, human nature or need, they become quite close. Then the day comes when one of these friends must return home or transfer to another city or country and they part ways. In my youth, remaining in touch with these friends took a near monumental effort compared to the ease of staying in touch today with online tools like e-mail and Facebook. Still, it is not unusual for those close friendships, now separated by distance, to be replaced by new friends. By the time we got to Beijing, Reina was 1 year old. For her, leaving her tiny troupe of tots was not traumatic at all. Honestly, at that age, as long as the parents are nearby, life is good. Still, it was a welcome relief, in the first week of apartment hunting and trying to figure out the streets of Wangjing (still working on that one), when we walked into Peter’s Tex Mex restaurant and discovered two things: Reina’s addiction to macaroni and cheese and our first friends in Beijing – Helen, Terje and Mimi from Norway and Jilu, Ashwin and Josh from India. Mimi and Josh were Reina’s age – to the month – and our bonds of friendship to these two families were as strong as any we’ve shared in China. But time brings change, and this past summer, both those families moved away. Reina, older now, still points out Mimi’s home whenever we drive by it. I know she experiences the loss, yet somehow she is coping with it in her own way. Though people I’ve known have been worn down by the cycle of
The day comes when one of these friends must return home
January/February 2011
beijingkids
51
Beijing’s Best Family Dining
E
very family has their dining rituals. Maybe it’s pizza Fridays or weekend brunches or even date night. And just as there are many rituals, there are many types of families, too. There’s the family who delights in pitting their taste buds against fiery Sichuan peppers, the family who loves good old-fashioned favorites and the family who likes to try a new cuisine every week. With this in mind, not only did we review the most kid-friendly eats in the capital, we also spoke with some of Beijing’s best-known chefs and restaurateurs to find out what they loved to eat as children. No matter your rituals, tastes or favorites, our 2011 family dining feature is designed to cover all of your bases. From highchairs to smoke-free restaurants, playrooms to English-speaking staff – not a single stone has been left unturned in our mission to bring you Beijing’s best familyfriendly dining spots. Bon appétit!
PHOTO: MISHKA FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY
52
beijingkids
January/February 2011
Feature
Restaurants by Area CBD
Lido
Crystal Jade .................................... (p54) Grandma’s Kitchen .......................... (p54) Fizztastic Brunch, Hilton Beijing Wangfujing ................ (p55) CC Sweets ...................................... (p56) The Ritz-Carlton ............................. (p57) Navena Café .................................. (p58) Xiao Wang Fu ................................ (p58) The Fig Tree .................................. (p59)
Annie’s .......................................... (p66) Comptoirs de France ...................... (p66) Element Fresh ................................ (p67) The Taj Pavilion .............................. (p67)
Dongzhimen Din Tai Fung .................................. (p60) Dongbeiren .................................... (p60) Kro’s Nest ...................................... (p61) Baihe Vegetarian ............................ (p62) Traktirr Restaurant ......................... (p62) A Food Affaire ................................ (p63)
Houhai Vineyard Café ................................ (p64) Hutong Pizza .................................. (p64) Argo .............................................. (p65)
Sanlitun Blue Frog ....................................... (p68) Colibri ........................................... (p68) Rumi ............................................. (p69) Ganges .......................................... (p70) Haidilao Hot Pot ............................. (p70) Hatsune ......................................... (p71) Biteapitta ....................................... (p72) Orient Kitchen ................................ (p72)
Chaoyang Park Chef Too ........................................ (p73) Veg-On .......................................... (p74)
Liangma Qiao Fatburger ...................................... (p75)
Hard Rock Café .............................. (p75) Takenosuke .................................... (p76) Zen5es, Westin Chaoyang ............... (p77)
Financial Street Bubbly Sundays Brunch, Westin Beijing Financial Street ........ (p78) Monsoon Brunch, InterContinental Hotel .................... (p79)
Shunyi Circle Restaurant ............................ (p80) Little Italy ...................................... (p80) Elaine’s Vegetarian Restaurant and Bar ........................ (p81) The Mexican Kitchen ...................... (p81) Fuel, Langham Place ...................... (p82) Michael’s Place ............................... (p83) Mrs. Shanen’s Bagels ...................... (p83) New York Style Pizza ...................... (p84) Malacca Legend ............................. (p84) Smallville ....................................... (p85) Za’atar ........................................... (p85) Haru Teppanyaki and Sushi Bar ....... (p86) The Orchard .................................. (p87)
Alphabetical A Food Affaire ................................ (p63) Argo .............................................. (p65) Annie’s .......................................... (p66) Baihe Vegetarian ............................ (p62) Biteapitta ....................................... (p72) Blue Frog ....................................... (p68) Bubbly Sundays Brunch, Westin Beijing Financial Street ........ (p78) CC Sweets ..................................... (p56) Chef Too ........................................ (p73) Circle Restaurant ............................ (p80) Colibri ........................................... (p68) Comptoirs de France ...................... (p66) Crystal Jade ................................... (p54) Din Tai Fung .................................. (p60) Dongbeiren .................................... (p60) Elaine’s Vegetarian Restaurant and Bar ........................ (p81) Element Fresh ................................ (p67) Fatburger ...................................... (p75) The Fig Tree .................................. (p59)
Fizztastic Brunch, Hilton Beijing Wangfujing ................ (p55) Fuel, Langham Place ...................... (p82) Ganges .......................................... (p70) Grandma’s Kitchen ......................... (p54) Haidilao Hot Pot ............................. (p70) Hard Rock Café .............................. (p75) Haru Teppanyaki and Sushi Bar ....... (p86) Hatsune ......................................... (p71) Hutong Pizza .................................. (p64) Kro’s Nest ...................................... (p61) Little Italy ...................................... (p80) Malacca Legend ............................. (p84) The Mexican Kitchen ...................... (p81) Michael’s Place Italian Ristorante ..... (p83) Monsoon Brunch, InterContinental Financial Street ..... (p79) Mrs. Shanen’s Bagels ...................... (p83) Navena Café ................................... (p58) New York Style Pizza ....................... (p84) The Orchard ................................... (p87)
Orient Kitchen ................................ (p72) The Ritz-Carlton ............................. (p57) Rumi ............................................. (p69) Smallville ....................................... (p85) The Taj Pavilion .............................. (p67) Takenosuke.................................... (p76) Traktirr Restaurant ......................... (p62) Veg-On .......................................... (p74) Vineyard Café ................................ (p64) Xiao Wang Fu ................................ (p58) Za’atar........................................... (p85) Zen5es, Westin Chaoyang ............... (p77)
NOTE: Unless indicated otherwise, all restaurants have non-smoking sections and all prices are based on an adequate meal for three, including drinks.
January/February 2011
beijingkids
53
CBD Crystal Jade Cuisine: Chinese (Cantonese) English menu: English/Chinese menu with photos Kids’ menu: No General kid-friendliness of menu: Kid-friendly with lots of Cantonese favorites. Kid-friendly staff? Chinese-speaking staff do speak some English. Bathroom: One unisex bathroom. It’s very clean, but there’s no change table. Best items for kids: For dinner, try the crab meat and egg white soup, braised spinach and egg casserole (akin to a Chinese quiche), or any of the soft tofu dishes. Dim sum is served 10am1.30pm everyday. Try the bite-sized shrimp, vegetable or beef dumplings. The egg tart is a must. Kids play area: There’s no playroom inside the restaurant but kids will love the giant fish tanks. There’s a kids’
area located in the mall just outside. There, you’ll find a small cubby house and sandpit, as well as an electric racecar track. Seating: Soft-backed chairs, booths and highchairs. Price: RMB 350 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Shrimp dumplings Award: Best Dim Sum In a nutshell: Don’t be put off by the fancy décor. This restaurant is great for Sunday morning dim sum with friends or for taking visiting relatives out for dinner. Imogen Kandel Daily 10am-10pm. 404, 4/F, Bldg A, The Place, 9 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District (6587 1228) 朝阳区光华路9号世贸天阶A座四 层404 See Directory for more locations.
Grandma’s Kitchen Cuisine: American English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: The kids’ menu offers the same options as the main menu, but in smaller servings. General kid-friendliness of menu: Very kid-friendly, if a tad unhealthy. Kid-friendly staff? The Englishspeaking staff love kids, but be prepared to repeat your order on occasion. Bathroom: Located on the second floor in the adjoining office building. Though not always clean, they do have sit-down toilets. Best items for kids: Small stack of blueberry pancakes, vegetarian omelet, and for a treat, a burger with fries is large enough to share. Kids’ play area: No play area but kids are regulars here and the staff is happy to let them roam around.
Seating: Standard chairs, highchairs available. Price: RMB 200 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: A full egg breakfast with bottomless coffee for mom and dad, and a fresh juice for the little one. Award: Best Old-Fashioned Favorites In a nutshell: Comfortable, affordable and kid-friendly. You’ll be hard-pressed to find something kids won’t want to eat. Grandma’s Kitchen is perfect for lazy weekends. IK Daily 7.30am-11pm. 0103, Bldg B, Jianwai Soho, 39 Dongsanhuan Zhonglu, Chaoyang District (5869 3055/6); 朝阳区东三环中路39号建外 SohoB座0103. See Directory for more locations.
PHOTOS: JUDY ZHOU, SUI
54
beijingkids
January/February 2011
Fizztastic Brunch, Hilton Beijing Wangfujing Cuisine: Chinese and Western buffet English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: Kids’ buffet provided General kid-friendliness of menu: Very kid-friendly Kid-friendly staff? English-speaking staff are willing to play with boisterous kids Bathroom: Bathrooms are squeakyclean and large. Best items for kids: Sushi rolls, pasta made-to-order and lots of fresh fruit to counteract the delicious and expansive dessert selection. Kids’ play area: The kids’ playroom, dubbed “Kids Paradise,” is set apart from the main dining section and is very clean. While you brunch, kids can enjoy classes from My Little Mozart and 3i Art Centre (available until March 18, 2011). Alternatively, an ayi will watch over the kids as they watch DVDs, play with soft toys and eat their way through the snack station. Seating: Standard chair-and-table set up, highchairs available and there are couches scattered throughout. Price: RMB 388 (free-flow champagne), RMB 288 (wine, cocktails and soft drinks), RMB 258 (soft drinks and juice), RMB 129 (6-12 years), free (kids under 6). All prices are subject to a 15% service fee. Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Lobster or smoked salmon. Award: Best Family Treat In a nutshell: The quality of the food is what makes this buffet stand out, with fresh seafood featuring heavily. Extra points for a great kids’ playroom and fun craft activities. IK
PHOTO: SUI
Sundays 11.30am-3pm. 5/F, Vasco’s, Hilton Beijing Wangfujing, 8 Wangfujing Dongjie, Dongcheng District (5812 8888 ext 8411); 东城区王府井东街 8号希尔顿北京王府井洒店5层
January/February 2011
beijingkids
55
CCSweets Carol Chow, owner and mother Where did you grow up? New Jersey (US). What was your favorite food as a kid? Chocolate chip cookies. At CCSweets, we make a great chocolate chunk cookie with 72 percent cacao dark chocolate. What do you miss about old-fashioned home cooking? I loved bake sales. My friend’s grandma made the most amazing chocolate chip cookies. I can still remember the crisp edge and chewy center. What is your best-selling family-friendly cupcake? My most popular flavors are chocolate and chocolate buttercream, vanilla bean cake with vanilla frosting and red velvet with cream cheese. We make a red velvet based on the original recipe which uses real beets. I also have a sugar- free pumpkin cupcake made from homegrown pumpkin. Almost all my ingredients are imported, except for the eggs and milk. I use Wonder milk, New Zealand butter, pasteurized eggs and vegetarian-fed eggs, which you can supposedly eat raw. We also use pure Madagascan vanilla beans and a variety of premium chocolates from Belgium and France, including Valrhona. What is the healthiest cupcake in your shop? Probably the gluten-free red velvet. I also have a gluten-free chocolate chunk cookie with buckwheat flour and I am working on other gluten-free recipes with organic buckwheat flour. Buckwheat is good for the cardiovascular system – it lowers blood pressure and is rich in the antioxidant flavonoids. It has high levels of magnesium and helps control sugar levels, which is beneficial to people with diabetes.
56
beijingkids
January/February 2011
PHOTOS: JUDY ZHOU
Daily 10am-8pm. Shop 109, Tower 11, Central Park, 6 Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District (cchow68@gmail.com) www.ccsweets.cn; 朝阳区朝外大街6号新 城国际T11.109店. See Directory for more locations.
The Ritz-Carlton Andreas Krampl, Executive Chef and father Where did you grow up? Böblingen. It’s a small town of around 80,000 people in the south of Germany near Stuttgart. What was your favorite food as a kid? My absolute favorite was pflaumenknödel – a potato dumpling stuffed with a sweet fresh plum, simmered in water for five minutes and then rolled in toasted crunchy sweet breadcrumbs, and finally dusted with icing sugar. This dish is traditionally done with apricots and comes from Austria. Can you find that dish in Beijing? No, but I make it once in a while. What do you miss about good old-fashioned home cooking? I can reproduce all the items my mom cooked for us at anytime anywhere around the world but the most important thing is sitting at my mom’s table and eating the food she made with lots of love. If you could bring over one dish from Germany to Beijing, what would it be? I can reproduce most dishes that I have a craving for – the quality of ingredients and availability of products here in Beijing is great. Maybe some of the cold cuts from my favorite butcher in my hometown, but Schindler’s German Food Center has a great selection of cold cuts so most of the time I get it from there.
PHOTO: SUI
The Ritz-Carlton. China Central Place, 83A Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District (5908 8888); 朝阳区华贸中心建国路甲83号
Andreas and his son have fun in the kitchen
January/February 2011
beijingkids
57
Navéna Café Cuisine: Western café English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: Aside from the kids’ pizzas (choose any two toppings), we recommend bypassing the kids’ menu and opting for the main menu. General kid-friendliness of menu: Very kid-friendly, with an emphasis on pizza and sandwiches. Kid-friendly staff? Most staff speak basic English and are used to kids. Bathroom: A single very clean sitdown toilet. Best items for kids: Ham and veggie sandwich; chicken, cranberry and camembert sandwich; and any of the thin-crust pizzas. Fresh-squeezed juice also available. Kids’ play area: There’s no playroom, but Central Park’s grassy outdoor areas are right outside. Seating: Standard chairs and tables,
booths, highchairs, as well as outdoor seating in warm weather. Price: RMB 250 Accepts credit cards? No Must-order item: Apricot and chicken thin crust pizza or any of the funky vegetarian pizzas with toppings like avocado and spinach. Award: Best All-Rounder In a nutshell: Formerly Nasca Café, Navéna contineus to offer the same family-friendly fare with a cozy café vibe. Floor-to-ceiling windows make it the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat while watching the kids play outside. IK Daily 10am-11pm. Bldg 12, Central Park (next to Etonkids), 6 Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District; 朝阳区朝阳 门外大街6号新城国际12号楼
Xiao Wang Fu Cuisine: Chinese English menu: Chinese/English menu with photos. Kids’ menu: There’s no kids’ menu, but you won’t need one. General kid-friendliness of menu: Very kid-friendly, with lots of Chinese favorites. The food isn’t oily and you can request no MSG. Kid-friendly staff? Staff speaks Chinese, but you can get by with simple English. The staff is happy to accommodate kids - sometimes to the point of ignoring the adults. Bathroom: They are clean with sit-down and squat toilets. A couch outside the bathrooms serves as a makeshift change table. Best items for kids: Try the crystal shrimp or tofu. Picky eaters will be content with fried rice, kung pao chicken and cucumber and garlic. Kids’ play area: There’s no indoor play area but kids will love climbing
up their stairs to the rooftop terrace. Ritan Park is right on the doorstep, so kids can run around to their heart’s content post-meal. Seating: Standard chairs, highchairs available. Price: RMB 200 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Peking Duck, of course. Award: Best Eat-and-Play Combo In a nutshell: The interior is fancy but scratch below the business lunches and you’ll find this restaurant offers delicious and healthy fare with the bonus of being located inside one of Beijing’s prettiest parks. IK Daily 11.30am-2pm, 5.30-10pm. Inside the North Gate of Ritan Park, Ritan Lu, Chaoyang District (8561 5985); 朝阳区日坛路日坛公园北门内. See Directory for more locations.
PHOTOS:SUI
58
beijingkids
January/February 2011
The Fig Tree Lin Zhong, pastry chef and mother Where did you grow up? Shanghai, China and New York City (US). What was your favorite food as a kid? Shanghai shengjian mantou [crusty pork dumplings]. Where can you find that favorite childhood dish in Beijing? At the Shanghainese restaurant Lu Lu, Ciyunsi branch (鹭鹭酒家,慈云寺店) What do you miss about good old-fashioned home cooking? I miss the sense of family when we make old-fashioned food. The cooking is not nearly as important as the family time spent together. If you could bring one dish from the US to Beijing, what would it be? Cannoli. What is your best-selling family-friendly dish? Birthday cakes. What is the healthiest item you bake? Pierre Herme’s dark chocolate cake with 45 minutes of jogging three times a week.
PHOTO: MISHKA FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY
Unit 202, Bldg A, Chaowai Soho, 6B Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District (139 1056 6742, info@thefigtree.cn) www.thefigtree.cn; 朝阳区朝阳 门外大街乙6号朝外Soho702室A座
Like mother like daughter
January/February 2011
beijingkids
59
Dongzhimen Din Tai Fung Cuisine: Chinese (Taiwanese) English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: No General kid-friendliness of menu: Many bite-sized dumplings are available and their dishes contain very little oil. Kid-friendly staff? Polite staff, most of whom speak adequate English. Bathroom: Clean sit-down toilet. Best items for kids: Steamed mini pork dumplings (one serving is made up of 20 tiny dumplings designed especially for kids), chopped pork ribs in sweet and sour sauce, soft Japanese tofu, and soybeans in wine sauce (not alcoholic) are all good options. Kids’ play area: There is a play area located on the second floor. It has a few toys and a TV which plays cartoons on repeat. Seating: Chairs, booths and high-
chairs are available. Private rooms are also available. Price: RMB 250-300 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Their famous xiao long bao – just watch out for the pipinghot soup inside. Award: Best Dumplings In a nutshell: A great place to treat your extended family to a sumptuous feast of Taiwanese dim sum in a modern, sleek setting. Their range of dumplings never fails to impress and the food is reliably good. Annie Huang Mon-Fri 11.30am-2.30pm, 5-10pm; Sat-Sun 11am-10pm. 24 Xinyuan Xili Zhongjie, Chaoyang District (6462 4502); 朝阳区新源西里中街24号鼎泰 丰. See Directory for more locations.
Dongbeiren
60
beijingkids
rooms and highchairs. Price: RMB 150-200 Accepts credit cards? Chinese cards only Award: Best Festive Night Out Must-order item: Their dumpling selection is a must, with each type of filling wrapped in a different colored skin. We recommend the tomato and egg jiaozi. Also, try their dense corn pancakes, a staple dish in any Dongbei meal. In a nutshell: A fast, satisfying meal in a cheerful, vibrant setting. Be warned that you’ll most likely be surrounded by raucous diners; the plus side is that you don’t need to worry that you’re being too raucous yourselves. AH Daily 11am-10pm. 1A Xinzhong Jie, Dongzhimenwai, Dongcheng District (6415 2855); 东城区东直门外新中街 甲1号东北人
January/February 2011
PHOTOS:SIMON LIM
Cuisine: Chinese (Dongbei) English menu: English picture menu. Kids’ menu: No General kid-friendliness of menu: Kid-friendly but best to avoid the spicy dishes. The portions are big, so sharing is a good idea. Kid-friendly staff? The staff here is not the warmest, but they’re efficient and speak some English. Bathroom: Located on the second floor, they are fairly clean with both sit-down and squat toilets. Best items for kids: Lamb kebab, multicolored jiaozi and hot candied sweet potato. Kids’ play area: No play area but kids will be fascinated by the vibrant colors and noises of the restaurant. You can even get one of the wait staff to sing you a traditional Dongbei folk song. Seating: Wooden chairs, private
Kro’s Nest Olav Kristoffer Bauer aka Kro, owner Where did you grow up? Atlanta, Georgia (US) and Grimstad, Norway. What was your favorite food as a kid? Saying pizza would be too cliché, right? Well, I had a lot of favorites but I guess my all-time favorite was and still is deviled eggs. Where can you find deviled eggs in Beijing? At this point, I think only at my house. And even then, I have a hard time sharing and eat it all, so ... “No soup for you!” What do you miss about good old-fashioned home cooking? In Beijing, I can find most ingredients I need to make any dish I want, but you have to be willing to fork over the extra cash for it and spend time cooking it. So I miss having the time and money to cook the stuff I love. If you could bring one dish from Norway to Beijing, what would it be? Smoked and cured reindeer meat! Seriously, it is the best. It is a traditional dish eaten on Christmas Eve in Norway. What do you recommend as the best familyfriendly dish at Kro’s Nest? A large Pepperoni Explosion pizza, because it’s enough for everyone to share, yummy and affordable. Also, our kids’ mini-foot long pizza rolls – sausage and cheese or ham and cheese combos, mmmm! Sun-Thu 11am-1am; Fri-Sat 11am-late. 35 Xiaoyun Lu, Chaoyang District (8391 3131); 朝阳区宵云路35号
PHOTO: JUDY ZHOU
Try Xiyun Yang’s recipe for deviled eggs. See Food for Thought (p28).
Kro shows off his homemade deviled eggs
January/February 2011
beijingkids
61
Baihe Vegetarian Cuisine: Vegetarian English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: No General kid-friendliness of menu: Lots of kid-friendly fare. Kid-friendly staff? Really friendly staff, most of whom speak adequate English. Bathroom: Clean sit-down toilet. Best items for kids: Vegetarian Chinese sausage, veggie mutton shashlik, satay hot pot or the Three Delicacies hot pot. Kids’ play area: No Seating: Standard chairs. In warmer months you can sit outside in the small courtyard. Highchairs are available. Price: RMB 200-250
Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Pumpkin soup and the delicious (and inexpensive) vegetarian Peking Duck Award: Best Vegetarian Peking Duck In a nutshell: Serves mouth-watering vegetarian food that even the meatlovers among us will enjoy. The courtyard setting is relaxing and peaceful, perfect for a healthy evening meal. A private room is also available for larger crowds. AH Daily 11am-10pm. 23 Caoyuan Hutong (west off Dongzhimen Beixiaojie), Dongcheng District. (6405 2082); 东 城区东直门北小街草园胡同23号百合 素食香草园
Traktirr Restaurant
62
beijingkids
Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Borsch and fried potatoes with mushrooms – simple and delicious. Award: Best Comfort Food In a nutshell: Not to be confused with Traktirr Pushkin, Traktirr offers comfort food that won’t break the bank. The homey, unpretentious atmosphere makes for a relaxed family night out. Note: If you’re a vegetarian, you may to have settle for potato with a side of potato. AH Daily 11am-midnight. 1A Xiyangguan Hutong, Beizhongjie, Dongzhimen Neidajie, Chaoyang District (near Russian embassy) (64031896); 朝 阳区东直门内大街北中街西羊管胡 同甲1号
January/February 2011
PHOTOS: JUDY ZHOU PHOTO: JUDY ZHOU, WITH THANKS TO HILTON BEIJING
Cuisine: Russian Non-smoking section? No, but there is a private room. English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: No General kid-friendliness of menu: Most dishes on the main menu are appropriate for kids. Portions are big so they are good for sharing. Kid-friendly staff? Friendly staff speaks either English or Russian. Bathroom: Clean sit-down toilet. Best items for kids: Potato dumplings, fried chicken and honey cake. Also, there is a wide selection of salads and fresh juices. Kids’ play area: No Seating: Standard chairs. Highchairs are available. Price: RMB 150-200
A Food Affaire
Simon Gauthier, owner and father Where did you grow up? Canada. What was your favorite food as a kid? My mom’s apple pie. The pie itself was a special treat but it also signified something special like a holiday or a family gathering. Where can you find great apple pie in Beijing? The apple pie we sell at A Food Affaire deli is the closest thing to my mom’s apple pie that you can get in Beijing. What do you miss about good old-fashioned home cooking? It’s hard to miss when what we have at the deli and what I cook at home is good home cooking. There was a time when food was made with love – and that’s what I miss, but now food is just made for quick consumption. If you could bring one dish from Canada to Beijing, what would it be? My mom or my aunt’s bread. I’ve had bread all over the world but theirs are still the best I’ve ever tasted. What’s A Food Affaire’s best kid-friendly option? Chicken legs, the various types of spaghetti and pasta, and gingerbread cookies.
PHOTO: SUI
1/F, 5 Xingfuyicun Xili (inside April Gourmet), Chaoyang District (135 0107 1114); 朝阳区幸福一村西里5号1层 绿叶子食品店内
Simon is all smiles at A Food Affaire’s deli
January/February 2011
beijingkids
63
Houhai Vineyard Café Cuisine: Café English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: No, but there are lots of kid-friendly options. General kid-friendliness of menu: Most of the dishes on the main menu are appropriate for kids. Kid-friendly staff? The friendly staff speaks English well. Bathroom: Clean sit-down toilet, but no change table. Best items for kids: Crinkle-cut chips, beef or veggie burger, and crispy jacket potato skins. Kids’ play area: No play area but if you’re happy for your kids to play out of sight, the hutong outside is great for exploring. Seating: Standard chairs. Highchairs are available and there’s outdoor seat-
ing in the courtyard. Price: RMB 300-350 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Poached eggs and salmon with hollandaise sauce. Award: Best Café In a nutshell: A cozy place to enjoy great food with family and friends in a relaxing hutong setting. Families flock to the Vineyard for their weekend brunches, so stroller traffic jams are common. Best to book a table in advance and avoid the hassle of competing for a table. AH Tue-Sun 11.30am-3pm, 6-10.30pm. 31 Wudaoying Hutong (just north of the Confucius temple), Dongcheng District (6402 7961); 东城区五道营 胡同31号
Hutong Pizza Cuisine: Pizza English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: No, but the main menu has plenty of kid-friendly options. General kid-friendliness of menu: Lots of funky pizza toppings and halfand-half available if you can’t make up your mind. One large pizza can feed a family of three. Kid-friendly staff: The staff speak some English, but you may have to ask for things twice. Bathroom: Clean sit-down toilet. However, it’s very small and you may need to bring your own tissues. Best items for kids: The barbecue chicken, three cheese or pepperoni pizzas will all go down a treat. Parents can try the Brie and walnut salad. Kids’ play area: No play area, but there is an indoor fishpond. Houhai is just around the corner and you
can explore the surrounding hutongs post meal. Seating: Wooden tables and chairs. Highchairs are available. Price: RMB 200-250 Accepts credit cards? No Must-order item: The spinach pizza. Delicious. Award: Best Funky Pizza In a nutshell: Many of their pizzas are vegetarian and their selection of toppings is healthier than your standard pizza joint. It’s located in a hard-to-find hutong, so eating here can make you feel like a true Beijinger. The chatty oddball mix of clientele adds to the locals-only vibe and you’ll never need to worry about noisy kids. AH Daily 11am-10pm. 9 Yindingqiao Hutong, Houhai, Xicheng District (8322 8916); 西城区后海银锭桥胡同9号 PHOTOS: SUI
64
beijingkids
January/February 2011
Argo Seating: Standard tables and chairs. Highchairs are available. Price: RMB 300-350 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Pita bread with hummus or tzatziki and the moussaka. Award: Best Greek In a nutshell: Offers the most authentic Greek and Mediterranean dishes in Beijing. The prices are reasonable and the hutong setting is peaceful and unpretentious. AH Daily 11am-10pm. 59 Wudaoying Hutong (100m west of Vineyard Café), Dongcheng District (8403 9748); 东城 区五道营胡同59号
PHOTO: JUDY ZHOU
Cuisine: Mediterranean English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: Yes General kid-friendliness of menu: In addition to the kids’ menu, the main menu has lots of options for kids. Kid-friendly staff? The staff is polite and speaks English well. Bathroom: Clean sit-down toilet but no change table. Best items for kids: Spaghetti with meat sauce, whole cod fillet, dip platter. The traditional Greek dessert baklava is delicious. Kids’ play area: Located on the first floor, it has small stools and some wooden toys. Best to bring some additional toys from home.
January/February 2011
beijingkids
65
Lido
Annie’s Cuisine: Italian Non-smoking section? There is a non-smoking section; however, you can smell cigarettes throughout the restaurant. English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: Yes General kid-friendliness of menu: The menu is very child-friendly with complimentary bread and pesto served at the beginning of the meal. Kid-friendly staff? Friendly, Englishspeaking staff offering a high level of customer service. Bathroom: Clean, with sit-down toilets. However, you must walk through the smoking section to get to it and there are no changing tables. Best items for kids: Bolognaise from the main menu is a good option and it can easily be shared between two children. The grilled vegetable platter is surprisingly yummy. From the kids’ menu, try the Italian-style mashed potato or penne with butter and Parmesan.
Kids’ play area: The indoor play area includes a cubby house, fish-tank and toys. It is a little grubby and well-used, but it will suffice. There are also TVs in the main dining area. Seating: Booths and stools, with highchairs available. Price: RMB 200 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Pepperoni pizza. Vegetarians will love the Melanzane Grigliate con Ricotta - stacks of eggplant filled with ricotta and walnuts. Award: Best Family Favorite In a nutshell: Prompt service, delicious (though not entirely authentic) Italian food and helpful staff make this a reliable family dining spot. Take advantage of their speedy, city-wide delivery service. Millie Malcolm Daily 11am-11pm. Jiuxian Qiao, Jiangtai Lu, Shangye Jie, Chaoyang District (6436 3735); 朝阳区酒仙桥将 台路商业街 See Directory for more locations.
Comptoirs de France Cuisine: French bakery English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: No, but kids’ items are incorporated into the standard menu. General kid-friendliness of menu: Very kid-friendly. However, those with severe allergies should steer clear as there are a lot of nut and dairy products floating around. Kid-friendly staff? The staff speak English. There is no table service and you usually have to ask for things twice. Bathroom: There’s no bathroom inside the café. The closest bathroom is in the neighboring Starbucks. Best items for kids: Waffles or pancakes with ice cream, bite-sized tartlets and sandwiches made with freshly baked bread, including classics like ham and cheese.
Kids’ play area: No Seating: Booths and stools. No highchairs available. Outdoor seating during warmer weather. Price: RMB 150-200 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Chocolate bomb tartlet or a croissant. Award: Best After-School Treat In a nutshell: Offers freshly baked goods that taste even better than they look. Sweet treats in mini sizes are great for takeaway. The small size of this café makes it best for older children who don’t mind sitting still. MM Daily 7am-8.30pm. 1/F, Bldg 5, Hairun International Apartment, 2B Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District (5135 7645); 朝 阳区将台路乙2号海润国际公寓商业5. See Directory for more locations.
PHOTOS: JUDY ZHOU
66
beijingkids
January/February 2011
Element Fresh Cuisine: American and Asian English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: Yes General kid-friendliness of menu: The menu is extremely kid-friendly, with a wide range of fresh and healthy food. The portions are gigantic and can easily be split between two children. Kid-friendly staff? The staff is extremely friendly and accommodating. Bathroom: Clean and spacious with a sit-down toilet and change table. Best items for kids: The kids’ menu has staples like ham and tomato sandwiches, and chicken teriyaki – and for dessert, ice cream with fruit. The standard menu offers chicken salad BLT, macaroni and cheese as well as sizeable fresh juices and smoothies. Everything is MSG-free. Kids’ play area: No play area,
but there’s an outdoor area for the warmer months. Crayons and coloring sheets are available. Seating: Couches, booths and outdoor seating. Highchairs available. Price: RMB 400 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Laffa bread salad (grilled chicken breast and goat cheese salad served on laffa bread) with miso-yogurt dressing. Delicious. The weekend brunches served until 4pm are good crowd-pleasers. Award: Best Healthy Options In a nutshell: Huge portions of healthy salads, sandwiches and all things fresh, served in an upbeat and spacious environment. MM Daily 10am-11pm, 6 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District (6433 5058); 朝阳 区 丽都 将太路6号. See Directory for more locations.
The Taj Pavillion chairs available. There’s plenty of space to wheel prams around. Price: RMB 350 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: The feast platter, which includes a range of curries, rice, naan, yoghurt and dessert. A great option for sharing but be warned: It is gigantic. Award: Best Indian In a nutshell: The manager is very helpful and willing to accommodate families. With authentic flavors, sounds and smells, it’s a little slice of India. MM Daily 11.30am-2.30pm, 6-10.30p. 3/F, Holiday Inn Lido, Jiangtai Lu, Shoudu Jichang Lu, Chaoyang District (6436 7678, 6437 6688 ext 3811); 朝阳区 首都机场路将台路丽都假日酒店广场 缤纷廊3层. See Directory for more locations.
