That' Beijing - March 2018

The Female Fighters Putting China on the International Stage

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40 0 8 2 0 8428 城市漫步北京 英文版 3 月份 国 内 统 一 刊 号: CN 11-5232/GO China Intercontinental Press

ISSN 1672-8025

MARCH 2018

Women on China’ s Indie Rock Scene Interviews with Female Fashion Icons �And More, In Our First-Ever Women’ s Issue

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主管单位 : 中华人民共和国国务院新闻办公室 Supervised by the State Council Information Office of the People's Republic of China 主办单位 : 五洲传播出版社 地址 : 北京西城月坛北街 26 号恒华国际商务中心南楼 11 层文化交流中心 邮编 100045 Published by China Intercontinental Press Address: 11th Floor South Building, HengHua linternational Business Center, 26 Yuetan North Street, Xicheng District, Beijing 100045, PRC http://www.cicc.org.cn 社长 President of China Intercontinental Press 陈陆军 Chen Lujun 期刊部负责人 Supervisor of Magazine Department 邓锦辉 Deng Jinhui 编辑 Editor 朱莉莉 Zhu Lili 发行 Circulation 李若琳 Li Ruolin

Editor-in-Chief Noelle Mateer Deputy Editor Dominique Wong National Arts Editor Erica Martin Digital Content Editor Justine Lopez Designer Iris Wang Contributors Dominic Ngai, Mia Li, Gabriel Clermont, Paul French, Sam Lee, Alex Annoh Osafo, Sid Gulinck, Matt Bosson, Nick Mateer, Dux, Marco Guie, Yuka Hayashi

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Editor’s Note

FEBRUARY 2018

DEALS We're giving away tickets to some of the very best Beijing parties, openings,

Welcome to our special Women’s Issue, in which we cover, well, women’s issues.

International Women’s Day is March 8, and we’re celebrating by getting angry. The holiday was was established in 1910 to advocate for gender equality and women’s rights – and yet, there’s still so far to go. Thanks to the #MeToo movement, this past year has seen explosions of anger from women the world over – anger that has become a force for good.

But anger can be a force for kicking ass. For this month’s cover story, Dominique Wong profiles China’s fearsome women MMA fighters, a small, but growing minority of the country’s combat sports scene. In January, Xiong Jingnan became the first Chinese woman to win an international MMA title – but her path to victory wasn’t easy.

Dominique’s fascinating piece, a celebration of female power, begins p. 40.

Elsewhere in the magazine, Dominic Ngai and Erica Martin round up influential women in fashion and music; Erica speaks with Glaswegian post-rockers Mogwai (p.

32); and I eat my way through the city’s new openings (check out The Cheesecake Factory, p. 57).

Until next month,

shows and talks all month, alongside free meals, drinks, discounts and prizes.

All you have to do is scan the QR code below, follow us on WeChat and keep an eye out for your chance to win. You'll get some other great stuff on your phone too.

Noelle Mateer Editor-in-Chief

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA ThatsBeijing t w i t t er. c om / T ha t s B eijin g facebook .com/ ThatsBeijing

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6 CITY 7 SHAKING IT UP Could a massive earthquake strike Beijing?

10 DANGEROUS IMPORTS Paul French on the foreign gangs of pre-war Shanghai

16 URBAN DICTIONARY The word for that thing that everybody has

7

18 LIFE & STYLE 21 NEW IN TOWN

Shop openings in Beijing

22 WINTER WONDERLAND The design behind a very cold observation deck

24 GIRL POWER 21

Influential women in China's fashion scene

28 ARTS 29 CHAPELLE’S SHOW TO SHANGHAI Comedian Kyle Grooms on performing in China

32 POST ROCK, PRE TOUR

We chat with Mogwai ahead of their China tour

38 GOING ON RECORD This month’s hottest album releases

38

52 EAT & DRINK 56 A MAJOR DEAL When TRB stands for ‘Totally Reasonable Bill’

57 FACTORY TOWN The American classic, Cheesecake Factory, lands in Beijing

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60 GET INTO THE SPIRIT A new whiskey shop-cum-bar comes to the CBD

40 PUNCHING UP China’s female MMA fighters grapple their way to the top

10 BUNDWALK EMPIRE

New York Times bestselling author Paul French on Shanghai’s foreign criminals

P39

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CITY DRUNK HISTORY Paul French on 20th-century Shanghai's casino-owning gangsters, p10

Generation Gap p8

Pay-Per-Ride Elevators p8

Chinese Urban Dictionary p16

TALES OF THE CITY

ALL SHOOK UP: WHEN WILL THE ‘BIG ONE’ STRIKE BEIJING?

by Justine Lopez

On February 12, a small earthquake struck Beijing. Although quakes are far less common in Northeastern China compared to the southwest, the tremor has raised the question: How likely is it that the 'Big One' could hit the capital?

The epicenter of the recent earthquake was in Langfang, Hebei, roughly 60km south of Beijing. It measured 4.3 on the Richter scale, meaning it went unnoticed by many in downtown Beijing, and no damage was reported.

Still, it was significant enough to be felt in the capital and cause some of the city's high rises to sway.

Although the Langfang earthquake seems inconsequential compared to other quakes, it is a reminder that Beijing is located in an active seismic zone.

In 1679, the Sanhe-Pinggu earthquake struck 50km east of the Forbidden City, in what is now Hebei. The estimated 8.0-magnitude quake leveled numerous settlements and killed 45,500 people in the region, according to a study by Risk Management Solutions, Inc (RMS). In Beijing, the districts of Pinggu and Tongzhou were ruined, and historical landmarks such as the White Pagoda and Deshengmen were either damaged or

reduced to rubble.

More recently, the 1976 Tangshan earthquake, also in Hebei, killed over 240,000 people and destroyed more than 2 million houses (exact numbers are still unknown).

The 7.8-magnitude quake remains the third deadliest in history. Its epicenter was just 140km east of Beijing – close enough to rattle the capital.

In the aftermath of what has become dubbed ‘The Great Tangshan Earthquake,’ many wondered whether Beijing was susceptible to a similar disaster.

Beijing sits on one of the most highly active seismic zones in the world, the Xiadian Fault, which begins in northern Beijing and passes right by Pinggu and Sanhe in Hebei. It’s the same fault line that ruptured during the deadly Sanhe-Pinggu earthquake in 1679.

Because China is so prone to devastating earthquakes, it established the Chinese Earthquake Administration in 1971 to monitor seismic activity, create warning systems, and improve response and recovery operations in case of disaster. Chinese scientists have also spent decades attempting to figure out how to predict earthquakes – though this has yet to be achieved.

Some earthquake-prone cities in China – like Beijing – have taken drastic measures to prepare for major strikes. Old buildings have been retrofitted, new buildings have been forced to comply with building codes, and warning systems have been put in place.

However, China still has a long way to go. An earthquake warning system wasn’t established in Beijing and its surrounding regions until 2015. And an official national building code won’t be finalized until 2020, the Los Angeles Times reports. Even then, many wonder if these codes will be properly implemented.

As far as the 'Big One' goes, Beijing is likely in the clear – for now, at least, as the seismic cycle of the Xiadian Fault means that an earthquake of the caliber of the 1679 SanhePinggu quake is estimated to occur every 6,500 years.

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THE BUZZ GENERATION GAP

What do you think about China becoming more of a cashless society?

PARK, 17

THE ARRIVAL A crowd exits Beijing Railway Station after Chinese New Year last month.

photo by Alex Annoh Osafo

“Although it is extremely convenient to pay through virtual means, I feel as though cashless transactions decrease money’s value, since you can spend a bunch [of RMB] with just one simple click of a button. I also think that cashless payment methods gave rise to online shopping events, like Double 11 [Singles’ Day, held on November 11] and Double 12 [the follow-up day to Singles’ Day]. So, it seems like it’s much easier now for companies to make profits.”

FAN, 56

LIFT ME UP

“I’m pretty neutral on this topic. I personally use both Wechat Pay and cash, depending on the situation, but if I had to choose one I’d go for cash, since not every shop or person can accept WeChat Pay.” As told to Yuka Hayashi 8 | MARCH 2018 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM

Pay-per-ride elevators are being installed in the capital’s old apartment buildings, reports Beijing Daily.

Residents must pay a fee of RMB0.2 via card swipe each time they take a ride, up or down. Traditionally, residents in buildings with elevators must pay a yearly upkeep fee, but, as the amount is unregulated, monetary disputes often break out between denizens and property companies. Pay-per-ride elevators will be installed in 11 structures in Daxing district by year-end, according to the Beijing municipal government.

E DI T E D B Y D OMINIQ UE W ONG / bj e di t o r @ ur b a n a t o m y.c o m

…is the number of hours that it will take to fly from Beijing to New York via an ultra-fast plane, according to a report published by a team of Chinese researchers at Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing.

The plane’s double-layer wing design would allow it to travel at hypersonic speed, over 6,000km per hour, which is more than five times the speed of sound, reports South China Morning Post. The current passenger jet flight time between the two cities is around 14 hours.

"Ending my basketball career here in China completes me. This is it – no NBA, no anywhere. This is the way it's supposed to end, here with you and only you" …basketball star Stephon Marbury tells the crowd, as they shout ‘Ma Buli! MVP!’ at Beijing Olympic Sports Center Gymnasium after his final game last month, reports AFP. Since moving to China in 2010, the former NBA baller has earned hero status in the country.

In addition to winning three CBA championships with the Beijing Ducks, Marbury’s feats include: obtaining a Chinese green card and having both a movie and a musical made about him.

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CIT Y | F E AT URE

AFTER MIDNIGHT

Author Paul French on Shanghai’s Laowai Gangsters and Beijing’s Sordid Past interview by Noelle Mateer

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F E AT URE | CIT Y

Paul French thinks today’s foreigners in China today don’t know how to have fun.

The bestselling author of Midnight in Peking – the nonfiction tale of the 1937 murder of Englishwoman Pamela Werner – is back with a new book on 20th-century China’s seedy underbelly. But this month, his focus moves further south, with City of Devils: A Shanghai Noir, chronicling the foreign-run gangs of 1920s and ’30s Shanghai.

French gives That’s an exclusive preview of his new book (see p. 14), but Shanghai doesn’t steal all the spotlight this month.

French will be in the capital this month as part of the Bookworm Literary Festival, and will also hold special editions of his Midnight in Peking walking tour (details next page).

We chat with French about the new book, his collection of rare China photos and the laowai of decades past.

That’s: Many of the people in your books are, well, seedy – Midnight in Peking is about tracking down a murderer, and City of Devils is all about gangs. Why are you drawn to unconventional characters?

PF: In my research, [I find] there are foreigners and diplomats and businessmen and dignitaries – but there are also crooks and criminals and gangsters. Particularly Shanghai, because it was such an international city and the rules were totally different – I think it was one of the wildest cities on Earth. In the 1920s and ’30s, if you think something is bad, it probably happened in Shanghai. It was a haven for people on the run – and it was way wilder than anything today.

What interested me with Midnight in Peking was there was this smaller version of it in Beijing, which nobody had written about at all. When you tell people you’re doing a book about 1930s Shanghai, they immediately think opium, jazz, guns. But if you say Peking, people don’t think that. It surprised

“People know that the end is coming, and that they’ve got to make as much money as they can, and party as much as they can, before the sh*t hits the fan” me – I’ve been looking into the foreign underbelly in China for some time, but to find all of that going on in Beijing was quite amazing, because that’s been completely lost in the history books.

Why did you choose to write about the early 20th century?

What makes that period so fascinating is that it all ends so badly. It’s a dance on the rim of a volcano. It doesn’t matter what you do – it’s going to end with the Nazis and the Japanese.

Whatever these people were doing, they were doing it all in the last 10 minutes of an era.

Once we get to Pearl Harbor, we never go back to a Shanghai – or a Beijing – the same as before.

Do you think that era fueled the bad behavior you chronicle in your books?

Oh yeah, I think people were very aware.

Don’t forget – particularly when I’m talking about Shanghai – most of the people that were there had either run away from America because the Depression was so awful, or they were forced – they were statesless. There were Jews that had to leave Europe, and there were Russians who had to leave Russia after 1917. These people don’t have anywhere to go, so Shanghai’s just it. People know that the end is coming, and that they’ve got to make as much money as they can, and party as much as they can, before the sh*t hits the fan.

What inspired you to write about foreigners in Shanghai in the first place?

My great-grandfather was with the Royal Navy in Shanghai, and he used to tell me about that. He had Chinese tattoos all over him. And my father was always a big fan of art deco and modernist architecture, so Shanghai always featured quite heavily in the books he had.

Do you see any similarities between the foreigners you wrote about in the 1920s and 30s, and the foreigners in China today?

It’s impossible to describe how boring the foreign population is today! Diplomats are bland now compared to diplomats then, the Christians are not as Christian as the Christians were then, the gangsters… you know, we don’t really have any gangsters.

Even if you were to measure the amount of alcohol consumed, the amount of drugs consumed, the amount of women and men slept with – we don’t compare at all, we’re a pathetic generation! We don’t have the faintest idea of how to enjoy ourselves.

I find that it’s very difficult for people to accept that everything they’ve done was already done 100 years ago. You come to China and you feel as though you’re doing something different, but it’s humbling that 100 years ago someone was doing exactly the same thing – only it took three months to sail home and there weren’t any foreign hospitals.

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“It’s impossible to describe how boring the foreign population is today. If you were to measure the amount of alcohol consumed, the amount of drugs consumed, the amount of women and men slept with – we don’t compare at all”

How was writing City of Devils different from writing Midnight in Peking?

Midnight in Peking is very straightforward in that it’s one murder, and you’ve just got to solve it. City of Devils is the story of several people and whole loads of things going on – people are setting up casinos and nightclubs, and shooting each other, and going into gang wars. That’s why I’ve subtitled it ‘A Shanghai Noir,’ because it’s about that whole world, that time. It’s more of a milieu, a big landscape.

You’re doing a Midnight in Peking walking tour this month. How have the sites you mention in the book held up over the past century?

The really weird thing about that book, given the destruction of Beijing in the last 30 years, is that most of the places [mentioned] are still there. It’s pure serendipity that these places are still in existence. Whereas the new book I’ve just done down in Shanghai, not one of them.

Some bits and pieces have disappeared, but Armor Factory Alley, Kuijiachang Hutong, still hangs on. The Fox Tower, at Dongbianmen, is 12 | MARCH 2018 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM

the only watchtower that’s left of the original four. The old Badlands of Peking is still there, and it’s pretty unlikely that they’re going to knock down the old train station, which is the railway museum at Qianmen, or anything in the Legation Quarter.

Hopefully [the tour] helps people see the city from a different angle. I’m always shocked and stunned by how many people have lived in Beijing for a long time and have spent no time in the old Legation Quarter. If you go on the weekend, it’s just deserted.

Imagine if, in the center of London or New York, there was a square mile of original Qing dynasty architecture – wouldn’t it be, like, the largest tourist attraction in the world?

And here there’s all this genuine early 20thcentury European architecture and gardens, and one of the most beautiful double spiral churches in Asia, and it’s deserted!

Your Instagram is incredible – all these amazing photos from 20th-century China.

I’ve been collecting postcards and photographs for 20 or 30 years – before anyone had thought of Instagram, so I’d never had anything to do with them. Before, I’d just kept them all in boxes, and maybe gotten them out to show friends.

What’s next for you?

The next book I’m doing is on Shanghai after the Second World War. I never lived in Beijing, which is why I had to write City of Devils, really – because though I lived in Shanghai and was a fan of Shanghai, I ended up writing a book about Beijing, and I’m sort of associated with it now. I prefer Shanghai as a place to live, but there’s also a lot going on in Beijing. There were a lot of stories in Peking – and I still have some more.

Bespoke Beijing and Penguin Books will offer authorled Midnight in Peking Walking Tours on Sat Mar 24 and Sat Mar 31. The Mar 24 tour comes with a four-course meal and wine pairing with the author at Beijing Hotel NUO, Changan Jie (RMB1,288, RMB1,000 before Mar 3); the Mar 31 does not include dinner (RMB488, RMB400 before Mar 10).

(To purchase, email info@bespoke-beijing.com or call 15101679082). French will also host a talk about his book, City of Devils: A Shanghai Noir, at the Bookworm Literary Festival, Thu Mar 22, 8pm, RMB60 (for more info about French’s other event appearances at BLF, visit thatsmags.com/beijing)

F E AT URE | CIT Y

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CIT Y | F E AT URE

GANGS OF

SHANGHAI The New York Times bestselling author delves into the colorful history of the gangs of Old Shanghai – here, his rundown of five of the city’s most notorious. For more, see the full version by scanning the QR code below.

by Paul French

The Argentina Gang Boss Leo Fleischer The Swiss Gang Boss Elly Widler The son of a Swiss man who ran a notorious smugglers bar in Kalgan (modern-day Zhangjiakou), Widler ran a fur-trapping business on the Tibetan border, and then an investment scheme in Chongqing, until that went bust and all the money disappeared (into his pocket).

After arriving in Shanghai, the Swiss mobster sold guns and body armor to the Shanghai Municipal Police, earning enough money to set himself up in a suite at the Broadway Mansions on Suzhou Creek – redecorating the entire place like a Swiss chalet, though he’d never left China in his life. He recruited French, German and Swiss thieves to form his gang, and nobody in the foreign criminal underworld of Shanghai didn’t love ‘Elly the Swiss.’

In 1940, Widler stole a haul of copper ingots from an American-owned warehouse in Shanghai, the modern-day equivalent of USD8 million. Today the incident is regarded as the largest single heist in Shanghai’s history. Afterwards, Widler went on the run, and bought the massive Six Nations Casino to evade the Shanghai Municipal Police. He was forced to pay enormous ‘taxes’ to the Japanese, which he never handed over.

As a Swiss citizen, he stayed free in Shanghai after Pearl Harbor, but eventually he stole one too many times without the Japanese army’s permission, and they locked him up in the notorious Bridge House jail and torture chambers. Widler survived, though he died shortly after the war. His (much younger) wife eventually fled Shanghai for America.

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The Oldies but Baddies who Ran the City

The Argentina gang were the biggest openly fascist gang in Shanghai. Leo Fleischer was a White Russian [anti-Bolshevik] fascist who believed the Nazis would smash Stalin and return the country to the Tsar.

Fleischer came to Shanghai from Harbin in 1940 to open his casino, The Argentina.

Gestapo officers from the German Consulate wore their uniforms openly in the club. The joint was staffed by Fleischer’s White Russian cronies from Harbin and Dalian and attracted a mixed crowd of Japanese, Italians and Germans, along with their sympathizers. The club had a large-scale illegal roulette operation and was Spanish-themed, in keeping with the clientele’s passion for Generalissimo Franco in Madrid.

When the Japanese cracked down on casinos, The Argentina never closed its doors.

Fleischer rigged the roulette wheels and had a floor of Macanese-imported slot machines.

They paid huge bribes to the Japanese, and Leo Fleischer secured a neutral Portuguese passport to stop him from being busted.

F E AT URE | CIT Y

The Kan Gang (Unione Corse) Boss Mr. Kan The Kan Gang was a loose affiliation of independent gangsters in the French Concession and the members of the infamous Unione Corse (Corsican Union) in Shanghai.

Many of the Corsicans affiliated with the Unione were also members of the French Concession police force, whose HQ was just down the road from their hangout. With the fall of France to the Nazis in 1940, the Union Corse split into pro-resistance and pro-Vichy wings. Most of those wanting to resist returned to France.

With the French Concession and its gangs then under Vichy collaborationist control, they were virtually immune to prosecution under the hopelessly corrupt Vichy regime. However, the war and its disruption of the sea had ruined the Union Corse’s main Shanghai business – shipping drugs to Marseille. So, under the guidance of the shady mob boss Mr. Kan, they went into the nightclub and bordello business instead.

Their long links to French Concession police meant they never saw the inside of a jail cell.

The Pai Loh Gang Boss Unknown The Pai Loh was a legendary casino and opium den run by Macanese gambling and crime interests in Shanghai. They flouted their Portuguese neutrality (Macao being then a Portuguese colony) to skirt the authorities, and ran high stakes games of fan tan, Chinese dice games and roulette.

A Chinese-style casino, Pai Loh had private balconies where gamblers lowered Mexican silver dollars in small baskets to the pit bosses below, who bit them with their teeth to test the authenticity. Loaded baskets were constantly moving up and down on an elaborate pulley system across the ceiling – and of course, more silver went down than up. If any Shanghai casino ever looked like the famous Madame Gin-Sling’s place in Josef von Sternberg’s great movie The Shanghai Gesture, then it was the Pai Loh. Eventually the criminal syndicate behind the Pai Loh went too far and cheated an off-duty Shanghai Municipal Police commander out of his night’s winnings, and so the riot squad shuttered it, smashed up the roulette tables, and slashed the sumptuous velvet opium smoking divans. They stormed the joint on New Year’s Eve 1940, one of the biggest gambling nights of the year, and confiscated a massive amount of money and opium that went… who knows where?

The Velvet Sweetshop Gang Boss Paul Crawley Among the annals of Shanghai’s foreign gangsters there are few with a nastier reputation than Paul Crawley. Nobody liked Crawley – not even those who agreed to work with him.

He had made money screening bootleg reels of Hollywood silent movies in Japan, double-crossed his partner (who wound up stabbed in a Tokyo hotel room), and then got into gunrunning to warlords in Northern China based out of Harbin’s Hotel Moderne. Making enemies there too, he came to Shanghai to start over.

Crawley got into the opium smuggling business with a Chinese confectioner called Ah Lee, the proprietor of the seemingly innocent Velvet Sweetshop candy store, who mixed bon-bons and Turkish Delight by day and turned opium into acetylated heroin by night. Crawley shipped it out of Shanghai in tins of candy to his California mob contacts.

But Crawley had a nasty streak – one that wasn’t helped when he began abusing his product. He beat up his Russian wife up in public, waved his gun around in nightclubs and was a hopeless opium addict. Eventually the gangs of Shanghai got together, decided Crawley was bad for everyone’s business and attracting too much attention, and put him on a boat to America, where he was promptly arrested and jailed.

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CITY | CHINESE URBAN DICTIONARY

Baokuan/ bào kuǎn / 爆款 noun. a product that has been bought by many people and can be seen everywhere; something ubiquitous Look, I just got the new iPhone!

You’re still buying iPhones? How pedestrian.

They are the baokuan of phones.

Well what phone do you use?

I don't use one. People have to fax me.

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Taobao is not just a company – it’s a lifestyle. It has changed our way of life, our culture and our language. It has also made baokuan possible.

Although there are high-end products on Taobao now, for a long time, it was dominated by unimaginably cheap ones. The only way for sellers to make a profit was to sell a lot of them. The holy grail product is the baokuan – a product so popular that it’s everywhere. If you tweak the product just right, you start seeing everyone using them.

You see people using the same water bottle on the bus and in your office. Your friends living in Beijing and in Hainan all have the same shirt, despite never having met one another. Every Airbnb you stay in has the same dining table or couch, despite being cities apart. Both teenagers and grandmas in your neighborhood have the same pair of headphones.

Libraries’ worth of material has been written on how to design a baokuan.

It has to be simple enough that anyone can use, practical enough to appeal to the widest range of customers and appealing enough that many would buy them. Once you have one, you can sell warehouses of the same thing to humans all over the globe.

There is no escaping baokuan in the age of Taobao. At any given time, there is always one baokuan that you see everywhere – remember selfie sticks and fidget spinners? When you feel really fed up, you can use baokuan disparagingly to describe something that's cheap and ubiquitous – something that everyone has and therefore is completely unremarkable.

Next time you meet a fashion blogger you hate, try calling their jacket baokuan and see them fly off the handle. Just don't tell them you learned it here. Mia Li

ADVERTORIAL | CITY

ANCIENT MEETS MODERN

A Q&A with Jerry Mong, General Manager of W Hotel Xi’an

W Xi’an will open in 2018. What are you doing until then?

Preparing for the opening. Recruitment is a big deal, and it’s extremely important to set up the right positioning in Xi’an. We have lots of fun selecting everything from the banquet table linen to soap dishes in the bathrooms.

What are the challenges of opening a new hotel?

Getting the right people, and getting them to work together as a team. All our talented people come from different backgrounds, and they need time to adjust to each other in order to work as a team. So ‘breaking in’ is one big challenge for me, as the General Manager, to ensure we maximize the capabilities of each talent.

Can you tell us what we have to look forward to when W Xi’an opens?

BACK AT IT

A Q&A with Harald Feurstein, General Manager of Conrad Beijing, Upon His Return to China You come to Conrad Beijing from Conrad Manila. What’s the transition to China been like?

It feels like coming home. I was in Beijing from 2004 to 2008, and I’m happy to be back.

How has the city changed since you were last here?

China has made tremendous progress, not just the way the city has changed, but also in the way we live life and do business. Years ago there wasn’t WeChat, and there weren’t a lot of things that exist here today. So it appears that China has really become a forerunner and a leader in many ways.

Air quality is much better now, and the environment has been improved. That of course is an extremely positive development for people living in Beijing and for the visitors who come to the city.

We will be the pulse of Xi’an. Our hotel will provide ‘WOW’ service to our guests and glamorize the city with our vibrant, colorful spirit. We will be showcasing many fashion, music and design events in our hotel to ignite city life. We’ll also provide “fuel,” our focus on wellness, which is a trend everyone follows these days.

W Hotels are known for being contemporary and fashionable. What is it like to bring this sense of modernity to such an ancient city?

That’s where the fun part is. Xi’an was known as Chang’an during the Tang dynasty, the “golden era” of China’s history. Chang’an was the capital and the starting point of the Silk Road. We want to bring back the old glamor of Chang’an to modern Xi’an via design elements in the hotel.

Why should Beijingers travel to Xi’an?

It’s quite close, which makes travel simple and easy. “Xi’an” literally means “peace in the west.”

Over 1,000 years, it’s been home to the capitals of 13 dynasties. You can be sure to see lots of culture, innovation and history here in Xi’an. It has often been said that “if you have not been to Xi’an, you have not been to China.”

Do you have any insider tips on visiting Xi’an to share?

The pace of life in Xi’an is slow, and the people are warm. Many of the buildings are kept in the typical Tang dynasty style, including the Bell Tower, Drum Tower, Great Mosque and Tang Paradise. I recommend visitors see the Xi’an City Wall, Huaqing Hot Spring and Qujiang Pool Park.

W Xi’an will open in 2018. See www.starwoodhotels. com/whotels for more info.

Why should Beijingers visitwConrad Beijing?

What’s inside that they would enjoy?

Any other exciting news coming up at Conrad that we ought to know about?

The Conrad Beijing is an iconic hotel in Beijing. In the hotel you will feel worldly style and sophistication with local inspirations everywhere. Take one of our restaurants, Chapter, for example: It is a “gourmet library” where creative flavors are presented in a unique setting reminiscent of grand European libraries.

Lu Yu is our Chinese restaurant, famous for Cantonese and local authentic food paring with different types of Chinese tea. And 29 Grill offers something for every taste and occasion – specializing in prime seafood, imported beef and quality cheeses, accompanied by a comprehensive wine list.

Conrad Beijing has an outstanding location, and it offers state-of-the-art meeting facilities.

It is also an ideal place for conferences or a romantic wedding, coupled with our smart luxury services. We also have recreation facilities – SPA on B1 is a quiet place for guests to relax and reenergize.

Our five year anniversary is in March and we will host a series of events throughout the month to thank our guests for their support.

And our English WeChat Shop function is live; so you can follow us on our hotel WeChat and learn more of our exciting events and best deals directly from our “WeShop.”

Conrad Beijing, 29 Beidongsanhuan Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区北东三环路29号 (6584 6000)

What changes will you bring to Conrad Beijing?

Conrad Beijing is still relatively new at four years in operation. Yet it is well established, and well received by the community. With a fresh perspective on my part, I hope to support and lead the team so that we can build upon the solid foundation and introduce new and exciting ideas to our restaurants and beverage facilities, and further enhance the manner in which we serve our guests.

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | MARCH 2018 | 17

LIFE &

STYLE

SLOPE STYLE

The design behind a futuristic ski resort, p22

Crossover Kicks p20

Shop Openings p21

Women Influencers p24

SPOTLIGHT

EKATERINA LAMBERT

Founder & CEO of FashIcon interview by Dominic Ngai

At 16, Ekaterina Lambert took part in her first fashion show in Russia. Fast-forward a decade and Lambert, now based in Shanghai, is the founder of FashIcon, an app that allows users to share their look and seek instant feedback from a community of fashionistas.

How did your career in fashion begin?

How does the app work?

I still remember buying my first fashion magazine and watching Fashion TV for the first time when I was 9, but the moment when I realized that fashion was the career for me was when I took part in a Zandra Rhodes fashion show in Russia at age 16. I loved being a model – not just being on the runway, but backstage as well. It was where I could learn about styling, and I could spend hours observing how stylists mix and match different looks. Between that time and now, a lot of things happened: I received a bachelor’s degree in fashion design and technology in IFA Paris, met the love of my life, became a mom, began to design clothes, and started my company, FashIcon.

In the FashIcon app, you can find the newest looks and outfit ideas, get feedback on your looks instantly with the ‘Immediate Advice’ option, and receive styling advice by chatting with our community of fashionistas. The ‘Item Tags’ function allows you to identify the exact item and brands from your favorite street-style looks shared by others.

What’s your vision for FashIcon?

FashIcon is the Instagram of fashion – a community of fashionistas helping each other find their voice in everyday fashion and celebrate who they are through their style.

Users can connect with stylish, beautiful and unique people with different visions from around the world.

Are there any rules you always follow when building a look?

I never stick to any style, rules or brands.

My outfit choices always reflect the mood of the day, as I strongly believe what we wear changes the way we feel, talk, look and act. Generally, one thing that I always do is take a last look in the mirror before heading out the door to make sure everything is suitable for the different meetings and events I have on that day. One other tip that I can offer is to simplify your wardrobe by getting rid of things you don’t wear regularly, and play more with accessories instead.

What are a few of your favorite fashion items at the moment?

I love my Gucci belt because it adds a luxurious twist to a casual look – just enough to make your favorite jeans look exquisite. My classic Marc Jacobs red ankle boots are a statement piece that make everything look better. I also love my Tiednista tie – wearing a tie is undeniably sexy for women. It gives off this regal look with a touch of flirty sass.

Is there anything that you’d never wear?

No matter how comfortable Crocs are, they’re just ugly.

Find out more at fashicon.cn

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | MARCH 2018 | 19

STYLE RADAR UNDER THE LENS

COVET

THE WANG PLACE, THE WANG TIME

KICK IT TO ME When London-based Chinese designer Feng Chen Wang unveiled her Fall/Winter 2018 collection at New York Fashion Week last month, the audience’s eyes were on one thing: her crossover Air Jordan sneakers. Models were seen wearing the kicks in two different colors – a black version featuring a pebbled leather body and clear plastic panels, and a white version with smooth leather.

Both feature a bronze Air Jordan logo, and a fabric patch on the heel sports the title of Feng’s collection. fengchenwang.com

OVERHEARD

What were you doing when you were 19? Teenage model Wang Xinyu has already been dubbed by Chinese media as ‘young Zhou Xun,’ after the famous singer and actress.

The supermodel is considered by many to be the next big name to watch in the fashion world – and recently walked the runways of the ‘Big Four’ fashion weeks, showcasing the collections of Alexander Wang, Calvin Klein, Elie Saab and the like. At New York Fashion Week last month, Wang opened the show for Tadashi Shoji’s Fall/Winter 2018 collection.

“Maybe they should just replace ‘China LiNing’ with ‘double happiness’” …comments one Weibo user on Li-Ning’s New York Fashion Week show last month.

Netizens had a lot to say about its the Chinese sports brand’s attempt to capitalize on the athleisure trend. Patriotic fashionistas clashed with naysayers who thought the brand was ‘trying too hard’ to become Balenciaga, but both sides agreed that the new logo featuring four Chinese characters stating “China Li-Ning” is an abomination. www.lining.com

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E DI T E D B Y D OMINIC NG A I / bj e di t o r @ ur b a n a t o m y.c o m

Big Spenders Lanvin now belongs to Fosun, and Bally to Shandong Ruyi. Chinese conglomerates are taking the term ‘shopping spree’ to a whole new level with their multimillion-dollar acquisitions of financially troubled European luxury labels. Experts say this is only the first of similar deals as Chinese investors continue to expand their portfolio of luxury assets in the West.

SCENE&HEARD

THE BULK HOUSE Located somewhat randomly in Liangmaqiao’s 258 Electrical World is The Bulk House. Here you’ll find minimalist environmentfriendly goods like stainless steel straws, reusable food wrap and even bamboo ear cleaners. It’s the first physical location for the brand, which prides itself on being mainland China’s “first social enterprise focusing on zero waste.” It may be a small, but that’s well, kind of on-brand.

Fri-Sun, 10am-7pm; R205, 258 Electrical World, 12 Zaoying Nanli, Chaoyang 朝 阳区栆营南里10号258电器大世界205层 (for more info add The Bulk House official WeChat account: TheBulkHouse_China)

CITY BOOKSTORE What better way to clean up Sanlitun’s ‘Dirty Bar Street’ than with books? That’s right – what was once a strip of pukesplattered concrete is now a book shop, though titles are marked via the Dewey Decimal System, so you’d be forgiven for thinking that everything’s free. On our Saturday afternoon visit, the bookstore was packed with teenagers quietly studying. The new face of Bar Street.

Daily, 10am-10pm; Sanlitun Beixiaojie, Chaoyang 朝阳区三里屯北小街

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LIFE & STYLE | DESIGN

PANORAMIC WINTER Project name: Stage of Forest Location: Fengman, Jilin province Area: 277sqm Design company: META-Project The brief: Named China’s Best Ski Resort in 2017, Vanke Songhua Lake Resort is a popular winter holiday destination among domestic tourists. Due to its increasing popularity, the property has recently undergone comprehensive renovations, including the addition of a viewing platform named ‘Stage of Forest.’

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The Design Behind Jilin's Futuristic Viewing Pavilion words by Dominic Ngai, photos by Su Shengliang

The platform exterior is covered with charred cedar shingles atop a heavy concrete base. The rough surfaces of both materials echo the harsh natural elements of the region during winter.

DESIGN | LIFE & STYLE

The open-air observation deck offers a view of the majestic mountains and Songhua Lake.

Inspired by a leaf floating on water, the boomerang-shaped structure is situated so that it has a minimal impact on the surrounding forest.

Snowboarders glide past the ‘Stage.’

Circular openings cut through the red cedar ceiling and floor. The top hole allows sunlight and snow to enter the space, and the floor window gives visitors a chance to observe the skiing below.

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | MARCH 2018 | 23

LIFE & ST YLE | F E AT URE

These Four Women Are Shaping China’s Sense of Fashion

by That’s Shanghai

In honor of International Women’s Day, we reflect on the powerful, talented women turning China into a fashion powerhouse.

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F E AT URE | LIFE & ST YLE

Angelica Cheung Editor-in-Chief of Vogue China Dubbed by the media as China’s Anna Wintour (they do have the same haircut and job title, after all), the Beijing-born fashion journalist was just 39 when she was brought onboard to oversee the launch of Vogue China in 2005. One of the youngest chief editors in the brand’s history, Cheung advocates for more opportunities for Chinese models and designers to showcase their talent on the global stage. In a 2015 interview with That’s, she said: “I’m not in [the fashion industry] for the glamor. Those who are don’t last very long… I’m in it for the ride – the people you meet, the things you achieve and the reach you have. That’s what has given me an edge compared to other editors.”

Guo Pei Couture Designer Named one of the World’s 100 Most Influential People by Time in 2016, the Beijing-born couturiere is famous for her Chinese imperial court-inspired designs. Her work has been featured at some of China’s most high-profile events, most famously, the gown decorated with 200,000 Swarovski crystals worn by singer Song Zuying during the 2008 Olympics Closing Ceremony. Her name became widely known in the West after Rihanna appeared on the red carpet of the 2015 Met Ball in a trailing yellow gown designed by Guo (the one that some commenters claimed resembled a jianbing). That same year, a few of the designer’s dresses were also prominently featured at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art exhibition, China: Through the Looking Glass. “The gowns I produce for events like the Olympics, or for some of my clients, don’t really represent me as a designer,” Guo told us in 2014. “In a way, I’m just a seamstress, a serviceperson who does what the customer wants.”

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LIFE & ST YLE | F E AT URE

Chen Man Photographer The 37-year-old Beijinger’s work has graced the covers of glossy fashion magazines around the world, but her interest in photography didn’t materialize until halfway through her graphic design studies. “Painting was my main interest,” Chen told That’s in a 2014 interview. “I wanted to be an artist, but it wasn’t a financially sustainable career.” In the early years of her career, she developed a signature style: an avant-garde, painting-like aesthetic that drew criticism from traditionalists. “Other photographers didn’t see me as their peer as my shots resembled paintings. Artists didn’t think I belonged to their world either because I worked for fashion magazines,” Chen told us. “[But to me,] capturing an image is not just recording real life, but creating a surrealist expression of art.”

Liu Wen Model Born in Hunan, the 30-year-old supermodel started her career in fashion in the mid-2000s, and has since worked with every label you can think of.

Thanks to her versatile look, Liu has broken many records in her career – in Fall 2009, she booked a whopping 74 shows over the four major Fashion Weeks in New York, London, Milan and Paris, and remains the record holder for the highest number of shows ever walked by a model of Asian descent in a single season. That same year, she became the first Chinese model to ever walk the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show (and has since returned multiple times). In March 2017, she became the first Chinese model to ever appear on the front cover of the US edition of Vogue.

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ARTS

NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM Our pick of this month's must-see art exhibitions, p39

In Theaters p30

Women in Indie Music p34

New Albums p38

DRUMROLL

KYLE GROOMS The New Jersey Comedian on Touring China

by Erica Martin

Comedian Kyle Grooms is no stranger to traveling China – he’s been brought in by Shanghai's Kung Fu Komedy to perform here before. Here’s what to expect from his next tour, stopping off in Beijing this month as part of the Bookworm Literary Festival.

What do you like most about performing in China?

Tell us about your comedy album, The Legend of the Jersey Devil.

Do you have any crazy stories that stand out from your touring?

The crowds are really into it – I don’t have to change any material. Also, there are really good local comics in China. Some of my strongest memories are eating amazing food, hip-hop clubs and going down an indoor slide with a beer in my hand.

The Legend of the Jersey Devil is based on a story I was told as a kid in the Cub Scouts.

It’s New Jersey folklore, an old wives’ tale about a half-animal, half-human creature that lives in the woods. I also have a new album coming out this spring called The State of New Jersey Vs. Kyle Grooms. It’s based on a true story of when I was put on trial at the age of 10.

I have a few road stories I could tell, but I don’t want China to revoke my visa.

What first sparked your interest in pursuing comedy?

Watching Def Comedy Jam on HBO and seeing regular comics that looked like they were from my neighborhood made standup comedy feel more attainable. Before that, there was Richard Pryor and Eddie Murphy, who seemed like they came from outer space.

You do spot-on impersonations of famous people like Barack Obama and Al Sharpton. What’s the trick to making them seem realistic?

I think the trick is similar to covering someone else’s music: you try to match the tone and pitch. When it’s done well, people react as if the performer has stolen the soul of the person they’re impersonating.

You performed at the famous Apollo Theater in Harlem in January. What’s it like to perform there?

The Apollo was awesome. Its history alone makes you feel obligated to come correct. I don’t know if it’s my preferred comedy spot in New York, though, because trying to make Harlem laugh comes with another level of anxiety.

What are some tips that you’ve learned from performing for audiences all over the world?

Relationship jokes kill everywhere, and people know more about the US than we know about them. Also, if you put out good energy, it usually comes back to you.

Sun Mar 11, 8pm; RMB180 (door), RMB150 (presale), RMB100 (students); The Bookworm (see Listings for details)

Has the current political climate in the US affected your jokes lately?

Yes! President Trump is a hard topic to get away from. I tried, but it’s difficult to ignore a bright orange president.

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | MARCH 2018 | 29

COLLAGE CANVASSED

COMING SOON

Frog Fever

MARCH 2

Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri One of the standout releases of 2017, this film by Martin McDonagh (In Bruges) uses satire and black comedy to chronicle a grieving mother in her renegade search for justice for an unsolved murder.

Frances McDormand gives an especially strong performance in the starring role, while Sam Rockwell, Woody Harrelson and Peter Dinklage also star. The dark portrait of a conflict bitterly unfolding in small town America is up for seven Oscars, including Best Picture, though it has rightly been criticized for blind spots regarding race.

Black Panther

MARCH 9

This latest installment in the Marvel cinematic universe is the most acclaimed superhero film in years.

Starring Chadwick Boseman alongside Michael B. Jordan, Lupita Nyong’o, Forest Whittaker, Daniel Kaluuya (Get Out) and Letitia Wright (Black Mirror), the film centers on T’Challa, king of the fictional African nation of Wakanda, who returns from an international conflict only to find trouble at home.

His superhero alter ego, Black Panther, was the first superhero of African descent, debuting in the comic Fantastic Four in 1966. One of the film’s many selling points is its epic soundtrack, which was curated

by Kendrick Lamar. At the time of writing, the film holds a rare 99 percent approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

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Noticed any screenshots on WeChat Moments of a cozy animated apartment complete with a rather stoic little frog? That’s the new mobile game Tabi Kaeru, or Traveling Frog. In an adorable animated world, players buy food and supplies for their frog, who then leaves home for days a time, returning with photos of them posed outside major Japanese landmarks. The game’s serene background music, muted colors and cute animation give it serious stress-reducing appeal.

The developer, Japanese company Hit-Point, is the same one behind 2014’s wildly popular Nekko Atsume: Kitty Collector. A whopping 96 percent of Traveling Frog users downloaded the game from the China App Store.

Hao Non-English foreign films are gaining greater traction in the Chinese box office. Bollywood flick Secret Superstar has become the first big hit of 2018, overtaking Western blockbusters like Star Wars: The Last Jedi to become the highest grossing foreign film of the year so far. It also made history as the first Indian movie to split box office profits with domestic distributors, rather than being sold for a flat fee. The film stars Amir Khan and Zaira Wasim, who also appeared as father and daughter in last year’s extremely successful film Dangal.

Bu Hao Domestic film Bad Daddy has been making headlines for what may be the biggest box office fraud in China’s film history. Occupying just 3 percent of screens in theaters throughout the country when it debuted last month, it boasted 34 percent of the day’s total revenue, beating out several more high-profile films with presale ticket purchases.

Investigators suspect the film’s distributor of running a pyramid scheme, citing unusual seating patterns in presale ticket purchases that began over a year ago.

E DI T E D B Y E R IC A M A R T IN / bj e di t o r @ ur b a n a t o m y.c o m

‘Sin’ (2015)

‘Stay’ (2017)

‘Egypt, Egypt’ (1984)

A dark techno track off the Mexican DJ’s EP Female Criminals Vol. I that features a cut-up layered vocal of the word ‘sin’ on loop.

This bangin’ EDM track showcases powerhouse vocals from the Grammy-award winning singer and choppy synth by producer Zedd.

Drawing upon Kraftwerk, the legendary LA producer uses an 808 drum machine to create a unadulterated 80s electro classic.

‘Mareo’ (2017) Zutzut

‘Circle On The Snows’ (2013)

‘A Gallant Gentleman’ (2015)

Tribal and animalistic – the sound of barking dogs punctuates the background – this track lives up to its name, which translates to ‘dizziness’ in English.

The Japanese indie band combine light guitar, synths and a rattling drum beat to deliver a fun chillwave pop track.

Sparse melancholic guitar from the Sydney instrumentalist band creeps slowly along until it explodes into a hopeful post-rock tune.

Demian Licht

Zedd, Alessia Cara

The fin.

Egyptian Lover

We Lost The Sea

Our favorite tracks from artists playing in Beijing this month.

For full nightlife and gig listings, visit www.thatsmags.com

GIG POSTER OF THE MONTH Taipei-based Sunset Rollercoasters bring their new wave pop to the capital as they play not one, but two, shows in Beijing this month.

Fri Mar 30, RMB100 (advance), RMB120 (door); Yue Space, 7 Banqiao Nan Xiang Dongcheng 东城区板桥 南向7号; Sat Mar 31, RMB100 (advance), RMB120 (door); Omni Space, B103 Tianqiao Arts Center, Xiachen Square, Xicheng 西城区天桥艺术中心下沉广 场 B103

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ARTS | MUSIC

MOGWAI

THE GLASWEGIAN POSTROCK TITANS RETURN TO CHINA

by Erica Martin

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Mogwai are pioneers of post-rock – but they tend to laugh the praise off.

The band’s interviews and public appearances, sly and jocular, are a marked contrast to their music, which flits between tender melancholy and screaming walls of noise.

Another thing that clashes with their serious sound: their infamously nonsensical song names, which span everything from football references to questionable puns.

“Once the hard work, the serious business of making a tune that we think is good enough, is over, we just have a big list of nonsense song titles,” says band member Barry Burns.

Make no mistake – it’s a serious business.

Over the course of 23 years, Mogwai have perfected their genre’s signature ‘loudquiet-loud’ formula, and experimented with everything from spoken word to pop hooks.

Founded in Glasgow in 1995, the band still largely live and work out of their home city.

“It’s certainly a very supportive town for music and art,” says Burns.

A multi-instrumentalist who plays guitar, bass, keyboards, synthesizer, flute and sings, Burns joined the band just before recording their second album, in 1999. In typical Mogwai fashion, his invite came down to his being “a good laugh” as much as his impressive musical skill set.

In recent years, Mogwai has taken to scoring films – fitting given the cinematic quality of their music. Their recent soundtrack for a BBC 4 documentary on Hiroshima spawned the paranoia-inducing single ‘Ether.’

Elsewhere, Mogwai’s song ‘Kids Will Be Skeletons’ became one of their most popular after appearing on the soundtrack of 2015’s acclaimed video game Life Is Strange.

MUSIC | ARTS

Mogwai first toured through China in 2011, a time Burns recalls as full of “pretty hazy memories because we were in and out so quickly.” Their return comes thanks to the 2017 release of their ninth LP, Every Country’s Sun. Hailed as a return to form, the album sees poppy vocal tracks like the second single ‘Party in the Dark’ alongside shining examples of the band’s classic style. Admirers of the record have credited its producer and sound mixer, Dave Fridmann, an old friend of the band that produced the albums that helped them break out. For Every Country’s Sun, the band traveled overseas and stayed in Fridmann’s tiny town outside Buffalo during recording.

“It’s in the middle of nowhere, and even the main town 10 kilometers away isn’t exactly a metropolis,” says Burns. “The atmosphere is one where you want to work constantly, and at nighttime you get to relax and have a great time with your bandmates.”