PHOTOS: JUDY ZHOU
Cuisine: Indian English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: No, but the staff is happy to recommend dishes and can provide smaller portions for kids. General kid-friendliness of menu: There are many mild options suitable for children. Kid-friendly staff? Friendly, Englishspeaking staff is dressed in colorful saris. Bathroom: Located in a hall outside the restaurant. Clean, sit-down toilets. No changing tables. Best items for kids: Butter chicken, potato-stuffed naan and vegetable samosas are all mild options. The mango kulfi ice cream is a great choice for dessert. Kids’ play area: No play area, but the restaurant is situated next to a bowling alley, ideal for some postmeal entertainment. Seating: Booths, stools and high-
January/February 2011
beijingkids
67
Sanlitun Blue Frog Cuisine: American Non-smoking section? Yes, but it can get smoky at night. English Menu: Yes Kids’ menu: Yes General kid friendliness of menu: Very kid-friendly with lots of options for sharing. Kid-friendly staff? Chinese staff speaks some English. Bathroom: Located on the second floor. Clean but small and no change table. Best items for kids: From the kids’ menu, try stir-fried chicken and vegetables over rice, a beef burger with French fries or fish sticks. Fries can be exchanged for veggies. Kids’ play area: No, but its outdoor seating area gives kids space to run around. Seating: Booths, tables and chairs. The outdoor seating is very popular in
warm weather. Highchairs available. Price: RMB 400 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Burgers Award: Best Burger Deal In a nutshell: Relatively quiet during the day with natural light from big windows. Choose a hearty soup (pumpkin, lamb stew) or salad (garden, greek, Cobb), but the highlight is their burgers. Try their famed twofor-one Monday burger deal. Be sure to bring a few favorite toys and games for the kids. Kara Chin Daily 9.30am-2am (1.30am last order). S4-30, 3/F, Bldg 4, Sanlitun Village South, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District (6417 4030) www.bluefrog. com.cn; 朝阳区三里屯北路19号三 里屯Village南区4号楼3层S4-30. See Directory for more locations.
Colibri Cuisine: Café English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: No General kid-friendliness of menu: Lots of kid-friendly options. Portions are for adults, so items are best shared. Kid-friendly staff? Very-friendly English-speaking staff, but you have to order at the main counter. Bathroom: Shared with the Village North, it has a clean, sit-down toilet. Has a separate room with a change table but it was closed at the time of reviewing. Best items for kids: Tuna niçoise salad, smoked chicken panini, carrot and zucchini cupcake. Also, try their silky-smooth pumpkin soup or any of their sandwiches (panini, sourdough, wrap, baguette). Kids play area: No, but there’s a paved outdoor area with trees just outside. Floor-to-ceiling windows make
beijingkids
Daily 10am-10pm. LG51, Sanlitun Village North, 11 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District (6417 0808); www. colibricupcakes.com 朝阳区三里屯路 11号三里屯Village北区地下1层
January/February 2011
PHOTOS: SIMON LIM, SUI
68
it easy to keep an eye on the kids. Seating: Café-style tables and chairs, a few long wooden tables with backless benches, as well as stools at the bar. Highchairs available – just ask. Outdoor seating in warm weather. Price: RMB 250 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Any of their cupcakes, baked fresh on-site. Award: Best Panini In a nutshell: Have your cupcakes to go or take a seat in this hip café among the laptop junkies. Enjoy a warm cheese panini, a cup of organic tea and a freshly baked cupcake. Deceptively affordable considering its posh Village North location. KC
Bita Mohebati, co-owner and mother Where did you grow up? Iran, UK and Macau. What was your favorite food as a kid?
Ghormeh sabzi [an Iranian stew of sautéed herbs served with lamb and rice]. Where can you find that favorite childhood dish in Beijing? Rumi, of course. What do you miss about good old-fashioned home cooking? The freshness, variety and the love with which it’s made. If you could bring one dish to Beijing, what would it be?
Tah chin [partially cooked rice flavored with saffron, yogurt and egg yolks, then layered in a dish with chicken or lamb]. What’s Rumi’s best kid-friendly option?
PHOTOS: JUDY ZHOU
Chicken Kebab
Rumi Cuisine: Middle Eastern Non-smoking section? Smoking section located on the first floor by the windows. No division between the smoking and non-smoking areas. English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: Yes General kid-friendliness of menu: Lots of healthy options that are perfect for sharing. Food is not spicy but has lots of flavorful spices. Kid-friendly staff? Friendly, Englishspeaking staff. Bathroom: Clean, with a sit-down toilet. No change table. Best items for kids: From the kids’ menu, the salmon kebab with green vegetable rice and Persian shole zard (saffron rice pudding). From the main menu, any of their delicious dips (first serving of warm bread is free). Kids’ play area: The small play area has colorful stools and some wooden toys, but it’s sparse. Bring your child’s
favorite toys. Seating: A few booths, but mostly tables and comfy chairs. Highchairs available. Price: RMB 350 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Hummus with tahini and warm bread. Award: Best Hummus In a nutshell: A tranquil dining experience in a minimally decorated restaurant. Main courses are large and can easily be shared by two adults, along with an appetizer. Enjoy grilled meats (all of which are halal) and fish along with fresh salads. Note to parents: No alcohol is served, but you can BYOB. KC Daily 11.30am-midnight. 1A Gongti Beilu (opposite Zhaolong Hotel), Chaoyang District (8454 3838) www. rumigrill.com; 朝阳区工体北路甲1号 (兆龙饭店对面)
Bita with her daughter Nadia (11)
January/February 2011
beijingkids
69
Ganges Cuisine: Indian English menu: Yes G e n e ra l ki d - f ri e n d l i n e s s o f menu: Lots of kid-friendly dishes and the menu indicates the spice level. Special requests for diners with dietary requirements can be made. Kid-friendly staff? Friendly staff speaks English. Bathroom: Public restroom around the corner in the Sanlitun Village complex. The sit-down toilet is fairly clean. Best items for kids: Vegetable samosa (the chefs can make them bite-sized for kids), butter naan, reshmi kebab (chicken marinated in cream). The mango lassi is always a hit. Kids’ play area: No, but kids will love the Bollywood dancers who perform (Thu-Sun, 6.30-9pm at both the Sanlitun and The Place branches).
Seating: Plenty of booths and tables with comfy chairs. Highchairs available. Price: RMB 300 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Tandoori chicken, marinated in a traditional yogurt and spice sauce, or the palak paneer (spinach and Indian cheese). Award: Best Indian In a nutshell: Dip naan or roti into a creamy curry or ladle it onto some saffron rice. Vegetarians will love the range of chickpea, potato and tomatobased curries. All food served is halal and is delicious. KC Daily 10.30am-11pm. S93-3, Sanlitun Village South, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District (6416 0181/6121) www.ganges-restaurant.com; 朝阳区 三里屯路19号三里屯Village南区S93-3. See Directory for more locations.
Haidilao Hot Pot
70
beijingkids
Seating: Chairs and a table with hot pot in the middle. Price: RMB 250 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Order your favorite hot pot items, but be sure to ask for the Haidilao pulled noodles for an amazing noodle dance performance. Also, go to the self-serve sauce station to mix your own sauce from ingredients such as sesame paste, Thai chillis and garlic. The station also has a small selection of fresh fruit. Award: Best Hot Pot In a nutshell: Notorious for its long waiting times (even for those who book in advance), the restaurant offers free manicures, snacks (popcorn, fresh fruit) and games (Chinese checkers) to queuing patrons. The wait is worth it for the freshest, tastiest hot pot in town. KC Daily 24hrs. 2A Baijiazhuang Lu (next to No. 80 Middle School), Chaoyang District (6595 2982); 朝阳区白家庄路 甲2号 (八十中学西侧). See Directory for more locations.
January/February 2011
PHOTOS: SUI, JIANG JUN
Cuisine: Chinese hot pot Non-smoking section? Smoking is not allowed on the upper floors. English menu: Only some items are listed on the English photo menu and the translation is not always accurate. The prices are not listed. Best to bring a Chinese-speaking friend. Kids’ menu: No General kid-friendliness of menu: Very kid-friendly with a range of fresh ingredients. There are spicy and nonspicy broths – you can ask for both in a divided pot. Caution: Look out for boiling water, steam and fire. Kid-friendly staff? Very friendly, but don’t expect them to speak any English. Bathroom: Clean, squat toilets. Best items for kids: Steamed or fried mantou pieces with condensed milk. Also try the fish balls and handpulled noodles. Kids’ play area: Located on the second floor, it’s a padded room with toy blocks, a TV and an ayi to watch the kids. Toys are sparse, so best to bring your own.
Hatsune Price: RMB 400 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Sushi rolls – the array is endless: salmon, tuna, eel, sweet potato, avocado, and caviar to name a few. Award: Best Date Night In a nutshell: Surprisingly familyfriendly, you’ ll see more than one stroller here during the busy weekend lunch service. Diners get complimentary green tea as well as a small appetizer and a small dessert. A great choice for date night but best to make a reservation. KC Daily 11.30am-2pm, 5.30-10pm. S830 (opposite Element Fresh), Bldg 8, Sanlitun Village South, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District (6415 3939) www. hatsunegroup.com; 朝阳区三里屯路 19号三里屯Village南区8号楼S8-30. See Directory for more locations.
PHOTOS: JUDY ZHOU
Cuisine: Japanese English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: No, but you don’t need one here. General kid-friendliness of menu: Lots of bite-sized options and descriptions of menu items mention whether or not they are spicy. Kid-friendly staff? Staff speaks English. Friendly service, but can be slow. Bathroom: Public restroom around the corner, shared by the Sanlitun Village complex. Sit-down toilets are clean but there’s no change table. Best items for kids: Assorted vegetable tempura, chicken teriyaki over rice, or the California roll. Kids’ play area: No Seating: Comfy booths can fit two families or six adults. Standard tables and chairs. Highchairs and private rooms available.
January/February 2011
beijingkids
71
Biteapitta Cuisine: Middle Eastern English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: No General kid-friendliness of menu: Very kid-friendly, with lots of healthy options. Kid-friendly staff? All staff speaks basic English. Bathroom: Clean, sit-down toilet, though a tad small. Best items for kids: Hummus and pita bread, carrot and chickpea salad (lightly spiced), and the grilled lamb. Kids’ play area: No, but Sanlitun Village and Mega Box cinema are close by. Seating: Standard tables and chairs. Highchairs available. Price: RMB 200 Accepts credit cards? Yes
Must-order item: Any of the dips along with a serving of their famous pitta bread. Their falafel is also great. Award: Best Pita Bread In a nutshell: This restaurant is for families who want a healthy, perfectfor-sharing lunch in the heart of Sanlitun. The restaurant is light-filled, the staff are friendly and anything you don’t finish can be taken home for later. The only downside: It’s located on the second floor, making it tough for parents with strollers. IK Daily 11am-11pm. 2/F, Tongli Studio (same block as Le Petit Gourmand), Sanlitun Houjie, Chaoyang District (6467 2961); 朝阳区三里屯后街同 里2层
Orient Kitchen
72
beijingkids
Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Lemongrass chicken wings or any of the fruit drinks (available either hot or cold). Award: Best Asian Options In a nutshell: Enjoy MSG-free Asian cuisine that is not too greasy. Dishes are on the smaller side and designed for sharing, so order as much or as little as you like. The color photo menu makes ordering easy. The restaurant itself is clean and quiet, but it tends to fill with hipsters after 8pm. KC Daily 11am-11pm. S4-31, Bldg 4, Sanlitun Village South, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District (6417 4070) 朝 阳区三里屯路19号三里屯Village南区 4号楼S4-31. See Directory for more locations.
January/February 2011
PHOTOS:HAN JUNWEI, COURTESY OF ORIENT KITCHEN
Cuisine: Southeast Asian English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: No General kid-friendliness of menu: Very kid-friendly. When ordering, it’s helpful to know key Chinese phrases regarding allergies, spice and meat. Dishes can be adjusted for spice. Kid-friendly staff? Yes, but most do not speak English. Bathroom: Very clean, but cramped. No change table. Best items for kids: Stir-fried organic Chinese cabbage, rice noodles with beef brisket, tapioca with mango and Thai pomelo. Kids’ play area: No Seating: Some booths, mostly chairs and tables. Highchairs and outdoor seating available. Price: RMB 250-300.
Chaoyang Park
William Bolton aka Chef Billy, owner and father Where did you grow up? I grew up on Long Island, New York (US). What was your favorite food as a kid? As a kid, my favorite was cream of tomato soup and a grilled cheese sandwich after a day of sleigh-riding or playing in the snow. In the summer, it was corn on the cob and fresh sliced tomatoes. Where can you find that favorite childhood dish in Beijing? I make my favorite dishes all the time in my restaurant for me and my kids. What do you miss about old-fashioned home cooking? I don’t miss it as I do it regularly.
PHOTO: JUDY ZHOU
If there is one dish from the US that you’d like to bring to Beijing, what would it be? I made my restaurant because I missed the classics and wanted a place that was close to what I knew and wanted. At Chef Too, we excel at traditional home-style American fare. What’s your recommendation for best family-friendly dish at Chef Too? Vanilla ice cream.
Chef Too Cuisine: American English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: Kids’ brunch menu is available on weekends. General kid-friendliness of menu: Very kid-friendly. Portions from the main menu will be too large for tots but kid-sized portions can be made to order for half the listed price. Kid-friendly staff? English-speaking staff is friendly and happy to accommodate you. Bathroom: Clean bathroom with sit-down toilet. Best items for kids: Burgers, penne with meatballs, homemade ice cream or any of their brunch offerings – try the blueberry pancakes. Kids’ play area: There’s a small backyard for kids to roam around in but space is limited inside the restaurant. Chaoyang Park and Solana are right across the road. Seating: Standard chair-and-table
set up and highchairs are available. Price: RMB 350 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Their imported Australia steak, served medium-rare. Follow it up with a serving of classic apple pie. Award: Best Authentic American In a nutshell: Home-style meals served just as they should be. This restaurant has a warm, cozy atmosphere and its location makes it the perfect choice for a day of brunching followed by a stroll through the park. The weekend brunch (served until 3pm) is a highlight. IK Tue-Fri 11am-2pm, Sat-Sun 9.30am3pm, Tue-Sun 5-10pm. Chaoyang Gongyuan Xilu (north of Block 8), Chaoyang District (6591 8676, chefbilly@yahoo.com); 朝阳区朝阳 公园西路 (八号公馆北)
Chef Billy enjoying his childhood favorite: grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup January/February 2011
beijingkids
73
Veg-On Cuisine: Vegetarian Chinese English menu: No, but the menu has photos and the buffet makes ordering easy – just grab a plate! Kids’ menu: No General kid-friendliness of menu: Kid-friendly, providing they like veggies and tofu. The restaurant claims to be MSG-free. Kid-friendly staff? The staff means well but is generally not on the ball and do not speak English. Bathroom: Shared by Solana mall. Nice, clean bathroom with sit-down toilets and a change table. Best items for kids: From the buffet, try the tomato and egg stir-fry, fried tofu squares and the potato, pumpkin and lotus root stir-fry. Kids’ play area: There’s no play area but Solana offers enough distractions to keep you busy pre- and post-meal. Seating: Standard chair-and-table set up. The restaurant is separated
into three adjoining areas, which can make finding a waiter difficult. Price: RMB 100-150; RMB 39 per person for the buffet (kids eat free or for half-price depending upon age). Accepts credit cards? Chinese cards only Must-order item: The sweet date zhou (Chinese porridge) with brown rice. And be sure to ask for their mini hot pots. Award: Best Quick Bite In a nutshell: This restaurant is a great healthy alternative for mid-mall lunching. While it’s not the prettiest of spots, the food tastes good and the location (near the BHG) is convenient. The bustling mall atmosphere and plastic cups means spills and noisy kids are more than welcome. IK Daily 11am-10pm. Solana, 6 Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu, Chaoyang District (5905 6301/6); 朝阳区朝阳公园路6号 蓝色港湾国际商区
PHOTO: LISA LIANG
74
beijingkids
January/February 2011
Liangma Qiao
Fatburger Cuisine: American English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: It’s a burger joint. Need we say more? General kid-friendliness of menu: Lots of American favorites. Definitely not for the health-conscious. Kid-friendly staff? Friendly, Englishspeaking staff tend to be very busy. Bathroom: Located on the second floor and in the basement. Clean but cramped, and no change table. Best items for kids: Hot dog, homemade onion rings and an ice cream milkshake with whipped cream. Kids’ play area: No, but they have coloring sheets. Bring your own crayons. Seating: Tables and chairs squished together. Price: RMB 300 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: The Triple Fat-
burger ... if you dare. The healthiest option is the grilled chicken sandwich. Award: Best Fries In a nutshell: The restaurant prides itself on burger patties made with imported Australian beef ground fresh daily. Order at the counter, then take a seat with your number. Rub elbows with your neighbor and don’t worry about how loud your kids are. This lively restaurant is the perfect spot to chow down on all of your greasy favorites. KC Daily 11am-10pm. 1-LB01 The Grand Summit, Liangmaqiao Diplomatic Compound (300m north of the Kempinski Hotel), 19 East Dongfang Lu, Chaoyang District (8532 1878) www. fatburger.com; 朝阳区东方东路19号亮 马桥外交公寓1号楼会所1层1号铺
Hard Rock Café Price: RMB 500 (all prices subject to a 15 percent service charge) Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Jumbo combo appetizer with spring rolls, twicebaked potato, chicken fingers, onion rings and hickory-smoked chicken wings. Award: Best Music In a nutshell: Rock ‘n roll lives! From the guitars that line the walls to the famous rockers painted on the ceiling, the décor makes this a fun dining experience. Live music (Mon-Sat) starts from 8pm and is the perfect accompaniment to the restaurant’s hearty selection of classic American dishes. KC Daily 11.30am-1.15am (11pm last order for food). 8 Dongsanhuan Beilu, Landmark Towers, Chaoyang District (6590 6688 ext 2571-2574); 朝阳区东 三环北路8号亮马河大厦西大堂
PHOTOS: JUDY ZHOU
Cuisine: American English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: The kids’ menu comes with a coloring sheet (for ages 10 and under). General kid-friendliness of menu: Choose from plenty of finger food, mostly American but a few Chinese dishes. Kid-friendly staff? Friendly, Englishspeaking staff. Bathroom: Clean, spacious with sitdown toilets. Best items for kids: From the kids’ menu try the cheesy mac, chicken tenders with honey mustard sauce or barbeque drumsticks. For dessert, order either the mud pie or apple cobbler. Kids’ play area: No, but the rock & roll paraphernalia will keep them entertained. Seating: Some booths, mostly tables and chairs. Highchairs available.
January/February 2011
beijingkids
75
Takenosuke
76
beijingkids
available. Price: RMB 200-250. Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: The restaurant’s specialty, okonomiyaki, is a Japanese pancake of eggs, noodles and onions served pizza-style. Customize your pizza-pancake with additional ingredients of cabbage, bacon, buckwheat noodles and cheese. Award: Best for Groups In a nutshell: A favorite dining spot for many Japanese expats. It may be a little hard to find the first time. The restaurant has a homey feel with an open kitchen so diners can watch the two chefs in action. The tatami rooms are a good option for larger groups. KC Mon-Fri 5-11pm, Sat-Sun 11am11pm. 27 Liangmaqiao Lu (turn onto Anjia Lou, first courtyard on the right), Chaoyang District (6431 8238); 朝阳 区亮马桥路27号
January/February 2011
PHOTO: JUDY ZHOU
Cuisine: Japanese Non-smoking section? No. Smoking is allowed throughout the restaurant. English menu: Yes. Drinks menu is in Japanese only. Kids’ menu: No General kid-friendliness of menu: Lots of small appetizers and main courses comes in big portions, great for sharing. Staff are accommodating to dietary needs and can make some meat dishes vegetarian. Kid-friendly staff? Yes, but they only speak Chinese and Japanese. Bathroom: One unisex stall. Not very clean, but a sit-down. Best items for kids: Lotus root chips, okonomiyaki (Japanese egg pancake with pork and buckwheat noodles) or fried buckwheat noodles with egg. Kids’ play area: No Seating: A number of booths with wooden tables and two tatami rooms (shoe-free area where diners sit on cushions at low tables). Highchairs
Zen5es,Westin Chaoyang RMB 100 (all-you-can-eat dim sum, Mon-Fri 11.30am-2.30pm), RMB 188 (buy one get one free all-you-caneat dim sum, Sat-Sun 11.30-3pm), half-price (kids 6-12 all-you-can-eat dim sum), free (kids under 6, all-youcan-eat dim sum). RMB 38 (free-flow soft drinks and Chinese tea), RMB 68 (free-flow soft drinks, Chinese tea and one glass of fresh juice or bottle of beer). All prices subject to a 15% service charge. Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Prawn dumplings Award: Best Lazy Sunday In a nutshell: Escape the noise of the city to dine in serenity. They have all of your favorite types of Cantonese dim sum. Extra points for attentive service, whether it’s handing you the daily paper, filling up your teacup or watching your kids in the playroom. KC Mon-Fri 11.30am-2.30pm, 5.3010pm. Sat-Sun 11.30-3pm, 5.3010pm. The Westin Beijing Chaoyang 7 Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang District (5922 8880, fbreservation. chaoyang@westin.com) 朝阳区朝 阳区东三环北路7号金茂北京威斯汀 大饭店
PHOTO: COURTESY OF WESTIN CHAOYANG
Cuisine: Chinese (Cantonese) English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: Kids’ menu (for ages 3-12) comes with a coloring sheet and colored pencils. General kid-friendliness of menu: Lots of bite-sized options. A la carte menu notes which dishes are spicy, vegetarian or have pork. Dim sum menu does not have special notes, but the staff will gladly help. Kid-friendly staff? The staff is very attentive and friendly, and all speak English. Bathroom: Clean with sit-down toilets. Couches in the play area can double as change tables. Best items for kids: Kids’ menu has Western options: Spaghetti with parmesan and tomato sauce, turkey sandwich with cheddar cheese, buttermilk pancakes. Each comes with a drink. But the dim sum menu is what you’re here for. Kids’ play area: Only open on weekends. It has a TV, mini slide, blocks, a seesaw and its own bathroom. Their friendly ayi watches your kids while you dine. Seating: Standard tables and chairs. Private rooms are available. Price: RMB 350 (a la carte menu).
January/February 2011
beijingkids
77
Financial Street Bubbly Sundays Brunch, Westin Beijing Financial Street Cuisine: Asian and international buffet English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: No, but the chefs can cater for all tastes. General kid-friendliness of menu: The menu is extremely child-friendly. Freshly baked cookie necklaces are brought to the table for the children to eat and wear. Kid-friendly staff? English-speaking staff go out of their way for children. Bathrooms: Very clean and spacious sit-down toilets. Changing tables available. Best items for kids: The chocolate fondue fountain is entertaining and delicious. Design your own Caesar salad at the salad bar or try the pasta bar with made-to-order sauces. Kids’ play area: This kid’s play area boasts a cupcake decorating station, popcorn machine, TV, three ayis, balloons, arts and crafts, toys and books. It will be hard to pry your child away. Seating: Booths, standard chairs and
highchairs available. Price: RMB 368 (free-flow champagne), RMB 298 (juices and soft drinks), half-price (kids 6-12), free (kids under 6). All prices subject to 15% service fee. Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: The whole saltcrusted salmon, fresh oysters and Beijing duck station are worth special mentions. The dessert station is also a must – try the Australian Cold Rock ice cream. Award: Best Family Indulgence In a nutshell: Be sure to arrive hungry. This is an indulgence for the senses and beyond entertaining for your children. The atmosphere is lovely, featuring open-plan kitchens and bright, sunlit views of a Zen-style garden. MM Sunday 11am-3pm. Senses, Westin Beijing Financial Street, 9B Jinrong Jie, Xicheng District (6629 7810); 西 城区西城区金融街乙9号
Tay Thien Hui, Director of Engineering and father Where did you grow up? Malacca, Malaysia.
Can you find that favorite childhood dish in Beijing? No, but my parents make it when they visit. If you could bring one dish from Malaysia to Beijing, what would it be? Asam Fish. The fish is cooked in the juice of the tamarind (or Asam) fruit. The cooking process involves soaking the pulp of the fruit until it is soft and then squeezing out the juice for cooking the fish.
78
beijingkids
January/February 2011
PHOTOS: SUI, COURTESY OF WESTIN BEIJING FINANCIAL STREET
What was your favorite food as a kid? Egg skin rolls, also called grandma spring rolls.
Monsoon Brunch, InterContinental Financial Street making skills to the test. If you plan to stay for the full four hours, bring some extra toys. Seating: Booths and standard chairs, with highchairs available. Price: RMB 398 (free-flow Champagne), RMB 268 (non-alcoholic), RMB 128 (kids 6-12), free (kids under 6). All prices are subject to a 15% surcharge. Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: The yogurt caramel cheesecake is particularly scrumptious. Award: Best Champagne Selection In a nutshell: This brunch is for those who love the sweeter things in life. The interactive candy station and the fluffy clouds of cotton candy delivered straight to your table will keep kids entertained. Meanwhile, parents can sample the four varieties of Champagne on offer. MM Sundays 11.30am-3pm (dessert buffet until 5pm). InterContinental Hotel, 11 Jinrong Jie, Xicheng District (5852 5888 ext 5916/17); 西城区金融街 11号洲际酒店
PHOTO:SUI
Cuisine: European and Asian fusion buffet English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: No General kid-friendliness of menu: A lot of child-friendly options, including salads and fruit for health-conscious parents. The chefs at each individual station are also enthusiastic and willing to alter food to your tastes. Kid-friendly staff? Majority of staff speak fluent English, are friendly and willing to help you with any problems. For adults, the staff is particularly good at filling up your champagne glass. Bathroom: Clean bathroom, individual cubicles and a sit-down toilet. Best items for kids: The made-toorder pasta bar is a great option, the barbecue station offers delectable meats that are sure to please, and the chocolate fondue fountain is quite popular. Kids’ play area: There’s no play area, but the live band is wonderful and children are encouraged to dance. At the candy-making station you’ll find a chef who hand makes colorful (and edible) cartoon creations. The chef also allows kids to put their candy-
January/February 2011
beijingkids
79
Shunyi
Circle Restaurant Cuisine: Asian English menu: Yes, with plenty of pictures. Kids’ menu: No General kid-friendliness of menu: Lots of options for kids who like Chinese food; there’s even a few pizza and pasta options for fussier eaters. You can also request little or no spice. Kid-friendly staff? Chinese-speaking staff, so the picture menu comes in handy. Bathroom: Squat toilets Best items for kids: You can’t go wrong with the mountain of fried crispy potatoes or the toffee fruit (banana, apple or yam); other hits are sweet and sour chicken or pork. Kids’ play area: The restaurant has a mini indoor ball pit and some toys.
There’s an outdoor area for kids to play in when the weather is warm. Nearby, you’ll find a large fishpond. Seating: Booths and standard seating. Highchairs available. Price: RMB 150-200 (with leftovers to take home) Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Sautéed chicken with peanuts and chilli oil, simple and delicious. Award: Best Value In a nutshell: Excellent value. With an extensive menu and good prices, you won’t go home hungry! Charlotte Moreau 21 Shunhuang Lu, Chaoyang District (8459 0999/1616/1625); 朝阳区顺黄 路21号 京广园
Little Italy Cuisine: Italian English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: Yes General kid-friendliness of menu: There’s always something for the kids to choose from here. Kid-friendly staff? Yes Bathroom: Clean unisex bathroom but no change table. Best items for kids: The make-yourown-pizza option is good for kids. Any of the pasta choices are great. Kids’ play area: The restaurant has a play area surrounded by a plexiglass wall. You can see but not hear kids play, which makes for a quieter dining experience for all.
Seating: Standard chairs, booths and high chairs available. Price: RMB 200-250 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Select any pasta with your sauce of choice and you can’t go wrong! Award: Best Crowd Pleaser In a nutshell: With a very homey atmosphere and predictably good food, you can’t go wrong. The extensive menu offers families a lot of variety. CM Daily 10am-10pm. 813 Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District (8046 4680/79); 顺义区天竺开发区荣祥广场813号
PHOTOS: JUDY ZHOU
80
beijingkids
January/February 2011
Elaine’s Vegetarian Restaurant and Bar Cuisine: Vegetarian English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: No General kid-friendliness of menu: Kid-friendly with fun food presentation for kids and adults alike. Also has pasta, pizza and fries for fussy eaters. Kid-friendly staff? Basic English is fine and the staff are all used to kids. It’s worth mentioning any nut allergies. Bathroom: Clean squat toilets. No changing table. Best items for kids: Vegetarian sausage on a stick, pizza, and any of the sweet “dumplings” for dessert. They also have veggie Peking Duck. Kids’ play area: There’s a small play area that’s mainly for younger kids. Seating: Standard tables and chairs, as well as booths and couches.
Price: RMB 200 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: The vegetarian sausage come highly recommended by the staff and is a favorite with the kids. Award: Best Vegetarian In a nutshell: Newly renovated, Elaine’s has an inviting atmosphere. Positioned on the edge of the lake with a lovely courtyard, it is perfect for kids. The unique and tasty vegetarian dishes offer families a healthy change. CM Daily 11am-late. Walk 800m along the banks of Luoma Lake, 100m north of Luoma Roundabout, Houshayu, Shunyi District (8048 5088/5566); 顺 义区后沙峪镇罗马环岛向北100米左 转, 沿罗马湖畔800米
PHOTOS:SONG YANG, JUDY ZHOU
The Mexican Kitchen Cuisine: Tex-Mex Non-smoking section? There are only two tables in the small smoking section but the restaurant is small, so the smoke permeates. English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: Yes General kid-friendliness of menu: The usual fare of burritos and quesadillas. You can’t go wrong. Kid-friendly staff? Yes Bathroom: There’s a clean, unisex, sit-down toilet. A large countertop can double as a change table. Best items for kids: With tacos, nachos and quesadillas it’s hard to find something here that the kids won’t want to eat. Also worth trying are the tortilla soup and corn chips with salsa and guacamole.
Kids’ play area: The play area is small with stuffed animals only. Seating: Standard tables and chairs with outdoor seating during the warm weather. Price: RMB 200 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Fajitas offer tableside flair. The eight varieties of very-filling burritos are a must. Award: Best Burritos In a nutshell: The Mexican Kitchen serves up large, hearty portions, perfect for satisfying those cheese and guacamole cravings. CM Daily 11am-9.30pm. 705 Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District (8046 4558/59); 顺义区天竺开发区荣祥广场705号
January/February 2011
beijingkids
81
Fuel, Langham Place Cuisine: American English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: No General kid-friendliness of menu: Smaller portions can be made for children and monthly specials offer all-you-can-eat deals. Kid-friendly staff? Friendly, Englishspeaking staff Bathroom: Located outside the restaurant in the hotel lobby. The bathroom is clean with sit-down toilets, but no changing table. Best items for kids: Pineapple and salami pizza, cheese burgers with fries, spaghetti. Kids’ play area: There’s a separate area that can be used by kids (providing you remove the ashtrays). It has couches, karaoke and video games. Seating: Standard tables and chairs,
as well as booths and stools. Price: RMB 350 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: With eight different varieties of ribs, it’s a no-brainer. Award: Best Ribs In a nutshell: Fuel has a fresh, modern atmosphere that gets lively in the evening with DJs and karaoke. Their claim-to-fame (ribs and pizza) is worth the ride to the airport. Modern décor with open spaces means that the kids will have room to move. CM Daily 11am-late. 1/F, Langham Place, 1 Er Jing Lu, Beijing Capital International Airport (southwest of Terminal 3), Chaoyang District (6457 5555); 朝阳区首都机场二经路1号朗豪酒店 (T3航站楼西南)
Mark Francis, General Manager of Langham Place and father Where did you grow up? I was born in Brandon, Manitoba (Canada) and lived there until I was 13. What was your favorite food as a kid? Hot dogs were – and sadly they still are – one of my favorites. Where can you find that favorite childhood dish in Beijing? Luckily, Beijing has some great hot dogs! One of my favorites is Stadium Dog in Gongti. What do you miss about good old-fashioned home cooking? The first thing that comes to mind is the smell of a Sunday roast filling the house. It’s hard to explain how much that makes me feel at home. If there was one dish you’d like to bring to Beijing, what would it be? The Kiwis [New Zealanders] are famous for their meat pies. When we go back to New Zealand to visit my wife’s parents, it is always on the top of my list of “must eats.” What’s Fuel’s best kid-friendly option? The pizza and burgers at Fuel are always kid-friendly. If you ask ahead, our chefs will invite your kids into the open pizza kitchen to make their own pizza.