Every Country’s Sun debuted just two years after their 20-year compilation album, Central Belters, and the band is using this world tour as an opportunity to take stock. They’re currently running a podcast in conjunction with the tour, consisting of interviews between band members and reflec-

tions on how far they’ve come. In a highlight moment in episode one, Braithwaite reveals to producer Fridmann: “Weirdly, the more records you make, the less you worry. And I think if you’re not too worried about something being terrible, you kind of free yourself up to more opportunities.” In our talk, Burns has a slightly different take on the same idea.

“I feel like we were just as risky when we were younger, but that there are more opportunities given to us to try things out these days,” he says. “Perhaps the longevity of the band has enabled this.

The amount of hard work and practice over the years can improve your output, too.”

Mogwai has one longstanding connection to China – random and unplanned though it may have been.

Back in 1995, they named themselves on a whim after the tricky mogwai creature from the 1984 cult film Gremlins, which in turn was taken from the Chinese word mogui, or demon.

“We only found out about the Chinese connection many years after the band was called Mogwai,” says Burns. “But I’m quite pleased about it. Hope it’s not too much bad luck!”

“We were just as risky when we were younger, but there are more opportunities to try things out these days”

Wed Mar 14, 9pm; RMB450 (door), RMB360 (presale); Tango (see Listings for details, tickets via newnoise.taobao.com)

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ARTS | F E AT URE

WOMEN OF THE HOUR In honor of International Women's Day, we catch up with successful women in China's indie music scene.

by Erica Martin

Lieselotte Wang Founder, Ye Records (Shanghai)

In high school, Lieselotte Wang developed a passion for NYC indie pop band The Drums. “I dreamed that one day I could own one of their records,” she says. “Then I ended up touring with them through China.”

With her music promotion company, Ye Records, Wang has carved a niche for herself within Shanghai’s saturated music scene, beginning in 2015 with a reunion tour for Japanese post-rock band Euphoria. A fan of their music, she emailed the individual band members encouraging them to end their five-year hiatus and get back together.

They eventually agreed, and she organized their eight-city China tour.

“At first, I was trying to help my musician friends do some local bookings and promoting, and also fulfill my dream of seeing bands that no one was bringing to China yet,” Wang says. “Then I got to know the bands more, and I felt like I could do more to help, so I just kept going.”

Hisana Yan Founder, Jrock30s (Shenzhen)

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This month, she’s bringing lo-fi Brooklyn rockers Beach Fossils to China, and her 2018 calendar is packed with bookings, from American pop band The Bilinda Butchers to her current favorite band, soulful Japanese trio Lamp.

Despite her string of accomplishments, Wang acknowledges some of her frustrations with music promotion. “It seems like sometimes male promoters get more respect, whereas female promoters still feel a bit like outsiders,” she says. “People sometimes judge you and gossip, but I don’t care about that stuff anymore. Now I think if I can do my work well and put on good shows and tours, that’s all that really matters.”

WeChat ID: yerecords

Hisana Yan has been buying vinyl records since she was a teenager, a habit that grew out of a love for Japanese indie music. Based in Shenzhen, she began blogging under the account Jrock30s, quickly developing a devoted following of fans.

Buoyed by the success of her first offline concert last summer, Yan is expanding into concert promotion, bringing quirky rap trio Enjoy Music Club over from Japan for a multicity tour this month. “They have their own style, and their music is full of happiness,” Yan says of the band. “They are not very famous in China now, but I believe that they have the potential.”

Yan has found that the music industry in China is largely male-dominated, though

she’s been able to operate with relative ease because she’s mostly anonymous behind the Jrock30s brand. “There are some followers who believe that Jrock30s is run by a middleaged man,” she jokes.

Though time management is her greatest hurdle when balancing a full-time job with her blogging, she’d recommend the DIY profession to anyone who has the passion to see it through.

“If you like music, just do it,” she says. “My real-life job is far away from the music industry, but I think the Internet enables all of us to speak out and share.”

WeChat ID: Jrock30s

F E AT URE | ARTS

Kristen Ng

Founder, Kiwese Booking Manager, NU SPACE (Chengdu) Kristen Ng’s introduction to Chengdu came during a backpacking trip in 2014, when her friend took her to an “insane pool party in a garden village with drum’n’bass DJs and fireworks,” she says. Smitten with the city, the New Zealand native moved there the following year to focus on her venture Kiwese (a play on ‘Kiwi’ and ‘Chinese’), which began as a blog discussing cultural identity and underground music, before expanding into a touring label. “It’s basically introducing cool New Zealand artists to Chinese audiences, and vice versa,” she says.

Ng recently wrapped an extensive tour with The All Seeing Hand, an electronic noise-rock group from New Zealand. The band played 14 shows across the Mainland with several supporting acts, including Ng’s own music project, Kaishandao. “It felt like we were this roaming circus troupe,” she says.

Ng also works with NU SPACE, one of Chengdu’s main livehouses, where she manages the venue’s diverse bookings and also runs an

audiovisual series called Blah Blah, a platform for emerging artists.

“I hope more women will get involved with performance and promotion, as well as the tech side of things like lights, stage and sound,” Ng concludes. “It’s always nice to turn up at a venue and find women involved with the process of putting on a live show. Support your sisters!” kiwese.co.nz

Sun Yi

PHOTO BY MARCO GUIE

Founder, Space Circle Manager, Wang Wen (Hangzhou) After organizing concerts in college with her friends, Sun Yi went on to found Space Circle, a Hangzhou-based artist management company that also offers tech support and stage crews for shows.

“I initially started with a small team, as per my experience over the last 10 years,” she says. “There is a lack of partners in the industry here in Hangzhou, but there is a good scene with good venues. I wanted to start a company where I could work with my favorite bands and give an opportunity to young people to enter this line of work.”

Space Circle provides a platform for upand-coming indie bands, like Shaoxing instrumental rockers Little Wizard, who released an EP with them last year. The brightest star on their roster, however, is Wang Wen, the Dalian troupe that’s been active since 1999 and is largely considered China’s greatest post-rock band. Sun serves as the band’s manager, traveling with them on overseas tours and organizing their album releases.

“Wang Wen has always maintained a steady positive creative streak,” she says. “Every time I work with them, it’s a new learning experience.”

Space Circle’s greatest achievement thus far has been organizing a stadium show for Nanjing rapper Jony J in 2017, a major milestone for a small company after only their second year in action.

“The [music promotion] industry is still pretty young in China and needs more excellent people,” she says, explaining that many of the other managers she knows and respects are also women.

“I haven’t thought too much about the issue of gender,” says Sun. “But this job is very different. I hope that [more] women consider working in this field.”

WeChat ID: SpaceCircleMusic

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | MARCH 2018 | 35

ARTS | F E AT URE

Cookie Zhang Co-founder, Daily Vinyl (Shanghai)

On the racks at Daily Vinyl’s record store, which doubles as a hotel, an album by 90s hip-hop troupe The Pharcyde lies next to Anderson.Paak’s 2016 collaboration record with Knxwledge and a 1977 album by a South Korean all-girl funk group called The Happy Dolls.

These eclectic options are compiled by longtime crate digger Cookie Zhang and her Daily Vinyl co-founder Endy Chen. Zhang’s collecting habits began with CDs when she was a teen. “I had listened to hip-hop for more than 12 years,” she says, “At that time I was really into scratching and turntablism, so I started to buy records just to practice.”

Zhang then coped with an illness that left her bedridden for half a year by spending her idle time delving into new genres and exploring the source material that her favorite hip-hop songs sampled from, giving her a deeper knowledge of the genres she works with today.

The Daily Vinyl began simply, with Zhang and Chen posting one album a day on Weibo to promote records they were hoping to sell. It has since

expanded into markets, workshops and parties featuring occasional DJ sets by Zhang under her moniker ollo-MAM. Zhang has big plans for keeping momentum up in 2018. These include a second location of her hotel-cum-vinyl shop in Guangzhou, plus a new music label purposely focused on digital releases.

“It will just be some music for people to listen to and have another way to be into what we do,” she says. “I don’t think about these ideas in terms of bad or good. I just think about what I want to do next.”

WeChat ID: DailyVinyl

Lolly Fan

Marketing Manager, Maybe Mars (Beijing) Lolly Fan’s relationship with music began not with albums, but with video games.

“I was obsessed with Counter-Strike when I was in middle school,” she says, explaining that she became particularly taken with a segment in the game that featured ‘It’s My Life’ as the background music. “I remembered I watched that video again and again.

Then I looked up the song and found a whole new world outside of Chinese pop.”

Years later, she’s now the marketing manager at Maybe Mars, and a core member of the three-person team behind one of the most influential labels in China. Fan describes her daily duties as a whirlwind.

“I guess I do almost all the work, except production, designing and tour booking,” she tells us. “When you are in smaller company like Maybe Mars, 36 | MARCH 2018 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM

there’s a lot space for you to learn and to do. It’s a great chance for me to reach every corner of the music business. Besides, our work day starts at 1pm!”

When asked if she hopes her role at Maybe Mars will inspire other women to work in music, she agrees, but sees things a little differently.

“I think their passion is the key that will drive them into music,” she says. “I feel that most women nowadays don’t see themselves as weaker than men.

There might be more male musicians and technicians, but when you look into an office, there are more females, especially in media-related jobs. Most band managers I know are female, and every venue I know in Beijing has female employees. Maybe they don’t need to be inspired by others.” maybemars.com

F E AT URE | ARTS

Power Playlist

Our interviewees recommend their favorite female musicians Cookie Zhang:

Yvonne Che

Founder, Say Yes Asia (Shanghai)

The name of Yvonne Chen’s promotion company, Say Yes, is nod to the “Yes and…” improv concept, in which comedians accept whatever idea a fellow participant suggests and then add on something new. For Chen, the practice resonates because of her desire to expand perceptions about electronic music in Shanghai.

“When I started Say Yes, I hoped that more people could be open and accepting of the music and events we promote,” she says. “[The name] tells us that people all think very differently, but we should always be positive, polite and openminded, instead of saying no to everything immediately.”

Chen started promoting after a four-year stint at an office job, taking inspiration from the nightlife culture she’s loved since she first moved to Shanghai.

Say Yes has made massive strides in the two years it’s been active, organizing tours, raves and festivals across the country. Now, Chen hopes to increase the number of live electronic acts that come to Shanghai, and in particular, female musicians.

“I hope to see other young women get inspired by what I do because I feel that we need more real female producers, rather than just DJs.”

Daymé Arocena – ‘Mambo Na Ma’ Perera Elsewhere – ‘Happened’ Dawn Penn – ‘You Don’t Love Me (No, No, No)

Sun Yi:

Yunggie Ma – ‘Green Tara’ Nova Heart – ‘Ethereal’

Lieselotte Wang:

Lamp – ‘恋は月の蔭に’ Broadcast – ‘Corporeal’ Yo La Tengo – ‘You Can Have It All’

Yvonne Chen:

Fever Ray – ‘To the Moon and Back’ Paula Temple – ‘Colonized’ Powder – ‘Heart’

Hisana Yan:

Shiina Ringo – ‘Suberidai’ tricot – ‘oyasumi’ CHAI – ‘Sayonara Complex’

Kristen Ng:

Hiperson – ‘Reaping’ The Hormones – ‘Darkness of the Light’

Lolly Fan:

Carter Tutti Void – ‘v1’ Ourself Beside Me – ‘Sunday Girl’ Alpine Decline – ‘Return to Desolation Lake’ (forthcoming this month)

WeChat ID: SayYesAsia

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | MARCH 2018 | 37

ARTS | MUSIC

FOR THE RECORD Three New Homegrown Albums on Our Radar This Month

by Erica Martin

UNCERTAIN WORLDS

by Ttechmak

Shanghai-based jazz trumpeter Ttechmak dropped this cosmic release as a followup to Love in the Land of Robots, his acclaimed collaboration with Beijing electronic producer Soulspeak. It continues his exploration of jazz rhythms blended with electronic music, this time featuring cameos from Shanghai JZ Club regulars Lawrence Ku, Alec Haavik and Nick McBride, as well as JZ Club founder Ren Yuqing. Hip-hop DJ and producer Wordy lends his turntable skills to the especially smooth ‘Fantasy Revisited.’ The album starts off with fairly standard jazz fusion tracks before the haunting interlude ‘Trumpet in a Blender’ transitions into the catchy, melancholy highlight, ‘Self-Delusion in Dark Green.’

Listen at www.xiami.com/album/2103464973

SILK ROAD SOUNDS VOL. 1

by Yeti Out

After several years throwing parties, Shanghai-based crew Yeti Out are flexing their curation muscles with the launch of Silk Road Sounds, a self-described “compilation series-cum-record label” named after the historic trade route as a nod to making connections between Asia and the rest of the world. The tracks feature several notable names in the Chinese hip-hop and electronic music scenes, like Zean and Bohan Phoenix. Supplementing these are tracks by underground producers based throughout Asia and Europe, including Turkey and Vietnam. The record kicks off with a bang thanks with grime track ‘PiedPiper’ by Tokyo producer Double Clapperz, and remains infectiously high-energy throughout.

Listen at soundcloud.com/yetiout/

WHITE NOISE

by Muggle

Hunan-based instrumental group Muggle release their third album, White Noise, via 1724 Records, a post-rock and ambient label in Beijing. Wintery and reflective, the album recalls the genre’s spare and moody sides, with songs like ‘Silence,’ pared down and stylized to an extreme. The band describes the album as “serene and pleasant,” which is especially true in its most minimalistic moments, but there are also unsettling noise interludes, most notably during ‘In the Woods,’ that add a bit of neurosis to the calm.

Listen at mugglefromchina.bandcamp.com

38 | MARCH 2018 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM

PICK OF SIX | ARTS

Liu Fujie, ‘By Chance’ Through Mar 31; Telescope Image by Fan Xi

Liu Gangshun, ‘All’

Through Mar 18; Platform China Contemporary Art Institute

Lin Cong, ‘object Black’

Through Mar 22; MOUart

Ge Xiao, ‘Moment’

Through Mar 18; Amy Li Gallery

For gallery information visit www.thatsmags.com/beijing

Cai Jin, ‘Arcadia’ Through Apr 15; Chambers Fine Art

Group exhibition, ‘On paper’ Through Mar 18; Boers-Li Gallery

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | MARCH 2018 | 39

words by Dominique Wong graphics by Iris Wang

The Female Fighters Putting China on the International Stage

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he’s going to try and choke her!” a commentator yells as MMA fighter Xiong Jingnan, or ‘The Panda,’ jumps onto Singaporean Tiffany Teo’s back.

It’s the first round of the inaugural ONE Women’s Strawweight Championship. Two women battle barefoot inside a round cage to the cheers of a rapturous crowd in Jakarta, Indonesia, and the unheard cries from streamers watching online.

The Panda slips off but manages to send a kick to her challenger’s face moments later.

Xiong is lightning fast, and by the end of the third round, her opponent looks shattered.

“Teo’s face is a mess,” the commentator observes.

Shortly into the fourth round, Xiong’s relentless pummeling proves too much for ‘No Chill’ Teo. The judge declares Xiong the winner by technical knock out, and ‘The Panda’ is hailed the first Chinese champion in the history of ONE Championship.

Xiong ties the national flag of China around her neck like a superhero cape as she accepts the title belt, while the commentator booms: “The age of China is upon us.”

MMA, or mixed martial arts, owes its roots to The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), an American MMA organization that pioneered the sport. Beijing-based Jiu-Jiutsu coach Andy Wang grew up Denver, the city that held the first UFC fight in 1993. “There were no rules, no referee stoppages. It would just be a fight to see what star was the best,” he tells me over lunch. “Now, the UFC is a global brand. Back then, MMA was a curiosity. Now it’s an accepted sport.”

Already popular overseas, the activity has gained traction in China in the past few years, with the number of combat sporting clubs in the country having quadrupled since 2008, the New York Times reports.

Today, international organizations (called ‘promotions’), like Singapore-based ONE Championship, are increasingly visible. UFC held its first mainland event in front of a sold-out crowd in Shanghai last November.

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Meanwhile, events shown live on CCTV draw up to 20 to to 30 million viewers, according to Jetli.com, a kung-fu blog run by the eponymous martial arts star.

A combat sport that uses techniques from a range of wrestling and striking disciplines, like boxing, Taekwondo and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA bouts typically last for three 5-minute rounds.

But there’s more to MMA than physical skill – it’s also entertainment. There’s the cage that spectators press up against; the ring card girls, skimpily dressed and generically attractive; the trash-talking and bizarre crossover match-ups (boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs MMA fighter Conor McGregor, anyone?); the over-the-top walkout music and booming voice of the announcer.

Often bloody and always violent, MMA has traditionally been a male-dominated sport.

However, awareness of women fighters in the sport is growing, thanks to trailblazers like Americans Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano. In China, fighters like Xiong Jingnan are making their own mark on the scene.

Xiong’s title win has put her name firmly on the radar of those in the industry. I meet the champion and her manager, Libya native Ali Elezzabi, at their training center in Beijing, before she heads home for Chinese New Year.

Xiong is nursing a broken hand, suffered in the second round of the title fight. It’ll take another month to heal.

“Every time I had to think twice before using my hand,” Xiong says. “I don’t think anyone can understand how excruciatingly painful it was. But I had to keep focused during the fight.

“I was really excited [leading up to the fight] because I knew that if I won it, then I would be China’s first female fighter to win an international world title.”

The Jakarta bout was Xiong’s second time competing in ONE since she signed a two-year contract with the brand last year (she was previously signed to Chinese promotion Kunlun Fight). Xiong’s contract means that she can fight in ONE events only. The 30-year-old’s first

Above: Professional MMA fighters Tian Yang (left) and Meng Bo relax in their apartment Left: Tian strikes a fighter’s pose

ONE fight was so impressive – she delivered a knockout in the first round – that the outfit promptly offered her a shot at the title.

“She’s like a sponge,” Elezzabi says.

“I’ll show her a technique and it’ll take her two or three times to do it. Most people go back to their comfort zone.

She’s not afraid to lose, and that’s what makes her evolve.”

Xiong’s success has opened the door to lucrative sponsorships, namely with Gre3n coconut water and AWBR Nutritions Alliance Jiu Jitsu China, both of whom she name drops. The importance of these can’t be overstated, Elezzabi says: “On a monthly basis, her bill can reach RMB10,000 on diet alone.” Although Xiong is from a working-class family in Shandong province, Elezzabi tells me that her family “doesn’t rely on her for support.”

Yet financial reward is a major incentive for many in the sport, Wang says. “A lot of fighters, especially in China, come from bad backgrounds. It’s a way out.

You don’t see a lot of rich white dudes, or any [rich] dudes, boxing in America.

Here, it’s the same.”

“Apart from sleeping and showering, everything is with guys.

Training, eating, everything” Wang, a former UFC fighter himself, has “seen it all” and doesn’t recommend going pro. “It’s a blood business.

You will bleed mentally, emotionally, physically and, for a lot of people, financially.”

But for Xiong, the sacrifice is worth it.

“Before the fight, I was training so hard, I could hardly bear it, in my heart and in my mind. [But] the only thing I could see was the belt,” she says. “The belt is every fighter’s dream.”

The Panda may be a warrior in the cage, but, free from training, she lets her guard down. When told to ‘be herself’ during our photoshoot, Xiong bear hugs a punching bag with a huge grin across her face.

Xiong credits her father as the person who’s influenced her the most. “My dad has seen all my fights. He watches them all the time. Sometimes I’ll get a call from him, saying, ‘I watched your fight, and you had a mistake here and here.’

“He always told me to be kind to everyone. I hope [I’ll also] influence others,” Xiong adds. “Especially Asian women.”

Although MMA is growing in China,

event lineups are overwhelmingly male, Wang says. “If you go to an event, out of ten fights, only two of them will be women and the rest men.”According to Wang, the number of professional female fighters in China is still relatively small.

“People want to see men because, in the end, what gets people excited [in sports] is violence. And men can produce more violence,” he says matter-offactly.

Between MMA and kickboxing, Elezzabi estimates about “six or so” professional female fighters in China. (The US, in comparison, has over 100 notable female MMA artists.)

Professional MMA fighters Tian Yang and Meng Bo offer a more generous number. “There’s about 100 professional and amateur women [MMA fighters] in China altogether,” Meng says during my visit to the Beijing apartment she and Tian reside in. “But, really famous ones – around 20.”

And men? “A lot more, about 500, probably,” Tian says. “But not many famous ones. It’s harder for guys because the competition is so good.”

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RIght: Pro MMA fighter Gita Suharsono prepares for a fight at the ONE Warrior Series tryout

Below: Surharsono spars with her coach before the fight

“The real prize is victory. It tastes so sweet, it’ s addictive”

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Tian and Meng, both 23, fight together and room together.

While neither lay claim to an international title, Meng’s fight record has her ranked No. 5 out of female fighters in China, according to MMA database Tapology (Xiong sits at No. 3).

Unlike Xiong, the two are free agents, meaning they aren’t tied to one promotion. Tian has fought for Chinese Kungfu (CKF) while Meng’s most recent fight was for Fight Nights Russia (FNR).

Hailing from Liaoning province in Northeast China, Meng has ten years of combat sport experience. “When I started practicing sanda [Chinese kickboxing], there were only two of us [female fighters]. The other, Wu Yanan, is a UFC fighter now.

“I started practicing MMA in 2012 because I wanted to reach the highest stage in the arena,” Meng continues. “At first, my family was worried. They’d ask me if I got injured or not, but when I continued to persevere, my family grew to support me.”

Sporting glasses and layered up in winter clothes, Tian is relaxed and welcoming – a far sight different to her WeChat profile picture, a commanding shot of her silhouette against a sunset, one leg kicked high in the air, ready to strike.

Originally from Enshi, a prefecture-level city in southwest Hubei province, Tian has practiced combat sports for four years. The Wuhan Sports Institute graduate comes from a fighting background. “My dad used to be a police officer and my uncle a judo fighter.”

Like Meng, Tian says her family was hesitant about their daughter taking up MMA at first, but: “I was very persistent and dedicated, so they eventually had my back. They’re pretty open-minded.”

The fighters train every day with different coaches, depending on their practice, but if they have a fight coming up, it takes them two months to prepare, Meng tells me.

In addition to physical training, fighters also have to ‘cut weight,’ to ensure they stay within their designated weight grade.

Tian explains: “A lot of Chinese women are uninformed about [combat sports]. They think their body will get bigger and they’ll hurt themselves. To them, MMA is really strenuous. They couldn’t accept this kind of toil, and they wouldn’t be able to bear it, either.”

Due to the limited pool of fighters, women have no choice but to train with men, explains Meng. “Every day you need to practice with guys. Apart from sleeping and showering, everything is with guys. Training, eating, everything.”

The upside of this, according to Tian, is that they “can train with guys that are better [than us] and this will help us improve faster.”

When I ask about whether the industry is sexist, Tian and Yang say no. According to Xiong Jingnan, though, women in the industry are not equal with men.

“Other people’s manner towards female players is different, whether its fans or bosses,” she says. “They even pay women less. It’s the culture [of MMA]. I just train,” she shrugs.

Xiong regularly encounters stereotypes. “My family and close friends accept me, but other people don’t see me as feminine,” she says. “They won’t directly tell me, but will ask, ‘When are you going to get married? When are you going to grow your hair? How long are you expecting to do this for?’”

Even commenters on social media platforms will say she looks like a boy, or a “lady boy,” manager Elezzabi says.

It’s hard to imagine male Chinese fighters receiving the same kind of comments about their looks. For her part, Xiong is nonplussed. “I cut my hair because it got pulled out while practicing Jiu-Jitsu. People can say what they want – I don’t care. I know what I need to do.”

Although Meng prefers to keep a natural look when fighting, she doesn’t like women MMA fighters being put into a box. “Other people don’t have to say anything. At the end of the day, we’re women and we ourselves can keep up our own appearances.”

Yang agrees, saying: “Even though we’re usually busy training, when we have time off, we like to do our hair and that kind of thing.”

Because of numbers – and the added entertainment-value – Tian’s and Yang’s fights are always against foreigners. Yang doesn’t mind – in fact, she hopes that more women fighters from other countries will train in China in the future, because “if they come here, we can learn from each other.”

One such fighter is Yang’s friend, Gita Suharsono, who is also based in Beijing. Over coffee, the Indonesian native tells me she recently transitioned from kickboxing to MMA. Tall and lean, Suharsono is a former journalist who, unsatisfied with her lifestyle, quit her job and took up combat sports to get back into shape two-and-a-half years ago. After one fight, she was hooked. “I felt so alive,” she says.

Suharsono trained and has previously fought in Thailand.

Although she has won every fight of her career so far, she is especially effusive about her competition in China. “Chinese female fighters are not joking. They are the toughest fights I’ve ever had, because in China, if you want to be a fighter, you really [have to] want to.”

As a foreign female fighter in China, Suharsono is different. “A lot of Chinese women fighters are stockier. They train like that to survive in a male-dominated sport,” she explains.

“But you don’t need to be like that – women can be anything.

That’s the type of message I want to give.

“I’ve seen a lot of [foreign] fighters just do it for the money [...] but for me the real prize is victory. It tastes so sweet, it’s addictive.”

A few weeks after we meet, Suharsono is accepted to try out for a spot in Rich Franklin’s ONE Warrior Series. A former UFC middleweight champion and now vice-president of ONE Championship, Franklin travels around Asia, from Manila and Seoul to Beijing, to find the next undiscovered superstar fighter from the continent. The ONE Warrior Series is part reality show – in one YouTube episode Franklin’s colleague gets a tattoo in Bangkok – and part “minors to a professional league,” as Franklin describes it. Show participants who are offered contracts are guaranteed four ONE fights.

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46

Pro MMA fighter Xiong 'The Panda' Jingnan puts her opponent in a chokehold at the ONE Women’ s Strawweight Championship in Jakarta, Indonesia (photo by Dux)

“Chinese female fighters are the toughest, because if you want to be a fighter in China, you really have to want to�

47

The Beijing audition takes place in a combat studio in Haidian district on a blustery Sunday. Dozens of wannabe professional fighters wait nervously for Franklin and his team to arrive, while Chinese kids practice sports on the other side of the room. In addition to Suharsono, there is one other woman trying out – Shanghai karate teacher Wang Xue, who has traveled up for the weekend.

Suharsono has a cold. She’s just come back from a training trip in Thailand, she tells me croakily. But, as soon as Franklin arrives, she rushes up to introduce herself and Franklin compliments her top – a Captain America muscle T-shirt.

The two women, the second pair of the day, compete against each other in a series of grappling and striking challenges.

Both are impressive. Suharsono, a head taller, is tenacious, all long limbs and fury.

Wang is quieter, but grapples well.

During the event’s lunch break, Franklin tells me he’s noticed an increase in female fighting talent while scouting in Asia. “It’s not just China,” he says, before explaining his surprise at turning up to auditions in Bangkok and Manila to find over half a dozen women trying out.

“I don’t mean it to sound the wrong way, but when we thought about scouting, we kind of automatically thought, subconsciously, that we were going to

48

“A lot of fighters in China come from bad backgrounds. It’ s a way out” look for male talent,” Franklin admits.

The former champion puts the rise in female participants in Asia down to natural progression as the sport grows. Plus: “Martial arts are marketed differently here. [MMA] is marketed for things like self-defense, [but] that’s not how is it in the States.”

When it comes down to actual signings for the series, Franklin says he doesn’t follow a quota.

“Hey, Jonathan,” he yells to Jonathan Fong, director of ONE Warrior Series, sitting at the judges’ table a few meters away. “How many females did we sign?

Two or three?“ “One,” Fong replies.

“Only one?” Franklin asks, surprised.

“There was one in Manila we were on the fence [about] and we decided to go with her brother instead,” Fong says.

“Oh, that’s right,” Franklin recalls. “OK, so we’ve had one solidly signed female at this point in time. Realistically, to build the sport, I’m probably more interested in

finding good quality female talent, than male talent.

“I’ve had a couple [of women] where I’m like, ‘Look, your time in the league is going to be short [at four fights]. So, I want you to work on X, Y and Z, and let’s see you try out again in six months.’”

At the end of the event, both Suharsono and Wang are offered contracts for the ONE Warrior Series. Suharsono accepts.

After some consideration, Wang ultimately declines.

The contract offers are a good sign for other China-based female fighters hoping to have a crack at the international professional league.

Meanwhile, back at Tian and Meng’s apartment, the two are adamant that more Chinese women will take up the sport and that the level of Chinese female fighters will improve.

When I comment tentatively that, in the future, perhaps they will have the opportunity to fight against more Chinese women, Meng laughs: “No, a Chinese guy!”

Left: 'The Panda' relaxes in her Jiu-jitsu training studio in Beijing

This page: Xiong savors her title win (photo

by Dux)

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EAT &

DRINK

KEEPING IT CASUAL TRB’s relaxed new concept, p56

New Openings p55

Cheesecake Factory p57

Creative Coffee p58

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

GETTING MODERATELY DEEP WITH...

A Grocery Shop Worker interview by Yuka Hayashi

This month, we meet Zhang Hao at his dad’s grocery store.

How are you feeling today?

I’m feeling super good, since I get to spend time with my mom and dad.

What’s the first thing you thought when you woke up this morning?

I was back in my hometown in Hebei, so I thought about what my trip back to Beijing would be like, whether or not the traffic would be jammed.

Who is your best customer?

My best customer is a British man living upstairs. He’s such a talkative guy; it’s always a great pleasure talking to him. We usually chat about our hometowns.

Who are your worst customers?

People who are bad tempered and don’t like to chat.

Which living person do you most admire?

I really admire LeBron James.

What is your idea of the perfect day?

Chinese New Year’s Eve, with all my family members around the table, sharing all the amazing dishes.

When and where are you happiest?

When I’m back in my hometown hanging out with my childhood friends.

Which talent would you most like to have?

I’d love to be able to speak fluent English so I could chat with all the foreign customers.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

When I got third place in the Asian Canoeing Tournament.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?

I don’t know what I’d want to change, since everything’s going well already.

What is your most treasured possession?

Definitely my parents, since they are the closest to me both biologically and physiologically, and they love me unconditionally.

What trait do you most value in a person?

Inner beauty, like kindness. As long as someone has this, nothing else matters.

What is it that you most dislike?

Those who fail to keep appointments without first notifying.

What is your motto?

What always makes you laugh?

I laugh at practically anything, but I guess I laugh the hardest at funny stories.

What’s the most surprising thing that’s happened to you?

When I received the first gift ever of my life, back when I was a kid. My dad called and said he couldn't make it back home that night but he ended up coming home – with a present!

Who is your hero?

My canoe trainer. It’s kind of hard to explain why in words, but I have a deep sense of respect for him.

Which era of Beijing history would you most like to have lived in?

I think I’d choose the current era over any other, since we, as youth, have more opportunities to succeed and enjoy life.

Zhang’s family shop is in Concordia Plaza, next to Ladies Street, in Liangmaqiao.

‘If you really want something, and try hard to achieve it, there is nothing you can’t do.’ My canoe trainer used to tell me this when I was the captain of my team.

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | MARCH 2018 | 53

GRAPE VINE SNACKS AND THE CITY

Here, a roundup of things we ate and gossiped about this month – for journalism, for research, for you, readers.

March goes in like a lion, and out like a skewer of lamb. That’s how the saying goes in Beijing, anyway, when warmer weather means we just might be able to eat our chuan’r outdoors again. (OK, maybe April’s more realistic – but hey, soon.)

In our final frosty weeks before the veil is lifted, however, Beijing’s got plenty of new indoor options.

Hell, Beijing is an inside-person’s paradise! Indoors-lovers can even feel like they’re appreciating Mother Nature at The Lounge, with its spectacular view from the 63rd floor of Park Hyatt. Chef Jack Jia’s new menu is both healthy and hearty – try the flower crab soup with steamed rice to see what we mean.

Village Café is also going for the healthy, hearty vibes with a new ‘healthy lunch set,’ featuring the best damn coconut soup in town, plus your choice of scrumptious steamed fish or the minute steak. But if all of this sounds too wholesome for you, no worries – VC’s neighboring bar, Mesh, has launched ‘Punch Pop,’ a night dedicated to massive punch bowls and throwback jams, every Thursday (we dare you not to leave drunk).

Hatsune joins the ranks of popular Beijing restaurants opening in Wangfujing with its slick new location in WF Central. Plus, they’re never not rolling out a specialty, well roll – stop by and try the ones you haven’t yet.

In brunch news, Sureño has upgraded their weekend selections, and if you don’t get the seafood tower, what are you doing? Plus Beersmith now has a Sunday roast-inspired spread – and all-you-can-slurp laobeijing yogurts. NM

NEWS BITE

Hot Pot Hot Spot

Zhongguancun is the new Silicon Valley they say, but now Silicon Valley’s starting to look more like Zhongguancun. Why? Because Google and Facebook employees can now power lunch at their very own outpost of Haidilao. The Chinese hot pot chain first entered the US with a Los Angeles location in 2013, and their Cupertino location marks their second. Where better to discuss forthcoming app ideas than a dimly lit restaurant with noodle dancers? To prepare US diners for their Chinese eating experience, the Haidilao US website features an interactive “How To Eat” page. “Start Your Hotpot Journey!” it reads. A journey indeed.

OFF THE BEATEN PLATE Preparing and executing spicy hot pot at home is a process. If only it could be easier, you mumble to yourself. Well, now it is, with the advent of the prepackaged, self-heating hot pot.

This new instant noodles-inspired huoguo is ready in 15 minutes, no external heating required. Our Chongqing Self-Heating Hot Pot comes in a square plastic container with all the necessary ingredients inside: spicy broth mix, vegetables, meat, seaweed.

The magic comes in the form of a water-activated heating pad, small and yet strong enough to get your water-and-Chongqing-soup mix boiling.

Let it be for 15 minutes, and you’ve got a stew going. Although we were skeptical, the prepackaged hot pot delivered a flavor-infused selection of edibles. The dish was also loyal to the hot and numbing taste you know and love (or fear). MB RMB29.9, in supermarkets

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E D I T E D B Y NOE L L E M AT E E R / bj e di t o r @ ur b a n a t o m y.c o m

MIFAN/MAFAN

We Tell You if the Rice is Worth the Hassle

Dongwai Xiaogun Ever fancied a good cry over lunch? Dongwai Xiaogun packs both eyewatering levels of heat and a menu full of bargain Sichuan dishes. For the real tear jerker, go with the chuanchuanxiang, skewers dipped in spicy broth.

Daily 11am-10pm; 1/F, Bldg 6, 6 Shizipo Dongli, Shizipo Jie, Dongcheng 东城区十字坡街十 字坡东里6号楼一楼 (6461 7202)

Coops Beijing’s newest purveyor of cutesy pastries is Coops, in Sanlitun SOHO – though their baked goods are both hefty and adorable at the same time.

Unlike many other Beijing bakeries, which are heavy on aesthetic and light on taste, Coops’ chocolate cakes are seriously chocolatey. Aesthetic comes in the form of cardboard eyes sticking out from the icing, so don’t worry – you’ll still get your picture.

Daily, 9am-10pm; 1-101, Bldg A, Sanlitun Soho, Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang 朝阳区工人体育 场北路三里屯SOHO A座1-101 (8590 0365)

Deal Beer Deal Beer has opened in the former space of Vagabond, on Jiaodaokou Beiertiao. A craft beer bar in the hutongs – how refreshing! Many of its beers are unlabeled, but ask, and staffers will guide you on your craft beer adventure.

Daily 5pm-1am; 159 Jiaodaokou Beiertiao, Dongcheng 东城区交道口北二条159 号 (135 0108 7611)

TRIBE (Wangfujing) TRIBE’s newest outpost couldn’t be sexier – its sleek glass confines are visible from four floors below, at the entrance of hot new mall WF Central. It’s more grab-and-go-focused than some other TRIBE branches – but not so grab-and-go-focused that there isn’t a bar, heyooo.

Daily 10am-9pm; 4/F, WF Central, 269 Wangfujing Jie, Dongcheng 朝阳区王府井大 街269号4/F (6526 2690)

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E AT & DR INK | R E S TAUR A N T S

HULU Hu’s This?

by Noelle Mateer

Two years ago, Beijing fine-dining legend TRB tried going casual.

They failed.

Perhaps we should define ‘fail.’ When TRB Bites opened, we loved it – but consumers didn’t quite get it. Diners in Beijing either want cheap, or they want fancy – and TRB Bites was casual, but not quite casual enough. In sum, it failed because the service was too good, the food too exquisite, the restaurant too, well, nice. (Not the worst way to fail.)

But they didn’t give up (though they did turn Bites’ Forbidden City location into a fancy food spot of the finest caliber). Instead, they doubled down on casual, and the result is Hulu. No, we don’t mean the at-home Netflix-adjacent streaming service – not that casual. We mean their new restaurant in Taikoo Li. Is is casual AF. But perhaps we should define ‘casual.’ The definition is relative.

In Beijing, ‘casual’ begins with Element Fresh and ends with soggy 7-Eleven sandwiches, eaten while squatting on the side of the road. Hulu is closer to the Element Fresh end of things, though its food is better and – amazingly – cheaper.

It will likely come as a shock to longtime TRB fans that items on Hulu’s menu start at RMB20. For the price of a latte at Starbucks, you can have Spanish croquettes with Iberico pork. For the price of McDonald’s value meal, you can get foie gras on toast. And for the price of a cocktail in a Sanlitun bar, you can get both of these things – and have them served to you by TRB’s renowned hospitality.

We particularly enjoy the roast suckling pig (RMB398/ half pig), its crackly skin dipped in fine gravy. Our flank steak (RMB148/200g) is also a treat, topped with a minimal line of pesto. For lunch, however, more low-key options are available, including Belgian-style cones of French fries (RMB48). Our salmon avocado ‘rose’ (RMB68), featuring cubed salmon and avocado in the shape of a flower, feels like an upscale take on the poke bowl trend, and the Spanish-style garlic prawns (RMB38) are the perfect side any time of day.

What’s the catch? you say. Frankly, there doesn’t really appear to be one – other than the fact that the restaurant has been consist-

ently packed every time we’ve walked by (expect to wait). We could imagine a catch, though, for anyone making plans at Hulu expecting the TRB Forbidden City treatment – menus are big (almost too big) and laminated, and the atmosphere is louder and more chaotic. This is not a white-tablecloth place.

What is it, then? Perhaps a better comparison would be the aforementioned Element Fresh. Hulu is the same fast-casual, but with better service; it’s cheap, but with better food. It is your neighborhood Element Fresh, but better.

And with more wine. Come warmer weather, Hulu plans on opening a lounge on their massive rooftop. But until then, you can enjoy both bargain and high-end vintages indoors. Or your morning coffee. Or your afternoon tea. Or your, well, anything really – just not your white tablecloths.

Sun-Thu, 11am-11pm, Fri-Sat, 11am-midnight; S4-32 Taikoo Li South, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区三里 屯路19号三里屯太古里南区S4-32 (6512 5701)

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R E S TAUR A N T S | E AT & DR INK

THE CHEESECAKE FACTORY ...Is Gonna Make You Fat

by Noelle Mateer

The Cheesecake Factory has opened its first branch in Beijing, thus proving: You can move to China, but you can’t escape your past.

If you don't know what we’re talking about, sorry – The Cheesecake Factory is a profoundly American experience. And technically also Canadian, because Drake rapped about it.

But those of you who know, know. You were once North American teens dreaming of faraway lands. You celebrated your 14th birthday at the Cheesecake in your local mall. Later, you grew up and moved to China.

You escaped! Only now, your past is catching up with you.

And here’s the unfortunate thing about your past: It’s gonna make you fat.

Because the Cheesecake Factory knows your taste better than you do yourself. In fact, if someone were to put a plate of chicken farfalle smothered in butter and heavy cream in front of you right now, you would consume 750 calories without even noticing. Don’t believe us? Explain Cheesecake Factory’s global empire! Explain the fact that Buzzfeed has published 17 listicles about it! (Highlights include “Do You Have Trash Cheesecake Factory Opinions?” And “We Know If You’re an Introvert or an Extravert Based on Your Cheesecake Factory Order.”)

Everything at the Cheesecake Factory in Beijing is exactly how it would be at the Cheesecake Factory in Pittsburgh: That is, this is no mere factory for cheesecakes. This is a fortress of family dining, dangerously addictive carbohydrates and oddly baroque decor. Dark woods cut through peach walls; Victorian furniture sits next to Egyptian col-

umns. It is confused American opulence at its finest. One might even call it… tuhao?

Portions are massive. ‘Plates’ are platters, which is very American, but also, kinda Chinese. In America, a kilo of pasta topped with four breaded chicken breasts makes for an absurd single serving – but here, it is simply ‘family style.’ Indeed, those with Chinese dining habits may be better equipped to control themselves amidst such bounty. At least, an obesity epidemic isn’t upon us here yet.

We respectfully sample healthy salads before diving into the Bacchanalia: heavy platters of creamy pastas and steaks, followed by cheesecakes. A Cheesecake Factory classic is the Louisiana Chicken, which most certainly is not a thing in Louisiana: breaded chicken patties atop of thick noods smothered in Parmesan and ‘cajun spices.’ It is a gut-busting level of heavy. We enjoy it and feel ashamed. The Steak Diane, meanwhile, is the most straightforward thing in this bedazzled restaurant has to offer: a monstrous serving of steak and mashed potatoes.

But the real deal here is the cake, which you will not have room for, but will order anyway.

Theoretically, you can take yours to go, if you have self control. Or you can eat your Chocolate Tuxedo Cream Cheesecake in house. The adjective-ridden dessert menu includes the Coffee & Cream Chocolate Supreme Cheesecake and the Ultimate Red Velvet Cake Cheesecake (yes, that would be a ‘Cake Cheesecake’). This is not Cheesecake’s first location in China – their first opened in Shanghai Disneyland, a truly masterful display of self-awareness on Cheesecake’s part.

For, like Disney, The Cheesecake Factory is big and terrifying – but it also feels like home. It is the restaurant we deserve. Visit with caution. (And with Lactaid pills.)

Daily, 11am-10pm; 412-419, 4/F, WF Central, 269 Wangfujing Jie, Dongcheng 东城区王府井大街269号4 层412-419室 (6525 1238)

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E AT & DR INK | CA F E S

MELLOWER COFFEE Making it Rain

by Sam Lee

“Just For A Cup of Good Coffee” is the underwhelming slogan of new cafe Mellower. The motto, plastered across all of the shop’s promotional materials and inspiring a level of apathy on par with McCafé, doesn’t do this place justice – because in Beijing’s increasingly crowded coffee scene, Mellower manages to stand out.

Mellower first debuted in Shanghai, prompting a deluge of posts on Instagram and WeChat. The cafe was packed on weekends – and also, cloudy. That’s thanks to Mellower’s bizarre, yet delightful coffee creation: the Sweet Little Rain (RMB58).

Here’s how it works: a fist-sized ‘cloud’ of cotton candy hangs suspended over your cup of coffee. The steam from your coffee condenses on the ‘cloud,’ then ‘rains’ down. It’s part coffee, part science experiment. And while it may seem gimmicky – hell, it’s practically made for Instagram – we must admit, the coffee is excellent. The sugar ‘rain’ condenses along the rim of our mugs like salt on the rim of a margarita.

Despite its cuteness, Mellower is a place for serious coffee.

Perhaps a sign of their sincerity is that they don’t lead with their Sweet Little Rain – at least on their menu, they demonstrate different single origin options and brewing methods. Coffee here is studiously made – Mellower locations elsewhere in China have been known to host barista courses – and latte art is among Beijing’s finest. Even our basic americano (RMB36) is a delight.

Indeed, Mellower began as a roastery – procuring beans from around the world. Mellower also specializes in beans from Yunnan, worth a try if you’ve never had China’s homegrown coffee. Since its founding, however, Mellower has branched into increasingly bizarre drink options, each of them equally delightful. Its Ice Rose Fresh Cream Lungo (yes, 'Lungo,' RMB58) features pink Himalayan salt, and Mellower even serves ‘sparkling’ coffee with lemon.

Mellower’s first Beijing location, on Xi Dawang Lu, is off the beaten path. In fact, it isn’t entirely accessible by subway – the closest stop, Pingleyuan, is a solid 15-minute walk away. But is that even relevant in the Mobike era? Don’t you hate seeing everyone you know at Wagas? Haven’t people been saying Shuangjing is the next big thing since, like, 2005? Mellower is worth the trip – and likely, later on, the Insta post.

Daily 9am-9pm; 201, 2/F Caochang, Tianze Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区天泽路草场201 (5623 4368)

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CA F E S | E AT & DR INK

CLASH OF THE CORPORATIONS words and images by Sam Lee

Two global brands have opened cafes within their shops in – you guessed it – Taikoo Li. Thus, we set out to find an answer to the question you’ve long been asking: Who makes better coffee, notebook retailers or skincare experts?

MOLESKINE CAFÉ

KIEHL’S CAFÉ

THE BRAND

THE BRAND

Moleskine sells pricey, minimalist notebooks and journals. Because everyone knows writers have a lot of money to blow.

Kiehl’s is a luxury skincare range made to look like a neon-lit apothecary for millennials.

Large. Items include breakfast sets, a range of open-face sandwiches, Southeast Asiainspired salads, cocktails, single-origin coffees and teas.

Small. A short list of coffees and juices, plus a counter full of cakes by Beijing-based bakery Haollee.

THE MENU

THE VIBE

THE MENU

THE VIBE

Clean and bright – large windows line the front, and bookshelves full of expensive notepads line the back.

Like that of a tiny cosmetics shop. There are far more hand creams and lotions than there are cakes and coffees – or seats for would-be diners, for that matter.

The chicken and green mango salad (RMB55).

The quinoa, yes quinoa, cheesecake (RMB48).

Four out of five limited edition Star Warsthemed notebooks.

Two out of five 600-kuai hydrating facial creams.

THE STANDOUT THE SCORE

Daily, 10am-10pm; Taikoo Li South (opposite Nali Patio), 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区三里屯路19号 三里屯太古里南区(那里花园对面）

THE STANDOUT THE SCORE

Daily, 10am-9pm; Building 10, Taikoo Li South, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区三里屯路19号三里屯太古 里南区10号楼

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E AT & DR INK | R E S TAUR A N T S & B A R S

STRAIGHT SPIRIT What’s In Store

by Noelle Mateer

3 LITTLE PIGS Bangin’ Bangers

by Noelle Mateer

Opening a shop in the hutongs is the 2018 equivalent of building your house out of straw. And yet Andy Horowitz is undeterred by the lesson of his shop’s eponymous fable. In a small spot just south of Zhangzi Zhonglu, Beijing’s premier sausage maker now serves burgers and sausage bagels to anyone brave enough to venture inside the Second Ring – and those who dare are greatly rewarded.

You likely know Andy already – or at least his sausage. He’s been hawking meat to hungry Beijingers since 2012 (ancient times in restaurant years). And what started as a tiny operation, transported throughout our megacity via adorable egg-shaped three wheeler, has now become one of Beijing’s most recognizable craft food products.