82
beijingkids
January/February 2011
PHOTO: JUDY ZHOU
Mark rates the humble hot dog as one of his favorite foods
Michael’s Place Italian Ristorante Cuisine: Italian English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: Yes General kid-friendliness of menu: Very kid-friendly with no-fail pizza and pasta options. Kid-friendly staff? Yes Bathroom: The bathroom is located inside the adjoining mall with both sit-down and squat toilets. No change table. Best items for kids: Spaghetti, pizza and chicken fingers. Kids’ play area: There’s a small play area in the mall, just outside the restaurant, containing puzzles, games and books. It’s still within sight and helps cuts down on the noise inside the restaurant. Seating: Standard chairs inside with
outdoor seating in the summer. Highchairs are available. Price: RMB 250 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Try the tasty risotto. Award: Best Italian In a nutshell: With a reputation for consistently good Italian food, Michael’s has a fine dining atmosphere with family friendly service. The Euro Plaza location makes it especially convenient for Shunyi-dwellers. CM Daily 10.30am-10.30pm. L112, Euro Plaza, (Opposite the Exhibition Hall), Central Villa District, Shunyi District (8042 4457); 顺义区顺义区天竺镇 裕翔路99号欧陆时尚购物中心1层112 (国展对面)
PHOTOS: JUDY ZHOU, SONG YANG
Mrs. Shanen’s Bagels Cuisine: American café Non-smoking section? Yes, but the restaurant is small enough that smoke can travel. English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: No General kid-friendliness of menu: There are many healthy options for kids as well as plenty of treats at the counter when meals are finished. Kid-friendly staff? Friendly Englishspeaking staff. Bathroom: The unisex bathroom is around the corner from the restaurant. Has a sit-town toilet. Best items for kids: Pizza bagels, macaroni and cheese, and a great children’s teatime (3pm-5pm). For healthier options, try the pita and hummus or the organic no-salt corn puffs. Kids’ play area: In the play area next door, kids can play in their minikitchen, read books or draw. Inside the
café itself, paper and colored pencils are provided at the tables. Seating: Standard tables and chairs as well as booths. Picnic tables outside for summertime dining. Price: RMB 200 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Chicken salad or falafel hummus sandwich, and of course their famed bagels. Award: Best Organic Food In a nutshell: Offering great tasting organic food, this café is perfect for lunchtime dining. Though Mrs. Shanen’s is a bit on the pricey side, it hasn’t seemed to ebb the flow of regular patrons. CM Sun-Thu 7.30am-8pm, Fri-Sat 7.30am8.30pm. 5 Kaifa Jie, Xibaixinzhuang (next to Capital Paradise), Shunyi District (8046 4301); 单太太贝谷面 包房. 顺义区西白辛庄开发街5号 (紧 邻名都园)
January/February 2011
beijingkids
83
New York Style Pizza Cuisine: Italian/Pizza Non-smoking section? No English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: No General kid-friendliness of menu: It’s pizza – what more can we say? Kid-friendly staff? Yes Bathroom: Located in the adjacent office building, the bathrooms are clean with sit-down toilets but no change tables. Best items for kids: Any of their pizzas are sure to please. For little kids, pizza by the slice is available. Kids’ play area: No Seating: Limited seating with only six tables and chairs.
Price: RMB 150-200 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Their huge 20inch pizza Award: Biggest Pizza In a nutshell: This is a fun New Yorkstyle pizza joint. Pizzas have catchy names such as the Brooklyn or the Manhattan. The size of these pizzas are guaranteed to satisfy a horde of hungry teens. Free delivery within a 3km radius. CM Daily 11am-9pm. 7 Riverville Square, Shunyi District (6450 8790); 顺义区 温榆广场7号
Malacca Legend Cuisine: Malaysian English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: No General kid-friendliness of menu: Kid-friendly and the level of spice is indicated next to each item. Kid-friendly staff? Not much English spoken here, but communication is fine with picture the menu. Bathroom: Clean with a sit-down toilet. No change table. Best items for kids: Poh piah (buildit-yourself spring rolls), Hainan chicken rice set, or their signature fried rice. Kids play area: Small children’s section with plexiglass walls. The play area itself only has a table and chairs and balloons so it’s best to bring some
toys from home. Seating: Standard tables and chairs. Highchairs are available. Price: RMB 250 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: The nasi lemak set - it’s a national dish of Malaysia. Award: Best Malaysian In a nutshell: This restaurant offers an extensive Malaysian menu paired with a lovely lakeside setting. There’s plenty of seafood and spicy dishes for more discerning palates. CM Daily 11am-10pm. 6C Dongbeisan Lu, Luogezhuang Village, Houshayu Town (8049 8902); 顺义区后沙峪镇罗马湖 畔. See Directory for more locations.
PHOTOS: JUDY ZHOU, SUI
Chaoyang branch pictured
84
beijingkids
January/February 2011
Smallville Cuisine: American English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: Yes General kid-friendliness of menu: Typical kid favorites offered, and breakfast is available all day. Kid-friendly staff? The Englishspeaking staff are used to kids. Bathroom: Located in the adjoining restaurant (The Yard). There are sitdown toilets but no change table. Best items for kids: Chicken tenders, spaghetti and either the grilled cheese or peanut butter and jelly sanwich. Kids’ play area: The clean play area has a TV and toys. Seating: Many tables as well as a couch area for relaxing with a coffee. Price: RMB 200 Accepts credit cards? Yes
Must-order item: Anything from the set lunch or dinner menus, which include a starter, main dish and dessert. Selections change monthly. Award: Most Improved In a nutshell: Smallville has undergone a restaurant makeover and now offers a weekend brunch (Western brunch 8.30am-11.30am, Asian brunch 11.30am-2.30am), set menus as well as a la carte options from the new head chef. All proceeds go to charity, so you’ll feel good about ordering that extra sweet treat. CM M o n -T h u 7. 3 0 a m - 7. 3 0 p m , F r i Sun 7.30am-8pm. 3 Kaifa Jie, Xibaixinzhuang, Houshayu, Shunyi District (8046 5448); 顺义区后沙峪西 白辛庄开发街3号
PHOTOS: SIMON LIM
Za’atar Cuisine: Middle Eastern English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: No General kid-friendliness of menu: Very kid-friendly. The menu even has indicators for kid-approved dishes. Kid-friendly staff? English-speaking staff. The owner regularly checks in with customers to make sure everything is okay. Bathroom: Clean, sit-down toilet, no change table. Best items for kids: Marinated chicken skewers, shorabet sha’arieyeh (chicken broth with vermicelli and parsley), and hummus with pita bread. Kids’ play area: There’s no play area, but outside seating during the summer means kids can roam around and test
out the nearby play equipment. Seating: Standard tables and chairs with outdoor seating in warmer weather. Price: RMB 300-350 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Shawerma chicken or lamb and hummus. Award: Best Middle Eastern In a nutshell: Za’atar has a warm, inviting atmosphere, beautiful lakeside setting and delicious food. Beyond its many kid-friendly features, it’s also a great option for date night. CM Daily 11.30am-10pm. Unit 2, Bldg 3, Lakeview Place (by Dragon Bay Villas), Shayu Huanlu, Houshayu, Shunyi District ((8042 2248); 顺义区 后沙峪镇沙峪环路3号2单元
January/February 2011
beijingkids
85
Haru Teppanyaki and Sushi Bar Cuisine: Japanese Non-smoking section? There’s no designated smoke-free zone, but the teppanyaki rooms are private. English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: No General kid-friendliness of menu: Teppanyaki dishes are family-style and made-to-order, so kids can pick out favorite meats and vegetables and enjoy watching them be prepared. The sushi is best for kids with more adventurous taste buds. Kid-friendly staff? The Chinesespeaking staff know basic English. Bathroom: Clean with sit-down toilet. Best items for kids: The Cherry Roll (tempura shrimp, avocado, tuna and eel sauce) has no raw fish, so it’s good for kids. And the chicken teppanyaki comes with a “volcano onion” – a large onion ring that erupts in flame as it’s grilled. Kids’ play area: No play area but private rooms are available. Having your food cooked right in front you is entertaining for all. Seating: The sushi bar has stools while the teppanyaki rooms are private. Price: RMB 350-400 Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Anything from the teppanyaki menu. From the sushi menu, try the Calafornia Roll - simple and delicious. Award: Best Dining Experience In a nutshell: It’s not just a meal, it’s an experience watching the chef prepare the food in front of you. The overall dining atmosphere is great with individual service and excellent fresh food. CM
Steven Yang, owner and father Where did you grow up? I was born and bred in Beijing. What was your favorite food as a kid? Chinese hawthorn cakes and wild jujube noodles. Where can you find that favorite childhood dish in Beijing? Hawthorn cakes can be bought in supermarkets, but wild jujube noodles are no longer around. What do you miss about old-fashioned home cooking? My mom’s stir-fried shredded potatoes (a popular northern dish). What’s your recommendation for best family-friendly dish at Haru? Kids love sushi, and teppanyaki is good for families. I recommend the sushi and Australian beef steak – they’re both really delicious.
Daily 11.30am-2pm, 5.30pm-10pm. 902 Pinnacle Plaza, Jingshun Lu, Shunyi District (8046 5112); 顺义区 天竺镇开发区荣祥广场902. See Directory for more locations.
PHOTOS: SUI
Steven samples of of Haru’s delicate sushi rolls
86
beijingkids
January/February 2011
The Orchard Price: RMB 450; brunch RMB 180 per person Accepts credit cards? Yes Must-order item: Unique flavors of ice cream: sage, basil, rosemary and mint. The buffet, which varies weekly, is a must-try. Award: Best Surroundings In a nutshell: With wonderful service, locally sourced organic produce and a countryside location, this is a great place to spend a day with the kids. CM Tue-Sat noon-2.30pm, 6pm-9pm. Sun buffet noon-3pm, 6pm-9pm. From Jingshun Lu, turn left (west) at Shunbai Lu Intersection, (turn at the driveway just west of the Hegezhuang Village Sign), Shunyi District (6433 6270); 顺义区崔各庄乡何各庄村(过 何各庄村路标往南转)
PHOTOS:JUDY ZHOU
Cuisine: European English menu: Yes Kids’ menu: Yes. There’s also a separate kids’ buffet on Sundays. General kid-friendliness of menu: Very kid-friendly, with a wide variety to satisfy the fussiest of eaters. Kid-friendly staff? Friendly, Englishspeaking staff. Bathroom: Very clean, sit-down toilets but no changing facilities. Best items for kids: Any of their pasta dishes, sweet potato pancake with homemade apple sauce, and delicious artisan breads. Kids’ play area: The playroom features a TV as well as some toys. The grounds outside are open for exploration in warmer weather. Seating: Tables and booths as well as outdoor seating in warmer weather. Highchairs are available.
January/February 2011
beijingkids
87
Directories
Family Dining
Family Dining African Pinotage Probably the only South African restaurant in town, this restaurant is located in the Lane Bridge Compound on the northeast Fifth Ring Road and offers distinctive dishes like Cape Malay bobotie (a type of casserole made from meat and rice) and South African wines. Lane Bridge Villa Compound, Laiguangying Donglu (Take the Airport expressway and exit at the fourth exit at Beigao. At the first traffic lights turn left, and carry onto the next traffic lights where you turn right into the complex. The restaurant is situated across the bridge in the Clubhouse), Chaoyang District. (6430 7010, 136 1120 7396, chrisb@winelink.com.cn) 朝阳区朝阳区 来广营东路9号
American Blue Frog 1) Daily 10am-11pm. L312, Europlaza, 99 Yuxiang Lu, Tianzhu Zhen, Shunyi District. (8046 6337, eva@bluefrog.com.cn); 2) Daily 10am-2am. S4-30, 3/F, Bldg 4, Sanlitun Village South, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6417 4030, eva@bluefrog.com.cn) www.bluefrog.com.cn 蓝蛙, 1) 顺义区天竺 镇欲翔路99号北京欧陆时尚购物中心(欧陆广 场)L312室; 2) 朝阳区三里屯北路19号三里屯 Village南区4号楼3层S4-30 Chef Too Voted “Outstanding American,” “Outstanding Brunch,” “Outstanding Steak,” “Outstanding Burger” and “Outstanding Chef (William Bolton)” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. Tue-Fri 11am-2pm, Sat-Sun 9.30am-3pm, Tue-Sat 5.30-10pm. Chaoyang Gongyuan Xilu (north of Block 8), Chaoyang District. (6591 8676, chefbilly@yahoo.com) 美西西餐厅, 朝阳区朝阳 公园西路(八号公馆北) Element Fresh This sunny Shanghai import showcases a healthier side of American food, with elaborate salads, smoothies and sandwiches. Popular weekend brunch menu. Voted “Best American,” “Best Non-Hotel Brunch,” “Outstanding Family-Friendly” and “Best Sandwiches” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Restaurant Awards. 1) Mon-Fri 10am-11pm, Sat-Sun 7am11pm. S8-33, Bldg 8, Sanlitun Village South, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6417 1318); 2) Daily 10am-11pm. 6 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District. (6433 5058) www.elementfresh.com 新元素, 1) 朝阳区三里屯路19号三里 屯Village南区8号楼S8-33; 2) 朝阳区将太路6号 Eudora Station Bar and Restaurant This Lido area spot gets points for quality and service, and its large verandah is a great place to park with the kids on a sunny day. There are two highchairs for especially wee ones. Daily 9am-2am. 6 Fangyuan Xilu, Chaoyang District. (6437 8331) 亿多瑞站, 朝阳区芳园西路6号 Fatburger This famous American diner offers premium Australian lean beef burgers freshly grinded daily and cooked to order the way you like it. Juicy burgers comes in singles, doubles or triples accompanied by skinny fries, fat fries or homemade onion rings and hot wings, hot dogs, and imported ice cream shakes all set amidst a warm and comfortable ambience of 80’s music playing in the background. Daily 11am-9pm. 1-LB01 The Grand Summit, Liangmaqiao Diplomatic Compound (in the same building as Tavola and Starbucks, across the street and 300 m north of the Kempinski Hotel’s main entrance), 19 East Dongfang Lu, Chaoyang District. (8532 1878, leelee@fatgburgerlover.com, jwu@fatburger. com) www.fatburger.com 朝阳区东方东路19号 亮马桥外交公寓1号楼会所1层1号铺 Fuel Daily 11am-late. 1/F, Langham Place, 1 Er Jing Lu, Beijing Capital International Airport (southwest of Terminal 3), Chaoyang District. (6457 5555) http://beijingairport.langhamplacehotels.com 朝阳区首都机场二经路1号朗豪 酒店(T3航站楼西南) Grandma’s Kitchen Voted “Outstanding American” and “Outstanding Family Friendly”
88
beijingkids
restaurant in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. 1) Daily 8am-10.30pm. 47-2 Nanchizi Dajie, Dongcheng District. (6528 2790, bj.grandmas.kitchen@hotmail. com); 2) Daily 7.30am-11pm. 0103, Bldg B, Jianwai Soho, 39 Dongsanhuan Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (5869 3055/6, bj.grandmas. kitchen@hotmail.com); 3) Daily 10am-11pm. 5/F, Wudaokou U Center, 28 Chengfu Lu, Haidian District. (6266 6105, bj.grandmas. kitchen@hotmail.com); 4) Daily 7.30am11pm. 11A Xiushui Nanjie, Jianguomenwai, Chaoyang District. (6503 2893, bj.grandmas. kitchen@hotmail.com); 5) Daily 10am-10pm. 28 Shique Hutong (across from Beixinqiao subway exit C), Dongcheng District. (8403 9452, bj.grandmas.kitchen@hotmail.com) http://grandmasbeijing.com/ 祖母的厨房, 1) 东城区南池子大街47-2号; 2) 朝阳区东三环中 路39号建外SohoB座0103; 3) 海淀区成府路28号 五道口购物中心5层; 4) 朝阳区建国门外秀水南 街甲11号(友谊商店后面); 5) 东城区北新桥石雀 胡同28号(地铁五号线北新桥站C出口)
Bakeries, Delis & Desserts A Food Affaire Inside April Gourmet, this deli is a convenient spot for grocery shoppers looking to grab ready-prepared salads, pies, veggies and more for a quick lunch or dinner. Daily 8am-11pm. 1/F, 5 Xingfuyicunxili (on the ground floor of Lianbao Apartments next to Yu Xin restaurant), Chaoyang District. (135 0107 1114) 朝阳区绿叶子食品店, 幸福一村西 里5号一层 Awfully Chocolate Scrumptious chocolate cakes are to die for – rich in taste yet moist and light. Three flavors: original (RMB 138276), banana (RMB 168-336) and rum and cherry (RMB 178-356). 1) Daily 10am-10pm. Rm 05A�Bldg 1, Raffles City, Dongcheng District. (8409 8452, beijing@awfullychocolate. com.cn); 2) Daily 9am-9.30pm. Bldg 2, Carrefour Shopping Center, Zhongguancun Plaza, Haidian District. (5172 2511, beijing@awfullychocolate.com.cn); 3) Daily 10am-9pm. Rm 108, Bldg 2, Wanda Plaza, 93 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (5820 5826, beijing@awfullychocolate.com.cn) www.awfullychocolate.com.cn 1) 东城区东直门来福士广 场B1-05a (Raffles City); 2) 海淀区中关村家乐福 购物中心B2楼(肯德基旁); 3) 朝阳区建国路93号 万达广场2号楼108 Boulangerie Nanda A European-style bakery, the selection of muffins rotates daily, with orange, blueberry, and almond whole-wheat in hot demand (RMB 10). A mini cheesecake (RMB 15) hits the spot without bringing on guilt. If you’re craving something savory, the 6-inch bacon and spinach quiche makes for a hearty lunch (RMB 40). Take home a multigrain foccacia (RMB 16) or sour rye bread (RMB 15); the loaves will keep fresh for up to two days. Those with allergies needn’t fear; every single ingredient used in the baking process is carefully listed on the packaging. Daily 9.30am-7.30pm. 1/F, 52 Jingshun Lu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. 朝阳区朝 阳区京顺路52号乐活城1层(在Giant自行车店旁边) CCSweets Artisanal cupcakes, cakes, cookies. CC is an artist, jewelry designer,chocolatier & cakedesigner. She uses only the best gourmet, imported ingredients to make her cupcakes, cakes and cookies. CC Sweets also custom designs cupcakes, cakesand wedding cakes to order. Try their Crazy forChocolate Six-Pack, containing sixvarieties of chocolate cupcakes. Check their website for details and rotating flavors. 1) 10am-6pm. Village North, NLG09A, Sanlitun Lu, Sanlitun, Chaoyang District[under Rolex store]hours: 10 am to 6 pm, Chaoyang District. (cchow68@gmail.com); 2) 10am8pm. Central Park, Tower 11, Shop 109, CBD, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (cchow68@gmail.com) www.ccsweets.cn喜喜 饼房, 1) 朝阳区三里屯北区 NLG09A; 2) 朝阳 区朝外大街6号,新城国际T11.109店 Cocoa Ballet Located just a few minutes from Houhai on the tourist-baiting lane of Yandai Xiejie, this store crams a fine selection of chocolates into its tiny space. The dark choco-
January/February 2011
late is one to woo the cocoa addict in your life. Chocolates can be bought by the piece or in boxes – all are priced at RMB 29 for 50g. 1) 11am-11pm. 1/F, 20, Bldg 11, Central Park, 6 Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6597 9345, cocoa@yahoo.cn); 2) Daily 11am11pm. 30 Yandai Xiejie, Xicheng District. (6401 2488, cocoa@yahoo.cn) 可可芭蕾巧克力艺术沙 龙, 1) 朝阳区朝阳区朝阳门外大街6号 新城国际 11号楼底商20号; 2) 西城区烟袋斜街30号 Colibri Cafe Nestled in the trendy entertainment destination alongside creative labels and high end boutiques, this Café offers more than 20 flavors of cupcakes (RMB 23), all handcrafted with fine ingredients and topped with soft butter cream, designed by award-winning San Francisco-based studio Eight Inc, who embodies the vibrant spirit of the Hummingbird to Colibri. Sandwiches and coffee would complement the colorful spread of mid-day snack. 10am-10pm. LG51, Sanlitun Village North, 11 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6417 0808) 蜂鸟, 朝阳区三里屯路11号三里屯 Village北区地下1层 Comptoirs de France 1) Daily 7am-8.30pm. 55-1, Xingfucun Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (6416 2853); 2) Daily 7am-10.30pm. Door 102, Pacific Century Place Department Store, 2A Gongti BeiLu, Chaoyang District. (6539 2005); 3) Daily 7am-8.30pm. 2/F Riviera Plaza, 5 Laiguangying Donglu, Chaoyang District. (8470 2347); 4) Daily 7am-8.30pm. 1/F, East Lake Club, 35 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Dongcheng District. (6461 1525); 5) Daily 7am-8.30pm. 1/F, Bldg 5, Hairun International Apartment, 2B Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District. (5135 7645); 6) Daily 7am-8.30pm. 4 Ritan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (8562 3355); 7) Daily 7am-8.30pm. L-111, Europlaza, 99 Yuxiang Lu, Tianzhu Zhen, Shunyi District. (8046 6309); 8) Daily 7am-8.30pm. Rm 102, 1/F, Bldg 15, China Central Place, 89 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (6530 5480) www.comptoirsdefrance. com 法派, 1) 朝阳区幸福村中路55-1号; 2) 朝 阳区工体北路甲2号盈科中心商场102单元; 3) 朝阳区来广营东路5号2楼东侧; 4) 东城区东 直门外大街35号东湖俱乐部1层; 5) 朝阳区将 台路乙2号海润国际公寓商业5一层; 6) 朝阳区 日坛北路4号; 7) 顺义区裕翔路99号天竺镇欧 陆广场L111室; 8) 朝阳区建国路89号华贸中心 15号楼102 The Fig Tree This grand two-floor pastry school and café offers informal and fun classes where you can learn to make a supremely indulgent chocolate cake, delectable rum truffles or a savory quiche. RMB 350 gets you a two-and-a-half hour baking lesson from classically trained chef Lin Zhong, who uses proper old-fashioned “full-fat” ingredients. And of course you get to take the fruits of your labor home with you. The bright and airy café that overlooks the school kitchens is a pleasant spot to enjoy a cup of coffee and carrot cake or a light lunch. Cakes can be ordered bespoke for all occasions, at prices ranging from RMB 150-1,000 depending on the ingredients, intricacy and size. 202, Bldg A, Chaowai Soho, Chaowai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (139 1056 6742, info@thefigtree.cn) www.thefigtree.cn 朝阳区朝阳区朝外大街朝外Soho702室A座 The Lollipop Bakery UK Cupcake connoisseur bakes her sweet creations and delivers by the dozen. Choose from chocolate, vanilla and other flavors. Custom cakes upon request. Also available at Crepanini, Fisheye Café, and Secrets From Africa. Reserve 24 hrs in advance. also available at Crepanini, Fisheye Café, and Secrets From Africa, Chaoyang District. (135 5277 2683, cupcakes@lollipopbakery.cn) www. lollipopbakery.cn 朝阳区可百尼尼,鱼眼咖啡 和亦有售
Buffets Bubbalicious Brunch Held in Taste and Touch, Bubbalicious thrills kids with yummy finger-sized appetizers, while grown-ups love the wide range of fresh seafood. Parents can relax while the attentive staff in the kids corner look after the little ones. Co-winner of “Best Brunch (hotel)” in the Beijinger’s 2010
Dining Awards.Sunday 11.30am-3pm. 2/F Westin Beijing Chaoyang, 7 Dongsanhuan Beilu, Xicheng District. (5922 8888 ext 8102) 西城区朝阳区东三环北路7号金茂北京威斯汀 大饭店 InspiRED Brunch Sunday 11am-3pm. 1/F Westin Beijing Financial Street, 9B Jinrong Jie, Xicheng District, Xicheng District. (6629 7810) 西城区西城区金融街乙9号 JW Marriott 83 Jianguo Lu, China Central Place, Chaoyang District. (5908 6688) 北京 JW万豪酒店, 朝阳区华贸中心建国路83号 The Orchard An institution among residents of residents of out-of-town expat hideout Shunyi, The Orchard comes highly recommended for its affordable menu of western food and emphasis on organic produce, with ample provision for little ones making it an ideal spot for family dining. The restaurant’s remoteness from the city center lends it added appeal as a retreat from the rough and tumble of urban life (although the surrounding village of Hegezhuang, which is also home to Green T. Living and the Yin Yang Community Center, is quickly gentrifying), but does make transportation something of a headache – finding a taxi back into town can be a challenge, so come equipped with a plan. The well-known Sunday brunch (11am-3pm) is RMB 180 a person. Children can relax with a video and enjoy the cushy chairs in the kids’ room, or head outside for a stroll around the lake with mom and dad. Daily noon-3pm, 6-9pm. From Jingshun Lu, turn left (west) at Shunbai Lu Intersection, (turn at the driveway just west of the Hegezhuang Village Sign), Shunyi District. (6433 6270) 果园, 顺义区崔各庄乡何各庄村 (过何各庄村路标往南转) Seasonal Tastes Lively, cool, clean and fresh, this buffet restaurant comes with interactive cooking stations and healthful “super foods” corners that help jump start your day. On Sundays from 11.30am-3pm, Seasonal Tastes hosts “Bubbalicious,” the highlights of which include a shellfish bar, luscious sushi and sashimi, Indian curries and a fresh pasta bar. There’s a fry-up counter for Brits abroad, and dim sum for Cantonese exiles. Perhaps best of all are the fresh ice creams and vast selection of desserts of all shapes and sizes, arranged like a candy store. Best of all for RMB 328 rmb + 15% service charge including soft drinks, juices, coffee and tea, RMB 368 + 15% service charge including soft drinks, juices, coffee, tea, beer and wine, or RMB 398 + 15% service charge including soft drinks, juices, coffee, tea, beer, wine and Moet & Chandon Champagne. Readers voted Bubbalicious at Taste as the co-winner of “Best Hotel Brunch” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Restaurant Awards. Daily 6.30-10.30am, 11.30am-3pm, 5.30-11pm. 2f, Westin Beijing Chaoyang, 7 Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (5922 8880) 朝阳区朝 阳区东三环北路7号金茂北京威斯汀大饭店 Senses The kids will marvel at the open plan kitchen and live cooking stations where your food is prepared before your very eyes. The unique combination of international and Asian style cuisine makes this place a popular venue for a family meal. Breakfast buffet is RMB 208 (plus 15% service charge), lunch is RMB 228 (plus 15% service charge) and dinner is RMB 328 (no service charge). Co-winner of “Best Brunch” for its Bubbly Sunday brunch in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. Daily 6.30-10.30am, 11.30am-2.30pm, 5.3010pm.. 1/F, The Westin Beijing, 9B Jinrong Jie, Xicheng District. (6606-8866 ext. 7810) http:// www.starwoodhotels.com/westin/property/dining/index.html?propertyID=1704 味, 西城区金 融大街乙9号北京金融街威斯汀大酒店1层 Vasco’s and Chynna FIZZtastic Brunch 5/F, Hilton Beijing Wangfujing, 8 Wangfujing Dongjie, Dongcheng District. (5812 8888) www.pentabeijing.com 东城区王府井东 8号希 尔顿北京王府井洒店5层
Cafes & Sandwiches Bocata Lunch favorite for embassy staff. The
*listings in orange are new to Directories white rock terrace and well-made paninis (RMB 23-50) make this sandwich cafe a pleasant retreat when the climate is congenial. Daily 10am-midnight. 3 Sanlitun Lu (opposite 3.3 Shopping Center), Chaoyang District. (6417 5291) 朝阳区三里屯路3号3.3大厦对面 Mrs Shanen’s Bagels This Shunyi staple run by a Chinese-American native of Brooklyn, New York offers Beijing’s best bagels (in a variety of flavors, including jalepeno cheddar, sesame and cinnamon raisin), as well as burgers, sandwiches(served on a choice of pita, ciabatta or bagels) salads, artisan pizza, cheeses, breads, cakes, cookies, ice cream and an extensive breakfast menu. Produce and other organic products from the owner’s other venue Green Cow Farm are also available. The venue also includes a large children’s playroom is equipped with toys, kid-sized chairs and tables and an entire Chinese kitchen in miniature. Sun-Thu 7.30am-8pm, Fri-Sat 7.30am8.30pm. 5 Kaifa Jie, Xibaixinzhuang (next to Capital Paradise), Shunyi District. (8046 4301) 单太太贝谷面包房, 顺义区西白辛庄开发街5号 (紧邻名都园) Nasca Cafe 10am-11pm. F/1, Great Hyatte Int’l Apt, 38 Zaoyingbeili, Chaoyang District. (6592 4537) 朝阳区枣营北里38号海悦名门公 寓1层 O’Briens An Irish sandwich bar offering classic thick bread toasted sandwiches, salads, soups, gourmet coffee, smoothies and fresh juices all in a relaxed, airy setting. Additional features include Carlsberg and Guinness on tap, wireless Internet and delivery options. 1) Daily 8am-9pm. Silk Market, 8 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (5169 8870); 2) Daily 8am-9pm. 1/F Clubhouse, Building 1, Liangmaqiao Diplomatic Compound, 19 Dongfang Donglu, Chaoyang District. (8532 1681); 3) Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat-Sun 8am-8.30pm. 6 Riverville Square, Tianzhu, Shunyi District. (6450 8588) http://www.obriensonline.com/ stores/beijing/ 奥拜恩三明治吧, 1) 朝阳区秀水 街建国门外大街8号; 2) 朝阳区东方东路19号亮 马桥外交公寓1号楼会所1层; 3) 顺义区天竺温 榆广场06号商铺 Panino Teca This casual-chic cafe bakes its own bread daily on the premises for an exhaustive variety of sandwiches. Outdoor seating is available, but even if you don’t nab a spot, the light streaming through the floor-to-ceiling windows means that wherever you sit, you’ll be in the sun. Delivery available. Voted “Outstanding Sandwiches” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. 1) Daily 8.30am-midnight. S2-11, Bldg 2, Sanlitun Village South, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6416 1416, paninoteca@yahoo. com.cn); 2) Daily 8am-11pm. 1 Sanlitun Beixiaojie, Chaoyang District. (8454 1797, paninoteca@yahoo.com.cn) 品味店, 1) 朝阳区 三里屯路19号三里屯Village南区2号楼S2-11; 2) 朝阳区三里屯北小街1号 Village Cafe Offers international cuisine and pan Asian classics with a fresh twist. Welldesigned interior and kids-friendly environment. Baby chairs and cutleries, and children’s menu’s on the offer. The Sticky Date Pudding dessert comes highly recommended. Daily 24hrs. 1/F, The Opposite House, Bldg 1, Sanlitun Village, 11 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6410 5210, villagecafe@theoppositehouse. com) www.theoppositehouse.com/ 朝阳区三里 屯路11号三里屯Village1号楼瑜舍1层
Central & South American Alameda As the three-time TBJ “Restaurant of the Year,” this Sanlitun restaurant continues to dazzle with market fresh menus and innovative, modern Euro-Brazilian cuisine. Set menus for lunch and dinner. Traditional Brazilian dishes making gratifying appearances include the black bean and smoked meat stew – feijoada – served every Saturday. Voted “Best Business Lunch” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. Daily noon-3pm, 6-10.30pm. Sanlitun Beijie (beside the Nali Mall), Chaoyang District. (6417 8084, alameda_beijing@yahoo.com) 朝阳区三里屯北街
The Mexican Kitchen Mexican food for Beijing’s gringos. The small ones will be kept happy with the tasty treats on the kids’ menu. The restaurant provides a convenient baby-changing table in its bathroom, and is also happy to host your kid’s next birthday party. Daily 10.30am-9.30pm. 705 Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District. (8046 4558/59, catering@glo balcuisinebeijing.com) http://www.globalcuisinebeijing.com/mexicankitchen 墨西哥厨房, 顺义区天竺开发区荣祥广场705号
Chinese Bellagio See and be seen at these Taiwanese hipster eateries, perfect for late night sweet treats (shaved ice with mango, anyone?), divine claypot tofu, and the splendidly numbing Chongqing lazi ji. 1) Daily 11am-4am. 35 Xiaoyun Lu, Chaoyang District. (8451 9988); 2) Daily 11am-10pm. Rm 6, 5/F, 1 Dongzhimen Nandajie, Dongcheng District. (8409 8075); 3) Daily 11am-4am. 6 Gongti Xilu, south of the Gongti 100 Bowling Alley, Chaoyang District. (6551 3533); 4) Daily 11am-10pm. R-25 Zhongguancun Plaza, 15 Zhongguancun Dajie, Haidian District. (5172 1340); 5) Daily 10am10pm. 6F-19, 131 Xidan Beidajie, Xicheng District. (5971 6529); 6) Daily 10am-10pm. 1/F, Bldg 1, 16 Guangshun Dajie, Chaoyang District. (8476 4645); 7) Daily 11am-2am. Bldg 4, Area 2 Anhui Beili, Yayuncun, Chaoyang District. (6489 4300); 8) Daily 11am-10pm. 6/F, Shin Kong Place, 87 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (6530 5658) 鹿港小镇, 1) 朝阳区霄云 路35号; 2) 东城区东直门南大街1号5层6号; 3) 朝阳区工体西路6号(工体100南边); 4) 海淀区中 关村大街15号中关村广场商业步行街R-25号; 5) 西城区西单北大街131号6F-19号; 6) 朝阳区广顺 大街16号院1号楼1层; 7) 朝阳区亚运村安慧北里 2区4号楼(炎黄艺术馆斜对面); 8) 朝阳区建国路 87号新光天地6层 Crystal Jade Reaching from Singapore to Seoul, the Crystal Jade group offers high quality Cantonese food, good service, and opulent atmosphere. 1) Daily 11am-10pm. 6/F, Shin Kong Place, 87 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (6533 1150/70); 2) Daily 11am-4pm, 5-10pm. Store BB82, Oriental Plaza, 1 Dongchang’an Jie, Dongcheng District. (8515 0238) 翡翠皇宫 酒家, 1) 朝阳区建国路87号新光天地6层; 2) 东 城区东长安街1号东方广场地铁层BB82店铺 Da Dong Roast Duck Kids love getting their fingers dirty when crafting pancake after pancake of delicious duck at this Beijing favorite. Aside from the duck, they also have a large selection of homestyle standards.Won best “Beijing Duck” in 2008 tbj awards. Daily 11am-10pm. 1) 5/F, Jinbao Dasha, Jinbao Jie, Dongcheng District. (8522 1234); 2) 1-2/F, Nanxincang International Plaza, 22A Dongsishitiao, Dongcheng District. (5169 0329); 3) 3 Tuanjiehu Beikou, Dongsanhuan Lu (southeast corner of Changhong Qiao), Chaoyang District. (6582 2892/4003) 北京大董烤鸭店, 1) 东城区 金宝街金宝大厦5层; 2) 东城区东四十条甲22号 南新仓国际大厦1~2楼(立交桥西南角); 3) 朝阳 区团结湖北口3号楼东三环路(长虹桥东南角) Ding Ding Xiang You’d be nuts to bring a toddler to a hot pot joint, but Ding Ding Xiang’s individual hot pots make it easy even for picky eaters to satisfy their own tastes. 1) Daily 11am-10pm. 2/F, Yuanjia International Apartments, Dongzhimenwai, Dongzhong Jie (opposite East Gate Plaza), Dongcheng District. (6417 9289); 2) 1/F West Tower, 8 Dongdaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (5900 3137/3079); 3) Daily 11.30am-11pm. 1/F, 14 Dongzhong Jie, Dongzhimenwai, Dongcheng District. (6417 2546); 4) Daily 11am-10pm. Bldg 7, Guoxing Jiayuan, Shouti Nanlu, Haidian District. (8835 7775/7779); 5) Daily 11am10pm. 6/F, Shin Kong Place, 87 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (6530 5997/7172) http:// www.dingdingxiang.com.cn/ 鼎鼎香, 1) 东城 区东直门外东中街东环广场对面元嘉国际公寓 2层; 2) 朝阳区东大桥路8号SOHO尚都西塔一层; 3) 东城区东直门外东中街14号1层; 4) 海淀区首 体南路国兴家园7号楼1-2层; 5) 朝阳区建国路 87号新光天地6楼D6006号
Directories Din Tai Fung The internationally renowned chain has a home in Beijing – taste just one hand-rolled dumpling and you’ll know why they’re famous around the world (and a big hit with the kids). Playrooms available. Voted “Outstanding Chinese Restaurant of the Year” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. 1) Daily 11.30am-2.30pm, 5-10pm. 24 Xinyuan Xili Zhongjie, Chaoyang District. (6462 4502); 2) Mon-Fri 11.30am9.30pm, Sat-Sun 11am-10pm. 7/F, Dangdai Shangcheng, 40 Zhongguancun Dajie, Haidian District. (6269 6726); 3) Daily 11.30am9.30pm. 6/F, Shin Kong Place, China Central Place, 87 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (6533 1536) www.dintaifung.com.cn 鼎泰丰, 1) 朝 阳区新源西里中街24号; 2) 海淀区中关村大街 40号当代商城7层; 3) 朝阳区建国路87号华贸中 心新光天地6层 Dongbeiren Daily 11am-10pm. A1 Xinzhong Jie, Dongzhimenwai, Dongcheng District. (6415 2855) 东北人, 东城区东直门外新中街 甲1号 Hai Di Lao 9am-10pm. 1)4/F Wangjing International Commercial Center, 9 Wangjing Jie, Chaoyang District; 2) A2 Baijiazhuang Lu, Sanlitun (west of Beijing No. 80 Middle School), Chaoyang District. (6595 0079/2982) 朝阳区 1)朝阳区望衔9号望京国际商业中心4楼; 2)白家 庄路甲二号第80中学西侧 Jin Ding Xuan Dim sum fun for all. Let your kids guess the contents of the fresh, steaming baskets that arrive at your table and reward correct guesses by letting them order the next round of treats. 1) Daily 24hrs. 77 Hepingli Xijie, Dongcheng District. (6429 6888); 2) D122 B/1 Huamao Shopping Center, 87 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (40067 66111); 3) Daily 24hrs. 16 Pufang Lu, across from Carrefour, Fengtai District. (6761 7161); 4) Daily 24hrs. 1/F, Entrance B03, north corner of Jinyuan Shopping Mall, 1 Yuanda Lu, Haidian District. (8887 1155); 5) Daily 24hrs. Yiyuan No.15, Anhuibeili, Yayuncun, Chaoyang District. (6497 8978); 6) Daily 24hrs. 15 Tuanjiehu Nanlu, Chaoyang District. (8596 8881) 金鼎轩酒楼, 1) 东城区和平里西街77号; 2) 朝阳区朝阳区建 国路87号华贸购物中心B1楼D122号; 3) 丰台区 方庄蒲芳路16号 (家乐福对面); 4) 海淀区远大 路1号金源时代购物中心北侧1层B03入口; 5) 朝 阳区亚运村安慧北里逸园15号; 6) 朝阳区团结 湖南路15号 Orient Kitchen This large, split-level restaurant delivers crowd-pleasing Chinese and South-Asian food in a classy environment. 1) Daily 10am-11pm. 3 Jinrong Jie (Across from the Financial Street Shopping Center), Xicheng District (6622 0072); 2) Daily 11am-11pm. S431, Bldg 4, Sanlitun Village South, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District (6417 4070) 1) 西城区金 融街3号,金融街购物中心对面; 2) 朝阳区三里屯 路19号三里屯Village南区4号楼S4-31 Xiao Wang Fu Chinese homestyle is comfort food for your family, and this bustling place is great to initiate the younger members of your crew into the tradition of delicious Beijing duck. The Ritan Park venue, which is swankier, is probably better for a mom and pop only night out. Voted “Outstanding Kung Pao Chicken” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. 1) Daily 11am-2pm, 59.30pm. 2/F of Crown Plaza Hotel, 48 Wangfujing Dajie, Dongcheng District. (5911 9985/6); 2) Daily 11.30am-2pm, 5.30-10pm. Inside the North Gate of Ritan Park, Ritan Lu, Chaoyang District. (8561 5985); 3) Daily 11am-10.30pm. Bldg 2, Guanghua Lu Dongli, Chaoyang District. (6591 3255); 4) Daily 5.30pm-1am. 15 Qianhai Beiyan, Xicheng District. (6617 5558) 小王府, 1) 东城区王府井大街48号国际艺苑皇 冠假日酒店二层; 2) 朝阳区日坛路日坛公园北 门内; 3) 朝阳区光华路东里2号楼; 4) 西城区 前海北沿15号 Xihe Yaju Foreigners and Chinese alike flock to this upscale restaurant set in a traditional courtyard that borders Ritan Park. Daily 11am2pm, 5-10pm. Northeast corner of Ritan Park, Chaoyang District. (8561 7643) 羲和雅居, 朝 阳区日坛公园东北角 Zen5es Daily 11am-2.30pm-5.30-10.30. 4/F,
Family Dining
the Westin Beijing Chaoyang, 7 Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (5922 8880, fbreservation.chaoyang@westin.com) www.westin. com/chaoyang 朝阳区朝阳区东三环北路7号金 茂北京威斯汀大饭店
Cooking Lessons and Schools Be a Chinese Chef (BACC) BACC teaches expats in the vicinity of Chaoyang park how to make numerous Chinese traditional dishes, including all-time favorites such as kungpao chicken and peppered beef. Room 102, Unit 4, Building 3, North Part of Chao Yang Park Xi Li, Chaoyang District. (65384069, beachinesechef@hotmail.com) Beijing Wine Club Organization of wine enthusiasts hosts monthly wine events ranging from blind tasting to wine quizzes, all with manageable snippets of wine education thrown in. Events are RMB 150. (137 1787 1229, info@beijingwineclub.com) www.beijingwineclub.com Fangjia Kitchen Offers lessons in Chinese cooking and traditional culture with local people in what was once Prince Xunjun’s Mansion, first built in 1760. Fang Jia Kitchen invites top chefs in Beijing to teach cooking and each class focuses on a regional classic cuisine and introduces Chinese food culture with cooking demonstrations, hands-on sessions and meals.Cooking Classes are Thur–Sun, 11am–2pm, RMB 300 per person (cash only), seating capacity is 8.Includes an eight-course gourmet dinner with free flow of wine.Friday & Saturday, 6.30pm – 9.30pm, RMB 300 per person (cash only), seating capacity is 20.You also can book for your own private class or event here. Thu-Sun 11am-2pm. 13 Fangjia Hutong, Dongcheng District. (159 1096 2965, fangjiakitchen@yahoo.com.cn) 方家美食工作 室, 东城区方家胡同13号 The Hutong Set in an attractive courtyard, this is one of Beijing’s best informal cooking schools with classes on everything from regional Chinese cuisine to pizza making and Pakistani curries. Also offers a variety of meetings, clubs and workshops focused on intercultural friendship and learning. 1 Jiudaowan Zhongxiang Hutong (southeast of Beixinqiao subway station), Dongcheng District. (159 0104 6127, info@the-hutong.com) www.thehutong.com 东城区九道湾中巷胡同1号(北新桥 地铁站东南边) The Fig Tree 202, Bldg A, Chaowai Soho, Chaowai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (139 1056 6742, info@thefigtree.cn) www.thefigtree.cn 朝阳区朝阳区朝外大街朝外Soho702室A座
European The Bookworm Bright, airy and filled with books. Offers light sandwiches, salads and pastas as well as heartier fare. Wine list features 40 options. 1) Mon-Sat 8am-8pm,Sun 8am-5pm. The First Courtyard, Hegezhuang Village, Shunyi District. (6431 2108, books@beijingbookworm. com, kidsclub@beijingbookworm. com); 2) Daily 9am-2am. Courtyard 4, Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6586 9507, books@beijingbookworm.com, kidsclub@beijingbookworm.com) www.chinabookworm.com 书虫书吧, 1) 顺义区崔各庄 乡,何各庄村一号院; 2) 朝阳区工体北路4号院 The Orchard Daily noon-3pm, 6-9pm. From Jingshun Lu, turn left (west) at Shunbai Lu Intersection, (turn at the driveway just west of the Hegezhuang Village Sign), Shunyi District. (6433 6270) 果园, 顺义区崔各庄乡何各庄村 (过何各庄村路标往南转) Schoolhouse Canteen The Schoolhouse at Mutianyu Great Wall serves casual Western food and affords great views of the Great Wall from its outdoor terrace. The menu focuses on lite Italian fare and kid-friendly options, as well as homemade ice cream and desserts. Available for overnight stays, parties and events. On-site activities include glass blowing and art
January/February 2011
beijingkids
89
Directories
Family Dining
classes for kids. Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat-Sun 9am-8pm. 12 Mutianyu Village, Huairou District. (6162 6506/6287) www.schoolhousecanteen.com 小园, 怀柔区慕田峪村12号 Vineyard Cafe This hutong cafe, specializing in comfort food and comfy couches, is both hip and sensible, and their hearty English breakfasts are excellent weekend brunch fare. Good pizza and excellent beer selection. Voted “Outstanding Non-Hotel Brunch” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. Daily 11.30am-11.30pm. 31 Wudaoying Hutong (just north of the Confucius temple), Dongcheng District. (6402 7961, info@vineyardcafe.cn) www.vineyardcafe.cn 葡萄院儿, 东城区五道营胡同31号
French Boucherie Michel Opened by a young French butcher of the old school, this artisanal shop and restaurant has gained a wide following with its selection of high-grade beef, veal, lamb, and pork (50-110 RMB per kg). Patrons also recommend the pates, sausages (including merguez) and Parisian-style hams. Freshly roasted chicken, quiches, frozen dishes such as coq au vin, as well as a range of well priced French wines are also for sale. The small French restaurant upstairs delivers the same meat, now cooked, in a cozy checkered-tablecloth setting or, in season, on the curbside patio. Daily 9am-8pm. 1/F, Jiezuo Dasha, Xingfucun Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (6417 0489, boucheriemichel@hotmail.com) 米歇尔肉店, 朝阳区幸福村中路杰座大厦底层
German Der Landgraf Based on the famous German restaurant dating back to 1639, this longrunning restaurant in Fangzhuang opened in 1999 and serves a range of German cuisine and a variety of imported German beers, from Pilsner, Lager and Weizen beer to Cologne Kölsch. The 700-sq-meter interior is designed to resemble a typical German pub with a barcounter in the middle of the restaurant and a large copper beer cooling system hanging from the ceiling serving fresh draft beer. Menu items include Munich sausage with sweet mustard, bockwurst, baked pork knuckle and more (full menu online). A second location is at The Great Wall at Badaling and features a 100-square-meter dining room and terrace, as well as a German buffet. Available for special events and by reservation only (see website and contact the Fangzhuang store for more details). Daily 11am-1am. 2A Pufang Lu, Fangzhuang, Fengtai District. (6768 2664, landgraf@der-landgraf.com) http://bedebeer. com/der-landgraf/english/ 兰特伯爵, 丰台区方 庄蒲芳路甲2号 Schindler’s Tankstelle A very traditional German restaurant, right in Ritan Park. This casual, fun eatery will appeal to the whole family, with excellent service and exceptionally kid-friendly food. Highchairs are available, but we recommend sitting outside on long benches, Bavarian beer hall-style so it doesn’t matter how much food gets on the floor. As far as the menu is concerned, it’s sausages, sausages, sausages. There are many different types that are generally healthy, low-fat and imported. Parents claims the mashed potato is the best in Beijing. 1) Daily 10am-midnight. 15A Guanghua Lu (200m east of Ritan Park South Gate), Chaoyang District. (8562 6439); 2) Daily 11am-midnight. 1 Houshayu Zhen, Shayu Lu, Shunyi District. (8042 2291) http:// www.schindlersinfo.de/ 申德勒加油站, 1) 朝阳 区光华路甲15号(日坛南门往东200米); 2) 顺义 区沙峪路后沙峪镇1号
Indian & Pakistani Ganges Indian Restaurant This is a good restaurant for the gastronomically adventurous. Spicy dishes can be cooked without the heat upon request (probably a good idea for the young ones). There’s a play area with two kids’ tables and chairs, plus books and crayons mixed in with other toys. For smaller diners,
90
beijingkids
there are a few highchairs available. In a nutshell, this is delicious Indian food in a comfortable environment that won’t break your budget. Co-winner of “Best India/Pakistani” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. Daily 10am-11pm. 1) 138A, B1/F, The Place, 9 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (6587 2999); 2) S93-3, Sanlitun Village South, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6416 0181/6121); 3) 5/B, Hairun International Apartment, 2 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District. (5135 8353); 4) Sancaitang Xiezi Lou, 160 Chengfu Lu, Haidian District. (6262 7944) www.ganges-restaurant.com 恒河印度餐厅, 1) 朝阳区光华路9号世贸天阶地下1层138A; 2) 朝 阳区三里屯路19号三里屯Village南区S93-3; 3) 朝阳区将台路2号海润国际公寓底商5号; 4) 海淀 区成府路160号三才堂写字楼1层13号 The Taj Pavilion This is a great place for a family meal and would make for a wild birthday experience for teens – a visit to the Cosmic Bowling Alley next door followed by a classic Indian meal. Lille kids Kids unfamiliar with Indian cuisine might find certain dishes a bit too exotic, though many dishes can be prepared with less fiery spice. Try the Chicken tikka, tandoori gobi (cauliflower kebabs), or dal palak (yellow lentils cooked with spinach). As a side note, the bathrooms are located outside the restaurant in the hallway. Co-winner of “Best India/Pakistani” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. Daily 11.30am2.30pm, 6-10.30pm. 1) 1/F, West Wing, China World Shopping Mall (next to KFC), Chaoyang District. (6505 5866); 2) 3/F, Holiday Inn Lido, Jiangtai Lu, Shoudu Jichang Lu, Chaoyang District. (6436 7678, 6437 6688 ext 3811); 3) L222, Europlaza, 99 Yuxiang Lu, Tianzhu Zhen, Shunyi District. (8046 3238) http://www.thetajpavilion.com 泰姬楼印度餐厅, 1) 朝阳区国贸 西楼1层肯德基旁边; 2) 朝阳区首都机场路将台 路丽都假日酒店广场缤纷廊3层; 3) 顺义区天竺 镇裕翔路99号欧陆时尚购物中心L222室
Italian Agrilandia Italian Farm Fireplace Restaurant A farm, a rustic restaurant, an agri-tourism destination – Agrilandia is many things to many people. On a warm spring day, your kids will run around its green lawn, pet small furry creatures, go swimming and eat hearty Italian dishes made from locally grown ingredients. Dogs are also welcome. Daily 9am-9pm. Baigezhuangcun, Mapozhen, Shunyi District. (6940 7700, 130 0127 1094) www.agrilandia. cn 意大利农场壁炉餐厅, 顺义区马坡镇白各庄村 Annie’s 1) 1/F Ruisai Business Building (opposite ascott beijing), Chaoyang District. (6568 5890); 2) Daily 11am-11pm. West Gate of Soho New Town, 88 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (8589 8366); 3) Daily 11.30am-11pm. 16 Dongsanhuan Lu (next to CD Blues Cafe), Chaoyang District. (6503 3871); 4) Daily 11am-11pm. Chaoyang Gongyuan Xilu (next to Chaoyang Park West Gate), Chaoyang District. (6591 1931); 5) Daily 11am-11pm. Across from Western Academy Beijing, 5 Laiguangying Donglu, Chaoyang District. (8470 4768); 6) 11am-11pm. Unit 2-3-93, Ritan Highlife, (opposite north gate of Ritan Park), 39 Shenlu Jie, Chaoyang District. (8569 3031); 7) Daily 11am-11pm. Jiuxianqiao, Jiangtai Lu, Shangye Jie, Chaoyang District. (6436 3735) 安妮意大利 餐厅, 1) 朝阳区瑞赛大厦商务楼一层(北京雅诗 阁服务公寓对面); 2) 朝阳区建国路88号Soho现 代城西门; 3) 朝阳区东三环路16号(农展馆正门 南侧); 4) 朝阳区朝阳公园西路(朝阳公园西 门); 5) 朝阳区来广营东路5号京西学校对面; 6) 朝阳区神路街39号日坛公园北门对面日坛上 街2-3-93号; 7) 朝阳区酒仙桥将台路商业街 Little Italy This Shunyi standby features a children’s play area enclosed in soundproof glass. Grownups can indulge in quiet conversation over pizza and salad while their kids shout and screech with abandon. The children’s menu includes pasta, chicken nuggets and milkshakes served in colorful kid-sized dishes. Daily 10am-10pm. 813 Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District. (8046 4679) http://www.globalcuisinebeijing. com/littleitaly 小意大利, 顺义区天竺开发区荣
January/February 2011
祥广场813号 Michael’s Place Italian Ristorante Despite the comfortable decor, brick pizza oven, kiddie corner and decent selection of imported wines, Michael’s free-n-quick home delivery might just be its strongest asset. Pizzas and pastas range RMB 48-75. Daily 10.30am-10.30pm. L112, Euro Plaza, (Opposite the Exhibition Hall), Central Villa District, Shunyi District. (8042 4457, 8046 3359) 北京明天意大利餐厅, 顺义区顺义区天竺镇裕翔路99号欧陆时尚购物中 心一层112号(国展对面)
Japanese Hatsune This time-tested stalwart has become a veritable institution in Beijing’s dining scene, as well as a consistent prize-bagger in local dining awards. 1) Daily 11.30am-2pm, 5.30-10pm. 2/F, Heqiao Bldg C, 8A Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District (6581 3939); 2) Daily 11.30am-2pm, 5.30-10pm. S8-30 (opposite Element Fresh), Bldg 8, Sanlitun Village South, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District (6415 3939) 1)朝阳区光华路甲8号和乔大厦C座2层; 2)朝阳 区三里屯路19号三里屯Village南区8号楼S8-30 Haru Teppanyaki and Sushi Bar Kids will be entertained by the chefs flaming hot plates, and the large portion servings mean this is a great place to spend a few extra kuai on a family night out. 1) Daily 11.30am-2pm, 5.30pm-10pm. 902 Pinnacle Plaza, Jingshun Lu, Shunyi District. (8046 5112); 2) Unit N430, 3/F, Sanlitun Village North, 11 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (6415 2112) 尚水长廊铁板烧餐厅, 1) 顺义 区天竺镇开发区荣祥广场902; 2) 朝阳区朝阳 区三里屯路11号院(Village北区)能号楼三层 N4-30单元 Tairyo Teppanyaki The “Benihana of Beijing” specializes in all-you-can eat teppenyaki (RMB 150 for lunch, RMB 168 dinner). The Sanlitun venue aims for a more upscale clientele and charges RMB 198 for all-youcan-eat-and-drink. 1) S2-32, 3/F The Village at Sanlitun, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6416 8075, 6416 0075); 2) 15 Wanliu Zhonglu, Haidian District. (8256 6044); 3) Building E, Shenggu Jiayuan, Anzhen Qiao, Chaoyang District. (6444 8855/66); 4) 305 China View, Gongti Donglu, Chaoyang District. (8587 1180/1); 5) 2/F, Yaxing Mansion, Maizidian Jie, Chaoyang District. (6461 2336) http://www. tairyo.cn/ 大渔铁板烧, 1) 朝阳区朝阳区三里屯 路19号The Village at Sanlitun 南区,三层S2-32; 2) 海淀区万柳中路15号; 3) 朝阳区安贞桥胜古 家园E座; 4) 朝阳区工体东路中国红街305号; 5) 朝阳区麦子店街亚星大厦2层 Takenosuke Mon-Fri 5-11pm, Sat-Sun 11am11pm. 27 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6431 8238) 武之助, 朝阳区亮马桥路27号
Korean Shanggu City Korea Village BBQ Your usual Korean BBQ staples – beef, lamb, pork, vegetables – served by waitresses in ethnic dresses who speak limited English but do have a picture menu. Daily 10am-9.30pm. Adjoining the Jenny Lou’s near Lane Bridge, 5 Laiguangying Donglu, Chaoyang District. (8470 3016) 尚古城韩国烧烤, 朝阳区来广营东路5号
Mediterranean Argo Daily 11.30am-11pm. 59 Wudaoying Hutong (100 meters west of Vineyard Café), Dongcheng District. (8403 9748) 东城区五道 营胡同59号 The Olive Cafe Salads, sandwiches, dinner, health food, juice and desserts. Outdoor dining on warm days. Also serving weekend brunch. Voted “Outstanding Mediterranean” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. Daily 10.30am-10.30pm. 17 Gongti Beilu (opposite north gate of Workers’ Stadium), Chaoyang District. (6417 9669) 朝阳区工体北路17号
Middle Eastern Biteapitta Falafels, hummus, sandwiches and
shawarma. Set meals available. Good value for money. Voted “Outstanding Middle Eastern” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. Daily 11am-11pm. 2/F, Tongli Studio (same block as Le Petit Gourmand), Sanlitun Houjie, Chaoyang District. (6467 2961, ilovepitta@biteapitta.com) 吧嗒饼, 朝阳区三里 屯后街同里2层 Rumi Beijing’s only purveyor of Persian cuisine in a stylish minimalist setting. The owners’ daughter helped design and outfit the small playroom. Let your kids judge her interior design choices while you chow down on the city’s best hummus. Children can pick from the children’s menu and park themselves in highchairs. Voted “Outstanding Middle Eastern” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. Daily 11.30am-midnight. 1A Gongti Beilu (opposite Zhaolong Hotel), Chaoyang District. (8454 3838) www.rumigrill.com 入迷, 朝阳区工体北路甲1号兆龙饭店对面 Za’atar Shunyi’s Lakeview Place restaurant Za’atar is named after an essential Arabic spice blend, which you can sample with oil and drizzled on warm pita bread, fresh from the oven. Try the grilled chicken, fish, oven-roasted lamb knuckle, or the layered vegetable casserole known as maklouba. For dessert, children will enjoy the mixed assortment of rich baklava or milk-and-rose-water pudding served with fresh fruits. Daily 10am-10pm. Unit 2, Bldg 3, Lakeview Place (by Dragon Bay Villas), Shayu Huanlu, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8042 2248) www.zaatarbj.com 百里香阿拉伯餐厅, 顺义区后沙峪镇沙峪环路3号2单元
Pizza Hutong Pizza With a quaint, cozy atmosphere, this pizza joint located just off the beaten track of Houhai offers arguably the best pizza (RMB 60-120) in Beijing. The veggie burgers are also hugely popular. Daily 11am11pm. 9 Yindingqiao Hutong, Xicheng District. (8322 8916) 胡同比萨, 西城区银锭桥胡同9号 New York Style Pizza The Shunyi branch of this Shanghai-based chain started by a native New Yorker serves pizza pies, NYC style, with frsh toppings and homemade crusts and sizes ranging from 16 to 20 inches (prices range from around RMB 100 and up). Pizza by the slice available. Free delivery within a 3-km radius. 11am-9pm. 7 Riverville Square, Shunyi District. (6450 8790) 顺义区温榆广场7号
Russian Queen’s Cafe Daily 12am-11pm. 3/F, S9, Sanlitun Village South (close to Karaiya Spice House) 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6416 1928, info@queenscafe.com) www. queenscafe.com/ 皇后饭店, 朝阳区三里屯路 19号三里屯Village南区3层(近辣屋)
Southeast Asian Malacca Legend This elaborate Malaysian restaurant boasts serene water views and zesty Southeast Asian cuisine. Also offers catering services and delivery in the Shunyi area. Daily 11am-10pm. 1) 1/F Building B, Ocean International Center, 58 East 4th Ring Road, Chaoyang District. (5908 0075); 2) On the banks of Luoma lake, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8049 8902) 马六甲传奇, 1) 朝阳区朝 阳区东四环路58号远洋国际中心B座1层; 2) 顺义 区后沙峪镇罗马湖畔 Orient Kitchen 1) 10am-11pm. 3 Jinrong Jie (Across from the Financial Street Shopping Center), Xicheng District. (6622 0072); 2) Daily 11am-11pm. S4-31, Bldg 4, Sanlitun Village South, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6417 4070) 小城知味, 1) 西城区金融街3号,金 融街购物中心对面; 2) 朝阳区三里屯路19号三里 屯Village南区4号楼S4-31
Thai Bali Papaya Bali Papaya offers authentic Indo-Thai cuisine in a venue sporting wooden décor paired with bright colors, contemporary Gamelan music and Indonesian and Thai art.