Admittedly, today’s operation is hardly Big Sausage. 3 Little Pigs is small, but it marks a big upgrade for Andy’s Craft Sausage – the new spot is Andy’s first sit-down restaurant and bar. The cozy, lightly renovated hutong features a bar, a couple side tables and – the hutong classic – a fridge full of craft beers. (3 Little Pigs also serves Vedett on tap.)

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Food is largely the same in tone, and by that we mean, it will give you a heart attack. This is not a place to eat if you have cholesterol issues, nor is it a place to eat if you’re particularly concerned for the plight of animals. Even the tater tots come fried in duck fat. (It’s hard to think of a place less vegetarian-friendly.)

And yet, for American-style meat lovers, 3 Little Pigs is the holy grail. Seemingly everything comes with a topping of Andy’s bacon, and what doesn’t comes with a side of pork rinds. The burgers are both greasy and delicious – the sausage bagels are sorely needed in this bagel-deprived town. Prices are altogether reasonable for a place that does so much of its product by hand. And cold beers help all those calories go down smoothly.

Granted, 3 Little Pigs’ obscure hutong location isn’t the easiest for Sanlitun folks to reach. But those in need of an arteryclogging taste of home will find it worth the trek.

Daily, 11am-10pm; 44 Xiezuo Hutong, Dongcheng 东 城区协作胡同44号 (151 0168 5397)

We don’t normally review a store in our Eat & Drink section’s pages. But Straight Spirit is not your average store.

Central Park’s new whiskey ‘shop’ is more like a whiskey den – its slim space kitted out with vintage furniture and tables, its lighting low, despite its shopping center setting. Stop in to buy a bottle for your house, and you just might find yourself spending hours sipping here instead.

Straight Spirit stocks an excellent range of whiskeys, which you can buy by the bottle at retail prices (read: cheaper than in an actual bar). But you can also buy 100ml samples – whether of a whiskey you’re considering taking home, or just of something you’d like to sip in store. Straight Spirit also has several barrels of aged cocktails – the hottest trend in Beijing’s bar scene at the moment – including Manhattans (RMB56) and Sazeracs (RMB46, a steal).

But what really makes Straight Spirit stand out is its service. Straight Spirit’s buttoned-up staffers make us feel utterly relaxed, as they explain the differences between whiskey brands and show us some of their favorites. This is clearly a place made for and by whiskey lovers – and it makes even non-whiskey lovers appreciative of the experience.

Straight Spirit being a store, however, it closes earlier than your average whiskey bar (11pm). But if you find yourself shutting the place down, they’re happy to send you out with a bottle for home.

Daily, 11am-11pm. Bldg 26, Room 103A, Central Park, 6 Chaoyangmen Wai Dajie, Chaoyang 朝阳区朝 阳门外大街6号新城国际26号楼103A底商

CITY SCENES

Exquisite pastry prompts memories of a happy childhood and summer days at the beach, at the grand opening of With Wheat in Luneng Shopping Mall.

Colleagues enjoy drinks after work as their friend in the beanie ponders the futility of human suffering, at Arcade by Hatchery.

People bond over baked goods, thus sparking a carb-based friendship that will last for years, at TRIBE Wangfujing’s ‘Get Baked’ launch party.

A team from Beijing Marriott Hotel Southwest bring their big hearts and even bigger banner to volunteer at Beijing Niu Jie Welfare Institution.

Man attempts to drink entirety of tiki cocktail before fish cup swims away, at The Tiki Bungalow.

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EVENTS

The fin. / Gig

Pia Fraus Gig

HEAR

Generations From Exile Tribe Gig J-Pop sensations Generations From Exile Tribe (or just Generations, as they’re often called) have toured around the world since 2012. This is your chance to see a Japanese boy band perform in Beijing. Do not take this lightly.

Fri Mar 9 and Sat Mar 10, 7pm; RMB343-1346; Beijing Exhibition Theater, 135 Xizhimenwai Dajie, Xicheng 西城区西直门外大街135号 (for more information or for tickets, visit www.douban.com)

Japanese indie rockers The fin. have conquered audiences the world over – including at South by Southwest – with their blend of synth-pop, chillwave and dreampop.

"We get inspired touring other countries,” frontman Yuto Uchino told That’s in 2017.

"We meet new people, listen to new bands and take back all these experiences into our music. There’s quite a lot of elements in our music right now that come from playing abroad.”

The fin. started out as a cover band of The Strokes before adding more psychedelic elements into their music inspired by the likes of Beach House and Tame Impala.

Witness the magic yourself at their Yugong Yishan gig.

Fri Mar 9; RMB180 (door), RMB150 (presale); Yugong Yishan (see Listings for details, www.newnoise.cn for more info)

Estonian indie rockers Pia Fraus bring their unique blend of dream pop, shoegaze and electronica to Yue Space. The group’s entrancing distorted sound is set to spellbind your evening.

Sun Mar 4, 9pm; RMB120 (door), RMB100 (presale); Yue Space, 7 Banqiao Nanxiang, Dongcheng 东城 区北新桥街道板桥南巷7号

Pinch DJ

Zedd / DJ

Egyptian Lover Gig

A pioneer of West Coast hip-hop and electro rap, Los Angeles rapper and producer Egyptian Lover will be stopping off at Dada. The artist rose to fame in the early 80s, paving the way for West Coast rappers that came after (think Dr Dre and Eazy E).

A lot has changed since then – but Egyptian Lover still records entirely on analog equipment.

Fri Mar 23, tickets TBD; Dada (see Listings for details)

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Think you don’t know Zedd? Think again – the DJ’s hits have charted the world over. Surely you’ve heard ‘Break Free,’ his collab with Ariana Grande. Or perhaps you’ve heard ‘Clarity,’ his track with British singer Foxes that won him a Grammy for Best Dance Recording. And you’ve definitely heard ‘Stay,’ featuring Alessia Cara, the single that lingered on the Billboard Hot 100 for weeks of 2017. And then there’s ‘The Middle,’ which debuted at last month’s Super Bowl and has been on Spotify’s Top Hits chart ever since.

Maybe you actually haven’t heard any of these. And maybe that doesn’t matter. Because what does matter is that Zedd’s show at Sir Teen is going to be certifiably crazy and undeniably danceable. Book in advance.

Wed Mar 28, RMB260 (presale); Sir Teen, 2/F 6 Gongti Xilu, Chaoyang 朝阳区工 体西路6号2层(8821 9999, visit weidan.com for tickets)

Antidote and Street Kids are teaming up to present Pinch, a Bristol-based dubstep legend. One of the biggest names in dubstep, Pinch has played multiple Boiler Room sets, and runs respected dubstep label Tectonic Recordings.

Sat Mar 10, tickets TBD; Dada (see Listings for details)

EVENTS

Tango Beginner Boot Camp / Dance

Spring Fever Ski Break 2018 Party

DO

8-BIT Pop-up Gaming The OG hutong gaming bar, 8-BIT, is back, but in Shuangjing – and only for a little while, as vegan restaurant Root Pop hosts the arcade bar pop-up through May. Expect chill vibes, old school music, a classic lineup of games and tasty grub.

Thu-Sun, through May, 8pm-late; Root Pop, 3-22.22 International Art Plaza, Pingod, Baiziwan Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区百 子湾路苹果社区北区B座3号楼22号

So, you think you can’t dance? Well, now’s the time to learn. You may as well dive right into it with the tango – the Argentinian-Uruguayan dance is included on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List, so, you know, you could do worse. Luckily, BJBTango is offering a ‘Beginner Boot Camp’ throughout March. Taught by visiting tango extraordinaire Eddy Hernandez, the classes will be fun, hot and intensive. Learn the basics, and maybe even more, over the 8-week course, and you’ll be heating up the floor in no time. Single classes are also available if you just want to drop in.

Thursdays Mar 8-29, 7.20pm; Sundays Mar 10-31, 2.30pm; RMB200 (single class), RMB1,200 (8-class package); Hot Cat Club, 46 Fangjia Hutong, Dongcheng 东城区方家 胡同46号 (to register, add WeChat ID: Ellebanna891)

Spring Showcase / Arts

Jing-A is hosting its legendary spring break ski trip for the third year in a row, and this is one bus you do want to be on. The weekend’s festivities cover ski or snowboard rental, lift passes, dinner and, most importantly, free flow on a selection of Jing-A beers. Suds will be poured on the bus, at the mountain base and at dinner. Get excited.

Sat Mar 10-Sun Mar 11; RMB1,700; Wanlong Ski Resort, Chongli 崇礼万龙 滑雪场 (tickets via https://yoopay.cn/ event/skibreak2018)

Wild Great Wall BBQ Outdoor

Public International Women’s Day Walk

Newman Tours is offering a special edition walk this month in honor of International Women’s Day. The public tour focuses on influential women of Beijing – from revolutionary female writers to the last Empress of China.

Led by a female guide, enjoy a memorable walk through the city and learn about important figures that lived in the capital.

Thu Mar 8, 2-3.30pm; RMB90 (women), RMB190 (men); Book via info@newmantours.com

If you love food, photography and music – and lets face it, who doesn’t? – then check out Yue Space, because, for one day this month, you can enjoy all three at the culture hub. The venue will host a food market and photography exhibition in the afternoon and a gig in the evening (8.30pm).

Don’t miss Chinese musician Mo Xizi as he showcases his new album, Yuegang Baidehen. According to the folk-rock musician: “Music is a part. It should be performed live, and not live in a box, but fun, and free.” The artist’s new album combines electric guitar, bass and keyboard for a ‘wild’ sound.

Sat Mar 24, 2pm-late; RMB180 (door), RMB150 (presale); Yue Space, 7 Banqiaonanxiang, Dongcheng 东城区板桥南巷7号 (tickets via wap.showstart. com/event/45159)

Explore a new part of the Great Wall this month with Beijing Experience’s BBQ tour. The crew will take you to an untouched stretch of the wall for a rugged feast of craft sausages, Uruguayan beef, homemade pies and wine and beer to wash it all down.

Sun Mar 25, 8.45am; RMB550 (including transportation, food and drinks); meet at Dongzhimen subway station (book via WeChat: 13071139166)

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EVENTS

Brunch Specials at Migas Mercado Dining

Beijing Invitational Craft Beer Festival / Beer

TA S T E

Cookie Monster Charity Bake-Off Competition Beijing’s most carbtastic annual event is back for its fifth year. The Hutong and LumDimSum.com will be judging the cookies of the capital, and while it’s too late for you to enter your own recipe, anyone can come taste the delicious spread on offer. Your ticket will get you sample bites of all 15 cookies, plus a glass of warm milk. The Hutong will also serve hot chocolate and hot toddys.

Sun Mar 25, RMB150 (RMB100 for Hutong members); The Hutong (see Listings for details)

Migas Mercado has created a menu of brunch-ready Spanish dishes to warm up your weekend. Options include family-sized shareables like their popular seafood paella as well as individuals like avocado cannelloni stuffed with crab salad.

Weekends, 11.30am-2.30pm; Migas Mercado 7/F China World Mall, 1 Jianguomen Wai Dajie, Chaoyang 朝 阳区建国门外大街1号国贸商城7层 (6500 7579)

Pop Punch at Mesh Parties Beijing and craft beer go hand-in-hand like roadside chuan’r and gutter oil – and that’s all thanks to Great Leap, the capital’s original microbrewery. The hawkers of the Honey Ma not only serve damn tasty brews, but they also throw a mighty fine festival. Witness the boozy glory for yourself at their Fourth Beijing Invitational Craft Beer Festival.

Breweries from around the world will be descending upon Beijing for a weekend of tasting sessions, and this year’s got quite the lineup: Breweries from America, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, New Zealand, Australia and more will all be here serving fresh kegs of their best beers. A ticket to any of the weekend’s tasting sessions gives you free-flow beers, canapés provided by TRB, and the chance to meet brewers from around the world. And for the serious hop heads, tickets for a 5-course TRB brunch with beer pairings are also available.

Fri Mar 23-Sun Mar 25; RMB200 (single session), RMB488 (brunch), RMB550 (weekend pass, good for three sessions), RMB988 (all access pass, entrance to all sessions and brunch); TRB Copper, 13 Nafu Hutong, Dongcheng 东城区钠 福胡同13号大院 (tickets are available at all Great Leap Brewing locations, as well as online at https://www.247tickets.com/t/beijing-invitational-craft-beerfestival)

Afternoon Coffee at Hulu Dining

TRB’s new affordable concept Hulu (see our review, p. 58) is extra affordable for coffee breaks. For just RMB58, you can grab both a coffee of your choice and one of their luxuriously fluffy soufflés (we’re partial to the one that comes drowning in Grand Marnier).

Daily, 2-4pm; Hulu, S4-32 South Block, Sanlitun Village, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区三里屯路19号三 里屯Village南区

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Congratulations: We’ve now reached the point in history in which the early 2000s can be properly considered ‘throwback.’ This is cause for celebration, and that’s exactly what Mesh is doing – with Thursday nights dedicated to the pop hits of the late 90s and early 00s. What’s more, from 7-9pm, dangerously delicious punch bowls are buy-one-get-one – if that doesn’t make you feel like a Spice Girl, we don’t know what will.

Thursdays, 7pm-1am; Mesh (see Listings for details)

EVENTS

The Bookworm Literary Festival / Arts & culture

‘Spices’ Art exhibition

SEE

Jane Eyre Theater Chapterhouse Theatre brings its production of Jane Eyre to the capital for an evening of gothic intrigue, complicated relationships and feminist awakening. Jane – she’s just like us, really.

Tue Mar 27, 7pm; RMB60-280; Rulun Lecture Hall of Renmin University (tickets via en.damai.cn)

It seems like an eternity since the last one but finally, The Bookworm Literary Festival is upon us and, damn, was it worth the wait, with the just-over-two-week program including dozens of talks, panels, performances and shows.

Speakers include fiction and nonfiction authors such as Xu Xi (above), Geoff Dyer (below) and Zhang Lijia (bottom); foreign correspondents; poets; and Nobel Peace Prize photographers (Sim Chi Yin). Other must-see events include US comic Kyle Grooms and an Irish music and dance performance by The Upducky Band and Damhsa. Basically, there’s something for everyone: North Korean knick-knacks, graphic novels, podcasts, panels – you name it.

Thu Mar 8-Sun Mar 25; times and ticket prices vary; The Bookworm, 4 Sanlitun Nanlu, Chaoyang 朝阳区三里屯南路4号 (for more info, including a full schedule, visit beijingbookworm.com)

A new art exhibition by Chinese painter Xie Nanxing, ‘Spices’ comprises seven oil paintings painted by the artist in the last two years. The bright and layered works lean towards the more abstract side of the art spectrum.

Tue-Sun, through May 17, 10am7pm; RMB50 (online), RMB60; UCCA (see Listings for details)

Li Bai Dance

Naomi Kawase Night Film

Gig spot Moguspace mixes it up this month with an evening dedicated to the works of Japanese filmmaker Naomi Kawase. The Cannes GrandPrix-award winner often touches upon her childhood growing up in rural Japan in her touching films.

Tue Mar 6, 8pm; RMB50; Moguspace, 66 Jiaoda Donglu, Haidian 海淀区交大东路66号 (400 188 6980)

See legendary Chinese poet Li Bai’s work come to life in this eponymous dance drama. The Tang dynasty bard is known for his graceful verses – he was even nicknamed the ‘poet god’ in later centuries – making a dance production a particularly fitting adaptation for the writer’s poetry.

Sat Mar 10-Sun Mar 11, 7pm; RMB240-RMB500; Drama Theatre of NCPA, 2 Xi Chang’an Jie, Xicheng 西城区西长安街2号 (tickets via sales@theatrebeijing.com)

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LISTINGS OPEN DOOR

Expensive...................................¥ Expense Account ....................¥¥ Highly Recommended ..............* Top Ten ....................................**

RESTAURANTS The Hot One Hundred

About This guide represents our editors’ top 100 picks, and includes some That’s Beijing advertisers. Restaurants rated(*) have been personally reviewed by our experts, and scored according to the cuisine, experience and affordability.

CHINESE Contemporary & Mixed Cuisine 8 Qi Nian 祈年8号 (Cantonese/Sichuan) The New World Hotel’s flagship restaurant has classic Chinese cuisine in abundance, as well as some vitality-restoring medicinal soups. (Their decent wine list is just as effective.) > Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:15pm, 5:30-9:30pm, Sat/Sun 12-2:45pm, 5:30-9:30pm; 2/F, New World Hotel, 8 Qinian Dajie, Dongcheng 东城区祈年大街8号新世界 酒店2层 (5960 8822)

Din Tai Fung 鼎泰丰 ¥ (Taiwanese) This Taipei-based franchise impressed Ken Hom enough to call it one of the best 10 eateries in the world, back in 1993. Famous for its dependably delicious xiaolongbao or little steam buns. Book ahead, there’s always a long wait. > Daily 11.30am-2.30pm, 5-10pm, weekends 11.30am-10pm; 24 Middle Street, Xinyuanxili, Chaoyang 朝阳区新源西里中街24号 (近渔阳饭店) (6462 4502) > Additional branches in Shin Kong Place; Parkview Green; Grand Pacific Mall Xidan; Modern Plaza Zhongguancun; see www.dintaifung. com.cn for details

Jing Yaa Tang 京雅堂 (Chinese, Peking Duck) Resembling something between a nightclub and a theater, the Opposite House’s basement restaurant proves to be more than just style over substance with their range of expertly prepared classic dishes.

> Daily 12-10:30pm, B1/F, The Opposite House, Sanlitun Bei Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区三里屯路11号院1号 楼瑜舍酒B1楼 (6410 5230)

Peking Duck The Horizon 海天阁 (Cantonese Beijing Duck) ** Kerry Hotel’s Chinese restaurant has widened its predominantly Cantonese and Sichuan horizons to include dim sum, double-boiled soups and Peking duck – and the roast bird here really is fabulous. > Daily 11.30am-2.30pm, 5:30pm-10pm 1/F, Beijing Kerry Hotel, 1 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区光华路 1号嘉里中心1层 (8565 2188)

Honglu 红炉

Beijing’s resplendent Northern Chinese restaurant serves elegant Hebei fare unlike you’ve ever had. Excellent peking duck is on offer as well. > Daily 11.30am-2.30pm and 5.30-10:30pm; 3F Rosewood Beijing, Jing Guang Centre, Hujialou, Chaoyang 朝阳区呼家楼一号京广中心北京瑰丽酒店 3层 (6597 8888)

Da Dong 大董 Among the city’s most famous haunts, Da Dong guarantees slick cuts of Beijing-style roast duck and delectable wrap fillings. The venue’s a class act and the plum sauce is hard to follow.

> Daily 11am-10pm; 22 Dongsishitiao, Dongcheng 东城区东四十条甲22号 (5169 0328); see www.dadongdadong.com for more locations

Duck de Chine 全鸭季 ¥ * Good duck is meant to show your guests how wonderful you are, as much as the food. Duck De Chine does that in spades, with fantastic presentation of its crispy, succulent duck (RMB188).

> Daily 11.30am-2.30pm, 6-10.30pm; Courtyard 4, 1949 The Hidden City, Gongti Bei Lu, Chaoyang 朝 阳区工体北路4号院 (6501 8881) ; 98 Jinbao Jie, Dongcheng 东城区金宝街98号 (6521 2221)

Xihe Village Restaurant and Bar

> Mon-Fri Lunch: 11am-2.30pm; Dinner: 5-9pm; Sun: 11am-9pm, S9-33, 3/F, South Area of Sanlitun Taikooli, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区三里屯路19 号三里屯太古里南区三层S9-33(6417 6082)

Shanghai Shanghai Min 小南国 Many swear this chain has the best Shanghai-style hongshaorou north of the Yangtze. The jury’s out, but its popularity remains. > 0505, 5/F Raffles City Mall, 1 Dongzhimen Nan Dajie, Dongcheng 东城区东直门南大街1号来福士 购物中心5楼0505号铺 (400 820 9777)> Additional branches in Financial Street; Jinbao Jie; Oriental Plaza; Sanlitun Soho; Xinyuan Nan Lu (see www. online.thatsmags.com for details)

Wang Jia Sha 王家沙 Modern Shanghai cuisine – popular with Hong Kong celebrities – famed for its crabmeat dumplings. Try the spiced-salt ribs (RMB62) for a bit of Adam action. > Daily, S1-30a Taikoo Li Sanlitun (on the third floor of i.t shop) 朝阳区三里屯路19号院太古里1号楼3层 S1-30a号商铺 (6416 3469)

Sichuan/Hunan Chuan Ban 川办 * This bright, modestly decorated dining hall is frequently cited as Beijing’s best Sichuan restaurant.

> Mon-Fri 7-9am, 10.50am-2pm, 4.50-9.30pm; SatSun 7am-10pm; 5 Gongyuan Toutiao, Jianguomennei Dajie, Dongcheng 东城区建国门内贡院头条5号 (6512 2277, ext. 6101)

Karaiya Spice House 辣屋 * Bold and fiery Hunan cuisine in the most serene of restaurant interiors. Don’t miss the dry roasted duck with a dozen spices and stir fried bullfrog with shiso leaves and ginger. Peanut milk is there to soothe the palate: you’ll need it. > Daily 11:30am-2pm, 5:30-10pm; 3/F, Sanlitun Taikoo Li South, Chaoyang 朝阳区三里屯太古里19号 院南区三层S9-30 (6415 3535)

GRILL 79 New Sensation This time of year is all about renewal – just ask the team at Grill 79 at China World Summit Wing, Beijing, who recently launched a new lunch menu.

Inspired by contemporary European cuisine, the restaurant’s latest dishes are suitably decadent yet fresh AF, with a particular emphasis on seafood. The set menu (RMB468) offers light starter options, such as crab salad with gazpacho and crispy oyster salad. The main course meanwhile is a hearty lobster bouillabaisse and duck and foie gras pudding. Finish it off with a strawberry parfait dessert. If you’re not into seafood, the grilled ribeye with gratin potato and slow-cooked (48-hours!) short ribs are also delicious. With its sky-high views and fine dining atmosphere, there’s no better place to celebrate spring than Grill 79.

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Quality Peking duck on the cheap?Cuisine Oh yes, Beijing HongLu it’s possible – thanks to Honglu. The popular restaurant serves traditional Beijing food with a stylish twist (which is exactly why it’s so crowded at lunchtime). >Daily 11am-9.30pm, Sanlitun: Daily 11:00am10:00pm, 60 Meters Of No. 6 Building Sanlitun South Road Chaoyang 三里屯店: 朝阳区三里屯南 路6号楼南侧60米 (6595 9872; 6593 8970) Raffles: Daily 11:00am-10:00pm, 5 Floor Of Raffles shopping center Dongzhimen Dongcheng 来福士店: 东城区东 直门来福士购物中心5层 (8409 8199; 8409 8234)

Country Kitchen The name ‘Country Kitchen’ may sound like a diner, but a diner this is not. Rosewood

South Memory 望湘园 This restaurant chain is the Hunan staple in the capital. The trademark shilixiang niurou (fragrant beef), duojiao shuangse yutou (dual-colour spiced fish head) and meltingly tender frog dishes are among the favorites with locals. > Daily 11am-10pm; 2/F, 230-232, Fenglian Plaza, 18 Chaoyangmen Wai Dajie, Chaoyang 朝阳区朝外大街 18号丰联广场2楼230-232号 (6588 1797); see www. southmemory.com for more locations

Yu Xin 渝信川菜 Open since 1993, Yu Xin’s authentic Sichuan dishes have earned a loyal fanbase. Their liangfen – a jelly-like substance cut into chunky strips and dressed in an addictive spicy sauce – hits the spot. The rustic, intimate setting of bamboo cubicles and swift, friendly service complete the experience. > Daily 11am-10pm; 5A Xingfu Yicun Xili, Chaoyang 朝阳区幸福一村西里甲5号 see www.yuxin1997.com

LISTINGS for other locations.