*listings in orange are new to Directories The flavors on offer are akin to the real deal - try the refreshing Thai Beef Salad with its zing of lemongrass and cilantro and the Indonesian Fried Rice set, which includes fried egg and chicken, along with tender peanut sauced chicken satay. The Thai Green Curry comes with a kick (rice, however, is not included). Daily 11am11pm. 2/F, Nali Patio, 81 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (5208 6029) 朝阳区 三里屯路81号那里花园2层 Serve the People This long-running Thai restaurant has a loyal crowd and the Sanlitun branch has a pleasant terrace. Menu items include mango salad, green chicken curry, pad thai and tom kha gai (coconut chicken soup, a blend of spicy, sour and sweet). The more spacious Shunyi location is elegantly decorated and overlooks a small lake, with a small lawn and kid’s playground equipment on the grounds, making it suitable for families and private parties. Voted “Outstanding Thai” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. 1) Daily 11am-11pm. Feijiacun Yuan, 8 Laiguangying Donglu (near the Cuigezhuang police station), Chaoyang District. (8470 4792); 2) Daily 10.30am-10.30pm. 1 Sanlitun Xiwujie (next to Athena), Chaoyang District. (8454 4580) 为人民服务, 1) 朝阳区来广营东路 8号费家村院(近崔各庄派出所); 2) 朝阳区三里 屯西五街1号
Vegetarian Elaine’s Vegetarian Restaurant and Bar Elaine’s quaint little garden supplies generous portions of Chinese vegetarian fare. The selection of over 100 well-portioned dishes, including the requisite imitation meat dishes (including imitation “duck,” recreated soy “chicken” and sizzling bogus “beef”) are popular with both vegetarian and carnivorous diners. Daily 11am2pm, 4.30-9.30pm. Walk 800m along the banks of Luoma Lake, 100m north of Luoma Roundabout, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8048 5088) 素 心小筑, 顺义区后沙峪镇罗马环岛向北100米左转, 沿罗马湖畔800米 Veg On 11am-10pm. Solana, 6 Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (5905 6301/6) 朝阳区朝阳区朝阳公园 路6号蓝色港湾国际商区
Family Health Directory Clinics & Hospitals Agape Counselling and Training Centre 9am-5pm. Room 1325, Golden Land Building, 32 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6467 2362 ext. 12) 爱在人间, 朝阳区亮马桥路32号 高斓大厦1325室 AmAsia International Medical Center Formerly known as American-Sino Hospital, AmAsia International Medical Center focuses on meeting women’s and children’s healthcare needs in a warm and relaxing environment. AmAsia uses the latest international medical technology and is staffed by English-speaking doctors experienced in the fields of obstetrics and gynecology. Nurses and midwives also speak English and the center can provide language services in both Japanese and Russian. Provides direct billing with most major international insurance providers, as well as allowing direct payments. Daily 24hrs. 218 Xiaoguan Beili, Anwai Dajie, east of Olympic Center, Chaoyang District. (6496 8888/5151) www. asog-beijing.com 东方美华医院, 朝阳区安外大 街小关北里218号( 奥体中心东) Amcare Women’s & Children’s Hospital This newly opened hospital near the Lido focuses on maternity services, women’s health and pediatrics. Foreign language support is available upon request.24-hr appointment service. 8am-4.30pm. 9 Fangyuan Xilu, Chaoyang District. (6434 2388 24hr hotline, 800 610 6200) www.amcare.com.cn 北京美中宜和妇儿 医院, 朝阳区朝阳区芳园西路9号 Bayley & Jackson Medical Center Provides families with a wide range of services, including routine cleanings, x-ray, fillings, whitening, crowns, bridges and cosmetic. Mon-Fri 9am6pm, Sat 9am-4pm. 7 Ritan Donglu, Chaoyang District. (8562 9998, after-hours emergencies
8562 9990) www.bjhealthcare.com 庇利积臣医 疗中心, 朝阳区日坛东路7号 Beijing Antai Maternity Hospital Founded in 2003, Beijing Antai Maternity Hospital is the first hospital in Beijing with a water birth center to allow natural births. The hospital also researches male and female infertility, recurrent miscarriage, endometriosis, and more. Daily 8.30am-5pm. Building 18, Court 1, Xingheyuan, Jiayuan Road, Fengtai District. (153 1127 2132 Guo Ping) www.antaihospital. com 北京安太妇产医院, 丰台区北京丰台嘉园路 星河城1号院18号楼 Beijing International SOS Clinic International standard clinic providing the full spectrum of medical services including family medicine, dental services, OB/GYN, ENT, ophthalmology, psychiatry, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and TCM. Staff is made up of highly trained professionals from all over the world. A 24hr call center provides medical assistance over the phone in English, Chinese and Japanese. The clinic has direct billing arrangements with all major insurance providers. Consultations cost USD 90. Daily 24hrs. Suite 105, Wing 1, Kunsha Building, 16 Xinyuanli, Chaoyang District. (6462 9112, 24hr: 6462 9100, china.inquiries@internationalsos.com) www.internationalsos.com 北京国际救援中心, 朝阳区新源里16号琨莎中心一座105室 Beijing Tiantan Puhua International Hospital A private, international-standard hospital offering a range of emergency services and out patient care. Beijing Tiantan Puhua Hospital has a full, English speaking staff on call 24hours. Medical services include: neurology and neurosurgery, Beijing’s only international standard podiatric center, occupational and physical theraphy, plastic surgery and and non-surgical cosmetic services, hand surgery, orthopedics, ENT, oncology, full physical check-ups starting at RMB 900, on-site imaging, laboratory and pharmacy services. Specialist consultations are RMB 200-800 and direct billing is available for more than 20 international insurance companies. 24-hour emergency care. 8.30am5.30pm. 12 Tiantan Nanli, Chongwen District, 800m west of the south gate of the temple of heaven, Chongwen District. (8911 6665, puhuachina@gmail.com) www.puhuachina. com, www.puhuachina.cn 北京天坛普华医院, 北京天坛普华体检中心, 崇文区天坛南里12号
Directories 7200) www.unitedfamilyhospitals.com 北京和 睦家医院, 1) 朝阳区朝阳区建国门外大街21号国 际俱乐部饭店地下1层; 2) 顺义区顺义区天竺房 地产开发区日祥社区818号; 3) 朝阳区朝阳区第 三使馆区二层; 4) 朝阳区将台路2号 Beijing United Family Shunyi Clinic Offers family medicine, a pediatric clinic, women’s health services, travel medicine, family counseling, physiotherapy and pediatric physiotherapy. Mon-Thu 9.30am-7.30pm, Fri-Sun 9.30am-4.30pm. Unit 806, Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District. (8046 5432, fax 8046 4383) www. unitedfamilyhospitals.com 北京和睦家医院诊所, 顺义区天竺开发区荣祥广场806号 Capital Children’s Clinic (Ritan) Pediatrics hospital offers a complete range departments, including respiratory, stomatology, internal medicine and TCM. Daily 24 hours. 2 Yabao Lu (across from west gate of Ritan Park), Chaoyang District. (8569 5755/5756/5757 (registration)/5555 (main switchboard)/5352) 首都儿科研究, 朝阳区朝阳区雅宝路2号 Chiropractic and Rehabilitation Dr. David Zhang is an American National Board Exam Certificated chiropractic doctor, a Texas licensed acupuncturist and herbalist, and a specialist in Chinese medicine. He provides chiropractic, physiotherapy, and other manual therapies for back pain, sciatica, and other conditions, as well as acupuncture and natural medicine treatments. Tue-Thu, Sat 9.30am6.30pm. S110, 1/F, Beijing Internal Medical Center, Lufthansa Center Office Building, 50 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6464 9828, 8448 3449) 北京国际医疗中心, 朝阳区 亮马桥路50号燕莎中心写字楼1层 S110 Hong Kong International Medical Clinic, Beijing Beijing’s first joint-venture medical organization operates according to international standards, has a high-quality international administration system, high-level medical staff, and warm service. A 24hr helpline offers medical support in English, Chinese and Japanese, and other languages on request. A basic
Family Health
consultation costs USD 58. Direct billing with 14 international insurers. Daily 9am-9pm (after 9pm minimal staff on duty). 9/F, office tower of the Swissotel, 2 Chaoyangmen Beidajie, Dongcheng District. (6501 4260, 6553 2288 ext 2345/6/7) www.hkclinic.com 北京港澳国际 医务诊所, 东城区朝阳门北大街2号港澳中心瑞士 酒店办公楼9层 International Medical Center (IMC) Foreign doctors on-site offering a wide range of medical services, including family medicine, psychological services, dental, Ob/Gyn, pediatrics and TCM. Drop-in services for travelers; x-rays and ultrasounds available on-site. English, Chinese, Arabic and Russian spoken. Daily 24hrs. S106, S111 Lufthansa Center, 50 Liangmahe Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465 1561/2/3, 6465 1384/28, markeing@imcclinics.com) http://www.imcclinics.com/ 北京国际医疗中心, 朝阳区亮马桥路50号燕莎中心写字楼1层S106 Naturopathic Medicine Dr. Melissa Rodriguez is a licensed, board certified Naturopathic Doctor from Ontario, Canada. She uses homeopathy, botanical medicine, nutrition, and other natural therapies that are effective and safe, to help her patients prevent illness and treat disease. Dr. Rodriguez is committed to working with you and your family to achieve your goals of optimal health. International Medical CenterBeijingRm S106, Lufthansa Center Office Building, 50 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465 1561) www.drmelissarodriguez. com 朝 阳区朝阳区亮马桥路50号燕莎中心写字楼1层S106 New Hope Oncology Center (Beijing United Family Hospital) Led by Dr Philip Brooks, this LEED-certified cancer center stresses an international approach and standard of treatment. Facilities include eight consultation rooms, eight comfortable areas to give chemotherapy and two other private rooms. Specializes in breast cancer, gastrointestinal cancers and lung cancer, but can treat all diagnoses. Treatments include chemotherapy and biologic therapy, as well as screening, prevention, diagnoses, surgical biopsies and imaging, stag-
Beijing United Family Jianguomen Health & Wellness Center Offers family medicine, counseling services, stress management, health screening, a dental clinic, and radiology, laboratory and cosmetic services. Mon-Fri 8.30am3.30pm. B1/F, the St. Regis Residence, the St. Regis Hotel, 21 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (8535 1221) www.unitedfamilyhospitals. com 北京和睦家健康中心, 朝阳区建国门外大街 21号北京国际俱乐部饭店公寓楼地下一层 Beijing United Family Hospital Beijing’s only private, international-standard hospital offering the full spectrum of inpatient and outpatient services. BJU has a team of over 60 certified expatriate and internationally trained physicians and surgeons. Clinics include pediatrics, OB/GYN, dental, ophthalmology, counseling, ENT, physiotherapy, TCM chiropractics and dermatology. It’s the first choice for many expatriates giving birth in China, and is the choice for referral from other hospitals without in-house birthing units. Wide range of medical and surgical specialties provided. The ICU and emergency room are open 24hrs. An independent blood bank operates on site. Direct billing is available with a range of insurance providers. Consultation fees for first-time patients are RMB 323-1,294. Fees for return patients are RMB 174-971. 1) Mon-Sat 8.30am-5pm; Sun 8.30am-midnight. St Regis Wellness Center. B1/F, 21 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (8532 1221); 2) Mon-Thurs 9.307.30pm, Fri-Sun 9.30am-4.30pm. 818, Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District. (8046 5432); 3) Mon-Fri noon8.30pm. 2/F Grand Summit, Dongfang Donglu, Chaoyang District. (5927 7005); 4) Mon-Sat 8.30am-5.30pm. 24-hour emergency care. 2 Jiangtai Lu (in the Lido area), Chaoyang District. (5927 7000, 5927 7120 (ER ), fax 5927
January/February 2011
beijingkids
91
Directories
Family Life
ing, significant surgical procedures, and they plan to introduce chemotherapy and radiation therapy regimens. The downstairs two floors will be for radiation therapy and house a linear accelerator. Mon-Sat 8.30am-5.30pm. Beijing United Family Hospital,9-11 Jiangtai Xilu, Chaoyang District. (5927 7021) http://www. unitedfamilyhospitals.com/tumor/Tumor-1.html 朝阳区朝阳区将台西路9-11 Sino-Japanese Friendship Hospital A state-run hospital with a foreigners’ wing that’s very pleasant. Medical staff speak English, but don’t always have overseas training. Registration is RMB 100-300. Inpatient services require a minimum RMB 10,000 deposit. Mon-Fri 8am-noon, 1.30-5pm, Sat 8-11.30am. 24hr emergency care. Yinghua Dongjie, Heping Jie Beikou, Hepingli, Chaoyang District. (6422 2952, 8420 5122 (both numbers are valid for International Dept.)) 北京中日友好医院, 朝阳 区和平里和平街北口樱花东街
family-oriented dental care including preventive, restorative and cosmetic dentistry in a modern office. Mon-Thu 9am-7.20pm, Fri-Sat 9am-5.30pm. 818 Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District. (8046 1102) 北京和睦家医院牙科诊所, 顺义区 天竺开发区荣祥广场818 Beijing United Family Dental, Orthodontics and Implant Center Provides comprehensive dental services for families, including cleaning, crown and bridges, dental implants, fillings, tooth whitening and more. 2 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District. (6433 3960, 8532 1221, 6433 2345 Emergency) 朝阳区将台路2号
The Ritz-Carlton Spa (Financial Street) Weary moms should visit this spa for a day of decadence and beauty treatments. Lounge in the rooms devoted entirely to relaxation, try the suite with Aquatherapy and a Vichy shower, and sample the 11 rooms of treatment. A variety of massages and an exclusive couples suite available. Daily 6am-11pm. B1/F, 1 Jinchengfang Dongjie, Financial Street, Xicheng District. (6629 6907) www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/BeijingFinancialStreet 丽思卡尔顿水疗中心, 西城区金城坊东街1号楼一层和底商
Tongrentang Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinic Tongrentang dates back to the Qing dynasty and is one of the most famous TCM pharmacies and clinics in China. No appointment necessary. Daily 8.30am-noon and 2-5pm. Rm 15, Bldg 7, Jianwai Soho, 39 Dongsanhuan Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (5869 1171/2, 135 2287 3781) 同仁堂施小墨中医馆, 朝阳区东三环中路39号建外Soho7号楼15室 Vista Medical Center Medical services including family and internal medicine, OB/GYN, pediatrics, dentistry, ophthalmology, dermatology, ENT, TCM, physiotherapy, psychiatry, imaging laboratory and pharmacy service. Also offers pre- and postnatal care and infant health check-ups. English-speaking staff onsite 24hrs a day. A consultation with a GP costs RMB 660. Direct billing with more than 40 international insurance providers. Daily 24hrs. B29, Kerry Centre, 1 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (8529 6618, fax 8529 6615, vista@vista-china. net) www.vista-china.net 维世达诊所, 朝阳区 光华路1号嘉里中心B29
Dentists Arrail Dental Clinic Offers the full spectrum of non-surgical dentistry. All dentists speak English and some have overseas training. The Haidian branch specializes in cosmetic dentistry and implants. A basic consultation costs RMB 100 (first-time registration including a check-up and consultation costs RMB 100). 1) Mon-Thu 9am-8pm, Fri-Sun 9am-5pm. Rm 201, The Exchange-Beijing, B118 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (6567 5670); 2) Mon-Thu 9am-5pm, Fri-Sun 9am-5pm. Rm 208, CITIC Bldg, 19 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6500 6472/3); 3) Mon-Thu 9am-5.30pm, Fri-Sun 9am-5pm. 1/F, Somerset Fortune Garden, 46 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (8440 1926/7/8); 4) Mon-Thu 9am-6pm, Fri-Sun 9am-5pm. Rm 308, Raycom Infotech Park, Tower A, 2 Kexueyuan Nanlu, Haidian District. (8286 1956, 24hr: 139 1100 1367) www.arrail-dental.com 瑞尔齿科, 1) 朝阳区建国路乙 118号京汇大厦201室; 2) 朝阳区建国门外大街 19号国际大厦208; 3) 朝阳区亮马桥路46号盛捷 福景苑1层; 4) 海淀区科学院南路2号融科资讯 中心A座308室 Beijing International SOS Dental, Orthodontics Clinic Provides comprehensive dental services for the whole family, including routine cleaning, X-rays, fillings, whitening, crowns, bridges and cosmetic makeovers. Mon-Sat 9am-5pm. Suite 105, Wing 1, Kunsha Building, 16 Xinyuanli, Chaoyang District. (6462 0333) 北京国际SOS齿科,畸齿矫正诊所, 朝阳区新源里 16号琨莎中心一座105室 Beijing United Family Dental Clinic The Beijing United Family Dental Clinic in Shunyi is a satellite clinic of Beijing United Family Hospital and Clinics. Services include: oral hygiene instruction, fissure sealant, and topical fluoride as well as restorative dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. Call for appointment.The Beijing United Family Dental Clinic is located around the corner in the same shopping center as the Beijing United Family Clinic. This convenient location in Pinnacle Plaza provides high quality
92
beijingkids
and local stylists, colorists and beauticians offer an holistic hair and beauty experience. The salon mixes French chic with modern simplicity to create a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere offering a wide range of hair services and beauty treatments, including manicures and pedicures, waxing and tanning. Referral and VIP programs available. 1) Daily 10am-8pm. Nali Mall, Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6417 3029, riviera@cdefrance.com); 2) 2/F, Riviera Plaza, 5 Laiguangying Donglu, Chaoyang District. (8470 4639, 150 1081 6856, riviera@cdefrance.com) C美发沙龙, 1) 朝阳 区三里屯路那里商城内; 2) 朝阳区来广营东路 5号香江广场2层
Support Groups Beijing Vista Dental Clinic Provides comprehensive dental services including teeth cleaning, whitening, gum treatment, white filling, crowns and bridges, root canal treatment, wisdom tooth extraction, orthodontics and implants. Daily 8.30am-6pm. Kerry Centre B29, 1 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (vista@vista-china.net) www.vistachina.net 朝阳区维世达诊所,朝阳区光华路1号 北京嘉里中心B29 Elite Dental Clinic Dr. Arnulf-Reimar Metzmacher provides dental care in Wangjing. English, German and French all spoken. A basic consultation costs RMB 100. Mon-Sat 9am5pm. Rm 205, Boya International Center, 1 Lize Zhongyi Lu, Wangjing, Chaoyang District. (8256 2568) www.bjelitedental.com 精致口腔, 朝阳区望京利泽中一路1号博雅国际中心205室 IMC Dental Clinic IMC dental clinic has the longest history of any expatriate dental service in Beijing. Provides general, cosmetic and restorative treatment. English, Chinese, Russian are spoken. Mon-Sat 9am-5pm. S111, Lufthansa Center, 50 Liangmahe Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465 1384, 6465 1328, marketing@imcclinics. com) 北京国际医疗中心牙科诊所, 朝阳区朝阳 区亮马桥路50 号燕莎中心写字楼1层S111
Prenatal & Postnatal Yoga Fine Yoga Kids’ yoga on Sundays 2-3pm. Daily 7am-9pm. Kids’ yoga on Sundays 2-3pm. Rm 501, 5/F, Bldg A, Soho New Town, 88 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (8589 6474, 5900 3192, 139 1176 7521) www.fine-yoga.com 梵 音瑜珈, 朝阳区建国路88号Soho现代城A座501室 The Yurt at BJU Body libria is a new form of exercise that combines tai chi, yoga and pilates and replaces prenatal and mother-baby yoga classes at Beijing United Family Hospital. Instruction is in English. Call for details about class times. 2 Jiangtai Lu (at Beijing United Family Hospital, in the Lido area), Chaoyang District. (Contact 139 1050 3032) www.unitedfamilyhospitals.com 北京和睦家医院, 朝阳 区将台路2号
Spas Bodhi Therapeutic Retreat The two locations offer a variety of massage therapies, facials treatments and spa packages provided by skilled and experienced Chinese and Thai therapists. Prices range from RMB 100 to RMB 880. Daily 11am-12.30am. 17 Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6417 9595) www.bodhi. com.cn 菩提会所, 朝阳区工体北路17号 Catherine de France Hair and Beauty Salon The C. de France team of international
January/February 2011
La Leche League Information and support for breastfeeding mothers. Monthly meetings are held in English, Chinese and French. Call for more information on meeting schedules or for breastfeeding help. (8559 1237, xiaohua68847@yahoo.com) Special Child Support Group This Yahoo group offers a meeting place for Beijing parents with special-needs children. Call 5130 3931 for info. (special_child_beijingsubscribe@yahoogroups.com) http://groups. yahoo.com/group/special_child_beijing/ The Nutritioneer Nutritionist Olivia Lee helps make eating better easier for you and your family. She provides a variety of personal and group nutrition counseling and coaching services, including: Group counseling workshops, corporate wellness nutrition talks; and helping individuals and families cope with the nutritional challenges of living in Beijing through counseling, supermarket familiarization tours and ayi coaching. (1581 082 2296, thenutritioneer@gmail.com) nutritioneer.net The Yin Yang Community Center Mon-Sat 8am-8pm, Sun 8am-5pm. The First Courtyard, Hegezhuang Village (across from The Orchard; call for directions), Chaoyang District. (6431 2108) www.yinyangbeijing.com 易 阴阳社 区中心, 朝阳区崔各庄乡何各庄村一号院(果 园对面)
Family Life Adoption Bridge of Love Adoption Service This government-run agency facilitates travel to the adoption site, as well as consulting, document translation and travel arrangements within China. Zhongmin Mansion, 7 Baiguang Lu, Xuanwu District. (6357 5792, 6358 9988 ext 1207) www.china-blas.org 爱之桥收养中 心, 宣武区白广路7号中民大厦 China Center of Adoption Affairs The government agency responsible for adoptions. The agency usually prefers to work with adoption agencies rather than with individual applicants, and does not talk to adoptive parents directly. Their website, however, is a good resource. 7 Baiguang Lu, Xuanwu District. (6357 5785) www.china-caa.org/frames/ index_unlogin_en.jsp 中国收养中心, 宣武区白 广路7号中民大厦 Karen Friedman Karen Friedman works with expats from around the world to facilitate adoption within China, conducting home study evaluations and assisting families throughout the adoption process. (5130 3107, 134 3900 9391, expat_adoption@yahoo.com) OCDF Adoption This division of Our Chinese
Daughters Foundation provides initial consultation, assistance throughout the process, and help with travel plans and proceedings at the time of adoption.(8403 4979, michael@ocdf.org), www.ocdf.org/adoption
Community Groups and Organizations International Newcomers’ Network A networking and information resource for all newcomers to Beijing. Meetings are held on the last Monday of each month except December. Function Rm, 3/F, Athletic Center, Capital Mansion, 6 Xinyuan Nanlu, Chaoyang District. (8486 2225 ext 110, innbeijing@hotmail. com) www.innbeijing.org 朝阳区新源南路6号 京城大厦康乐中心3层 Vegan Social Club Organizes social networking events (including a regular Thursday dinner) to promote a healthy and ecologically responsible lifestyle. (vegansocialclub@gmail. com) vegansocialclub.com
Domestic Help Beijing Ayi Housekeeping Service A family membership in this housekeeping service will give you access (with an additional fee) to a large pool of ayis who perform services such as babysitting, cooking and cleaning. Englishspeaking ayis available. Lifetime membership: RMB 300; price range: RMB 1,000-3, 000 per month. (6434 5647/48) www.bjayi.com 北京 家福来劳务服务 Century Sunshine Domestic Services Provides both hourly and live-in ayis; different ayis can provide different services. Englishspeaking ayis are available, although for a higher price. Price range: RMB 10-15 per hour (RMB 7-8 per hour with a yearly RMB 120 membership); live-in RMB 500-4,000 per month. (6845 4005/6871 5549, 133 6627 3898) www.365service.com.cn 北京世纪阳光 家政服务有限公司 JNY Home Service A professional housekeeping service company, they provide placement services for foreign families seeking full-time or part-time ayis in Beijing. Ayis are available for cleaning, ironing, cooking and babysitting. Some basic English-speaking ayis are available. Reference letters available. Part time RMB15-25 per hour,full time RMB2,500-3,500 per month. Rm 909A, Hua Shang Bldg,2 Yanjing Xili,Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. www.saybeijing.cn 朝阳区 朝阳区延静西里2号华商大厦909A室
Religious Organizations & Places of Worship Beijing International Christian Fellowship (BICF) BICF (Beijing International Christian Fellowship) is an international non-denominational church in Beijing China with people from over 70 nations. It is Multicultural, Bible-centered gathering for foreign passport holders. Services are conducted in 9 different languages including Korean, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, Russian, English, Chinese, Frech, etc. Visitors can attend Sunday services and classes in multiple locations. (8454 3468, information@bicf.org) www.bicf.org 北 京国际基督教联合会 Dongsi Mosque The city’s second largest mosque is the headquarters of the Beijing branch of the China Islamic Association and houses valuable Islamic manuscripts in its library. 13 Dongsi Nandajie, Dongcheng District. (6525 7824) 东四清真寺, 东城区东 南大街13号 Kehillat Beijing Members are predominantly Conservative, Reform or Reconstructionist, but this lay-led, egalitarian Jewish congregation welcomes all Jews to its services on Fridays at 7pm. RSVP for the community dinners afterwards at 8pm. Also runs weekly discussions. 3/F Ballroom, Capital Club Athletic Center, Capital Mansion, 6 Xinyuan Nanli, Chaoyang District. (8486 2225) www.
Directories
*listings in orange are new to Directories sinogogue.org 一赐乐业犹太社团, 朝阳区新 源南里6号京城大厦(华都饭店对面)京城俱乐部 康身中心3层 The River of Grace Church Sunday Services begin at 10am and are open to all foreign passport holders. 2/F, Great Hotel, 1 Zuojiazhuang, Chaoyang District. (6466 1680, info@theriverofgrace.com) www.theriverofgrace.com 朝阳区左家庄1号北京贵国酒店二层
Supermarkets April Gourmet Chain of stores purveying imported cheeses, olives and cold cuts, as well as staples like dried pasta, canned tomatoes (and beans) and cereal. Prices can be high for goods that can seem a bit shopworn. The Shunyi branch offers a small but constant “specials” section, which often features imported cookies and filter coffee. 1) 8am9pm. Outside South Gate of Capital Paradise, Shunyi District. (8046 4132); 2) Bldg 7, Richmond Park, 9 Fangyuan Xili, Chaoyang District. (8457 8116); 3) Daily 8am-midnight. 1/F Jiezuo Mansion, Xingfucun Zhonglu, Sanlitun, Chaoyang District. (6417 7970); 4) Daily 8am-9pm. 1 Sanlitun Beixiaojie, Chaoyang District. (8455 1245) 绿叶子食品店, 1) 顺义 区后沙峪乡白辛庄名都园南门外; 2) 朝阳区朝 阳区芳园西里9号院丽都水岸会所7号楼; 3) 朝 阳区三里屯幸福村中路杰作大厦1层; 4) 朝阳区 三里屯北小街1号 Lee Pet PetSmart, America’s largest retailer of pet products and services, operates on this side of the globe under the name Lee Pet. Its Chaowai Soho branch is now Beijing’s largest pet store, offering not only a diverse range of imported products, but also in-house grooming (RMB 20-50), photography (from RMB 100) and kennel services (from RMB 50/day). Mon-Fri 10am-9pm, Sat-Sun 10am-9.30pm. 1) Bldg 4, Landgent Chateau, Guangqu Lu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (8776 9602); 2) Rm 4119, 4F, Golden Resources Shopping Mall,1 Yuanda Lu, Haidian District, Haidian District. (8887 0706); 3) Unit 3097, Bldg A, Chaowai Soho, 6 Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (5900 5499) www. leepet.com 乐宠, 1) 朝阳区朝阳区广渠路33号 石韵浩庭04号楼04底商; 2) 海淀区乐宠金源新 燕莎MALL店,海淀区远大路1号金源燕莎购物中 心4层西侧4119(停车楼4层E28口); 3) 朝阳区 朝阳门外大街6号朝外SOHO A座3层3097 World Health Store 1) Mon-Fri 10.30am8pm, Sat-Sun 10am-7.30pm. Rm 2152, 1st Floor, Section A, North Tower, Soho Shangdu, 8 Dongdaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (5900 2209, info@worldhealthstore. com.cn); 2) Mon-Thur 10am-8pm, Fri & Sat 10.30am.8.30pm, Sun 10.30am-8pm. R09A, LB1, Euro Plaza, 99 Yuxiang Lu, Tianzhu Zhen, Shunyi District. (8046 2524, info@worldhealthstore.com.cn) www.worldhealthstore.com.cn 世界健康品店, 1) 朝阳区 东大桥路8号SOHO尚都北塔A座一层2152; 2) 顺 义区天竺镇裕翔路99号欧陆广场地下一层09A
Veterinarians Doctors Beck & Stone Pet Health Care Center Get full, international standard, pet care with open Western and highly trained Chinese veterinarians, nurses and medical technicians. Hospitals are also emergency crisis centers. Ambulances available for collection and drop off of pets. Daily, 24 hours. 1) Shop LB05, Euro Plaza,99 Yu Xiang Lu, Shunyi District, Shunyi District. (8046 2886, 135 0103 0572 (emergencies)); 2) Unit 104, Tower B, Bldg 3, Houxiandaicheng, BaiziwanLu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (8776 6346, 135 0103 0572 (emergencies)) www.vetinChina.com 思威(北京)国际动物 医院有限公司, 1) 顺义区顺义区天竺镇 裕祥路 99号欧陆广场LB05; 2) 朝阳区北京市朝阳区百 子湾路后现代城3栋B座104底商 International Center for Veterinary Services (ICVS) ICVS is a professionally managed, full service international standard veterinary hospital. Services include internal medicine, hospitalization, spay/neuter and
all other surgeries, dentistry, dermatology, blood tests, laboratory diagnostics, X-rays, ultrasound, legal vaccinations, prescription pet foods, obedience training, import/export advice, pet adoption counseling and more. Boarding kennel, grooming salon and pet shop available. All services in Mandarin and English. Licensed rabies vaccinations. Mon-Sat 8am-8pm; Sun 10am-7pm (by appointment). Kent Center, 29 Liangmaqiao Lu, Anjialou (shares a courtyard with China Culture Center), Chaoyang District. (8456 1939/1940/1941, ICVS_CHINA@yahoo.com) www.ICVSASIA.com 北京新天地国际动物医院, 朝阳区安家楼亮马桥路29号肯特中心院子内
Family Travel Directory Hotels, Hostels and Resorts Commune by The Great Wall Kempinski Before a day of hiking, parents can drop off their kids at the Commune of the Children, which offers full- and half-day programs featuring swimming, storytelling, crafts and more (RMB 150-290). Rooms RMB 2,340-3,200; villas RMB 12,500-23,380. Daily 9.30am-4.30pm. The Shuiguan Great Wall exit on the Badaling Expressway, Yanqing County. (8118 1888 ext 5706) www.commune.com.cn 长城脚下的公社, 延庆县八达岭高速路水关长城出口 Hilton Beijing The Hilton allows non-members to use its tennis courts and squash courts from 6.30-10.30am. Free (members), RMB 200 per hour (non-members), RMB 20 (lighting fee for night tennis). Daily 6.30am10.30pm. 1 Dongfang Lu, Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6466 2288) http://www1. hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/BJSHITW-HiltonBeijing-hotel/index.do 希尔顿酒店, 朝阳区东三 环北路东方路1号 Hilton Beijing Wangfujing Recently voted the ‘World’s Leading Lifestyle Hotel’ for the second year running at the prestigious World Travel Awards, the Hilton Beijing Wangfujing hotel offers some of the largest hotel rooms in the city. 89 Wangfujing Dongjie, Dongcheng District. (5812 8888) www.hilton.com 东城区北 京王府井希尔顿酒店 Langham Place Beijing Capital Airport Langham Place Beijing Capital Airport boasts “372 spacious, stylish guest rooms and suites;” dining options, including Ming Court and Fuel Bar and Grill; a location just one minute from Beijing Capital Airport Terminal 3; a 24-hour gym and cardio studio; 22 function rooms, including a ballroom and various multipurpose rooms; and the 24-hour private Club L Lounge offering “two floors of sleek luxury and an intimate, upscale vibe.” 1 Er Jing Lu, Terminal 3 Capital International Airport, Shunyi District. (6457 5555) http://beijingairport. langhamplacehotels.com/ The Ritz-Carlton Old World elegance, plush comfort – everything you’d expect from this hallowed name, including impeccable restaurants such as the internationally themed Aroma and Yu (Cantonese/Sichuan). www. ritzcarlton.com. China Central Place, 83A Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District (5908 8888); 朝阳区 华贸中心建国路甲83号 The Westin Beijing Chaoyang Fantastic location and first class amenities make the Westin Chaoyang one of Beijing’s premiere luxury hotels. All 550 guest rooms and suites are oversized and feature quality contemporary furnishings including the signature Heavenly Bed® and rainforest shower as well as wireless High Speed Internet Access. 7 Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (5922 8888) 金茂北京威斯汀大饭店, 朝阳区东三环北路7号 Westin Beijing Financial Street This megahotel on Financial Street (West Second Ring Road) has spared no expense in meeting the high expectations of its well-heeled clientele, from its vast lobby and elegantly appointed rooms to its opulent spa and pool. The Westin also boasts seven restaurants and bars – including Senses, which offers what many cognoscenti consider to be Beijing’s most
decadent Sunday brunch. RMB 1,500-21,100. 9B Jinrong Jie (Financial Street), Xicheng District., Xicheng District. (6606 8866) 威斯汀大酒 店, 西城区金融街乙9号 Yanxiang Hotel
Travel Agencies Beijing Citybus Tour Service Daily 9am8pm. Rm 1207, Scitech Tower, 22 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (400 650 0760) www.citybustour.com 北京赛笛芭诗城市观光旅 行社, 朝阳区建国门外大街22号赛特大厦1207室 Beijing Easy Travel Travel service with a decade of experience offering domestic and international packages to foreigners in Beijing. 1/F, Boutique 17, Hairun International Apartment, 2B Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District. (5126 7266, rsvn@easytravel.cn, easytravelbj@yahoo.com) www.easytravel.cn 朝阳区将台路乙2号海润国际公寓商业1-17 Beijing Hikers Hikes in rural villages near Beijing. Call for info on hikes and what to bring. Prices may vary for overnight hikes; weekend hikes are RMB 250/300 (adult), half price for children under 12, including round-trip transport, snacks and beverages after the hike, detailed map of the route and professional guides. Mon-Fri 9am-6pm. Rm 601, Bldg 2, Xinhualian Ligang, 26 Jiuxianqiao Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (6432 2786, info@beijinghikers.com) www.beijinghikers. com 朝阳区酒仙桥中路26号新华联丽港2号楼 601室 Global Easy Tour A professional and reliable travel agency. Offering travel and ticketing consultation services, tailored tour packages, leisure trips, cruise bookings, special ticketing, hotel deals, and more. Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 10am-4pm. A0611, Free Tower, 58, Dongsanhuan Nanlu, Chaoyang District. (5867 2900/1/2/3, 135 0115 6019, travel@globaleasytour.com) www.globaleasytour.com 和平国旅, 朝阳区东三环南路58号富 顿中心A0611 Kingdom Travel This bilingual outfit arranges domestic and business air tickets, family vacation packages and weekend escapes. Apt 718, Bldg 2, Guanghualu Soho, 22 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (5870 3388, fit@kingdomtravel.com.cn) www.kingdomtravel.com.cn 中侨国旅, 朝阳区光华路22号光华 路SOHO 2号楼718室 Mercurius World Travel Services A personalized and friendly travel agent that will provide continued English-language support for all of your international and domestic travel needs. 16G, Bldg B, Oriental Kenzo Plaza, 48 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Dongcheng District (5139 6161, info@m-worldtravel.com) www. m-worldtravel.com; 东城区东城区东直门外大街 48号东方银座B座16G Sunflower Travel Specializes in leisure and business travel, offering international and domestic trips, and customized trips to create a unique travel experience. 22D, Bldg B, Ginza Mall, 48 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Dongcheng District (8447 6361, tours@sunflowertravelcn.com) www.sunflowertravel-cn.com; 东城区 东直门外大街48号东方银座B座22D) TUI China Travel Co. Ltd. With its extensive international network, this German-Chinese joint venture can arrange personalized tours to destinations both domestic and worldwide. Unit 921-926, Bright China Chang An Bldg, Tower 2, 7 Jianguomennei Dajie, Dongcheng District. (8519 8800, private-tours@tui.cn) www.tui.cn 途易, 东城区建国门内大街7号光华 长安大厦2座921-926
Fun Stuff Directory Animal Attractions Beijing Zoo The conditions for the animals in the zoo and the behavior of some local patrons may upset animal lovers. However, things are improving, as the new chimpanzee and panda houses testify, and most kids
Family Travel
will be oblivious to the zoo’s shortcomings and enjoy the vast collection of animals and the leafy compound, which was the former private garden of a Qing dynasty aristocrat. Apr-Oct: RMB 15, RMB 8 (students). NovMar: RMB 10, RMB 5 (students), free (kids under 1.2m). RMB 5 for Panda House. Daily 7.30am-5pm (winter), 7.30am-6pm (summer). 137 Baishiqiao Lu, Xizhimenwai Dajie, Haidian District. (6831 4411) www.bjzoo.com 北京动物园, 海淀区西外大街白石桥路137号 Blue Zoo Beijing Not to be confused with either the Beijing Aquarium or the Beijing Zoo, the Blue Zoo is actually an aquarium with an enormous coral reef tank containing eels, tuna, shark, stingrays and (we swear we’re not making this up) the occasional underwater marriage ceremony. RMB 85, RMB 55 (kids under 12 years old), free (kids under 1m). Daily 8am-7.30pm (summer), daily 8.30am-6.30pm (winter). Workers’ Stadium South Gate, Chaoyang District. (6591 3397) www.blue-zoo.com 富国海底世界, 朝阳区工 人体育场南门
Excursions Commune by The Great Wall Kempinski With a swimming pool, mini kitchen, meadow, TV room and arts and crafts center, the Commune of the Children at this nouveau kibbutz is all about play. If your kids aren’t up to a serious hike, drop them off here to be entertained with storytelling, games, cooking, painting and more. RMB 290 (kids, full-day package), RMB 150 (kids, half-day package), free for accompanying adults. Daily 9.30am4.30pm. The Shuiguan Great Wall exit on the Badaling Expressway, Yanqing County. (8118 1888 ext 5706) www.commune.com.cn 长城 脚下的公社, 延庆县八达岭高速路水关长城出口 Fragrant Hills Park (Xiangshan) Daily 6am-6pm (winter), 6am-6.30pm (summer). RMB 10, RMB 5 (students). Xiangshan, Haidian District. (6259-1155) 香山公园, 海淀 区香山 The Schoolhouse at Mutianyu This renovated elementary school proves there is more to Mutianyu than just the Great Wall. Located 90mins northeast of Beijing (via Jingcheng expressway) and offering a restaurant with fresh local ingredients, art glass studio and art room and is a creative way for the family to escape the city. Daily 7-10am, 3-5pm. Mutianyu Village (for detailed directions see website), Huairou District. (6162 6506) www. theschoolhouseatmutianyu.com 慕田峪小园餐 厅, 怀柔区慕田峪 (具体路线请查看网站信息)
Museums & Education China Science and Technology Museum An oasis of educational fun. Featuring hands-on exhibits, robots, optical illusions, IMAX films (in Chinese only) and more, this museum is popular with school-age kids, but is not as cutting edge as the planetarium or ExploraScience. There’s a vast, well-equipped indoor play area on the third and fourth floors of Building B, which can be mobbed by rugrats, so exercise common sense about when to visit. RMB 30, RMB 15 (students), free (kids under 1.2m); Building B: RMB 30, RMB 20 (students), free (kids under 1.2m). TueSun 9am-4.30pm, extended hours for special events (ticket selling 8.30am- 3.30pm). 1 Beisanhuan Zhonglu (Beisanhuan at Anhua Qiao – look for the geodesic dome), Xicheng District. (6237 1177 ext 3216) www.cstm.org. cn 中国科技馆, 西城区北三环中路1号 Sony ExploraScience Kids of all ages are sure to love this technologically sophisticated museum’s host of interactive displays, including robotic dogs who play soccer, musical sculptures, sound and light distortion machines, soap bubble rings and much more. The staff regularly host live science shows in Chinese. RMB 30 (adults), RMB 20 (students), free (kids under 1.2m); buy your tickets at the museum booth outside the park’s south or east gates and you won’t have to buy park
January/February 2011
beijingkids
93
Directories
Fun Stuff tickets as well. Mon-Fri 9.30am-6pm, Sat-Sun 9am-7.30pm, closed on second Mon and Tue of each month. Inside Chaoyang Park (near the south gate), Chaoyang District. (6501 8800) www.explorascience.com.cn 索尼探梦, 朝阳区朝阳公园里(南门) The Magic Bean House The Magic Bean House is the first American-designed Children’s Museum in China. Exhibits include Tale of Magic Bean, Fantasy Forest, Green Foods, Bricks and Blocks, Car Service, World of Water, Experimental Hall, Toddler Land, Art Gallery and more. Weekdays 10am-6pm; Weekends 9am-8pm. 7 Chaoyang Park Xilu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. www. magicbeanhouse.com 豆豆家科技馆, 朝阳区 朝阳区朝阳公园西路7号 Ullens Center for Contemporary Art (UCCA) RMB 15 (adults). Free on Thursdays. Free for students and children under 1.3 meters Tue-Sun 10am-7pm. 798 Dashanzi Art District, 4 Jiuxianqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (8459 9269) www.ucca.org.cn 尤伦斯当代艺 术中心, 朝阳区酒仙桥路4号大山子艺术区
Parks & Gardens Beihai Park This park is a good example of a classic Yuan dynasty imperial garden and has the benefit of being good to visit in all seasons. Ticket: RMB 10 (April-Oct); RMB 5 (Nov-March). Half-price for students. Daily 6.30am-8pm (Nov-March); 6am-9pm (April, May, Sept, Oct); 6am-10pm (June-Aug). 1 Wenjin Jie, Xicheng District. (6403 1102) www.beihaipark.com.cn 北海公园, 西城区 文津街1号 Ditan Park When it’s not being used as an exhibition space, the park’s centenarian cypress provide nice shade in summer, making it a pleasant destination for an urban picnic. The children’s activities are concentrated in the north end and include a go-cart track, bouncy castle, merry-go-round and abrasively loud electronic games. There’s also a fishing stream with magnetic fish for toddlers and a goldfish pond. Note that the Ditan Ice Arena, where you can teach your brood how to curl, is just east of the park’s north gate. The area outside the south gate is popular with kite masters. RMB 2, RMB 1 (students). Daily 6am-9pm. A2, Andingmenwai Dajie, Dongcheng District. (6421 4657) www.dtpark.com 地坛公园, 东城区安定门外大街甲2号 Houhai Okay, so it isn’t a park. And we’ve taken the liberty of referring to two lakes (Qianhai and Houhai) with the name of the latter. These provisos aside, Houhai merits inclusion because of its family-friendly atmosphere, especially in winter, when the frozen lake looks like a scene by some modern-day Brueghel, with families and couples skating, playing ice hockey, and jubilantly riding on ice chairs and other phantasmagoric contraptions. There’s an old school amusement area with trampolines, electric cars and a dragon train on the southwest bank near Kong Yiji. Dianmenwai Dajie (aka Ping’an Dadao), across from the north gate of Beihai Park, Xicheng District. 后海地区, 西城区地安门外大 街(北海公园北门对面)
Places Beidong Floriculture Garden Find plants, seeds, garden ornaments, pots and related curios. Daily 8.30am-6.30pm (summer); 9am5.30pm (winter). 150m south of Sundahe Qiao, Jingshun Lu, Shunyi District, Shunyi District. 孙和大北东花艺苑, 顺义区顺义区京顺 路孙大河桥南150米 De Run Wu Translating as “House of Virtue,” this family-run organic farm consists of a greenhouse growing over 100 types of crops year-round. Visitors can purchase produce for RMB 20 per kilo (minimum 4 kilos) and they deliver for an additional RMB 20 on two runs a week. They also sells organic detergents, soap nuts, natural cleaners and more. Rm 813, 60 Shunhuang Lu, Danshui Town, Chaoyang District. (8459 0809,
94
beijingkids
January/February 2011
jiyunliang@vip.163.com) 朝阳区朝阳区顺黄 路60号 Laitai Flower Market The cut bunches and potted plants in the basement will brighten anyone’s day. Expect to pay around RMB 40 for a trailing ivy and RMB 50 for a small bonsai tree. And you can also pick up some tropical fish on the first floor. Mon-Thu 9am-6pm, Fri 9am-6.30 pm, Sat-Sun 9am-7pm. 9 Maizidian Xilu, Chaoyang District. (6463 6145) 莱 太花卉市场, 朝阳区麦子店西路9号 Theresa’s Farm Seasonal, local organic produce available to order from Beijing’s first farm with a self-sustaining ecosystem, and the first organic farm certified both in cultivation and animal feeding in China. Get free delivery inside the 5th ring road every Friday.Order 3 days in advance and pay RMB 1000 upfront, then all orders are deducted from this prepayment.All food is free of chemical pesticides, herbicides, fungicides or any other nasty things. Order from a variety of luscious fruits: apricots, cherries, peaches, pears, prunes and more, grains and vegetables in rotation too. (1370 1277 398, will2bdone@yahoo.com)
Play Centers 3iart Center Offers a range of art classes for children, teenagers and adults such as drawing, painting, clay modeling, needlework, Chinese calligraphy, knot making and paper cutting. 1) 2/F, Block A, Hairun International Apartment, Jiangtai Lu,, Chaoyang District. (134 3983 3280, 3iartcenter@gmail.com); 2) 1/F, Bldg 3, Shidai Zhiguang Xiaoqu, 45 Xizhimen Beidajie, Haidian District. (134 3983 3280, 3iartcenter@gmail.com) www.3iart. com.cn 爱立方艺术中心, 1) 朝阳区将台海润国 际公寓A座2层; 2) 海淀区西直门北大街45号时 代之光小区3号楼一层 Beyou World This is a colorful interactive educational center, where children participate in role-play and real-world simulations of dayto-day life. Staff can speak English. Bldg A-3F, China Career International Center, 39 East Fourth Ring Rd Central, Chaoyang District (8571 1199) www.beyou.cn (Chinese) 朝阳区 京顺路52号比如世界
Playgroups & Activities Family Fun With Yuliya Offers a variety of classes and events for kids ages 0-14 years old and adults. Classes include Kindermusik, Salsa Babies, Zumba Fitness, Infant Massage Courses and special monthly events. Also hosts birthday parties. (136 2135 4114, info@familyfunwithyuliya.com) www.familyfunwithyuliya.com German Playgroup Parents and children under 5 get together to sing, play and learn about German language and culture. RMB 200/ 10 times. Mon 4-5.30pm. At the Children’s Learning Center of Beijing, Unit 3056 Gahood Villa, Baixinzhuang, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8046 7082, Eng: 136 7115 1760, Chi: 136 1133 4043) www.clcbkids.com 顺义区后沙峪白辛庄嘉浩商住别墅3056单元 Kexue Communications Provides science shows, workshops, parties and functions for children and adults. Apt 1262, Door 1, Bldg 1, 7Hao Yuan, Taiyanggong Nanlu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (8415 5034, 134 3938 8329, info@kexuecommunications.com) www.kexuecommunications.com 朝阳区朝阳 区太阳宫南街7号院1号楼1单元26层1262 My Little Mozart Studio Comprehensive music program offering keyboard, violin, guitar, vocal and other instrumental lessons. Group and private classes taught by qualified and experienced teachers. Music and movement classes for ages 0-4. Curriculum focuses on providing a well balanced music education for every student. Harmony Road music course is offered at the studio. Musical birthday parties can also be arranged. Room 108, Building 5, Lishui Jiayuan, Liulitun, Chaoyang District. (135 2256 3767, Kristinko
*listings in orange are new to Directories h@mylittlemozart.com) www. mylittlemozart. com 朝阳区六里屯丽水嘉园5号楼108室
Theme Parks Happy Valley Amusement Park Beijing’s best amusement park sprawls out across a square kilometer of land outside the East Fourth Ring Road and offers 40 rides, an IMAX theater, more than 100 games and seven cinemas. The park is divided into a number of themed areas inspired by such civilizations as Mayan Central America, Minoan Greece and Shangri-la – the little kiddies play in Ant Kingdom. The roller coasters are world class, the park is well maintained, and the lines for rides are fairly reasonable. RMB 160 (April 1-Nov 14); RMB 120 (Nov 15-March 31). Half price for kids 1.2-1.4m, free for kids under 1.2m. Daily 8.30am-10pm. Wuji Beilu, Dongsihuan Lu, Chaoyang District. (6738 9898 ext 0, 6205 0088, happyvalley@bjoct. com) http://bj.happyvalley.com.cn/park/ 北京 欢乐谷, 朝阳区东四环路小武基北路
School Directory School fees listed are for one academic year unless otherwise. Specified.Abbreviations: IB = International Baccalaureate; ESOL = English as a Second or Other Language 3e International This Lido-area school offers a bilingual, bicultural curriculum that fuses Western and Eastern approaches to teaching and focuses on the development of the child as a whole. Preschool, kindergarten, and elementary students spend half the day in an English classroom with Western teachers and the other half in a Chinese classroom with Chinese teachers. The Nursery program is a play-based, active learning program taught by Chinese and Western teachers in bilingual classrooms. The aim is to help children build fluency in speaking, reading, and writing Mandarin and English. 3e features well-designed classrooms, an outdoor space with natural surroundings, a multipurpose field, Chinese/English lending library, indoor dance/gym space, and an art studio. Visit the school to learn more about its research-based curriculum covering English and Mandarin Language Arts, Cognitive Development, Creative Arts, Global and Cultural Competence, Intrapersonal and Interpersonal Knowledge, and Physical Development. Ages: 2-9. Price range: RMB 69,800-118,800. 9-1 Jiangtai Xilu, Chaoyang District. (6437 3344 ext 127) www.3eik.com 3e国际学校, 朝阳区将台西路9-1号 Asia-Pacific Experimental School of Beijing Normal University Asia-Pacific Experimental School of Beijing Normal University is located on the south bank of the Wenyu River on Litang Lu, to the north of the Olympic Village. It has both primary and middle schools and provides for both day school students and boarders. The campus covers 80,000 square meters and includes middle and primary school classroom buildings, laboratory building, science and technology building, library, gym, student residence halls, various types of special classrooms, counseling room, and electronic reading room. There are 51 classes, 1,600 students, more than 200 teaching staff. The school’s administration is managed by Beijing Normal University and the teaching staff by Beijing Xicheng District Educational Committee. Dong San Qi, Changping District. (5109 4888, 6975 9602) http://www.yataischool.net/ 昌平区地铁5号线天 通苑北站,换乘643或537路,到北京太阳城站,路 口向东直走,穿过北京服装学院即到 Beanstalk International Bilingual School (BIBS) Beanstalk International Bilingual School offers a unique bilingual program combining the strengths of Western and Eastern educational philosophies. In the Elementary School 70% of classes are taught in English and 30% are taught in Chinese. BIBS accept students from pre-kindergarten to Grade 10 and will soon have a grade 11 class. BIBS have created a loving, caring and supportive learning environment to foster creativity, drive and a love of learning. They instill a passion for academic achievement and encourage behavioral and social responsibil-
Directories
Schools
ity. BIBS students are encouraged to embrace multiculturalism and international awareness. Beanstalk Kindergarten and Elementary schools currently deliver the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) program. At our High school we teach a North American curriculum and have begun the process of adopting the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years and Diploma Programs. 1) Upper East Side, 6 Dongsihuan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (5130 7951); 2) 1/F, Bldg B, 40 Liangmaqiao Lu (at the 21st Century Hotel), Chaoyang District. (6466 9255); 3) 38 Nan Shiliju, Chaoyang District. (8456 6019) www.bibs.com.cn 青苗国际双语学校, 1) 朝阳区 东四环北路6号阳光上东; 2) 朝阳区朝阳区亮马 桥路40号21世纪饭店院内B座1层; 3) 朝阳区朝阳 区南十里居38号 Beijing BISS International School Founded in 1994, BISS offers the IB program (PYP, MYP and DP) to about 400 students from over 40 countries. Mandarin classes are compulsory from grades K-5; ESOL support is offered when necessary. The campus is wireless enabled and houses a library, dance come drama studio, visual arts center, design and technology studio, computer and science labs, and sports facilities. Grades: K to 12. Price range: RMB 96,000-172,000. Registration fee: RMB 3,800; refundable deposit: RMB 18,000-RMB 23,000; and ESOL fee of RMB 15,800 that is refundable upon completing two full academic years. Bldg 17, Area 4, Anzhen Xili (just off Beisanhuan), Chaoyang District. (6443 3151, admissions@biss.com.cn) www.biss.com.cn 北 京BISS国际学校, 朝阳区安贞西里四区17号楼 Beijing City International School Founded in 2005, BCIS is an authorized school for the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program, Middle Years Program and IB Diploma. All students attend daily Chinese language and culture lessons. BCIS has an inclusive admissions policy and any students with ESOL needs are supported by the ESOL department. The school’s 51,000 square meter campus boasts an indoor swimming pool and rock-climbing wall, a design and technology studio, a 300-seat theater and other facilities for the visual and performing arts, state-of-the-art IT equipment, and over 50 classrooms. Grades: Nursery to G12. Price range: RMB 97,160-176,760 (plus RMB 2,000 registration fee and RMB 5,000 new student fee). 77 Baiziwan Nan Er Lu, Chaoyang District. (8771 7171) www.bcis.cn 北京乐成国际 学校, 朝阳区百子湾南二路77号 Beijing Homeschoolers A support network, information source and social hub for families homeschooling their children. http://groups. yahoo.com/group/beijing_homeschoolers Beijing Huijia Kindergarten Run in conjunction with Huijia Private College (see below), Huijia Kindergarten currently has 20 different campuses across Beijing. The school follows a Multiple Intelligences curriculum and instruction is in Chinese. Currently, about one quarter of the students are international students. Ages: 2 to 6.Price Range: RMB 20,000-60,000. Head Office: 33C, Bldg B, Huating Jiayuan, 6 Beisihuan Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (400 886 1993) www.hjkids.com 北京汇佳幼儿园, 朝阳区北四环 中路6号华亭嘉园B座33C Beijing Huijia Private College This combined boarding and day school offers an IB curriculum taught in English and a Chinese curriculum taught in Chinese. Students who wish to follow the Chinese curriculum but don’t have the requisite Chinese ability will first be enrolled in an intensive Chinese course. About 200 students from various countries study (and live, if they choose to board) alongside approximately 2,000 Chinese students. Facilities include a swimming pool, gymnasium and science labs. Grades: 1 to 12. Price range: RMB 69,000-75,800. Zhongguancun Kejiyuan, Changping Yuan, Huijia Kejiaoyuan, Changping District. (6078 5555/1) www.huijia2000.com 北京汇佳私立学校, 昌平区 中关村科技园昌平园汇佳科教园 Beijing New Talent Academy 9 Anhua Street, Tianzhu Development Zone, Shunyi District. (8041 3036 (English)/3001, 8046 7117, zxcj@bjnewtalent.com) www.bjnewtalent.com
January/February 2011
beijingkids
95
Directories
Schools 北京市新英才学校, 顺义区顺义区天竺开发区 安华街9号 Beijing No. 55 Middle School and High School Unlike other public schools in the city, No. 55 has an international student department specifically tailored to foreign students. High school classes are offered in Chinese (meant for students with no Chinese background) or English, and prepare students for the IB exam or China’s college entrance exam. Middle school classes are in Chinese only; a half-year of intensive Chinese training is available if needed. Ages: 11 to 17. Price range: RMB 28,00044,600. 12 Xinzhong Jie, Dongcheng District. (6416 4252/9531) www.bj55.cn/international 北 京第五十五中学, 东城区新中街12号 Beijing Rego British School Beijing Rego British School follows on the heels of two successful schools in Tianjin and Shanghai and caters to students from the surrounding Shunyi area with its array of educational facilities and age-appropriate resources on campus. Coursework is based on the UK national curriculum as well as classes in Mandarin Chinese up to and including Year 9 student (13-14 years of age). Rego places strong emphasis on close cooperation between parents, students and teachers and aims to create an educationally comfortable but truly challenging atmosphere for students to “be their best” and explore their talents and abilities to the fullest. The school will open in 2011 and will be accepting enrollments starting February 2011. 1) 15 Liyuan Jie, Tianzhu County, Shunyi District. (8416 7718, sarah. hancock@bjrego.org); 2) (Admissions office) Rm C317 Lufthansa Center, 50 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465-4487 ext 107, sarah. hancock@bjrego.org) 北京瑞金英国学校, 1) 顺 义区顺义区天竺镇丽苑街15号; 2) 朝阳区朝阳区 亮马桥路50号C317室 Beijing Shuren Ribet Private School A K12 independent coeducational boarding & day school founded in 1993 that blends Eastern and Western educational methods and ideals. Our K8 Bilingual curriculum entails 45 percent courses taught in Chinese according to guidelines set by the Chinese Bureau of Education, 45 percent American courses based on the California content standards, and 10 percent of intensive language courses as needed to ensure students become fully bilingual. Grades 9-12 teach a completely American curriculum following guidelines of the University of California admission standards, with additional courses on Chinese and Sinology. Tuition RMB 20,600-88,000 (age 2-18). South 1A, Xiaopu, Songzhuang, Tongzhou District. (6959 8400, 139 0102 1655 (English)), Tongzhou District. (6959 5103, 139 0102 1655 (English)) http://www.shurenribet. org/ 北京市私立树人瑞贝学校, 通州区通州区宋 庄镇小堡南甲一号 Beijing Telford Bilingual and International Pre-school Part of the Telford Education Institute of Hong Kong. Classes are fully bilingual with one Western and four Chinese teachers in every classroom. All subjects are taught 50% in English and 50% in Chinese. Facilities include a multipurpose auditorium and performing arts center, two piano rooms, two sports fields and a big garden. Ages: 6 months-6years old. RMB 32,000-35,040 (plus RMB 400-500 per month meal fee). 2 Daluyuan, Dongsanhuan Nanlu (inside R&F City), Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (5876 6221/7811, beijingtelford@gmail. com) www.telfordeducation.com 北京德福 幼 , 朝阳区朝 三 南路大路 2 (富力城 ) 往南第一 路口 Beijing World Youth Academy (BWYA) BWYA is an international school for local and overseas students ages 9 to 18, offering both English and Chinese programs. An IB World School since 2001, the school is fully authorized to offer the IB Middle Years and Diploma Programs. BWYA values holistic education and seeks to offer students ample opportunity to develop as globally-aware critical thinkers. Facilities include projectors in every classroom, computer labs, library, full science labs, wellstocked art & design technology workspaces, athletic facilities. A wide variety of clubs and after school activities are also offered. 1) High
96
beijingkids
January/February 2011
School: 94 Huajiadi Beili (inside No. 94 Middle School), Chaoyang District. (6461 7787, admissions@ibwya.net); 2) Middle School 210 Gaojiayuan Xiaoqu, Chaoyang District. (6461 6054/4476, admissions@ibwya.net) www.ibwya. net 北京世青国际学校, 1) 朝阳区高中部:花家 地北里18号(94中学内); 2) 朝阳区初中部:高 家园小区210号 The British School of Beijing The British School of Beijing now part of the British-based Nord Anglia family of British style international schools, offers the English National Curriculum taught by UK qualified teachers, and supported by native English-speaking teaching assistants. BSB prepares pupils for the IGCSE and A and AS Levels while emphasizing high academic results and respect for one another. In addition to our excellent downtown Sanlitun campus, The British School of Beijing is excited to announce the relocation and opening of its new Shunyi campus. This newly custom-built campus, located in the residential and educational area of Beijing, has first class sports and recreational facilities, six Science and four IT labs, specialist Art, Music, Dance and Physical Education facilities, two theaters, a 25mswimming pool and a spacious dining hall. The outdoor facilities include a football pitch, tennis court, basketball courts and a 100m running track. BSB has strict admission requirements, including entrance exams and a limit on the number of students requiring English Language support (EAL) - no more than 20% in each class. Ages: 2-18. Price range: RMB76,940 to RMB179, 700. 1) 15 Anhua Lu, Tianzhu Zhen, Shunyi District. (8047 3588, desiree.weridman@britishschool.org.cn); 2) 5 Sanlitun Xiliujie, Chaoyang District. (8532 3088, desiree.weridman@britishschool.org.cn) www. britishschool.org.cn 北京英国学校, 1) 顺义区天 竺镇丽苑街; 2) 朝阳区三里屯西六街5号 Canadian International School of Beijing Opened in 2006, CISB offers a Canadian-Style curriculum for Grade 1-12 students, as well as a Montessori Kindergarten. CISB is also an International Baccalaureate World School authorized to provide the IB Diploma Programme at High School level. The student body currently represents over 50 nationalities. Non-native English-speaking students will have their language abilities assessed, and be given ESL support according to their results. Chinese and French are offered as additional languages, as well as Korean at High School level. Member of ACAMIS and UNESCO, CISB is a candidate for accreditation with CIS, WASC and NCCT. CISB features 90 classrooms equipped with the SmartBoard System, seven computer labs, a 500-seat theatre, two large gymnasiums, a 25-meter swimming pool and a dance studio. Grades: Pre-school to 12. Price range: 59,900 – 156,500 RMB (RMB 1,600 application fee and 3,800-5,500 ESL fee). 38 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465 7788, admissions@cisbeijing.com) www.cisb.com.cn 北京加拿大国际 学校, 朝阳区亮马桥路38号 Care for Children Special Needs School The CFCS is currently the only international school offering an educational program specifically tailored to meet the needs of children with learning differences. CFCS provides an individualized, multidisciplinary approach to the English National Curriculum for expatriate children with special educational needs. The school caters for children with a wide range of educational difficulties. Student enrollment and tuition is calculated according to the individual child’s needs, and dual programs in partnerships with other international schools are also available. The School runs both half and full day classes for students ages 2-19 years. The foreign lead staff are all highly skilled special needs educators, who receive therapy support from our on-site clinicians. Operating from The Centre in the Beijing Riviera, the facilities are specially designed for all aspects of a special needs curriculum including: music and art rooms, padded rumpus room for physical activities, dance and drama; multi-sensory room/physiotherapy room with equipment for brain gym and PT; observation rooms for play assessment; play grounds, football fields and jungle gyms on-site, access to clubhouse swimming facilities and more. A
*listings in orange are new to Directories non-refundable application fee of RMB 7,500 is payable at the start of the application process. Beijing Riviera,1 Xiang Jiang Beilu, Jing Shun Lu, Chaoyang District, Shunyi District. (8470 2735, meryl.bailey@careforchildrenservices. com) 顺义区朝阳区京顺路香江北路1号香江花园 Children’s Learning Center of Beijing (CLCB) Established and run by mothers, CLCB offers a bilingual curriculum that alternates between Chinese and English. Facilities include study rooms, a playroom, an activity room, a nap room, a garden and a playground. Ages 1 to 5. Price range: RMB 29,800-89,000. 3056 Gahood Residence Villa, Baixinzhuang, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8046 7082, administration@clcbkids.com) www.clcbkids. com 爱嘉励儿童双语培训学校, 顺义区后沙峪乡 白辛庄嘉浩别墅 3056
College Search Expert Dr. Rachelle Wolosoff works with students internationally via the Internet. She assists with selection of U.S. universities, the college application, resume, and essays. She will share her expertise with students and parents who are interested in getting an inside view on the entire US college process. Free College Seminars will be held in Beijing in April. Reserve your seat via email. (001 516 208 7835, Rachelle@CollegeSearchExpert.com) www.CollegeSearchExpert.com Daystar Academy Daystar is the only school in China that offers a balance of Montessori-based English Education and the Chinese National Curriculum. The students spend half of their day in each language environment covering two curricula every day. This innovative approach brings together two cultures, and combines the strongest attributes of both Western and Eastern teaching methodologies. A progressive “Virtues in Us” character education program emphasizes nobility of character, academic excellence and parallel development in both English and Chinese. Facilities include a library, ICT lab, science lab, music rooms, dance studio, workshop with cooking facilities, indoor gymnasium, and performance stage. Ages 3-12. K-Grade 6. RMB 86,000 (RMB 2,000 non-refundable registration fee). 2 Shunbai Lu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (8430 2654, info@daystarchina.cn) 启明星双语学校, 朝阳区朝阳区顺白路2号 Deutsche Botschaftsschule Peking The German Embassy School offers instruction in German and uses a curriculum and textbooks that adhere to standards set by the German Board of Education. Approximately 90 students are enrolled in the kindergarten classes, and 430 in the elementary and upper school. Grades: Kindergarten to grade 13. Price range: EUR 5,150-7,800 (plus a EUR 2,600 admission fee, EUR 900 bus fee). 49A Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6532 2535) www.dspeking. net.cn 北京德国使馆学校, 朝阳区亮马桥路甲49号 Dulwich College Beijing At its three suburban campuses, Dulwich delivers an academic programme based on the National Curriculum for England and Wales but adapted for international education. In Foundation Stage (1 – 5 years), Dulwich follows the standards set in the English Early Years Foundation Stage framework through a play-based curriculum based on active learning, encouraging independence, problem solving and creative thinking. From Year 1 onwards, we offer the English National Cur-
Directories
Schools
riculum leading into IGCSE in Years 10 and 11. The IB Diploma Programme is offered in Years 12 and 13. The school emphasizes four core areas: academic excellence; sport; the arts; and commitment to the community. Facilities include a 230 seat theatre, a black box theatre, 3 studios, 5 music practice rooms, a midi suite with recording studio, design and technology suites, drama studios, interactive LCD screens or SMARTboards, libraries, squash courts, tennis courts, two full sized football pitches, a cricket pitch, swimming pool, dance studio, rugby pitch, and a golf centre. Ages: 1 to 18. International students: Over 1,300. Price range: RMB 25,900-182,000. 1) Legend Garden Villas, 89 Jichang Lu, Shunyi District. (6454 9000); 2) Beijing Riviera, 1 Xiangjiang Beilu, Jingshun Lu, Chaoyang District. (8450 7676); 3) River Garden Villas Kindergarten, Houshayu, Baixinzhuang, Shunyi District. (8046 5132) www.dulwich-beijing.cn 北京德威英国国际学校, 1) 顺义区机场路 89号丽京花园; 2) 朝阳区京顺路香江北路1号香江 花园; 3) 顺义区后沙峪白辛庄裕京花园别墅 Eduwings Kindergarten Eduwings Kindergarten has two departments: One English/Chinese, the other is German. Each department is split into three age groups (ages 2-3, ages 3-4, ages 5-6) and one infant group (ages 2 and below). All of the lead teachers and language teachers are native speakers and are able to provide individual support to each child. The kindergarten’s philosophy is: Every child needs to have roots and wings. Roots to know where are they from and wings to explore the world. Programs and facilities include: swimming, saunas, music, art, a Montessori area, a library, P.E. classes and climbing, as well as an out door playground and yard. All afternoon activities are included the tuition fee: RMB 52,000-72,000 per yearly. Merlin Champagne Town, 6 Liyuan Lu, Tianzhu, Shunyi District. (6450 8384) 顺义区天竺镇丽苑 街6号美林香槟小镇 Etonkids Bilingual Kindergarten Etonkids Bilingual Kindergarten’s nurturing and hands-on Montessori environments energize your child’s natural love of learning and exploring. Your child benefits from native English and Chinese speaking teachers in each classroom, an accredited academic program, and premiere educational facilities designed to harness your child’s independence, initiative and creativity. With classes taught 70% in English and 30% in Chinese, Etonkids Bilingual Kindergarten provides a warm multicultural Montessori environment with special focus on community, and strong links between home and school. Customized weekly and monthly reports allow you to follow your child’s continuing process. Ages 1.5-6, Price range: RMB 62,000-85,000. 1) Central Park Campus, Bldg 19, Central Park, 6 Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6533 6620); 2) Eastern Provence Campus, Eastern Provence, 88 Dingsi Lu, Beiqijia, Changping District. (8975 1102); 3) Dawang Road Peking House Campus, 19 Xidawang Lu, Chaoyang District. (5870 6778); 4) Arcadia Campus, Arcadia Villas, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8047 2983); 5) C103, Lido Country Club, Lido Place, Jichang Lu, Chaoyang District. (6436 7368); 6) Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District. (8046 5338); 7) Palm Springs International Apartments, 8 Chaoyang Gongyuan Nanlu, Chaoyang District. (6539 8967) www.etonkids.com 伊顿双语幼儿园, 1) 朝阳区 朝阳门外大街6号新城国际19号楼; 2) 昌平区昌 平区北七家镇定泗路88号; 3) 朝阳区大望路首府 校园,朝阳区西大望路19号首府社区; 4) 顺义区 顺义区后沙峪阿凯笛亚庄园内; 5) 朝阳区首都机 场路丽都广场俱乐部C103; 6) 顺义区天竺房地产 开发区荣祥广场; 7) 朝阳区朝阳公园南路8号棕 榈泉国际公寓 Etonkids International Kindergarten Etonkids International Kindergarten is the oldest school under the Etonkids umbrella. Etonkids International Kindergarten classrooms feature authentic Montessori materials and are led by full-time caring and professional native English speaking teachers. With full or half-day options, Etonkids international Kindergarten prepares your child for the challenges ahead through strong foundations in the essential areas for young learners and the Etonkids Three C’s of