Yunnan Dali Courtyard 大里院子 * If you like authentic Yunnanese food, you’ll have to trust the staff: there’s no menu, it all just arrives in an intimate courtyard setting. The price (RMB120/person) matches the rustic ingredients. > Daily 12-2pm, 6-10.30pm; Gulou Dong Dajie, 67 Xiaojingchang Hutong, Dongcheng 东城区鼓楼东大 街小经厂胡同67号 (8404 1430)

Lost Heaven 花马天堂 (Yunnan, SE Asian) An emphasis on Yunnan characterizes this menu’s fresh journey through the SE Asia passage, with a grandiose yet dark teak interior. > Daily noon-2pm, 5pm-10.30 (bar open till 1am).

Ch’ien Men 23, 23 Qianmen Dongdajie, Dongcheng 东城区前门东大街23号(8516 2698)

Middle 8 Restaurant 中8楼 *

specialties in their purest form with chefs hailing from Hong Kong. Using the freshest ingredients from NUO’s very own green farms, NUO Hotel Beijing provides an alternative green gourmet option in town.

>Mon-Fri: 11.30am-2pm, 5.30-10pm; Sat-Sun: 11am2.30pm, 5.30-10pm; 1/F, NUO Hotel Beijing, 2A Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区将台路甲2号北京诺金酒 店一层（5926 8281）

Da Gui (Guizhou) Guizhou’s famed hot-and-sour cuisine nestled into a charming traditional alleyway.

Munch happily into pickled greens and don’t miss the salty-sweet deep-fried black sesame balls. They’re sensational. > Daily 10am-2pm, 5-10pm; 69 Daxing Hutong, Jiaodaokou, Dongcheng 东城区交道口大兴胡同69 号 (6407 1800)

Makye Ame (Tibetan) Determined to prove that Tibetan cuisine consists of more than just yak-butter tea, the Beijing branch of this nationwide chain serves up nomadic classics such as curried potatoes and roast lamb.

> Daily 10-midnight; 11A Xiushui Nanjie, Jianguomenwai, Chaoyang 朝阳区建国门外秀水南街 甲11号 (6506 9616)

Xinjiang Red Rose (Xinjiang) * One of Beijing’s most famous Xinjiang restaurant, Red Rose serves some of the tenderest lamb skewers around, matched by enormous servings of classics like dapanji (a chicken, potato and pepper stew), latiaozi (noodles with a spicy tomato sauce) and nang (baked flatbrea). > Daily 10.30am-11pm; Inside 7 Xingfuyicun, opposite Workers’ Stadium North Gate, Chaoyang 朝阳区 工人体育场北门对面幸福一村7巷内 (6415 5741)

An oasis at the top of Taikoo Li, Middle 8 is the go-to destination for fresh authentic Yunnan cuisine. The restaurant, stylish yet understated, has plenty of flavorsome wellpriced dishes and a killer view to boot. > Sanlitun: Daily 11am-10pm, Taikoo Li Sanlitun South South Area F4, Chaoyang 朝阳区三里屯太古 里南区4层(6415 8858); Indigo: Daily 11am-10pm, Jiuxianqiao Road No.20 Indigo F2 , Chaoyang 朝阳区 酒仙桥路20号颐堤港2层(8420 0883); Zhongguancun: Daily 11am-10pm, Zhongguancun Plaza Pedestrian Street, No.R17, Haidian海淀区中关村广场步行街R17 号(5172 1728); Fenglan: Daily 11am-10pm, Xizhimen North Street No.32 Maples International Center Blok B, 1 Floor, Haidian海淀区西直门大街32号枫蓝国际中 心B座1层(6223 5583)

Youyun > Daily, 10am-11pm, 63 Babaokeng Hutong, Beixinqiao, Dongcheng 东城区北新桥八宝坑胡同63 号 6407 2050 / 185 1092 0709

Yun’er Small Town 云洱小镇 Folksy and affordable Yunnanese fare on Beiluoguxiang. Fragrant dishes including the jasmine bulbs with scrambled eggs, lemongrass shrimp and banana leaf wrapped bolete mushrooms will keep us crawling back. > Daily 10am-11pm, 84 Beiluoguxiang, Dongcheng 东城区北锣鼓巷84号 (8404 2407)

Dumplings Baoyuan Jiaoziwu 宝源饺子屋 Famous for their rainbow of dyed dumplings, Baoyuan have their jiaozi (six, under RMB10) wrapped in a larger yuanbao silver-ingot shape, with creative vegetarian options and authentic Sichuan food. > Daily 11am-10pm; north of 6 Maizidian Jie, Chaoyang 朝阳区麦子店街6号楼北侧 (6586 4967)

Mr Shi’s Dumplings 老石饺子馆 Since recieving a Lonely Planet recommendation the prices have risen and the walls are covered in backpackers’ scribbles, but the fantastic dumplings – boiled and fried – are still fantastic. > 74 Baochao Hutong, Gulou Dong Dajie, Dongcheng 东城区鼓楼东大街宝钞胡同74号 (8405 0399, 131 6100 3826)

Regional Crescent Moon (Xinjiang) * Roast mutton enthusiasts go over the moon at this reputable Xinjiang Muslim restaurant. Eastern European and Central Asian influences are evident throughout, with peppery and cumin-spiced dishes livening up traditional Chinese favorites. > Daily 10am-11:30pm; 16 Dongsi Liutiao, Dongcheng 东四六条16号 (6400 5281)

Jia by NUO Hotel Featuring modern Ming elements with inspired paintings from Xu Wei, a painter, calligrapher and food and wine connoisseur, the quintessentially authentic house of agriculture produces, Jia Chinese restaurant serves exquisite traditional Cantonese

OPEN DOOR

WESTERN Fine Dining Barolo ¥¥ (Italian) * Average Italian abounds in Beijing: not here, though. Quite the opposite, in fact, meaning Barolo is as well-regarded as the Piedmont wine it is named after.

> Mon-Sun 11.30am-2pm, 6pm-10pm. Ritz Carlton Hotel, China Central Place, 83A Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区建国路甲83号华贸中心丽思卡尔顿 酒店内 (5908 8151)

Maison Flo ¥¥ (French) * Marble slabs, mosaic floors and brass fittings establish the Parisian bona fides; dishes like snails (RMB78), oysters (RMB48 each) and steak tartare (RMB158) confirm.

The grandeur is matched only by the service, and the prices reflect the authenticity of the experience.

THE MISSION Feeling Brand New The Mission has opened a new branch, which means more burritos for more people. Not familiar with Beijing’s own fast-casual burrito slingers? Well, The Mission has a simple mission: to bring high-quality Tex-Mex fare to Chaoyang’s finest.

At The Mission’s sleek, efficient counters, eaters can customize their tacos and burrito bowls however they like – a fresh and speedy system perfectly suited to the location of the newest shop: Central Park Plaza. Now, everyone from business-minded folk to families can grab their food to go or enjoy it alongside their friends (or laptops) in store.

Efficiency, however, never compromises The Mission’s quality. The restaurant uses exclusively high-caliber ingredients such as Brazilian grass-fed beef and Danish pork and chicken. All are carefully selected and do not contain preservatives or antibiotics. Best of all – The Mission’s regular weekly promotions carry over from their original Guomao store. So welcome Taco Tuesday to your rotation, Central Parkers.

Daily, 10am-10pm; 109, Building 7, Central Park Plaza, 10 Chaoyang Gongyuan Nanlu 朝阳公园南路中央公园广场A7-109 (6586 1180)for details)

> Daily 11am-midnight; 18 Xiaoyun Lu, Chaoyang 朝 阳区霄云路18号 (6595 5135)

The Georg ** This hutong mansion has an elegant restaurant, leather-couched lounge area, sleek bar and sick location near Houhai. But most importantly, it has some of the most thoughtful, innovative cuisine in town. Go for a dinner you won’t forget. >10.30am-midnight (dinner 6-10.30pm), closed Mondays; 45 Dongbuyaqiao Hutong, Dongcheng 东 城区东不压桥胡同45号 (8408 5300)

Héritage ¥¥ A French country-style chateau in the heart of Beijing. A chef de cuisine with Michelin star restaurant experience and an extensive wine cellar make this Sofitel Hotel restaurant one of the best French dining experiences in town. > 6F Sofitel Wanda Beijing, Tower C, Wanda Plaza, 93 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区建国路93号万达广场 C座索菲特酒店6层 (8599 6666)

TRB (Temple Restaurant Beijing) ¥¥ ** Setting is everything here, especially if it’s fashioned inside a restored Buddhist temple. The bold contemporary European cuisine is fitting in majesty and the service alone is worthy of worship.

> Daily 11.30am-2.30pm, 6-10pm; 23 Songzhusi Temple, Shatan Beijie, Dongcheng 东城区沙滩北街嵩 祝寺23号 (8400 2232)

Mio ¥¥ Glitzy Italian fare at the Four Seasons, with a mobile Bellini cart, wheeled straight to your table.The Chef crafts a superb squash tortellini by hand, and pampers diners with desserts like the deconstructed tiramisu. >Daily lunch 11.30am - 2.30pm, dinner 5.30pm -10.30pm, Four Seasons Hotel, 48 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang, 朝阳区亮马桥路48号北京四季酒店 (5695 8888)

Grange Grill ** Located in the Westin Beijing Chaoyang, Grange Grill serves up some of the city’s best steak, seafood and grill offerings. The restaurant’s welcoming decor provides a

BEERSMITH GASTROPUB For Your Brunch Bunch Hotel Jen’s popular microbrewery Beersmith has just gotten cooler – with the launch of a new weekend brunch. Called the “Sunday Roast & Brunch,” the hearty menu is designed to end your week on a high note. Feel just like you’re at home in the English countryside with a carving station full of high-quality meats, featuring everything from herbed leg of lamb to Australian beef ribs, and accompanied by a variety of gravies, béarnaise and Yorkshire puddings. Or, treat yourself to delicious eggs Benedict at the Live Egg Station, where chefs will cook to your exact requests. Cold cuts lovers can enjoy a massive selection of cheeses and meats as well, before diving into the freshly baked desserts.

But don’t forget where you are – this is Beersmith, after all, and what’s brunch without a drink to wash it all down? Beer and coffee lovers are in luck with the new Caffeind Coffee Porter, an ale infused with cold brew coffee.

Best of all, Guomao’s latest all-you-can-eat buffet brunch comes at a shockingly good price – only RMB228 gets you access to the buffet and one drink of choice. Add RMB168 for free-flow wine and beer, and you’ve got yourself a party. End the weekend right (and on a full stomach).

Sundays, 11.30am-3pm; Beersmith Gastropub, 1/F Hotel Jen Beijing, 1 Jianguomen Waidajie, Chaoyang 朝阳区建国门外大街1号 (6505.2277-6610, www.hoteljen.com/beijing) WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | MARCH 2018 | 67

LISTINGS

OPEN DOOR

relaxing atmosphere to enjoy a cocktail or a glass of fine vintage from the extensive wine collection. Be sure to try the ‘luxurious oyster feast,’ where you can enjoy the delicacy raw, grilled or with cheese. > Lunch: Mon-Fri 11.30am-2.30pm, Sat and Sun 11.30am-3.pm; Dinner: Daily 5.30-10.30pm; The Westin Beijing Chaoyang 7 North East Third Ring Road, Chaoyang 东三环北路7号 (5922 8888)

Contemporary Western Chi (Organic, Fusion) Hutong set-menu dining par-excellence, with organic ingredients all locally sourced.

From the owners of neighboring Saffron. > Daily, opens 10:30am, last order 9:30pm, 67 Wudaoying Hutong, Dongcheng 东城区五道营胡同 67号 (6445 7076)

COMBAL盉by Tiago

>127-129, 1/F, Tower C, Cofco Plaza, 8 Jianguomen Neidajie, Dongcheng District 东城区建国门内大街8号 中粮广场C座一层127-129单元 (6528 2280)

Lin’s Dining Lounge

> Daily 11am-10pm, 2/F, New Grand Dynasty Hotel, 58 Maizidian Jie, Chaoyang 朝阳区麦子店街58号新大 宗饭店二层(6500 6766)

Feast (Food by East) Bustling café with a philosophy of ‘Simple things, done well’. International favorites, using freshest ingredients , cooked on the spot.

>Daily 6am-10.30pm, 2/F, EAST Beijing, 22 Jiuxianqiao Lu,Chaoyang 朝阳区酒仙桥路22号东隅酒 店2层 8414 9820

C Pearl (Oysters, Seafood) ¥ * This slick oyster restaurant imports fresh shells from Canada, South Africa, France, USA and more – and they are well worth the price. The fries are the best we’ve had in Beijing, beer and wine selection also excellent. > Tue-Sun 5.30pm-2am; 14-2, Bldg 14, Shunyuanli, Xinyuan Jie, Yansha Qiao, Chaoyang 朝阳区燕莎桥新 源街顺源里14号楼14-2号 (5724 5886)

George’s Bar & Restaurant George’s Bar offers specially handcrafted cocktails featuring admirable art masterpieces blending with copperish elements.

Afternoon tea set for two at CNY288 is available from 3-5pm daily. Gentlemen’s Night every Saturday that men enjoy Buy 1 Get 1 on drinks. George’s Restaurant presents creative world classic cuisine that revolves around local ingredients with exquisite touch that introduces an authentic yet distinctive palette. Daily special menu awaits you.

>Daily 11am-2.30pm; 5.30-10pm, Hotel éclat Beijing, 9 Dongdaqiao Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区东大桥路9号北京 怡亨酒店L1 (8561 7758)

Bistrot B Rosewood Beijing’s exquisite French restaurant is the sort of place chefs like to eat.

Expect lavish luxury. > Daily, 11.30am-2.30pm and 5.30-10:30pm; 1F Rosewood Beijing, Jing Guang Centre, Hujialou, Chaoyang 朝阳区呼家楼一号京广中心北京瑰丽酒店 3层 (6536 0066)

Caribeño (Latin) Heavy Cuban influence, but there are dishes from all over the Latin continent here. The Ropa Vieja (shredded beef on potato) is excellent – as are the Mojitos. > Daily 11:30am-9:30pm, 1/F, China Overseas Plaza, 8 Guanghua Dongli, Chaoyang 朝阳区光华东里8号中 海广场北楼1层 (5977 2789)

BIBIGO On The (Bibi)Go Perhaps you know Bibigo already. Maybe you’ve seen a branch of it at Beijing Capital International Airport, or in your neighborhood. The popular Korean chain restaurant has shops across Beijing.

And for good reason. Bibigo serves fresh and reliably tasty Korean fare, and the result is that it’s now known across the world. Bibigo not only has shops in Beijing, but also in the US, Singapore, the UK, Japan and Indonesia. And recently, Bibigo opened its first-ever Shanghai branch as well.

Why is Bibigo popular? It’s simple: quality Korean food is not only delicious, but nutritious. With an emphasis on top-notch ingredients, and a focus on freshness, Bibigo’s rice bowls make for a satisfying meal.

So whether you’re grabbing something before your flight – or just looking for a tasty lunch – Bibigo has you covered.

Visit www.cj.co.kr for info on locations and hours

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Grill 79 (Steak) With views this good, Grill 79 would probably make it onto the list even if the food was terrible. It’s something of a bonus then that the kitchen is superb, and supported by one of the most extensive wine lists in town.

> Daily 6.30-10.30am, noon-2pm, 6-10pm. 79/F, China World Trade Center Phase 3, 1 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang 朝阳区建国门外大街1号国贸大酒店 79楼 (6505 2299 ext 6424)

for modernising South American-style dishes like ceviche and risotto in his open kitchen. > Sun-Thu noon-2.30pm, 6-10pm; Fri-Sat noon2.30pm, 6-10.30pm. 3/F, Nali Patio, 81 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区三里屯路81号那里花园3层 (5208 6030)

The English Tearoom英国茶房

>Daily 10am-9.30pm; 101, Bldg 10, North area of Xiangyun Town, 9 Antai Dajie, Shunyi 顺义区安泰 大街9号院中粮祥云小镇北区10号楼101(8047 9661 / 8047 9661); Daliy 10am-7pm Creativity Garden,1 Shunhuang Lu，Sunhe xiang,Chaoyang 朝阳区孙河 乡顺黄路甲1号创意园内(8459 4407)

Sizzler Sizzler invented ‘casual dining’ in Australia when it introduced the first soup, salad, pasta and fresh fruit concept. Since those pioneering days, it has expanded its ‘classic grill’ to include, not only steak and seafood, but also delicious chicken dishes, BBQ ribs, combination meals and burgers.

‘Variety’ and ‘freedom to choose’ set Sizzler apart from other dining experiences. At Sizzler customers are free to control the volume, nutritional balance and variety of each meal by ordering from the grill and helping themselves to our famous soup, salad, pasta and fruits. >All stores open daily, 10am-10pm ;Wangfujing Oriental Plaza Store 王府井东方广场店 (8518 6315); Chongwenmen Glory Mall Store 崇文门国瑞购物中 心店 (6714 0399); Wangjing Capital Mall 望京凯德购 物中心店 (6471 3876); Wanliu BHG 万柳华联商场店 (8258 9405) Wan Shoulu Crystal Capital Mall 万寿路 凯德晶品店 (6826 086); Xizhimen Capital Mall 西直 门凯德购物中心店Mall (5830 2199); Sanlitun Shimao Gongsan 三里屯世茂工三店 (8400 4014); Changying Paradise Walk 常营龙湖天街店 (8539 0438); Tianjin Joy City 天津大悦城店 (8728 1620)

Tomacado Tomacado is indeed a mash-up of ‘tomato’ and ‘avocado’ – and while you’ll certainly find these ingredients on the menu, you can also expect pleasant drinks, light soups and heartier main courses from this charming cafe. Fowers are also available for sale.

> Daily 10am-10pm (Lunch start from 11am, Only afternoon tea served on Mon-Fri 2.30-5pm), No. 19/20, B1/F, Jia Ming Center, 27 Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang 朝阳区东三环北路27号嘉铭中心地下一层 19/20号(6500 3354)

VIC Not to be confused with the notorious nightclub of the same name, this VIC is the Sofitel Beijing’s casual dining restaurant. All the major world cuisines are in attendance here – make sure you pay special attentions to the French-inspired breads and pastries – as is the customary Sunday champagne brunch. > Sofitel Wanda Beijing, Tower C, Wanda Plaza, 93 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区建国路93号万达广场C 座索菲特酒店6层 (8599 6666)

Yi House (Contemporary Western) Nestled in the confines of 798, Yi’s great tasting brunch is bettered only by their wide range of cocktails. Sundays offer jazz brunches with lobster and champagne.

> Daily 11am-3pm, 6pm-12am; 2 Jiuxianqiao Lu, 798 Yishu Qu, No.1 706 Houjie, Chaoyang 朝阳区酒仙桥 路2号院798艺术区706后街1号 (6436 1818)

Wood

>Daily 10.30am-11pm, Lakeside Gourmet Street, Solana, 6 Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区 朝阳公园路6号蓝色港湾南边湖畔美食街 近南边地面 停车场 5726 8255

Stuff’d (Contemporary Western) The concept of Stuff’d is to simply stuff one kind of food in another. From sausage calzone pizzas (RMB68) to scotch eggs – it all works. On-site micro brewery a bonus.

> Wed-Mon, 11:30am-2:45pm, 6-10pm, 9 Jianchang Hutong, Dongcheng 东城区箭厂胡同9号 (6407 6308)

Café/Deli/Sandwich Café Flatwhite

Miss K Cafe (Xing Fu Cafe) Whether it’s a rainy morning or a sunny afternoon, relax with your favorite novel and a cup of freshly brewed coffee. Experience a quiet moment of serenity amid the hustle and bustle of Beijing. >Daily, 8am-8.30pm; 1/F, Tower A, East Gate Plaza, Dongzhimen, Dongcheng 东城区东直门东环广场A座 一层幸福咖啡馆 (6418 1096)

JF Royal Teahouse

>Daily 10am-9:30pm;B215 China World Trade Center Tower 3, Jintong East Road,Chaoyang Beijing 北京市朝阳区国贸商城区域3 地下二层B215(8535 1625)

Mosto (European, South American) ¥ * A perpetually busy lunch and evening spot, thanks to chef Daniel Urdaneta’s skill

Hailing from New Zealand, Café Flatwhite

LISTINGS uses fresh and healthy ingredients in its tasty selection of sandwiches, pizzas, salads and brunch options, all served alongside some of the best coffee in Beijing. > Open Daily, Mon-Fri 8am-9pm, Sat-Sun 9am-9pm; 798 Dashanzi Art District Store: D09-1, No.4, 798 Dashanzi Art District, Jiuxianqiao Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区酒仙桥路4号 798艺术区D09-1 (5978 9067 / 13051771436); Jianguomenwai Media Center Store: No.13 Bldg, Jianguomenwai DRC, 1 Xiushui Street, Chaoyang 朝阳区秀水街1号建国门外外交公寓13 号楼1层东北角 8532 2633 ；Jianguomenwai DRC Store: Building 7-1-11, 1 Silk Street, Chaoyang 朝阳 区秀水街1号建国门外外交公寓7-1-11 (8532 2633 / 18701092189); FFCStore:-107,B1/F,Fortune Financial Center,5 Dongsanhuan Zhonglu,Chaoyang District 朝阳区东三环中路5号楼财富金融中心1层107 (6596 9108); China Central Mall Store:L315,China Central Mall,Chaoyang District朝阳区华贸中心写字楼三层 L315单元 (8588 7978)www.cafeflatwhite.com, cafeflatwhite@hotmail.com, WeChat username: CafeFlatwhite

Café Zarah (Café) * A smart new interior and menu for this longstanding cafe has propelled it from hipster hangout to Gulou institution. Large, airy and with a terrace for summer, the only downside is it’s always packed. > Daily 9.30am-midnight，42 Gulou Dongdajie, Dongcheng 东城区鼓楼东大街42号 (8403 9807)

Domain 域 A blend of café, business center and lounge, it has a gentle buzz all of its own.

For privacy, Domain also provides workstations equipped with computers and ipads. >Daily 7am-8pm, 2/F, EAST Beijing, 22 Jiuxianqiao Lu,Chaoyang 朝阳区酒仙桥路22号东隅酒店2层 (8414 9830)

Ricci Named after a 17th century Italian Jesuit (duh), this creative café has a funky, kookymeets-organic vibe and serves up some of the best casual western food in town, and a great brunch at the Wudaokou location (Chaoyang branch closed weekends).

> 1/F, Building D, Tsinghua Science Park, 1 Zhongguancun Donglu, Haidian 海淀区中关村东路1 号院清华科技园D座1楼 (8215 8826 )

The Rug (Contemporary Western, Organic) * With ingredients supplied by local organic farms like Dahe and De Run Wu, and an emphasis on sustainability, this café’s wide ranging menu has something for everyone, especially green types, bored foreign moms and freelance Macbook types. > Mon-Fri 7.30am-10:30pm, Sat/Sun 9:30am10:30pm; Bldg 4, Lishui Jiayuan, Chaoyang Gongyuan Nanlu (opposite Chaoyang Park South Gate), Chaoyang 朝阳区朝阳公园南路丽水嘉园4 号楼(朝阳公园南门对面) (8550 2722) > Additional location in Sanlitun Nan Jie (see online.thatsmags. com for details)

TRIBE * Salads, wraps and sandwiches, and noodle and grain bowls are as tasty as they are holistic, and there are more superfoods in one single dish than we even knew existed.