January/February 2011
beijingkids
97
Directories
Schools Creativity, Character and Culture. At Etonkids International Kindergarten your child experiences the joy of learning through ongoing intellectual discoveries in unique hands-on environments. Ages: 1.5 to 6. Price range: RMB 83,500-RMB 125,000. 1) Rm C103, Lido Country Club, Lido Place, Jichang Lu, Chaoyang District. (6436 7368); 2) 3/F, Bldg D, Global Trade Mansion, Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (6506 4805); 3) Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District. (8046 5338) www.etonkids.com 伊顿国际学校, 1) 朝阳区北 京首都机场路丽都广场俱乐部C103室; 2) 朝阳区 光华路世贸国际公寓D座3层; 3) 顺义区天竺房地 产开发区荣祥广场 The Family Learning House This bilingual preschool integrates a character education program focused on instilling and developing virtues (such as responsibility, service and truthfulness) with a Montessori curriculum. In its campus, lead teachers in each classroom speak English with students, while all Chinese staff speak to students in Chinese; older students receive daily Chinese pinyin lessons. Extracurricular activities include art, ballet and yoga. The campus has eight classrooms, a kitchen, a library, and an outdoor area. Ages: 1.5 to 6. Price range: RMB 68,000-85,050. Jianwai SOHO West Ward (in front of Bld. 14)., Chaoyang District. (5869 7540, administrator@thefamilylearningho use.com) www.thefamilylearninghouse.com 家 育苑, 朝阳区东三环中路39号建外SOHO西区 Fangcaodi International School Fangcaodi is a state-run primary school that has been accepting foreign students for over 40 years. Classes are in Chinese, with the exception of English language classes. The school uses the same textbooks as other Chinese schools in the municipality and places a strong emphasis on math and Chinese. Fee-based after-school activities include badminton, arts and crafts, wushu and rollerblading. Grades: 1 to 6. Price range: RMB 16,000-48,000 plus RMB 20,000 capital levy. 1 Ritan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (8563 5120 ext 2005) www.fcd.com.cn 芳草地 小学, 朝阳区日坛北路1号 Ganeinu International School Follows a Montessori curriculum and aims to “provide a warm, secure, Jewish environment where children can feel comfortable exploring and learning.” Coursework consists of math, sensorial, language, art and music, geography, Jewish studies and special events. Nursery, kindergarten and elementary classes available. Tuition ranges from RMB 66,000-130,000 a year. Bus and lunch service available. 18 Xiaoyun Lu, Chaoyang District. (8470 8238) http://www. ganeinubeijing.com 朝阳区朝阳区霄云路18号 Happy Baby Kindergarten At two separate campuses, Happy Baby offers a Montessori-style curriculum delivered predominantly in Chinese. English classes are provided several times a week. Facilities include playgrounds, a library, and piano, reading, birthday and computer rooms. Currently, around half the students are international students. Special classes for children under 2 accompanied by a parent are offered on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings. Note: Enrollment is full for 2009-10 academic year. Ages: 2.5 to 5. Price range: RMB 36,000 (RMB 450 transportation fee). 1) 23 Yiyuan Anhuibeili, Yayuncun, Chaoyang District. (6498 1518); 2) 22 Zhongli Xibahe, Chaoyang District. (6462 0449 ext 806) 至尊宝宝幼儿园, 1) 朝阳区亚运村安慧北里逸园23号楼; 2) 朝阳区 西坝河中里22号楼 Harrow International School Beijing Harrow provides a British-style education to students from the age of three. Offering qualifications at GCSE, AS and A level, it aims to provide progression routes into British and international universities. Individual programs of study and tutorials are available. The Lower School campus is situated in the countryside near Shunyi, on a campus that boasts interactive whiteboards, a library/media centre, a science lab, an art and design room, a computer lab, performing arts facilities as well as a gym and playing field and even a farm. The Upper School campus is in downtown Anzhenxili and offers courses as diverse as Latin and
98
beijingkids
January/February 2011
Philosophy. Ages: 3 to 18. Price range: RMB 96,000-179,300 inclusive of lunches and expeditions and all performances (plus RMB 3,000 application fee and RMB 4,000 for all uniforms). 1) Grassetown, Zhengequ Village, Xuxin Zhuang, Tongzhou District. (6444 5900, enquiries@harrowbeijing.cn); 2) 5 Anzhen Xili, Block 4, Chaoyang District. (6444 8900, enquiries@harrowbeijing.cn) www.harrowbeijing.cn 北京哈罗英国学校, 1) 通州区徐新庄镇葛 渠村格拉斯小镇; 2) 朝阳区安贞西里四区5号 House of Knowledge International Kindergarten This multi-lingual international kindergarten and preschool follows the Reggio Emilia and Montessori educational philosophies. Early childhood education program available for children ages 1.5 to 6 years. Facilities include a big gym, climbing walls, large library, art areas, outdoor playground and a big roofed sandbox. 1) Victoria Gardens, Chaoyang Park Xilu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (6538 2624 (English, Chinese and German), info@house-of-knowledge.net); 2) East Gate of Liyuan Compound, Maquanying Street, Chaoyang District. (139 1127 2029, 6434 0088, info@house-of-knowledge.net) www.house-of-knowledge.net 1) 朝阳 区朝阳区朝阳公园西路维多利亚花园小区; 2) 朝 阳区香江北路丽苑小区A11 Huijia Kindergarten Part of a nationwide chain, Huijia Kindergarten has 17 campuses and early childhood centers around Beijing. The curriculum combines advanced international educational ideas, modern teaching methods and Chinese traditional culture and focuses on nurturing children to become international citizens. Coursework emphasizes basic concepts, skills, knowledge, attitudes and behaviors to enable and encourage students to become lifelong learners, taking responsibility for themselves, their studies, others, and the environment, and to take correct actions. Visit the website for more campus locations. 1) Huijia Longwan Experiential Early Childhood Education Center. Longwan Business Street, Yuyuan Lu, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8042 2245, hjkids@263.net); 2) Huijia Central Park Experimental Early Childhood Education Center. Bldg 24, Central Park Apartments, 6 Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6597 9358, hjkids@263.net) www.hjkids.com 汇佳幼儿园, 1) 顺义区汇佳龙湾体验式早教中心. 顺义区后 沙峪镇裕园路龙湾商业街; 2) 朝阳区汇佳新城国 际体验式早教中心.朝阳区朝外大街6号新城国际 公寓24号楼 International Academy of Beijing International Academy of Beijing began in 1999, it has gained accreditation by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), National Center for School Curriculum and Textbook Development (NCCT) and the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). IAB offers an American curriculum built upon the principles of truth and character. Their extensive academic program is enhanced by their popular optional after school program, giving students the opportunity to further develop their potential. ESL support is offered up to Grade 8 with daily Chinese instruction provided at all levels for non-ESL students. Their high school follows an American college-prep curriculum offering various AP courses. IAB is a registered testing center for the PSAT, SAT and AP tests. Grades:K-12 (aged 5-18). Price range: RMB 112,000-166,000 incld. Capital fee (application fee RMB1620; ESL Program 12,500). 1) Secondary campus: 2 Yangshan Lu, Olympic Park East, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (8493 8680); 2) Elementary campus: Lido Place, Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (6430 1600) www.iabchina.net IAB国际学 校, 1) 朝阳区北京市朝阳区奥林匹克公园东侧仰 山路2号; 2) 朝阳区中国北京市朝阳区将台路6号 丽都饭店3号办公楼 The International Montessori School of Beijing (MSB) MSB has been educating expatriate children for over 20 years in an environment designed to cultivate intellectual abilities, self-esteem, imagination and critical thinking. The school offers a half-day Toddler program and half- and full-day Nursery programs. Parents can enroll their older children in
*listings in orange are new to Directories either a traditional English language Montessori curriculum (which features regular Chinese language classes) or a dual language Montessori program, taught in Chinese and English. The school has three suburban campuses which feature spacious classrooms, lending libraries, art rooms and big outdoor play areas – the main Cherry Tree Lane campus also boasts a science lab, computer lab, dedicated music room, football pitch and running track. Extracurricular activities include language clubs, Chinese painting, baking, wushu, football and swimming. Ages: 2-12. Price range: RMB 79,300-142,000. 1) Champagne Cove Campus, 1 Shunfu Lu, Chaoyang District. (8945 2591); 2) Cherry Tree Lane Campus, Xiangjiang Beilu, 18 Maquanying Lu, Shunyi District. (6432 8228); 3) River Garden Campus, Houshayu, Baixinzhuang, Shunyi District. (8046 3935) www.msb.edu.cn 北京蒙 台梭利国际学校, 1) 朝阳区金碧湖畔校区顺福路 1号; 2) 顺义区樱桃园校区马泉营路18号; 3) 顺 义区后沙峪白辛庄裕京花园附近 The International School of Beijing (ISB) Beijing’s largest English-language school has more than 1,800 students from 50 nations and a history of more than 25 years. ISB’s Standards-based curriculum is drawn from the best international standards and benchmarks. It offers both the IB diploma program and select Advanced Placement (AP) classes, and graduates earn a US high school diploma. All students study a foreign language and ESOL support is available. The 32-acre campus boasts a 600seat high-tech theater, swimming pool, indoor rock climbing wall, large art department, computer facilities and well-equipped science labs as well as a big “Outdoor Learning Environment.” Accreditations and affiliations include NEASC, CIS, NCCT; IB World School. Ages: 3-Grade 12. Price range: USD 18,350-27,760. 10 Anhua Jie (near Capital Paradise), Shunyi District. (8149 2345) www.isb.bj.edu.cn 北京顺义国际学校, 顺 义区安华街10号(名都园附近) Ivy Academy Ivy Academy boasts a team of foreign teachers trained at the world’s top universities, who teach a curriculum based on the Multiple Intelligences theory developed at Harvard. The teacher-to-student ratio is 1:5. Parents receive customized weekly and monthly reports allowing them to follow their child’s development. Classes are conducted in English and only children with previous exposure to English are admitted after the age of 4. School facilities include a kids’ kitchen, a playground and sports courts. Ages: 2 to 6. Price range: RMB 78,000-116,000 (plus RMB 200 registration fee). Suite C101, East Lake Villas, 35 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Dongcheng District. (8451 1380/1381, Info-EL@ivyschools.com) www. ivyschools.com 艾毅幼儿园, 东城区东直门外大 街35号东湖别墅C101室 Ivy Bilingual School Ivy Bilingual School teaches a curriculum informed by the Multiple Intelligences theory. Both Chinese- and English-speaking teachers are present in the classroom at the same time in order to offer a truly bilingual environment. Students are expected to understand, speak, read and write basic characters by the time they graduate from the program; about 60% of the children enrolled at Ivy Bilingual graduate into local elementary schools, while about 40% move on to international schools. Ages: 2 to 6. Price range: RMB 35,600-52,500 (plus RMB 200 registration fee). 1) 18 Xinjin Lu, Cuige Xiang (near WAB), Chaoyang District. (8439 7080, InfoOE@ivyschools.com (Ocean Express Bilingual Campus), Info-OG@ivyschools.com (Orchid Garden Bilingual Campus)); 2) Ocean Express, Bldg E, 2 Dongsanhuan Lu (north of the Kempinski Hotel), Chaoyang District. (8446 7287, Info-OE@ivyschools.com (Ocean Express Bilingual Campus), Info-OG@ivyschools.com (Orchid Garden Bilingual Campus)) www.ivyschools.com 艾毅双语幼儿园, 1) 朝 阳区崔各乡新锦路18号(临近京西学校); 2) 朝 阳区东三环北路丙2号远洋新干线E座 (凯宾斯基 饭店往北) KEer Apple International Kindergarten (Pingod) Monthly tuition starts at RMB 3,500, with a RMB 5,000 deposit and initial payment
Directories
Schools
of RMB 10,000. Offers some English instruction and limited Montessori curriculum in the afternoons (with an “international” section) and open year round. Baiziwan Nan Er Lu (next to BCIS), Chaoyang District. (5876 9605, keerapple@yahoo.cn) http://www.keereducation.com/fen12/Default.asp 苹果幼儿园 KinStar Bilingual School In addition to a bilingual kindergarten, KinStar also runs a bilingual elementary school. The school follows curriculum guidelines issued by the Chinese Ministry of Education for instruction in Chinese and a US-style curriculum for instruction in English. Both ESOL and Chinese support classes are available. Facilities at the elementary school building include music, art and dance studios, a spacious library, a running track, a tennis court and a basketball field, and the campus is equipped to accommodate handicapped children. Grades: Pre-K to 7. Price range: RMB 42,000-80,000 (plus RMB 1,600 registration fee and RMB 5,000-10,000 capital levy). Kindergarten and Elementary School: 5 Yumin Road, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8041 0390) 海嘉双 语国际学校, 顺义区后沙峪裕民大街5号 The Learning Center The Learning Center opened its doors in June 2004, and has since worked with more than 600 local and expatriate students in the Shunyi area. TLC offers academic group workshops and individual tutoring in a wide range ofsubjects for students ages 5 to 18. Parenting programs are also available, including adult education and child development workshops. TLC tutors are native English speaking professional educators with an understanding of the international school curricula across Beijing. Mon-Fri 10am-8pm, Sat 9.30am-4.30pm. 2108 Gahood Villa, Houshayu, Xibaixinzhuang, Shunyi District. (8046 3886, registration@learningcente r.com.cn) www.thelearningcenter.cn 顺义区后沙 峪西白辛庄嘉浩别墅2108号 Lycée Français International de Pékin (The French School) The LFIP is administered in accordance with the guidelines established by the French Ministry of Education. Classes are taught in French, but non-French-speaking children are admitted into the kindergarten (which is on a separate campus), and the elementary school. This school has full sports and extracurricular programs. Ages: 2 to 18. Price range: EUR 5,070-9,270 (French children), EUR 5,810-10,630 (non-French children). 1) Primary and Secondary School: 13 Sanlitun Dongsijie, Chaoyang District. (6532 3498); 2) Kindergarten: 4 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6532 7881) http://www.lfip.net.cn/ 1) 朝阳区三里屯 东四街13号; 2) 朝阳区三里屯路4号 Mammolina Children’s Home A bilingual kindergarten that opened its doors in August 2005, Mammolina offers a Montessori curriculum covering practical life, language, math, cultural studies, art and music, and more. The school boasts a huge classroom, limited enrollment of 30 children, a kitchen area, a spacious garden/playground area, as well as a library for parents. Ages: 1 to 7. Price range: RMB 96,750-134,865 (plus RMB 4,860 lunch fee, RMB 6,480-8,100 bus fee). 36 Maquanying Siqu , Xiangjiang Beilu, Chaoyang District. (8470 5128) www.montessori.ws 三为园幼儿园, 朝阳 区香江北路马泉营四区36号 New Garden International Kindergarten This bilingual school combines in Fuli Cheng features Western and Eastern teaching styles with Chinese and native English speaking teachers. Equipped with a children’s kitchen, library, inside and outside play areas. For ages 1.5-6, 6-12 years. Area D, Fu Li Cheng (North of Shuang Jing Bridge),East 3rd Ring RD, Chaoyang District. (5876 6675 / 1319) 新园双语幼儿园, 朝阳区富力城新园双语幼儿园. 朝阳区东三环双井 桥北富力城D区西门 Positive Foundations School Highly experienced teachers provide education that stresses the importance of self-development and life skills as well as the academic fundamentals that provide the foundation for further education and cognitive development. All classes are taught by foreign teachers in their native English, with the option of a Chinese class in the afternoon.
January/February 2011
beijingkids
99
Directories
Schools Offers Nursery and Kindergarten, with both full and half-day Montessori-based curriculum. Application fee: RMB 1,000. Tuition fees: RMB 46,800-105,000. 3006 Gahood Villa, Houshayu, Xibaixinzhuang, Shunyi District, Shunyi District. (PFSschool@gmail.com) www.pfs-beijing.com 顺义区北京市顺义区后沙峪西白幸庄嘉浩别墅 城3006栋 Ritan School This public school has four separate divisions open to international students: an elementary school, two middle schools and a high school. A bilingual program is offered at the elementary school, but the middle and high school divisions follow the Chinese national curriculum and instruction is in Chinese only. In addition to academics, students participate in a range of electives and extracurricular activities, including the celebrated school band. Grades: 1 to 12. Price range: RMB 17,000-36,800. 1) High School: 4 Guanghua Xili, Chaoyang District. (6503 1815); 2) Middle School: Inside Beijing No. 80 Middle School, 2 Baijiazhuang Xili, Chaoyang District. (6500 4609); 3) High School (senior year only): 36 Dongsanhuan Beilu (south of Tsinghua University’s Central Academy of Fine Arts), Chaoyang District. (6581 4083); 4) Elementary and Middle School: 38 Nanshiliju (south of Jiuxian Qiao), Chaoyang District. (6438 2945) http://rtzx.bjchyedu.cn 北 京日坛中学, 1) 朝阳区光华西里4号; 2) 朝阳区 白家庄西里2号白家庄中学里面; 3) 朝阳区东三环 北路36号清华大学美术学院南; 4) 朝阳区南十里 居38号(酒仙桥南) Sanlitun Kindergarten This local kindergarten enrolls international students. Instruction is in Chinese and the school places a strong focus on physical exercise. Special classes for children ages 2.5 and accompanied by a parent are offered every week; the standard kindergarten program runs daily. Ages: 2 to 6. Price Range: RMB 500-1000/month (children under 3), RMB 10,000 (plus RMB 450/month childcare fee) (children ages 3-6). 3 Jiqingli, Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6551 0877) 三里屯幼 儿园, 朝阳区朝阳门外大街吉庆里3号 Side by Side Side by Side is a wholly foreign owned and run center providing support for children with special needs and learning difficulties. They offer special education and learning support as well as special needs support such as social skills, music therapy and vocational training opportunities. Capital Paradise 3336, Shunyi Distrcict, Shunyi District. (8046 3858, info@sidebysidebeijing.com) www.sidebysidebeijing.com/ 顺义区后沙浴,名都园3336, 顺义区 Sino Bright School (Beijing No. 25 Middle School) Located on the grounds of Beijing No. 25 Middle School, SBS offers a curriculum taken from British Columbia, Canada, and taught by B.C.-certified teachers, with the aim of preparing students for higher education in Canada or other Western countries. Founded in 2005, the school previously focused on Chinese students but is now enrolling international students. The school’s language of instruction is English, but Chinese language classes are offered. Grades: 7-12. Price: RMB 69,000 (plus RMB 4,000 for boarding students). 55 Dengshikou Dajie (at Beijing No. 25 Middle School), Dongcheng District. (6527 8189/8180/8269) www.schoolbj. com 中加高中学校, 东城区灯市口大街55号 (在 北京第二十五中学内) St Paul American Preparatory School, Beijing This is a private school for grades 7-12 leading to an accredited American and Chinese dual diploma. The curriculum, social studies, science, math, English, music, IT, PE, Art is American, but students also receive Chinese language, culture and history courses. Also offers TOEFL and SAT classes to non-American students. Teaching Staff is all American in addition to Chinese language instructors. Student size: 140 international students. Facilities include an IT Library, theatre, assembly hall, music and fine arts rooms, labs, gymnasium- indoor gym, pool, outdoor track, soccer field, dormitories and a large cafeteria. The school has a full time nurse on campus. Price range: USD 14,000-18,000 (includes room and board), plus USD 100 for application and USD 850 for enrollment. 18 Guan’aoyuan, Qinghe,
100
beijingkids
January/February 2011
Haidian District. (8273 8612, 150 1141 1265, stpauladmissions@hotmail.com) www.stpaulschool.cn 北京师范大学第二附属中学, 海淀区清 河宝胜里观澳园18号 The Children’s House Montessori Kindergarten Established in 1991, The Children’s House offers baby group, nursery, preschool and kindergarten programs taught in English by certified Montessori teachers. In addition, the Lufthansa Center campus, Yosemite campus and the new Yayuxin campus offer a bilingual program. Extracurricular activities offered include Chinese, piano, ballet, music, kung fu, swimming,ice skating, cooking, English as an additional language, arts and crafts, art and music appreciation and culture classes. Mathematics and English Reception Classes, intended to secure the fundamentals of numbers, reading and writing before primary school, are offered to students ages 4 and up. Ages: 0 to 6. Price range: RMB 23,000-60,000 (plus RMB 1,600 registration fee). 1) Yosemite Villas, 4 Yuyang Lu, Houshayu Zhen, Shunyi District. (8041 7083); 2) Unit 114, Lufthansa Center Tower, 50 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465 1305); 3) 1/F, North Lodge, China World Trade Center, 1 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6505 3869); 4) Yayun Xinxin Kindergarten, Yayun Xinxin Jiayuan, 1 Xindian Lu, Chaoyang District. (5202 0293) www.montessoribeijing.com 北京巧智博仁国际幼儿园, 1) 顺义 区后沙峪镇榆杨路4号优山美地别墅区; 2) 朝阳区 亮马桥路50号凯宾斯基写字楼114室; 3) 朝阳区建 国门外大街1号国贸北公寓1层; 4) 朝阳区辛店路 1号亚运新新家园林澜园2号楼1单元102室 The Children’s Learning Center of Beijing The Children’s Learning Center of Beijing, a nursery-through-kindergarten learning center located in Shunyi District’s Gahood Villas compound, dates back to 2002 and provides flexible and affordable early childhood experiences as well as a variety of extra-curricular programs. Classes are taught in Chinese and English, with German mother-tongue instruction also available. CLCB offers flexibility for families through its half- and full-day classes, as well as part-time (minimum two days per week) and full-time (5 days per week) schedules. From the play-based nursery school curriculum on up to the advanced language and mathematics kindergarten coursework, CLCB strives to ensure children are provided with a warm and comforting atmosphere in which to learn and grow. 3056 Gahood Villa, Baixinzhuang, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8046 7082, administration@clcbkids.com) http://www.clcbkids.com 爱嘉励儿童双语培训学 校, 顺义区顺义区名都园6811号 The Princeton Review This test preparation company helps students cope with standardized tests and school admissions processes. Test preparation courses available for SSAT, SAT, and TOEFL. Classes (less than 10 people) and 1-to-1 tutoring available. Price Range: RMB 3,000-50,000. Daily 9am-9pm. 1501 Bldg A, Disanji Creative Zone, 66 Xi Nansihuan Lu, Haidian District. (6268 4481/82/83) www.tprbeijing. com/eng 北京普林斯顿教育咨询, 海淀区北四环 西路66号第三极创意天地A座1501 Touchdown! This education consulting firm provides help to Chinese and expat parents in choosing and applying to the US undergraduate programs, private high schools, and boarding schools. Offers extensive training, including essay writing, interviewing, and career planning. Highly experienced and dedicated consultants work directly with parents and students throughout the entire application process. Achieved recognition for successfully coaching applicants to get accepted top US universities. Daily 8.30am-6pm. 15/F, Rm 7, Bldg B, The Gate Building, 19 Zhongguancun Lu, Haidian District. (8447 7020/6422) www.touchdown. org.cn 海淀区拓达周华咨询. 海淀区中关村大街 19号新中关大厦B座1507室 Tsinghua International School Tsinghua International School students follow an American Curriculum program in a nurturing atmosphere. Tsinghua International School located on Tsinghua University campus, allowing students access to the university’s extensive resources and facilities, including libraries, computer
*listings in orange are new to Directories labs, gymnasiums, sports fields, dance and art studios, a swimming pool, fitness center and outdoor experiential education center. Accepts students Grades 1 to 12. Zhong Guan Cun Beilu (Northwest of Tsinghua University), Haidian District, Haidian District. (6279 7000, this@mail. tsinghua.edu.cn) www.this.edu.cn 海淀区海淀区 中关村北路清华大学西北侧 Western Academy of Beijing WAB students follow the International Baccalaureate programs (PYP, MYP, DP) in a nurturing atmosphere that fosters a strong sense of community among its 1,500 students from over 50 countries. WAB’s lake and model wetlands on campus are the foundation of its environmental science center. WAB’s extensive resources and beautiful facilities also include three libraries, computer labs, gymnasiums, state-of-the-art sports fields, dance and art studios, a swimming pool and climbing wall, and an off-campus outdoor experiential education center. Across WAB’s wireless campus, Nursery-Grade 12 students use technology as a tool to enhance learning, with a 1:1 laptop-to-child ratio beginning in Grade 3. Grades: Nursery (age 3) to 12. Price range: RMB 85,000-204,000 (with capital levy). 10 Laiguangying Donglu (off the Airport Expressway), Chaoyang District. (8456 4155) www. wab.edu 北京京西学校, 朝阳区来广营东路10号 Windsor Bilingual Kindergarten With two campuses in the Beijing area, Windsor Bilingual Kindergarten positions itself as a “premium kindergarten built on a synthesis of the strongest elements from both Western and Chinese educational traditions.” The school strives to foster the holistic development of young children, and prides itself on its spacious facilities (encompassing 5,500 sqm at the Vancouver Forest campus), state-of-the-art facilities and carefully crafted curriculum based on three main components – the EYFS Statutory Framework (UK), Beijing Curriculum Authority Happiness and Development Guidance, and the Integrated Theme Study Programme (Nanjing) – taught by staff that trains regularly in conjunction with that of Dulwich College. A foreign teacher is in class all day at the Legend Garden Campus and for half of the day at the Vancouver Forest Campus. Tuition ranges from RMB 43,800-80,000 a year at Legend Gardens (half or full day, respectively) and RMB 30,000-58,000 at Vancouver Forest (half or full day, respectively). 1) 89 Legend Garden, Shunyi District. (6456 0020); 2) Vancouver Forest, Beiqijia Town, Litang Lu, Changping District. (6975 6579) www.vancouver.windsorkindergarten.cn, legendgardens. windsorkindergarten.cn 温莎双语幼儿园, 1) 顺 义区温莎丽京园位于北京首都机场路89#丽京花园 别墅; 2) 昌平区温莎温哥华森林园具体.昌平区立 汤路北七家镇温哥华森林别墅 Yew Chung International School YCIS Beijing offers a distinctive bilingual program designed to equip students to be bilingual, caring and globally minded citizens. The curriculum is based on the National Curriculum for England and leads to the IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) and IB Diploma Programme. Facilities include state-ofthe-art computer labs, interactive whiteboards, science labs, music suites, a gymnasium, performing arts centre, and auditorium. With over 800 students from 40 nationalities, YCIS Beijing has been in operation since 1995 and is a part of the Yew Chung Education Foundation that also runs schools in Hong Kong, Shanghai, Chongqing, and Qingdao as well as in California. Grades: K2 to Year 13. Price range: RMB 52,290-138,000 (RMB 1,660 application fee, plus optional: RMB 9,300-10,960 bus fee and approx. RMB 5,800 lunch fee). East gate of Honglingjin Park, 5 Houbali Zhuang (near East Fourth Ring Road), Chaoyang District. (8583 3731, enquiry@bj.ycef.com) www.ycef.com/beijing 北京耀中国际学校, 朝阳区后八里庄5号红 领巾公园东门 Yew Wah Arts and Language Centre This professional training center for arts, music and languages offers a specialized exam training session for the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music. Aspiring musicians learn composure and style in their choice of instrument
while using high quality facilities and instruments for superior musicianship. Age: 4-18. Price range: RMB 75-500/class. Bld F, East gate of Honglinjin Park, 5 Houbali Zhuang, Chaoyang District. (8581 8466, yalc@bj.ycef.com) www. yalc-bj.com 朝阳区朝阳区后八里庄5号红领巾公 园东门F楼二层
Shopping Directory Bookstores The BookMark The BookMark offers a wide range of books for the whole family, in English and other languages, including a sizable selection of children’s literature. Children can enjoy regular book club gatherings and a weekly thematic story hour with integrated art activities. A family membership (RMB 500) gets you and your crew the chance to borrow five books for up to two weeks at a time. Wed-Sat 10am-4pm. 1 Kaifa Jie (between Ms. Shanen’s Bagels and Smallville Café), Xibaixinzhuang, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8049 9175, shunyilibrary@aol.com) www. bookmarkbeijing.com 顺义区后沙峪西白辛庄 开发街1号 The Bookworm English language books to borrow or buy. Book larvae can graze in the library’s Kiddies’ Corner, which houses childsize chairs and toys in addition to books. A family library membership (RMB 500) allows your family to borrow up to six books for two weeks at a time. A growing selection of for-sale books includes favorites like Wicked Chickens and The Gruffalo’s Child. In addition, The Bookworm’s Kids Club offers both young children and teens opportunities to share books with their peers. 1) Mon-Sat 8am-8pm,Sun 8am-5pm. The First Courtyard, Hegezhuang Village, Shunyi District. (6431 2108, books@beijingbookworm. com, kidsclub@beijingbookworm. com); 2) Daily 9am-2am. Courtyard 4, Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6586 9507, books@beijingbookworm.com, kidsclub@beijingbookworm.com) www. chinabookworm.com 书虫书吧, 1) 顺义区 崔各庄乡,何各庄村一号院; 2) 朝阳区工体 北路4号院 Chaterhouse Booktrader The kids’ book selection is fabulous and includes a vast number of Dr Seuss books as well as Maisie, Thomas & Friends, Dora the Explorer, Clifford, the Judy Blume series, the Chronicles of Narnia, Tintin, many kids’ encyclopedias, Madlibs and even Kaplan review books for older kids preparing to take the SATs or GREs. 1) Daily 10am-10pm. Shop B107, The Place, 9 Guanghua Lu (Dongdaqiao Lu), Chaoyang District. (6587 1328, customer@chaterhouse.com. cn); 2) Daily 10.30am-7.30pm. River Garden Clubhouse, 7 Yuyang Lu, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8046 6211, customer@chaterhouse. com.cn) 1) 朝阳区光华路9号世贸天阶中心地 库B107; 2) 顺义区后沙峪乡榆阳路7号
Directories furniture and nursery equipment. Find maternity clothes, strollers, bedding, car seats, playpens, baby monitors, children’s clothes and other elusive products at this chain. Daily 11am-10pm. SMM-42, 1/F, Solana, 6 Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu, Chaoyang District. (5905 6134) 朝阳区朝阳公园路6号蓝色港湾国 际商区SMM-42 Silk Street Market Rows upon rows of toddler and baby-sized clothing stalls can be found on the fourth floor. Choose from bibs, parkas, warm-ups, T-shirts, hats and more. Daily 9am-9pm. 8 Xiushui Dongjie, Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (5169 8800) 秀水街, 朝阳区建国门外大街秀 水东街8号 Solana Located inside Chaoyang Park, Solana Lifestyle Shopping Park has a fine collection of shops, restaurants, cafes and sporting facilities. Venues include British baby shop Mothercare, the perfect place to stock up on all things related to kids, pregnancy and moms. Other highlights include Banana Leaf Thai Restaurant, Romana Ice Cream, Cold Stone Creamery, a cinema, an ice rink and much more. Daily 10am-10pm. 6 Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu, Chaoyang District. (5905 6565/68) http://www.solana.com.cn/english/ web/index.asp 蓝色港湾, 朝阳区朝阳公园路 6号蓝色港湾国际商区 Tang’ Roulou This tiny shop stocks gorgeous, tasteful Chinese outfits, such as festive padded scholars’ jackets and pants (split-pants, of course). Other good buys include bright pink A-line dresses and flowery baby blankets. Daily 10.30am-8.30pm. 30 Sanlitun Lu (inside Phoenix Design shop), Chaoyang District. (6416 9761; 131 2138 7938) 朝阳区三里屯路口30号风栖店内 Tot to Teen Moderately priced children’s clothing, including a quality selection of infant layette, toddler pajamas and preteen everyday wear. 1) Daily 9am-7pm. 703 Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District. (8046 4419, tot-toteen@hotmail.com); 2) Daily 10am-7pm. Stall 102, 30 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6417 9640, tot-to-teen@hotmail.com) 红马车儿童 用品商店, 1) 顺义区天竺房地产开发区荣祥 广场703号; 2) 朝阳区三里屯路30号102商店