Come hungry, leave basking in the warm glow that comes from knowing that you are eating well. Kombucha is the icing on the (organic, locally-sourced) cake. > Daily 8am-10.30pm, 1/F, Building 3, China View Plaza, 2A Gongti Dong Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区工 体东路甲2号中国红街大厦3号楼1层大厅入口南侧 (8587 1899)

Wagas (Contemporary Western) Quality eats with minimal pretension. This stylish, no-fuss Shanghai rival to Element Fresh offers some of the best and most affordable Western lunch options in town.

The zesty carrot-and-zucchini cake is a crowd pleaser.

> Daily 8am-10pm; S8-33, 3/F, Bldg 8, Taikoo Li South, 19 South Sanlitun Street, Chaoyang 朝阳区三 里屯太古里南区三层 (6416 5829) > Additional locations in The Kerry Centre, Raffles Mall Dongzhimen (see www.thatsmags.com for details)

MOKA Bros (Contemporary Western) * Power bowls, salads and wraps are the kind of fare on offer at this trendy Nali Patio space, which also has a great selection of cakes and pastries if you’re feeling more indulgent. > Sanlitun: Sun-Thu 11am-10:30pm, Fri/Sat 11am11:30pm, B101b Nali Patio South, 81 Sanlitun Beilu Chaoyang 朝阳区三里屯路81号B101B南楼 (5208 6079) ; Solana: Solana Lakeside Dining Street, 6 Chaoyang Park Road, Chaoyang 朝阳区湖畔美食街 朝阳公园路6号院蓝色港湾 (5905 6259)

American/BBQ/Grill Eudora Station 亿多瑞站

> (Near Lidu place))No 6,Fangyuanli Chaoyang 朝 阳区 芳园西里6号(丽都广场对面)(6437 8331, 6437 8334)

Home Plate BBQ * Scruffy looks and laid-back staff belie the

popularity of this entry-level brick-smoker barbecue joint, that blossoms in the sunny months. Pulled-pork sandwiches are the favorites, followed by baby-back rib racks. Beer and bourbons are taken care of, too. > Daily 11am-10pm. 35 Xiaoyun Lu courtyard (20m north of Xiaoyun Lu intersection, first right), Chaoyang District 朝阳区霄云路35号院过霄云路路口, 往北走20米,到第一个路口右转(5128 5584) > Additional location in Sanlitun Nan Jie (see www. thatsmags.com for details)

NOLA N’Orleans finds a dark-wood home in the leafy embassy area, with a jazz soundtrack, shrimp and grits, gumbo, fried chicken, jambalaya and decent-enough po’boys – yes’m. Excellent Cajun snacks, craft beers and cocktails also make NOLA a popular watering hole. > Mon-Fri 8am-11pm, Sat-Sun 10.30am-11pm. 11A Xiushui Nanjie, Chaoyang 朝阳区秀水南街11号 (8563 6215)

The Big Smoke * Taking the Home Plate BBQ concept and upscaling was a gourmet masterstroke. Full menu evenings only (also delivers rotisserie chicken via Uncle Otis).

> Daily Mon-Sat 11am-midnight, Sun 11am-10pm.

First Floor, Lee World Building (opposite Frost Nails), 57 Xingfucun Zhong Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区幸福村 中路 57号楼利世楼 (6416 5195, 6416 268, www. uncle-otis.com)

The Woods * New York native-owned, Manhattan-style restaurant, tucked in amongst the skyscrapers of CBD: you can’t get more Big Apple than that. > Daily 12pm-10pm, Central Park Tower 1, Suite 101, No. 6 Chaowai Dajie, Chaoyang 朝阳区朝外大街6号 新城国际1号搂101 (6533 6380)

Burgers Blue Frog Blue Frog is pleased to introduce a creative new Drinks Menu. As the new year begins, this new menu will wake up everyone’s taste buds with a bevy of specialty and original cocktails, mocktails, shots, beer, wine and healthy drinks inspired by popular ingredients.

> All open Daily 10am-late; S2-30, Level 3, S2 Tower, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区三里屯路19号三 里屯太古里南区三楼S2-30 (6417 4030) ; No.167, 1/F, 18 Jiuxianqiao Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区酒仙桥路 18号1层167号 (8426 0017) ; No.125, 1/F, Bldg 1, Sanfeng(North), Chaoyang 朝阳区三丰北里1号楼1层 125号 (8561 2665) ; Unit 15-16, 1/F, Bldg AB, Ocean International Center, 10 Jintong Xilu, Chaoyang 朝阳 区金桐西路10号远洋光华国际中心AB座一层15 16单 元 (8590 3168)

Mexican/Tex Mex Taco Bar Rising from the ashes of its deceased hutong location, the new Taco Bar is hip, popular and able to produce some of the most authentic Mexican fare in town. Only RMB45 for three and great cocktails to complement.

> Tue-Thu 5.30pm-1am, Fri-Sat 5.30pm-2.30am, Sun 11am-1am; 1/F, Unit 10, Electrical Research Institute, Sanlitun Nan Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区三里屯南路机电研 究院内10号1层 (6501 6026)

Palms L.A. Kitchen and Bar * (KoreanMexican fusion) Tucked away near Gulou, this hip little hutong concept is truly one of a kind in Beijing. Quesadillas with kimchi and bibimbaps with melted cheese and hot sauce.

Guess what? It works. Killer range of classic Cali’ cocktails, too. > Daily 11:30am-midnight (closed Mondays); 14 Zhangwang Hutong, Dongcheng 东城区旧鼓楼大街 张旺胡同14号 (6405 4352)

Q Mex Bar & Grill

> Sanlitun Courtyard (across from Salsa Caribe, nearby Bookworm), Chaoyang 朝阳区工体北路4号院 机电研究院餐饮街内 6585 3828

Steak Morton’s of Chicago (American) ¥¥ * Meat so tender the knife falls through it: ritzy Morton’s deserves the worldwide praise. Expensive, but where else are you going to get steak this good? (Try the RMB550 set menu if you want to save cash) > Mon-Sat 5:30-11pm, Sun 5-10:30pm; 2/F, Regent Hotel, 99 Jinbao Jie, Dongcheng 东城区金宝街99号 丽晶酒店二层 (6523 7777)

O’Steak A well-cooked steak in Beijng isn’t all that rare anymore, and here we have affordable but quality cuts. Don’t be fooled by the Irish sounding name, it’s an authentic French bistro – not a Guinness in sight.

> Daily midday-midnight, Xingfu: No.55-7 Xingfucun

Zhonglu, opposite of April courmet, Chaoyang 朝 阳区幸福村中路55-7杰作大厦底商绿叶子超市斜对 面 (8448 8250) ; Central Park: No.o103 building 20, Central Park, No.6 Chaowai Avenue, Chaoyang 朝 阳区朝外大街6号新城国际20号楼103 (6533 6599); shunyi: No.11-102 Shine Hills, No.9 Antai Avenue, Shunyi 顺义区后沙峪安泰大街9号祥云小镇南门 11号 楼102 (8048 5080)

29 Grill (Contemporary Western) * Top-notch steak, along with just about every other cut of meat found in the barnyard in this well-priced meat-eaters’ mecca. > Mon-Fri lunch: 11.30am-2.30pm; Mon-Sat dinner: 6-10.30pm (closed Sundays); Conrad Beijing, 2/F, 29 North Dongsanhuan, Chaoyang 朝阳区东三环北路9 号2层 (6584 6270)

Italian Assaggi ¥ * This fine Italian spot in the leafy embassy district has one of Beijing’s best terraces for summer dining. The tagliata steak is worth a return visit.

> Daily 11:30am-2:30pm, 6pm-11:30pm. 1 Sanlitun Beixiaojie, Chaoyang 朝阳区三里屯北小街1号 (8454 4508)

Bocca Della Verita ¥ Good-value homestyle Italian is the order of the day at this little-known spot in Beixinqiao.

> Dinner: 5-10pm; Lunch: 10am-3pm; 3/F, 277 Dongzhimen Nei Dajie, Dongcheng 东城区东直门内 大街277号三楼 雍和宫大街和北新桥头条交叉处的四 层商业楼三楼 (6455 3832, 1391 0969 240)

Bene ¥ * Chef Ricci will have you singing like a soprano with his pork ravioli and prize-winning tiramisu. Excellent set menus (RMB588) and extensive wine selection. > Daily 11am-2.30pm, 5.30-10.30pm. Sheraton Beijing Dongcheng, 36 Northeast Third Ring Road, Dongcheng District 东城区北三环东路36号(5798 8995)

BK’s Tavern BK’s Tavern shares your tiredness and serves you leisure with surprises. Good drink for an old friend of since.

>Daily, Mon-Sun 11am-10.30pm, 39 Maizidian Street by the side of Liang Ma River, Chaoyang District 朝阳 区麦子店街39号亮马河南畔(8595 9609)

Annie’s ¥ * Now a certified Beijing institution, Annie’s serves up the city’s most reliable Italian fare. Delivery is free anywhere between Line 5 and the the Fifth Ring Road (call for delivery prices outside this area), and can be ordered in English between 10.30am and 10.30pm from www.annies.com.cn.

Alternatively, drop in to your local branch.

> All open Daily,10.30am-11pm; Beijing Riviera: opposite west gate of Lane Bridge Villa, Shunyi 朝 阳区来广营东路5号长岛澜桥别墅西门对面尚古城一 楼 (8470 4768); Lido: Jiangtai Lu, opposite United Family Hospital 朝阳区将台商业街4号楼2楼和睦家 医院对面 (6436 3735); Wangjing: 2F, beside the Daimler Tower, LSH Plaza, 8 Wangjing Jie 朝阳区利星 行广场A座戴勒姆大厦裙楼2层近望京商业中心 (8476 0398); Chaoyang Park: West Gate of Chaoyang Park 朝阳区朝阳公园老西门南侧 (6591 1931); Sanlitun: China View Building, opposite East Gate of Workers’Stadium 朝阳区工体东门对面中国红街一楼 (8587 1469); Ritan Park: Ritan High Life, 3F, north of Ritan Park 朝阳区神路街39号日坛上街3-108号 (8569 3031); The Place: East of the Place, south of Central Park 朝阳区金桐西路10号远洋光华国际中心AB座1 层 (8590 6428); Guomao: Ruisai Business Building (southest of Guomao subway) 朝阳区东三环南路2 号瑞赛大厦商务楼1层 (6568 5890); Sunshine 100: Guanghua Lu, opposite Sunshine 100 Building 朝阳 区光华路阳光100公寓对面首经贸南门 (858 98366)

Cepe ¥ In a city inundated with Italian offerings, Cepe manages to stand out thanks to its attention to the smallest detail – everything from the vinaigrette to the Parma ham is import quality, and the wine is superb. > Daily 11.30am-2.30pm, 6-10.30pm. The RitzCarlton Financial Street, 1 Jinchengfang Dongjie, Jinrong Jie, Xicheng 西城区金城坊东街1号北京金融街 丽思卡顿酒店大堂 (6601 6666)

Florentina 翡冷翠意大利餐厅 Florentina serves authentic Italian fare in low-key, yet elegant surrounds. Cuisine is high-end, the environment is relaxed. A beautiful outdoor terrace makes this place a godsend for Lido residents.

> Daily 11-late (Kitchen serves until 10pm), 1/F, Bldg 2, No. 6 Yard, Fangyuan Xilu, Chaoyang 朝阳区芳园 西路6号院2号楼1层(8431 0027)

Mercante ¥ * Old World family charm in an intimate hutong setting. Time (and, occasionally, service) slows with a rustic menu from Bologna offering an assortment of homemade pastas and seasonal mains. > Tue-Sun 6-10.30pm. 4 Fangzhuanchang Hutong, Dongcheng 东城区方砖厂胡同4号 (8402 5098)

Tiago Home Kitchen Even the most exacting palettes are delight-

ed by TIAGO, whose team prepares globally sourced ingredients and sustainably grown produce. TIAGO’s dining experience is distinctly Italian, but its menu also offers such classics as Australian steaks and Boston lobster - plus a wide selection of salads, pizza, pasta and desserts. >Indigo: Daily 11.30am-10pm, Shop L173, Indigo Mall, 18 Jiuxianqiao Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区酒仙桥路 18号颐堤港购物中心L173商铺(6438 8772); Chaoyang Joy City: Daily 11am-10pm, 5F50/6F, Chaoyang Joy City, 101 Chaoyang Beilu, Chaoyang 朝阳区朝阳北路 101号朝阳大悦城5F50/6F(8558 3892)

Opera Bombana ¥ Head chef Umberto Bombana boasts three Michelin stars to his name, earned at his wildly successful Hong Kong restaurant Otto e Mezzo. He’s the only Italian chef to do so outside of his native land, and certainly the only to have opened a restaurant in Beijing. > Daily, 12pm-10:30pm; LG2-21 Parkview Green Fangcaodi, 9 Dongdaqiao Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区东大 桥路9号侨福芳草地地下2层21号 (5690 7177)

Pizza La Pizza Among the upper echelons of Beijing pizzerias is this Sanlitun goldfish bowl with a wood-fired oven and Neapolitan manners. Further branches in Solana and pasta/salad/mains-buffet restaurant in Sanlitun 3.3

> Sanlitun Branch: daily 10.30am-3pm, 6-11pm. 1/F, 3.3 Mall, 33 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区三里屯 路33号3.3服装大厦西北角底商(5136 5582); Solana Branch: SA-48, 1/F, Bldg 3, Solana, 6 Chaoyang Park Road, Chaoyang 朝阳公园西路6号蓝色港 湾3号1层 SA-48 ( 5905 6106) > SOHU Shangdu Branch: SH1112, SOHO Shangdu, 8 Dongdaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District 朝阳区东大桥路8号SOHO尚都 SH1112号(5900 3112); La Pizza Buffet: 4F, Sanlitun 3.3 Mall, Chaoyang 朝阳区三里屯3.3服装大厦4层 (5136 5990)

Tube Station Nowhere does gigantic toppen-laden pizza quite like Beijing, and these guys claim to be the biggest in town. > Sanlitun 3.3 Branch: Mon-Fri 10am-10pm, Sat/Sun 10am-11pm, delivery Mon-Thu 11:30am-10:30pm, Fri-Sun 11:30am-11pm 3/F, 3.3 Building, No. 33 Sanlitun Beijie, Chaoyang 三里屯北街33号3.3服 装大厦3层3008号 ( 5136 5571, delivery 8989 177) > Additional branches in Gongti, Beida, Beitai, Yayancun, Solana and Weigongcun, see www.online.thatsmags.com for details)

German Drei Kronen 1308 * Authentic (truly – when they say 1308 they mean it) displays of armour and brewing kits draw regular evening crowds for the superb pork knuckle and heavy-duty helles (pale lager), wheat and dark beer (brewed on-site). > Daily 11am-2am. 1/F, Bldg 5, China View, Gongti Donglu, Chaoyang 朝阳区工体东路中国红街5号楼1 层(6503 5555)

Bodensee Kitchen Bodensee Kitchen is a new German Restaurant in Beijing, located at the 2nd Floor at South German Bakery (Lucky Street).

At Bodensee Kitchen, two Germans, and one Austrian, aim to bring back authentic, traditional, home made German-AustrianSwiss cuisine from around the beautiful Lake of Constance region. You will find top quality German-Austrian-Swiss cuisine and a large variety of German beer and wines.

And all this in a traditional and comfortable German restaurant setting with friendly and warm service. Bodensee Kitchen also offers great Catering Packages and Offers – no matter whether you need a small or big Catering, Bodensee Kitchen can help you out! >2/F, South German Bakery, 27 Lucky Street, Chaoyang Park Road, Chaoyang District 朝阳区朝阳 公园路好运街27号德南面包房二楼 (1314 685 2613)

Brotzeit German Bier Bar & Restaurant 博璨德国啤酒餐厅 Brotzeit offers its customers a unique experience with authentic German cuisine and world famous German beers in a casual environment. Coupled with its contemporary setting and unique brand appeal, Brotzeit is distinct from the traditional-style German restaurants still seen in Germany and other parts of the world. > Daily 11am-late; F109, Grand Summit, bldg 5, 19 Dongfang Donglu, Chaoyang 朝阳区东方东路19号 楼(DRC外交办公大楼)一层F109 (8531 5166, www. brotzeit.co)

Hacker-Pschorr Brauhaus If you’re looking for authentic German fare and, most importantly, German-style beer, then you can’t go wrong with HackerPschorr Brauhaus. Made from centuries-old

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LISTINGS recipes – and in accordance with the 1516 German Beer Purity Law – the brews here are some of the finest in Beijing. Prost! > Room 3, Building 3, No 12 ,Xindonglu Chaoyang 朝阳区 新东路12号院3号楼3门(5323 3399)

Paulaner Brauhaus The grand old man of Beijing brauhauses, Paulaner delivers the Teutonic goods in the hands of lederhosen-clad staff from the provinces. It can be pricey but is usually worthwhile, especially during Oktoberfest.

> Daily 11am-1am. Kempinski Hotel, 50 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区亮马桥路50号凯宾斯基饭店 (6465 3388 ext. 5732)

Spanish Agua ¥ * Occupying the high end of Nali’s Spanish invasion, Agua excels with reasonably priced classics like suckling pig, chorizo and jamon. Winner of the 2014 Golden Fork Editors’ Pick for best restaurant. > Daily Midday-2pm, 6pm-10pm. 4/F, Nali Patio, 81 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区三里屯路81号那里花 园 (5208 6188)

Casa Talia by Tiago

>Daily 11.30am-9pm, 01B, 4/F, Raffles City, 1 Dongzhimen Nan Dajie, Dongcheng 东城区东直门南大街1 号来福士购物中心4层01B 8409 4009

Niajo ¥ * With homely Mediterranean influences and a charming management, Niajo is prime Sanlitun smart-casual dining. Order the paella (their star dish) together with some tapas and be automatically transported to Spain (minus the constant sunshine). > Daily noon-10.30pm. 3/F, Nali Patio, 81 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区三里屯路81号那里花园3层 (5208 6052)

Migas Mercado ¥ * A place to dance and rowl, perhaps, rather than a drinks destination, TBAM, as on one calls it, focuses on upscale local DJs to get the party started. Good-enough cocktails are offered but mostly it’s about the music, man >Daily 11.30-3am, 7th Floor, North Zone, China World Mall, 1 Jianguomen Wai Dajie, Chaoyang District 朝阳区建国门外大街1号国贸商城三期北区7 层 (6500 7579)

Asian Indian Indian Kitchen

rolls, as well as classics like tonkatsu, tempura and udon, Hagaki specializes in Californian-inspired Japanese cuisine and has a lively sushi bar.

>Daily 11am-2.30pm, 1/F, EAST Beijing, 22 Jiuxianqiao Lu,Chaoyang 朝阳区酒仙桥路22号东隅酒 店1层 8414 9815

Hatsune ¥ * (California Japanese) As much a California roll joint as true Japanese, Hatsune is now an old favorite among the sake-swilling, sushi-swallowing set, though less so among sashimi purists. > Daily 11.30am-2pm, 5.30-10pm; 2/F, Heqiao Bldg C, 8A Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区光华路甲8号 和乔大厦C座2层 (6581 3939) >Additional locations in Sanlitun Tai Koo Li South; Kerry Centre Mall (see www.online.thatsmags.com for details)

Inagiku * This Beijing branch of one of Tokyo’s oldest and most celebrated restaurants is as near to perfection as you’re likely to find.

Deceptively simple yet finely crafted, the handmade Inaniwa udon (RMB80) is not to be missed.

> Daily 11am-3pm, 6-10.30pm; Rm 315, 3/F, Park Life, Yintai Centre, 2 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang 朝阳区建国门外大街2号银泰中心悦生 活3层315室 (8517 2838)

Sake Manzo * The barmen here are serious about their sake. Boasting one of the best stocked drinks cabinets in town with over 60 different sakes on offer, this super-cool little eatery is the perfect place to unwind after a hard day’s toil.

The sashimi is fresh to the cut, and the beer-marinated chicken is out of this world. One of the very best and least appreciated restaurants in town.

> Daily 6pm-midnight. 7A Tuanjiehu Beisantiao, Chaoyang 朝阳区团结湖北三条甲7号(6436 1608

Yotsuba ** It doesn’t come cheap (tasting menu RMB1,000), but what would you expect from some of the best sushi in town?

Buttery and meaty fatty tuna sashimi is a cut above.

> Dongcheng: Tue- Sun 11.30am-11pm. Sanlitun branch: 2 Sanlitun Bei Xiaojie, Chaoyang 朝阳区 三里屯北小街2号 (6464 2365); Lido branch: 2F, No.9-3, Jiangtai Xilu, Chaoyang 朝阳区将台西路 9-3号2层 (8420 0998)

Sui Ka Is this what after-work hangouts are like in Japan? We’re not sure, but we hope so: This charming izakaya nails it when it comes to sake selection and fried delights to munch alongside it.

>Daily 5pm-1am, Ichibangai First Avenue Food Court, Zaoying Nanli, Maizidian, East 3rd Ring Road, Chaoyang朝阳区东三环农展馆北路宾都苑 东侧一层底商一番街内 (137 1692 7543)

South-East Asian Cafe Sambal (Malaysian) When it comes to Malay-style food in a hutong, nowhere does it better. Admittedly, it’s something of a niche category, but then so is the food on offer. The spicy Kapitanstyle chicken is pricey, but worth it.

The go to curry house among Beijing’s homesick Indian community, this ever popular no-nonsense restaurant has built up a solid reputation thanks to its wide range of quality dishes and particularly friendly service. Looking good after a recent rennovation and very available on JinShiSong online delivery. > Daily 11am-2:30pm, 5:30-11pm, 2/F 2 Sanlitun Beixiaojie, Chaoyang 朝阳区三里屯北小街2号2楼 (6462 7255)

Raj Tucked away in musty old building just underneath the drum tower, this curryhouse may look Chinese but everything on the menu is authentic Indian, espcially the rather fine naan. > Daily 11am-2pm, 5pm-11pm, 31 Gulou Xidajie Dongcheng 东城区鼓楼西大街31号 (6401 1675)

Ganges Conveniently located above popular Irish sports bar Paddy O’Sheas, this solid Indian curry house provides the perfect post-match culinary accompaniment. Or put another way: it’s what you’ll be craving after eight pints of beer. > Daily 11am to 10.30pm; Dongzhimen Branch: 2/F, 28 Dongzhimen Wai Dajie, Chaoyang 朝阳区东直门 外大街28号2层 (6417-0900) > Additional branch in Sanlitun, see online.thatsmags.com for details.