Home Accessories and Gear BabyGro Beijing BabyGro specializes in high quality, safe and creative baby and kids products, as well as some pregnancy and maternity items, imported from around the world. Owned by Beijing mum of 2, Johanna Selth, the range is tried and tested
Shopping
by herself and other Beijing mums. Stocking brands including Grobag, Ergo, Baby Carriers, Earth Mama, Angel Baby, Boon and Bezoar Kids Cashmere, and now Cotton Candy Kids clothing. 1) Mon-Fri 10am-7pm, Sat-Sun 10am-6pm. Shop 105, Tower 9, Central Park, 6 Chaowai Lu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (6597 0717, johanna@babygro.com. cn); 2) Daily, 10am-5pm. Shop 1, Complex 3, Jingmi Lu, (close to WAB School), Chaoyang District. (8470 1690, johanna@babygro.com. cn) www.babygro.com.cn/ 慧宝, 1) 朝阳区 朝外街6号新城国际9号楼105; 2) 朝阳区北京 市朝阳区京密路来广营东路路口东 3号红木大 院 B-01 (京西学校附近) Brand Nu A place where you can donate your old clothes, books, magazines, trinkets and other accessories, and pick up as-goodas-new goodies of like kind. Tue-Sun, 10am10pm, closed Mon. 61 Wudaoying Hutong (just west of Vineyard Cafe), Dongcheng District. (150 1115 3421) Brand 女, 东城区 东城区五道营胡同61号 Counting Sheep Children’s Boutique Counting Sheep offers gear for moms, dads and kids. From maternity clothes, baby furniture, baby shower gifts to party items. International brands include Stokke, Bloom, Boob, Baby Bjorn, Ergo Carriers, Hotslings, Bravado, Chicobello, Fleurville, BamBam, Big Bobby Cars, and Trunki. 1) 10am-6pm. Pinnacle Avenue, Linyin Lu, Tianzhu, Shunyi District. (6457 1480, ask@countingsheepboutique. com); 2) Sun-Thurs 10am-7pm, Fri-Sat 10am8pm. 17 Gongti Beilu (1/F of Bodhi bldg, directly across from north gate of Workers Stadium), Chaoyang District. (6417 7622, ask@countingsheepboutique.com) www. countingsheepboutique.com 洋洋宝宝店, 1) 顺义区顺义区天竺镇丽苑街荣和商业中心21号 楼; 2) 朝阳区朝阳区工体北路17号(工体北 门对面) Lily’s Antiques Furniture Quality Chinese antiques, as well as imported traditional and modern styles from all over the world. Offers Ming chairs, Tibetan rugs, Indian trunks, Spanish designs, Italian sofas and more. One-year guarantee and delivery available. 1) Daily 8.30am-6pm. Gaobeidian Showroom, 6 Gaobeidian Furniture Street, Chaoyang District. Contact Lily Quan (138 0139 6309) (8579 2458, 6572 9746); 2) Visit by Appointment. Factory and Warehouse Address, Baimiao industry area, Songzhuang town, Tongzhou District. Contact Lily Quan (138 0139 6309) (138 0139 6309) www.lilys-antiques.com 华伦古典家具, 1) 朝阳区高碑店 家俱一条街69号; 2) 通州区工厂地址,通州区 宋庄镇白庙村工业大院
Poplar Kids Republic Bookstore A children’s bookstore with a comfortable play area inside. Daily 10am-7pm. Rm 1362, Bldg 13, Jianwai Soho, 39 Dongsanhuan Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (5869 3032) www.poplar. com.cn 蒲蒲兰绘本馆, 朝阳区东三环中路 39号建外Soho13号楼1362
Clothing Embroidered Shoes Exquisitely embroidered with floral motifs, the pink, hot red and pure white slippers sold here will have your daughter feeling like Cinderella. Moms with small feet can join in the fun; sizes go up to woman’s 39 (starting at RMB 50). Daily 10am-8pm. Jinjie, Laitai Flower Market, Nuren Jie, Chaoyang District. 女人街绣花鞋, 朝阳区莱太花卉市场女人街金街 Mothercare Mothercare, the acclaimed British brand, is a global specialist retailer of clothing, home and travel and toys for mothers to be, babies and young children. Sells hard-to-find clothes for kids age 6 and younger, as well as a wide range of nursery
January/February 2011
beijingkids
101
Directories
Shopping 阳区朝阳区顺黄路60号 God’s Grace Garden Members pay a onetime RMB 1,000 deposit to subscribe to the produce from this self-sustaining organic farm. Seasonal produce (RMB 10 per kilo), eggs, soy milk, tofu and more are available. Orders are a minimum RMB 100 with free delivery (orders less than RMB 100 come with a RMB 10 delivery fee). Jiang Village, Liangxiang, Fangshan District. (137 0127 7398, will2bdone@yahoo. com) www.youjinongzhuang.com 有机农庄, 房山区房山区良乡江村
The Debonair Design Studio Offers design consultation and manufacturing. With overseas educated designers, they provide clients with Chinese, American, modern, European and rustic interior decorating solutions. Services include interior design, interior accessories design, sale of curtain fabrics and sofa fabrics, upholstered furniture making, sale of ornaments. B1-18 Diplomatic Residence Compound, 19 Dongfang Donglu, Chaoyang District (8459 3667, Debonair@vip.sina.comcustomer) www.debonair.com.cn. 北京轻松元 素艺术设计工作室. t朝阳区东方东路19号官舍 (外交公寓会所)B1-18 Pantry Magic Hong Kong based kitchenware shop is your one-stop source for all kinds of Western cooking equipment - blenders, baking ware, ceramics, cookbooks and more. Over 300 items in stock. No. 81, Nali Patio, Sanlitun, Chaoyang District. (5208 6001, bj-info@pantry-magic.com) http://www. pantry-magic.com/ 朝阳区朝阳区三里屯北路 81号那里花园
Green Cow Organic Farm Donggezhuan (10 min north of the new International Exhibition Center), Houshayu Zhen, Shunyi District. (8046 4301, 135 0113 6920, 6433 4435 (fax), thelovelygreencow@gmail.com) 绿牛有机农 庄, 顺义区北京绿牛有机农场(北京京承高速 与机场北线交汇处的东北方向董各庄附近) Green Yard Organic Milk and Yogurt Regular weekly/bi-weekly deliveries of fresh organic milk (including goat’s milk) and organic yogurt produced on an organic dairy farm. English speaking ordering hotline and email ordering available. (800 810 9903, 6506 5855, 139 0128 2292, organiclife@greenyard. cn) Shangrila Botanicals Shangrila Farms produces items made in Yunnan, including organic coffee, honey, and some botanical beauty products. Proceeds help to support the Yunnan Mountain Heritage Foundation. Daily 10am-10pm. 1/F, EC Mall, Bldg 1 (east entrance), 1 Danlingjie, Zhongguancun, Haidian District. (8454 9514, info@shangrilafarms. com) www.shangrilafarms.com 海淀区中关村 丹棱街1号欧美汇购物中心3层(地铁4号线和 10号线海淀黄庄站直达)
Face Painting by Nina Griffee Provides face painting services for children’s parties and events. Highest level of safety and hygiene is met and only water-based face paints are used. Up to 12 children per hour can be painted and all materials are provided by the artist. Parties RMB 200 per hour plus travel expenses. Face painting day workshops are also available for adults. Workshops run the whole day and includes hygiene and safety training, skin irritant testing, brush and sponge techniques, face paint design structure and color combination study. Workshops are RMB 225 per hour plus travel expenses. (152 1001 7548, ninagriffee@hotmail.co.uk) www.ninagriffee.co.uk Imagine Photography Studio If your kids never come out as cute as they really are in the photos you shoot yourself, deliver them into the hands of the professionals at this Shunyi-based photography studio that focuses on capturing children on film. A range of albums, calendars, greeting cards and frames let you get creative with the final products. Packages run from RMB 1,500-5,000; the Happy Together plan lets you gather your kid’s friends, siblings and classmates for a free session and a free 10-inch photo. 10am-6pm. 14 Kaifajie, Xibaixinzhuang, Shunyi District. (8472 7478, info@imaginestudio.cn) www.imaginestudio.cn 顺义区西百辛庄开发街14号
Services The Age of Innocence Photo Studio Haidian photography studio specializing in kids and families. Daily 10am-6pm. Bldg 1, 15 Shiyuyuan, Shijichengsan, Haidian District. (8887 8477, 130 5108 3601) www.mycznd.com 纯 真年代摄影工作室, 海淀区世纪城三期,时雨 园 1 号楼15号
Villa Lifestyles Villa Lifestyles has been serving Beijing communities for four years. Discover a wide selection of BBQs and accessories, the Mosquito Magnet, trampolines, IQAir Air Purifiers and more. F/4, Europlaza, 99 Yuxiang Lu, Tianzhu, Shunyi District. (8046 1260, 6457 1922, info@villalifestyles.cn) www. villalifestyles.cn 顺义区天竺镇裕翔路99号欧 陆广场四层 Yuquanying Flower Market Looking for Dutch tulips? The Yuquanying Flower Market sells said posies for only RMB 6, and stocks a wide selection of flowers and plants, including a good number of rare breeds. Daily 9am6pm. 71 Nansanhuan Xilu, Fengtai District. (6750 1026) 玉泉营花卉市场, 丰台区南三 环西路71号
Organic Goods Agrilandia Italian Farm Fireplace Restaurant Daily 9am-9pm. Baigezhuangcun, Mapozhen, Shunyi District. (6940 7700, 130 0127 1094) www.agrilandia.cn 意大利农场壁 炉餐厅, 顺义区马坡镇白各庄村 De Run Wu Translating as “House of Virtue,” this family-run organic farm consists of a greenhouse growing over 100 types of crops year-round. Visitors can purchase produce for RMB 20 per kilo (minimum 4 kilos) and they deliver for an additional RMB 20 on two runs a week. They also sells organic detergents, soap nuts, natural cleaners and more. Rm 813, 60 Shunhuang Lu, Danshui Town, Chaoyang District. (8459 0809, jiyunliang@vip.163.com) 朝
102
beijingkids
Austen Morris Associates Austen Morris provide independent financial advice for expatriates, including finance planning for children’s education. Call for an initial consultation. Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm. Ste 2509, Beijing Silver Tower, 2 Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6410 7030) www.austenmorris.com 朝阳区东三环北路2号南银大厦2509室 BigDog’s Kids Party A professional company for kids’ party planning and organizing in Beijing, BigDog’s Kids Party provides party essentials such as party theme and game, balloon decoration, party supplies, performances and clowns. Balloons, invation cards, arts and crafts, goodie bags, and pinatas are also available in BigDog’s Party Shop. Tue-Sun 9am-6pm. 2/F 205, East Park International Apts, Tower 45, Fuangyuan Li, Fangyuan Xilu, Chaoyang District. (400 8960 608, happy@bigdogparty.cn) www.bigdogparty.cn 朝阳区芳园西路芳园里45号楼丽东国际公寓2层 205室(美中宜和医院旁边) Bouceabout The perfect place for everything inflatable. Rent bouncy castles, climbing walls and other fun activities perfect for parties or community events. 60 Guangqu Donglu, Chaoyang District. (8770 4047, 133 1139 1468) www.bjtrdl.com 天仁达莱, 朝阳区广 渠东路60号 Crown Relocations Crown Relocations services include domestic and international transportation of household goods, home and school search, storage, expense management, policy consulting and program administration, online tracking tools, transit protection and intercultural services. We provide services for corporations, diplomats and private customers. Crown Relocations, a division of the Crown Worldwide Group, serves over 10,000 customers from over 200 locations in 50 countries. (5801 8088), www.crownrelo.com
January/February 2011
IQ Air While little can be done about outdoor air pollution, we can certainly have an impact on the air we breathe inside our homes and offices. IQAir has been providing air-cleaning solutions since 1963. Swiss precision and technology go into every unit, creating an excellent price-to-performance ratio. 1) Rm 2201-02, Air China Plaza, 36 Xiaoyun Lu, Chaoyang District. (8447 5800, 400 650 1266, info@iqair-china. com); 2) 2LY1-05, Solana Lifestyle Shopping Center, 6 Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu, Chaoyang District. (5905 6768, info@iqair-china.com); 3) 4/F, 417 Seasons Place, 2 Jinchengfang Jie, Xicheng District. (6622 0179, info@iqairchina.com); 4) 4/F, Europlaza, 99 Yuxiang Lu, Tianzhu, Shunyi District. (6457 1922, info@iqair-china.com) www.iqair-china.com 1) 朝阳区霄云路36号国航大厦2201-02室; 2) 朝 阳区朝阳公园路6号蓝色港湾购物中心2LY105; 3) 西城区金城坊街金融街417号四层; 4) 顺义区天竺镇裕翔路99号欧陆广场4层 Mishka Family Photography This husband and wife team speak Russian, English and Chinese. Offers professional portraits, actions shots, and specializes in photographing children. C3, Fuli City, Shuangjing Qiao, Chaoyang District. (5876 4088, 150 1089 9969, maxim@mishka.pro) www.mishka.pro 朝阳区 朝阳区双井桥富力城C3 Mr. Magic A Mr. Magic Party includes one hour with a clown, magician or superhero and face painting, an interactive magic show, a treasure hunt, circle games, crazy dances and more (RMB 2,000, RMB 1,600 (kids), discount rates for schools and charities). Prize bags, balloon art and a DVD of the event are also available for additional charges. (139 1062 6059, parsons59@yahoo.com) Mythfoto Photography Studio Mythfoto believe there is a myth every photo, which gives it a unique spiritual value. Provide art photography services, and on-site photography is also available. 9am-6pm. Rm 3-319,
Runfeng Jiashang Building, Chaoyang Beilu, Chaoyang District. (5703 5813, 855 65219, xuanlanguan@gmail.com) www.xuanlanguan. com 北京绚烂馆摄影, 朝阳区朝阳区朝阳北路 润枫嘉尚3-319 Relocasia A business to assist in moving with personalized service at a competitive rate. Helps to make successful and cost-effective moves across Asia and the rest of the world. Consultants are available from the start of the move right through the finish. See website for schedules and prices. 24 hours available. (5820 6413) www.relocasia.com Vorwerk Vorwerk is the market leader in premium quality household appliances. With continuous technical development, Vorwerk products are efficient and offer high-standard filtration. Clean is not their aim, hygiene is. (400 820 7711) www.vorwerk.com.cn
Toys Giant Bicycles Be sure to buy a sturdy lock if you purchase one of the bicycles on offer at Giant’s flagship store. Inside the cavernous shop is a wide range of mountain and racing bikes, components, accessories and frames including the TCR Team Alu series (RMB 12,800-21,000). Their Chinese-only website lists other branches in Beijing. Note that the store does not sell little bikes, so you can only shop here for your teenagers. 1) Daily 9am-6.30pm. Rm 101, Bldg E, Guoheng Jiye Mansion, 7 Beitucheng Xilu, Chaoyang District. (8227 5718); 2) Daily 9am-7.30pm. Shunyuan Jie, 12 Sanyuanli Nanxiaojie (just west of east third ring road, on the north side of the road), Chaoyang District. (8448 9271) www.giantbicycle.com 捷安特自行车专卖店, 1) 朝阳区 北土城西路7号国恒基业大厦E座101室; 2) 朝 阳区顺源街三元里南小街12号,与东三环北路 路口西北侧 Hongqiao Market One entire floor is filled with cheap toys, from stuffed animals to Barbie sets, kites and remote controlled cars. Daily 9.30am-7pm. 46 Hongqiao Lu, Chongwen District. (6713 3354) 红桥市场, 崇文区 红桥路46号 Kidsland Offers a wide range of toys brands such as Lego, Hasbro (Monopoly, Transformers, Star wars, Playdoh, Playskool, My little pony, Little pet shop and Baby Alive), Chicco (italian baby toys), Schleich (small plastic animals) and Siku (small vehicles). 1) Daily 10am-10pm. L407, South Place, The Place. 9 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (6587 1481, 6448 2105 ext. 128); 2) 206, F/1, Lido Place, 6 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District. (6437 6908); 3) Rm 0423�Jiamao Shopping Center, 33 Guangshun Beidajie, Chaoyang District. (8472 9412); 4) 411-412 Xindong’an Plaza, 138 Wangfujing Dajie, Dongcheng District. (6528 8624) www.kidslandchina.com 1) 朝阳区光华 路9号世贸天阶南街四层L407; 2) 朝阳区将台 路6号丽都商业广场一层206号店铺; 3) 朝阳区 广顺北大街33号嘉茂购物中心四层0423号店铺; 4) 东城区王府井大街138号新东安411-412 Lego Enthusiasts can buy classic sets of 30 to 1,000 pieces, while those with less imagination can purchase themed Lego sets, such as Star Wars, Harry Potter, Alpha Team and Jack Stone. 1) B/1 Solana, 6 Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu, Chaoyang District.; 2) 10am-10pm. Rm 4100, Jinyuan Shopping Mall, 1 Yuanda Lu, Haidian District, Haidian District. (8886 4036); 3) Daily 9am-10pm. Lufthansa Shopping Center, 52 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District.; 4) Daily 9am-9pm. NB134A, B1/F, China World Shopping Mall, 1 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District.; 5) Daily 10am-10pm. 5/F Pacific Century Place, A2 Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6448 2105) 乐高, 1) 朝 阳区朝阳公园路6号蓝色港湾国际商区B1层; 2) 海淀区海淀区远大路一号金源购物中心4100; 3) 朝阳区亮马桥路52号燕莎购物中心; 4) 朝 阳区建国门外大街1号国贸商城NB134A; 5) 朝 阳区工体北路甲2号太平洋百货5楼 San Shi Zhai Kite Store Each of the store’s kites is handmade, using bamboo, silk or paper, and painted by the owners themselves.
Directories
*listings in orange are new to Directories Daily 8am-7pm. 25A Di’anmen Xidajie, east of Lotus Lane, Xicheng District. (8404 4505, 6403 0393) 三石斋风筝店, 西城区地安门西 大街甲25号 Shengtangxuan Shengtangxuan’s owner Tang Qiliang, an ethnic Manchurian in his 80s, started crafting toys 70 years ago and a number of his toys are part of collections in the China Art Gallery and the Capital Museum. In 2003 he and his daughter opened this shop in Guozijian to preserve his time-honored handicrafts. Made from wood, paper and clay, many of Tang’s toys take their influence from classic tales and include figurines from Journey to the West and the legend of The Eight Immortals Crossing the Sea. The store also sells wooden spinning tops (RMB 20), toy drums (RMB 10), paper windmills (RMB 7-10) and Peking Opera masks (RMB 80). Daily 9am-7pm. 38 Guozijian Jie, Dongcheng District. (8404 7179) 盛唐轩, 东城区国子 监街38号 Tot to Teen This clothing store also stocks a small selection of board games (RMB 45-70), art supplies, wands, butterfly wings and temporary tattoos (RMB 48). 1) Daily 9am-7pm. 703 Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District. (8046 4419, tot-to-teen@hotmail.com); 2) Daily 10am7pm. Stall 102, 30 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6417 9640, tot-to-teen@hotmail. com) 红马车儿童用品商店, 1) 顺义区天竺 房地产开发区荣祥广场703号; 2) 朝阳区三里 屯路30号102商店
Sports Directory Sports Beijing is a non-profit organization that provides sports and recreational activities to the children of Beijing. Modeled after the North American and European sports organizations, Sports Beijing offers more than 15 sports and recreations programs, including baseball, basketball, flag football, floor ball, gymnastics, ice hockey, martial arts, rugby, skiing, soccer, swimming, tennis, track and field/athletics. Available for young athletes (ages 4-18) and their families. Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Lido Country Club 2/F, Holiday Inn Lido Hotel, 6 Jiang Tai Lu, Chaoyang District (6430 1370) www.sportsbj.org
Bowling Gongti 100 When he’s in town, Andy Lau apparently bowls at Gongti 100, which is named for its number of lanes. The complex also has a plethora of video games that will be popular with the kids. Small-sized shoes are available for kids over 6. Bowling RMB 40/game/person, RMB 5 for shoe rental. Daily 9am-1am. 6 Gongti Xilu, Chaoyang District. (6552 2688) 工体100, 朝阳区 工体西路6号 Jade Palace Hotel Bowling Center Expect higher standards than at your regular ten-pin dive, with eight immaculately maintained lanes and an army of helpful and friendly staff. Smallest shoe size is 35, though, so this is a good choice for big kids only. Daily 10am-11pm. B1/F, Jade Palace Hotel, 76 Zhichun Lu, Haidian District. (6262 8888 ext 55080) 翠宫宾馆保龄球中 心, 海淀区知春路76号翠宫宾馆地下1层
Dance DanZ Centre Offering a range of classes in English for kids and teenagers, in styles such as ballet, jazz, tap, hip-hop and Latin. RMB 80 for a lesson. RMB 1,600 for 20 lessons. The school has both Shunyi and downtown campuses. 1) 10am8pm. C/F, East Lake Villa, Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Dongcheng District.; 2) 2/F, Children’s Clubhouse, Yosemite Villas, 4 Yuyang Lu (West Gate of ISB), Chaoyang District. (8041 7745/7746) www.danzcentre.com 丹安丝舞蹈培训中心, 1) 东城区东直门外大街东湖别墅; 2) 朝阳区榆阳路 4号优山美地别墅儿童俱乐部2层 J-Ballet School Formerly the Western Ballet School, J-Ballet offers instruction in Chinese, Japanese or English to children and adults. Courses are divided into fall (Sept-Dec), spring
(Feb-July) and summer (July-Aug) terms. Children’s lessons are in six levels (RMB 60-80 per class). Adult classes are RMB 80 each, with packages of 10 lessons for RMB 700 and 20 lessons for RMB 1200. Students get 10% discount on adult classes. 1) Pulse Health Club, Kempinski Hotel, Lufthansa centre, 50 Liangmaqiao lu., Chaoyang District.; 2) 1/F, Bldg D, Jingxiu Yuan, Xingfucun Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (8453 3003; 138 0103 6364 (Ms. Takeda); 138 0113 5877 (Ms. Tang)) www.j-ballet.com J-芭蕾教室, 2) 朝阳区幸福村中路景绣园D座一层西侧
The Ice Zone Small ice rink in the center of Shunyi offers skating classes for beginners and intermediates, private lessons, 3-on-3 ice hockey programs, and beginners hockey for adults and children. Unlimited time on the ice is RMB 50 (weekends) and RMB 30 (weekdays) and includes skate rental. Daily noon-4pm. River Garden Clubhouse, 2/F (access from Yuyang Lu), 7 Yuyang Lu, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8046 6092, info@icezonechina.com) www.icezonechina.com 冰点地带, 顺义区裕京花园会所2楼(入口 在裕京路)北京顺义榆阳路7 号
Football (Soccer)
Skiing & Snowboarding
ClubFootball This organization runs soccer coaching programs at 20+ locations in Beijing and Tianjin for boys and girls of all levels aged 4 to 18. Held after school, at weekends and during holidays, courses are designed and delivered in a fun environment by ClubFootball’s English FA-qualified coaching staff. A nine week course averages RMB 750 and includes kit, beverages, player profile, certificate and team photo. 9am6pm. Unit A212, Door 3, A1 Zone, Huadeng Building, 14 Jiuxianqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (5130 6893/4/5/6, coaching@wanguoqunxing. com) www.clubfootball.com.cn 万国群星足球 俱乐部, 朝阳区酒仙桥路14号兆维华登大厦A1区 3门212室
Badaling Ski Resort Badaling has two 800m long ski runs and a 2,300m snowmobile run. It also has sledding runs and a ski lodge with accommodation, food and drinks, stores and a gym. Any kid over 3 is welcome to take a shot at the slopes! RMB 220 (weekdays), RMB 260 (weekends). Daily 8.30am-6.30pm. Badaling Town, Yanqing County. (6501 0335, 136 9915 8647) 八达岭滑雪场, 延庆县八达岭镇
Hiking Beijing Hikers Hikes of varying difficulty in villages near Beijing. Open to everyone. Call for info on hikes and what to bring. Prices vary for overnight hikes; weekend hikes are RMB 250/300 (adult), half price for children under 12, including round trip transport, snacks and drinks after the hike, detailed map of the hike and professional guidance. Advance reservations necessary. MonFri 9am-6pm. Rm 601, Bldg 2, Xinhualian Ligang, 26 Jiuxianqiao Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (6432 2786, info@beijinghikers.com) www.beijinghikers.com 朝阳区酒仙桥中路26号新华联丽港2号 楼601室
Nanshan Ski Village One of the area’s top ski resorts, Nanshan has ten well-groomed trails for skiers of all levels and a snowboard park (Nanshan Mellow Park) with a halfpipe, four kickers and six rails - all served by a quadruple chairlift, a double chairlift and nine T-bars. Nanshan has many ski and snowboard instructors - some trained by the Austria Snowboard Association - and it is also home to snowboarding camps organized by the Icon X store, which uses only Burton gear. Visit this all-season facility in summer for water skiing, grass skiing and paragliding. Entrance RMB 20. RMB 100/2 hrs (Mon-Fri) RMB 150/2 hrs (Sat-Sun), RMB 140/4 hrs (MonFri) RMB 200/4 hrs (Sat-Sun), RMB 220/ full day (Mon-Fri) RMB 360/full day (Sat-Sun). Sledding is RMB 50/30 mins. Lodging available (RMB 320360). Daily 8.30am-5.30pm. Shengshuitou Cun, Henanzhai Town, Miyun County. (8909 1909) www.nanshanski.com 北京南山滑雪滑水度假村有 限公司, 密云县河南寨镇圣水头村
Sports
Qiaobo Ice and Snow World The first and only indoor ski resort in Beijing, Qiaobo has a 150m bunny slope and a 260m long slope. Great place to cool off from the summer heat. Experienced skiers should keep their expectations low. Kids 3 and up only. Rates for Qiaobo Ice and Snow World2 hours, weekdays: RMB 180 per person (entry and ski or snowboard hire)2 hours, weekends: RMB 230 (entry and ski or snowboard hire)4 hours and over, weekdays: RMB 240 (entry and ski or snowboard hire)4 hours and over, weekends: RMB 330 (entry and ski or snowboard hire)Ski suit hire: RMB 30 (jacket and trousers)Locker hire: RMB 10 Daily 9am-10pm. Inside Chaobai River National Forest Park, Mapo, Shunyi District. (8497 2568) www.qbski.com 乔 波冰雪世界, 顺义区马坡潮白河国家森林公园内6号
Yoga Incy Wincy Yoga Founded in 2006 by two mothers looking for activities for their kids, Incy Wincy Yoga has ten fully trained caring instructors providing preschool activities in Beijing (Yoga from baby to 12 years old). 1) River Gardens Clubhouse, Shunyi District. (5952 7001, info@incywincyyoga.com); 2) Rm 1606, Zhujiang DijingXi Dawang Lu, Chaoyang District. (5952 7001, info@incywincyyoga.com) http://www. incywincyyoga.com 2) 朝阳区朝阳区西大望路珠 江地精1606室 Yoga Yard Yard Vinyasa (flow) yoga classes offered daily, mornings and evenings, at various levels. offers pre- and postnatal yoga, introduction to yoga, restorative yoga, and other workshops. Yoga books, mats and wellness products also available. Kids yoga for ages 4 and above. RMB 400 for a four-week session. Mon-Thu 7.15am-9.30pm, Fri-Sun 7.15am-8pm. Mon-Thu 7.15am-9.30pm, Fri-Sun 7.15am-8pm. 6/F, Bldg 17 Gongti Beilu (across from the north gate of Workers’ Stadium), Chaoyang District. (6413 0774, info@yogayard.com) www.yogayard.com 瑜珈苑, 朝阳区工体北路17号楼6层工人体育场 北门对面
Ice Skating All Star Champion Skating Club Lace up your skates and do a Kim Yu-Na of South Korea (Kim’s the current world champion in ladies figure skating, couch potatoes). - All Star Ice Rink was founded by Wang Rui, figure skating gold medalist in the 1999 Asian Winter Games, and Li Ning, the legendary gymnast who lit the torch during the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics opening ceremony. Located on the first floor of Solana mall, the ice rink covers 800 square meters and uses equipment that meets international standards, creating a rink fit for both entertainment and professional competition. For adolescents new to the sport, All-Star offers classes. Especially precocious athletes can request coaches from the Chinese national skating team. Private lessons (Chinese only) are priced at RMB 135-300/90min. RMB 30, 50 for admission. Daily 10am-10pm. 1/F, Solana Lifestyle Shopping Park, 6 Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu., Chaoyang District. (5905 6328) 全明星滑冰俱乐部, 朝阳区朝阳公园 路6号蓝色港湾国际商区首层 Le Cool Chills and spills for skaters and shoppers at this small indoor rink in the World Trade Center. Be warned that the rink can get seriously crowded with ice princesses on holidays and weekend afternoons. Weekdays: RMB 30 for 90 min (10am-6pm), RMB 40 for 90 min (6-10pm). Weekends: RMB 50 for 90 min. Skate rental included. Daily 10am-10pm. B2/F, China World Shopping Mall, 1 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6505 5776, lecool@cwtc. com) www.lecoolicerink.com 国贸溜冰场, 朝阳区 建国门外大街1号国贸地下2层 New World Champion Skating Rink An excuse to go to Chongwen District. All fees include 90 mins of ice time and skate rentals. Weekdays: RMB 40 (10am-5pm), RMB 50 (5-9.30pm). Weekends: RMB 50. Daily 10am-9.30pm. B1/F, New World Shopping Mall, Chongwen District. (8887 4899) 新世界冠军溜冰场, 崇文区新世界 商场地下1层
January/February 2011
beijingkids
103
The Circuit The Circuit is a chance to sneak a peek at what’s happening on the family and school scene. Want to see your event on these pages? Send an e-mail with the date of your past event and a brief description to kara.chin@beijing-kids.com by February 14.
beijingkids Santa on Ice On December 12, beijingkids and Beanstalk International Bilingual School held the annual Santa on Ice at Le Cool Ice Rink, China World Mall. Children were able to ice skate as well as get a Christmas present and a photo taken with Santa. Sponsored by Beanstalk International Bilingual School, Le Cool Ice Rink, Imagine Photography Studio, A Food Affaire, and Royal Boat.
PHOTOS: SUI, RULLY PRIYADIPTA AND HENDY KRISTIANTO
104
beijingkids
January/February 2011
The Circuit Western Academy of Beijing (WAB) in November Active NASA astronaut Commander Mark Polansky visited WAB from November 9-12. He participated in WAB’s International Day, and a screening of IMAX’s Hubble 3D at the Chinese National Film Museum. On November 25, Grade 3 students dressed up and gave biographical speeches as their favorite “Significant Person.”
PHOTOS: COURTESY OF BSB AND WAB
The British School of Beijing On November 6, the BSB (Sanlitun) Girls U11 Football team won the ISAC Primary football competition at Dulwich and celebrated with the boys team. On December 9, BSB held a Lego Day at its Shunyi Campus, Secondary School, where children constructed different Lego buildings.
January/February 2011
beijingkids
105
The Circuit Christmas at Harrow On December 3, the Lower School put on a performance of the “The Bossy Christmas Fairy” that was attended by parents, teachers and students.
MSB’s Winter Show On December 1, The International Montessori School of Beijing (MSB) held a winter show with a variety of performances.
PHOTOS: COURTESY OF MSB AND HARROW
106
beijingkids
January/February 2011
The Circuit ISB Students at Harvest Time ISB Grade 1 students harvested their own feast while studying cycles and harvest celebrations around the world.
PHOTOS: COURTESY OF ISB AND 3E
I Love Reading Day at 3e On November 13, 3e International celebrated I Love Reading Day. Vendors, teachers, and students gathered to read short stories promoting literacy for children.
January/February 2011
beijingkids
107
The Circuit
BCIS Fifth Anniversary Ceremony On November 6, BCIS held its fifth anniversary ceremony at BCIS Campus with performances from students.
Christmas at IAB On December 3, IAB’s Kindergarten and Grade 4 students brought Christmas trees to Bethel Foster home.
PHOTOS:COURTESY COURTESYOF OFBCIS 3E AND PHOTOS: ANDIAB IAB
108
beijingkids
January/February 2011
The Circuit Christmas at YCIS Beijing YCIS Primary Choir sang at the Grand Hyatt for their Christmas Tree lighting celebration. Year 1 and Year 2 students performed their “Sounds of Christmas” concert for parents and the community.
PHOTOS: COURTESY OF YCIS AND CISB
Basketball at CISB From November 11-13, CISB hosted its annual Bonnell Hoop Classic Basketball tournament. Eight teams participated and helped raise money for the Brain and Cancer Research Foundation of Canada.
January/February 2011
beijingkids
109
The Circuit BWYA Students Raise Awareness about AIDS On December 1, World AIDS Day, over 80 BWYA students participated in A Day Without Art (DWA), making 4,000 AIDS ribbons and handing them out while walking around the Caochangdi Art District, dressed in black.
Etonkids Photo Contest Etonkids held an award ceremony for “A Child’s Shining Moments” photo contest. Students also gave performances.
PHOTOS: COURTESY OF HARROW AND DULWICH PHOTOS: COURTESY OF BWYA AND ETONKIDS
110
beijingkids
January/February 2011
Hilton Gives to Children in Need In December, Hilton Beijing Capital Airport invited kids from Beijing Sun Village Special Chilren Aid Center to a cookie making session with Hilton Hotel greater China general managers. Hilton donated living necessities to the village where the center supports children who’s parents are currently in prison.
PHOTOS: COURTESY OF HILTON BEIJING CAPITAL AIRPORT AND CLUBFOOTBALL
October at ClubFootball BSB ClubFootball Academy team poses with coach Matthias. On October 30-31, players celebrated winning the ClubFootball Junior Cup at ISB. Players also got into the spirit at Yew Chung ClubFootball Academy at Chaoyang Park.
January/February 2011
beijingkids
111
Family Favorites
The Baran/Wang Family
photo by Mishka Family Photography Polish Kasia Baran is the marketing manager at Yew Chung International School of Beijing. Her husband, Beijing native Nathan Wang is an art critic and curator at Zian Art Gallery in Songzhuang Artists’ village. Their son Lukasz Wang is 16 months old. The family moved from the US to Beijing in 2004. With almost seven years of Beijingliving under their belts, the family sat down with beijingkids to share their favorite food and shopping locales. Kara Chin Would you like to share your Beijing Favorites? E-mail editor@beijing-kids.com. Best Indoor Activity Lukasz likes indoor playgrounds like the new Joy City on Chaoyang Beilu. Also, galleries and bookstores are great for occupying an adventurous toddler.
beijingkids
Favorite Dessert Definitely cheesecake; nothing rivals Kasia’s mother’s homemade version. Family Rituals Pizza night on Fridays. On Saturdays, we like to Skype Lukasz’ grandparents in Poland.
Favorite Shop Spot Nate goes to Zhongguancun for electronics and Taobao.com for almost everything else. Kasia goes to Gaobeidian Furniture Street (高碑店家俱一条街) near Dongwuhuan for home interior pieces and Panjiayuan Antique Market for drinking glasses. For Lukasz, C&A in Viva Mall and H&M in Glory Mall. Best Day Trip Songzhuang Artists’ Village. It has lots of galleries and huge spaces for kids to roam free while parents can enjoy contemporary Chinese art. It is also peaceful and quiet.
Date Night A movie night at home with a glass of wine once Lukasz is fast asleep is a perfect date for us at the moment.
112
New Discoveries in Beijing We just discovered The Butcher’s Steakhouse in Sanlitun – it has a patio and great deli choices. It is our new hangout.
Favorite Family Restaurant The Cantonese-style Jin Ding Xuan (金鼎轩酒楼) is kid-friendly. Its Tuanjiehu location has a big non-smoking area upstairs and the food is delicious. Lukasz loves the colorful bowls and spoons.
Best Parks Our favorites are Chaoyang Park, Honglinjin Park and Zhongshan Park.
January/Feburary 2010 January/February 2011