Japanese HAGAKI 叶书 * Serves up a selection of signature maki 70 | MARCH 2018 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM

> Daily 11am-midnight. 43 Doufuchi Hutong (just east of Jiugulou Dajie), Xicheng 西城区豆腐池胡同43 号旧鼓楼大街往东走(6400 4875)

4Corners (Vietnamese, Fusion) The definitive hutong bar/restaurant? Chef Jun Trinh took a break from his celebrity TV work to host this part-Vietnamese venue, serving up steaming bowls of pho with zesty, fresh rolls, as well as a great bar, with frequent live indie performances. > Tue-Sun 11am-2am, 27 Dashibei Hutong (near west end of Yandai Xiejie), Xicheng 西城区大石碑胡 同27号烟袋斜街西口附近) (6401 7797)

Purple Haze (Thai) Given Beijing’s lack of white sand beaches and backpacker bars, Purple Haze has to make do for the best Thai experience in town. Has all the classics like veggie spring rolls (RMB40), papaya salad (RMB46) and curries (RMB44-180) – but our pick’s the seafood pad Thai (RMB45). > Daily 11am-11pm, 55 Xingfu Yicun, Chaoyang 朝 阳区幸福一村55号 (6413 0899)

Nyonya Kitchen (Malaysian, Nyonya) This chain specializes in Nyonya style cooking – ostensibly Malaysian but with a mix of Chinese, South-East Asian and European influences resulting in lots of bold flavors and bright colors. The interiors are just as loud as the flavors – this place is colorful – and we love it. Nyonya goes beyond the requisite laksa and satay. >NL5008, 5/F, North Phase, Bldg 17, China World Mall, 1 Jianguomen Wai Dajie, Chaoyang District 朝阳区建国门外大街1号院17号楼国贸商城北区五层 NL5008 (8415 0863)

Malacca Legend Malaysian food with a view, this spacious and airy restaurant sits on the banks of Shunyi’s Roma Lake and at a new unit in the heart of the city at The Place, making a great spot for their beef rendang or green curry prawns.

> Daily 11am-10pm; 6 Roma Lake: 6 Luodong Lu, Luogezhuang Village, Hoshayu Town, Shunyi 顺义 区后沙峪镇罗各庄村罗马湖东北三路6号C院 (8049 8902); Signature: Shop L203, 2/F, The Place, 9 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区光华路9号世贸天阶2 层L203 (6587 1393)

Makan Kitchen A unique restaurant offering varied Southeast Asian flavors and Chinese cuisines.

Tuck into a buffet featuring regional Asian stations, a dedicated fresh juice bar and live stations to whet your appetite. With a beautiful private dining room for functions or meetings in comfort and style, Makan Kitchen is the perfect venue for a relaxing get-together or a delightful weekend brunch.

>Mon-Fri, Breakfast: 6-10am, Lunch: 11.30am2.30pm, Dinner: 6-10pm; Sat-Sun, Breakfast: 6-11am, Lunch: 12-2.30pm, Dinner: 6-10pm, 2/F, Main Tower, Hilton Hotel, 1 Dongfang Lu, Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang 朝阳区东三环北路东方路1号北京希尔顿酒 店2层 (5865 5020)

Singapore Seafood

> China World Shopping Mall Branch: Daily 11am10pm, NL4010, North Area of China World Shopping Mall, 1 Jianguomen Wai Dajie, Chaoyang 朝阳区建国 门外大街1号国贸商城北区NL4010 (8595 0251/8595 0361); Parview Green Branch: Daily 11am-10.30pm, 1/F, Tower C, Parkview Green, 9 Dongdaqiao Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区东大桥路9号侨福芳草地购物中心C 座1层(东大桥地铁站) ( 8518 8811)

Susu (Vietnamese) The first step is finding it. Follow that up with a dreamlike renovated courtyard, extensive wine list and a listing of top-notch Vietnamese curries, banh mi sandwiches, stews, soups and la Vong fish. > Tue- Sun 11.30am-11pm; 10 Qianliang Hutong Xixiang, Dongcheng 东城区钱粮胡同西巷10号 (8400 2699)

Korean Ai Jiang Shan This upscale seafood restaurant proves that chargrill and composure can go together. Their RMB58 bibimbap lunch is an absolute bargain. > Daily 11am-10pm, Sat and Sun until 9.30pm; 5/F, LG Twin Towers (East Tower), 12 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang 朝阳区建 国门外大街乙12号双子座大厦东塔5层 (5109 6036/6037) see www.thatsmags.com for other locations)

Vegetarian Lotus 莲花空间

> China World Shopping Mall Branch: NL4006, North Area of China World Shopping Mall, 1 Jianguomen Wai Dajie, Chaoyang 朝阳区建国门外大街1号国贸商 城北区NL4006 (8527 4868); Financial Street Branch: Daily 11am-9pm, L220, 2/F, Seasons Place Mall, 2 Jinchengfang Jie, Xicheng 西城区金城坊街2号金融街 购物中心2层东侧L220 (6622 0515)

Tianchu Maoxiang (Asian) Like many arrivals to Beijing, this place started out in Wudaokou and it’s since made a successful migration to Chaoyang. Great range of veggie fare, reasonably priced and they offer cooking classes as well. > Daily 10am-10pm; 19 Rm 0260, 2/F, Bldg D, Chaowai SOHO, 6B Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang 朝阳门外大街乙6朝外SOHOD座2层 0260 (5900 1288)(see www.online.thatsmags. com for details)

Veggie Table (Western, Asian) * Proving that Beijing-style vegetarian cuisine is by no means the exclusive preserve of Buddhist monks and soppy Jack Johnson fans, this superbly honed eatery offers some of the very best sandwiches – vegetarian or otherwise – found anywhere in the city. > Daily 10.30am-11.30pm (last order 10.30pm); 19 Wudaoying Hutong, Dongcheng 东城区五道营胡同 19号 (6446 2073)

BARS TOP 40 BARS AND CLUBS

About This guide represents our editors’ top 40 picks, and includes some That’s Beijing advertisers. Bars rated(*) have been personally reviewed by our experts, and scored according to the cuisine, experience and affordability.

Arrow Factory The newest craft beer taproom on the

block, Arrow Factory is a rustic hideaway brimming with good Anglo-Scandinavian vibes (courtesy of the brew-masters) and the brand’s distinctive Chinese brewed ales.

A winning combination > 38 Jianchang Hutong, Dongcheng District 东城区箭 厂胡同38号(6407 6308)

8-Bit Drinking alongside multiplayer retro gaming – why didn’t anyone do this sooner?

Megadrive, Super Nintendo, N64... some real gems make up an ever-growing collection. Draft Kirin goes for a reasonable RMB25 a glass.

> Daily 1pm-2am; 13 Beiluoguxiang, Dongcheng 东 城区北锣鼓巷13号 (159 1025 6538)

China Bar ¥¥ Top views from the 65th floor and flash drinks are the attractions on offer at this hip hotel bar.

> Sun-Thu 5pm-1am, Fri-Sat 5pm-2am. 65/F, Park Hyatt, 2 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang 朝阳区建国 门外大街2号柏悦酒店65层 (8567 1838/40)

El Nido * The first hutong hang-out to patent the fridge-full-of-cheap-imports formula, El Nido inspires a loyal following, particularly in summer. The roast leg of mutton place next door is one of the best locally. > Daily 6pm-late, 59 Fangjia Hutong, Dongcheng 东 城区方家胡同50号(158 1038 2089)

First Floor First Floor is like that friend who’s too popular to properly enjoy their company.

At weekends, it gets aggressively full, with regulars and the passing tourist trade all baying at the bar. A good place to meet new friends, perhaps.

> Daily, 4pm-late, Sanlitun Beixiaojie, Chaoyang 朝阳 区三里屯北小街 (6413 0587, first.floorbeijing.com)

Great Leap Brewing 大跃啤酒 ¥ * The bar that began the whole Beijing microbrewing frenzy (yes, frenzy) specializes in idiosyncratic, local-style brews (RMB2540) with intriguing flavors – their Sichuan peppercorn ale was memorably good.

Reservations used to be recommended for their original hutong brewhouse, but the opening of a wildly popular new pub on Xinzhong Lu has shifted most drinkers there instead.

> Gulou: 5pm-late, Tue-Fri, 2pm-late Sat-Sun 2-10pm, 6 DouJiao Hutong, Dongcheng 东城区豆角胡同6号 (5717 1399) ; Sanlitun: Daily 11:30am-2pm; Sun-Thu 5pm-midnight, Fri /Sat 5pm-1am, B12 Xinzhong Street 新中街乙12号 (6416 6887, www.greatleapbrewing.com)

Heaven Supermarket A purgatory of bottles, bongs and bedraggled English teachers, Heaven sells the cheapest alcoholic takeaways in town. You can also hang around and appreciate the afterlife (clientele) if you want. Caveat: the food is straight from Hell’s own kitchen. > Daily 11-4am. 14 Xindong Lu (next to The James Joyce), Chaoyang 朝阳区新东路14号 (6415 6513)

Hidden Lounge * Although frustrating to find, Hidden Lounge rewards the intrepid with good artwork and comfortable seating, suggesting a Kasbah, plus well-made drinks at great prices (wine from RMB100 a bottle, mix drinks from RMB25). You’ll probably have to call them to find it, though.

> Daily 6pm-1am. Room 101, Bldg 8, CBD Apartments, Shuanghuayuan Nanli Erqu, Chaoyang 朝阳区双花园 南里二区CBD公寓8号楼101屋 (8772 1613)

Jane’s & Hooch ¥ * Acclaimed by some foreign press as one of the best bars in the world (cough), this not-so-plain Jane has been at the vanguard of the South Sanlitun gentrification. It serves RMB60-80 measures of your favorite Prohibiotion-era hooches in a fanstastic speakeasy atmosphere, with attentive staff and unimpeachable cocktails.

> Daily 8pm-2am, Courtyard 4 Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang 朝阳区工体北路4号院 ( 6503 2757)

Jing-A Taproom ** In just a few years, these guys developed from shady guerrilla brewers to upstanding publicans with their own range of souvenir T-shirts. Their bar is a peach: a bricks-andmortar taproom, which is large, warm and sociable, and has up to 16 different beers on tap. > Building B, 1949 The Hidden City, Courtyard 4, Gongti Bei Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区工体北路4号院

Mao Mao Chong ** The cocktails at Mao’s – such as their sublime ‘Mala’ Mule, a Sichuan peppercorninfused vodka drink that’s a long way from Moscow – are unique infusions using local ingredients and know-how. Grungey

LISTINGS without being grimey, Mao’s eschews flash while still keeping it real. And those pizzas. > 12 Banchang Hutong, Jiaodaokou, Dongcheng 东 城区交道口南大街板厂胡同12号 (6405 5718, www. maomaochongbeijing.com)

Mesh ¥ Whether it’s an early evening cocktail or a late-night infusion, Mesh’s moody interior and underground soundtrack draws the bright young things (and on LGBT Thursdays, quite a few old things, too). > Daily 5pm-1am. Building 1, 11 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区三里屯路11号院1号楼 (6417 6688)

Maggie’s ¥ A notorious sausage fest (we refer, of course, to the hot-dog stand outside), Maggie’s has been providing its special comforts for so long, it’s practically a timehonored Beijing brand – although it’s also a bastion of Mongolian culture. > Sun-Thur 8pm-4am, Fri-Sat 8pm-5am, Ritan Park South Gate, Chaoyang District 朝阳区日坛公园南 门 (8562 8142)

Parlor Learn a few quotes from Gatsby before heading to this 20s Shanghai-style speakeasy and you’ll fit right in.

> Daily 6pm-2am, 39-8 Xingfuercun, Chaoyang 朝阳区 新东路幸福二村39-8 (8444 4135)

Mai Bar * Understated hutong hideaway with a long list of some of the best cocktails in town.

> Daily 5pm-late, 40 Beiluoguxiang, Dongcheng 东城 区北锣鼓巷40号 (6406 1871)

Revolution * Sanlitun doesnt really do hipster bars but if it did, this cramped ode to Maomorabilia would be it. The East may be red but their cocktails (RMB45) are fit for a Chairman.

> Daily, 12pm-late, west of Yashow, Gongti Bei Lu, 朝 阳区工体北路雅秀市场西侧 (6415 8776)

The Brick A Cheers-style atmosphere ensures you’ll find this neighbourhood drinking hole-inthe brick-wall faux dive bar either cliquey or inclusive. The heavy-duty cocktails (including the devastatingly boozy RMB80 Terminator) are probably needed for the bizarre Wednesday pub quiz.

> Daily 4pm-late. Unit 2-11, Bldg 2, Tianzhi Jiaozi, 31 Guangqu Lu (northeast corner of Shuangjing Qiao), Chaoyang 朝阳区双井桥东北角广渠路31号院天之骄子 2号楼底商2-11 (134 2616 6677)

The Irish Volunteer Everything – from the red-faced owner to the grub – is authentically Irish: tinged with alcoholism, doggerel and drunken regret. A good place to down a pint and a pizza before heading into town, then. > Daily 9pm-2am. 311 Jiangtai Lu (opposite Lido Hotel East Gate), Chaoyang 朝阳区将台路311 号 (6438 5581)

Slow Boat Sanlitun Brewpub ** This popular microbrewery is a Beijing classic (if you haven’t tried the Zombie Pirate Pale Ale yet, then what are you doing?). Other things to love: quality ales that change each season, a massive threestory space, and some of the best burgers in town.

> Daily, 11am-late; 6 Nan Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳 区南三里屯路6号 (6592 5388)

Glen ¥ Experiences can vary at Glen (we’ve endured poor service and drinks that are scandalous at the price), which is located in a decidedly downbeat compound. But whisky lovers have been known to swear by its selections and dark, intimate atmosphere.

See for yourself. >Daily 6.30pm-2am. 203, 2/F, Taiyue Suites Hotel Beijing, 16 Nansanlitun Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区南三里屯 路16号泰悦豪庭2楼203室 (6591 1191)

Glen Classic ¥ Tucked away in the grounds of Face hotel, Glen Classic is a Japanese-owned whisky bar where discerning drinkers can sink into an arm-chair, glass in hand, and while away the hours. Huge range of whiskies and rums are personally selected by expert owner Daiki Kanetaka – let him recommend you something special. > Mon-Sat, 7pm-2am, reservation required, minimum spend RMB200, Face Hotel Courtyard, 26 Dongcaoyuan, Chaoyang 朝阳区工体南路东草园26 号 (6551 6788)

Trouble Bar Beijing’s leading venue for imported craft beers. Stocks a large draft selection and an even larger selection of bottles. Also does a nice line in creative cocktails, if brews aren’t your thing. Conveniently located next to Gung-Ho, hosts a full-sized

foos-ball table, darts, and plenty of TV’s to accommodate any event, meetings, and gatherings. > 2-101, China View Building, 2B Gongti Donglu, Chaoyang (Next To Gung-Ho) 朝阳区工人体育场东 路乙2号中国红街2-101叫板比萨隔壁 (8590 0390, troublebar@gmail.com, www.trouble.bar)

10 Best Livehouses Dusk Dawn Club (DDC) 黄昏黎明俱乐部 Great little livehouse near Meishuguan with a focus on jazz, folk and indie rock.

Craft beer and whisky means you won’t get bored of the drinks list quickly. > Tue-Sun 1pm-2am; 14 Shanlao Hutong, Dongcheng 东城区美术馆后街山老胡同14号 (6407 8969)

School Bar 学校酒吧 * Crap drinks and regular, unscheduled fights: no wonder the cool kids adore this alternative livehouse/ DJ bar, founded by Beijing and Shanghai rock n’ rollers.

> Daily 8pm-late. 53 Wudaoying Hutong, Chaoyang 朝阳区五道营胡同53号 (6402 8881, 6406 9947)

Jianghu 江湖酒吧 This former Qing Dynasty courtyard home is exactly where you’d take that friend from out of town to prove you’re cool. Its cozy atmosphere is also its downfall – any show with under 40 people and you’re stuck looking through the windows. Hip and casually familiar, the jazz and folk bookings keep things low-key enough for the gethome-for-the-babysitter crowd.

> 7 Dongmianhua Hutong, Jiaodaokou Nan Dajie, Dongcheng 东城区交道口南大街东棉花胡同7号 (6401 5269, site.douban.com/jianghujiubar, jincanzh@ gmail.com)

Hot Cat Club 热力猫 A true stalwart of the Beijing scene, Hot Cat is the type of hard-working venue that helps cement a city’s music scene. > Daily 10am-late, 46 Fangjia Hutong (just south of Guozijian Jie), Dongcheng 东城区方家胡同46号 (6400 7868)

The Post Mountain 后山 Built into a man-made hill in the center of the MOMA Complex, this new addition to Beijing’s growing livehouse empire is The Hobbit meets Manhattan.

With as much vibe as a sterile modernart gallery. Its imported sound system and ramped floor makes for decent sound and sightlines.

> Bldg T8, MOMA, 1 Xiangheyuan Lu, Dongzhimenwai, Dongcheng (next to MOMA Cinemateque) 东城区东直门外香河园路1号当代 MOMA园区T8楼北百老汇电影中心北侧 (8400 4774)

Temple 坛 * Probably the manliest venue in town, this dimly lit and unventilated space is owned by rockers (Gao Xu, Gao Jian and Clement Burger) and known for late sets of hard rock, punk and ska, with weekend gigs and DJ sets every fortnight. It offers a long drinks menu, with plenty of cheap pastis and shooters, but you’ll probably stick to the RMB15 draught. > Daily, 7pm-late. Bldg B, 206 Gulou Dong Dajie, Dongcheng 东城区鼓楼东大街206号B楼202 (131 6107 0713)

Yugong Yishan 愚公移山 * We’ve lost more body weight than we’d care to remember in YY’s mosh pit. Fortunately, almost all the acts – usually hip-hop DJs, emo rocks and obscure indie outfits from across the globe – were worth it. The upstairs bar area is a refuge from the sweat glands below. > Daily 7pm-late. 3-2 Zhangzizhong Lu (100m west of Zhangzizhong Lu subway station), Dongcheng 东 城区张自忠路3-2号(6404 2711）

Sports Bars The Local * Formerly Brussels, this beery bar has come into its own, with large (yet strangely unobtrusive) screenings of sports and political events, a pub quiz, quality fare and a nice selection of draughts and cocktails.

Try the Bourbon Street Ice Tea – you won’t need another. > Daily 11-2am. 4 Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang 朝阳区工 体北路4号院 (6591 9525)

Paddy O’Shea’s * An entire Irish-themed pub, which could easily been trasnsported, untouched, from a back alley in Limerick and gently deposited in central Beijing. With plenty going on, including pub quiz and sports.

> Dongzhimen: Daily 10am-late, 28 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Chaoyang 朝阳区东直门外大街28号 (6592 6290); Sanlitun: 2/F, Tongli Studio, Sanlitun Back Street 三里屯北路43号同里二层 (6415 0299)

V Sports Spacious, comfortable, huge screens and

no rowdy drunken cretins, V Sports makes a claim for the champion of Beijing sports bars. > Daily 5.30pm-6am, Gongti North Gate East side, Chaoyang 朝阳区工体北门内东侧 (5293 0333)

Nightclubs Chocolate It’s impossible to discuss Chocolate without mentioning gold leaf, dwarves, cabaret dancers and oddly-friendly Russian women.

Timed right, a visit can be raucous fun, with bottles of spirits from around RMB200, cocktails under RMB50 (including the absinthe-based Flaming Armageddon) and regular floor shows. > Daily 7pm-6am. 19 Ritan Beilu, Chaoyang 朝阳区日 坛北路19号 (8561 3988)

Dada * It hasn’t been on the Beijing scene for too long, but already Dada is the hippest hangout in town. Their cosy Gulou confines under rock house Temple offer an intimate place to nod along to an eclectic range of all things electro from the best names on the underground scene. > Daily 9pm-late, Rm 101, Bldg B, 206 Gulou Dong Dajie, Dongcheng 东城区鼓楼东大街206号B栋101室 (183 1108 0818)

Lantern * Founded by now-defunct Acupuncture Records, Lantern is a beacon of light in the strip of truly ghastly nightclubs and bars known as ‘Gongti.’ Serious about its music, it also makes good drinks and attracts international electronica DJs. > Thurs-Sat 9pm-6.30am. 100m north of Worker’s Stadium West Gate, Chaoyang 朝阳区工人体育场西 门向北100米 (139 119 77989)

MIX A bit like a trip to the Forbidden City, Mix is one of those places in Beijing you have to experience before you leave. Not much is forbidden in this underground hip-hop disco palace and if you don’t leave with hook-up in tow then you’re doing something very wrong.

> Daily 8pm-6am, Inside Worker’s Stadium North Gate, Chaoyang 朝阳区工人体育场北门内 (6506 9888, 6530 2889, 150 1138 2219, mixclub@sohu.com)

The Bar at Migas * A place to dance and prowl, perhaps, rather than a drinks destination, TBAM, as no one calls it, focuses on upscale local DJs to get the party started. Good-enough cocktails range from RM55-70 but mostly it’s about the music, man. > Sunday to Wednesday 6pm-2am, Thursday to Friday 6pm-late. 6/F, Nali Patio, 81 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District 朝阳区三里屯路81号 (5208-6061)

Vics Separated at birth from its identical twin brother, Mix, this is the definition of Gongti sweatbox meat-market chic at its very finest. The Chinese love it – as do moody Russians and jailbait students – helping Vics to become one of the most infamous clubs in the capital.

> Daily 8.30pm late, Inside Worker’s Stadium North Gate, Chaoyang 朝阳区工人体育场北门内 (5293 0333)

Hotel Bars Atmosphere ¥¥ Beijing’s highest bar, on the 80th floor of the 1,082-ft China World Tower, offers 300+ swanky cocktails from RMB65 with 360-degree views of the 700AQI PM2.5. > Mon-Fri noon-2am, Sat and Sun noon-4am. 80/F, China World Summit Wing, 1 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang 朝阳区建国门外大街1号北京国贸大酒店80 (6505 2299 ext. 6433)

Centro ¥ Although it’s no longer quite the go-to place for beautiful people it once was, Centro still draws a cute crowd with its nightly jazz performaces, spacious and recently renovated lounge areas and classic drinks like the blue-cheese martini. > Open 24 hours. 1/F, Kerry Hotel, 1 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区光华路1号北京嘉里大饭店1层 (6561 8833)

MEI One of the livelier hotel bars in town, MEI has a nightly band, serves creatively delicious cocktails and overlooks the CCTV ‘trousers.’ Don’t leave without trying the frightfully delicious Panjiayuan Bramble.

Mon-Wed 6pm-2am, Thu-Sat 6pm-3am, Sun 5pmmidnight; 5F Rosewood Beijing, Jing Guang Centre, Hujialou, Chaoyang District朝阳区呼家楼一号京广中 心北京瑰丽酒店3层 (6536 0083)

O’Bar With both a fantastic cocktail menu and one of the finest terraces in the city, NUO

Hotel’s O’Bar is a sure bet for classy evening drinks in the city.

>Sun-Thr:6pm-1am;Fri-Sat:6pm-2am;2 Jiangtai Lu,Chaoyang朝阳区将台路甲2号(5926 8888)

Xian 仙 Bold multi – element bar Xian on the ground floor mixes a pub, whiskey bar, live music venue and games room into one vibrant entertainment hotspot. >Daily 5pm-2am, 1/F, EAST Beijing, 22 Jiuxianqiao Lu,Chaoyang 朝阳区酒仙桥路22号东隅酒店1层 (8414 9810)

BEAUTY & FITNESS Black Golden Tanning Studio 古铜日晒中心 Beijing is hardly the best place to pick up a natural tan. When it finally reaches the warm summer, the sun’s rays struggle to penetrate the smog. Thankfully, Black Golden Tanning Studio is on hand to give you that golden glow with its quick, safe and effective technology. With a membership card, enjoy a 50-minute session for RMB400 and come away with natural, healthy-looking color.

> Sanlitun: 11am-9pm, 2/f, Bldg 3, Sanlitun SOHO, Gongti Bei Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区工体北路三里屯 Soho3号楼2层217 (5785 3711, jusonghao@hotmail. com); Wangjing: 11am-9pm, Rm T5, 3/F, BOTAI International Building, 36 Guangshun Bei Dajie, Chaoyang 朝阳区望京广顺北大街36号博泰国际商业 广场3层T—5 (8472 2855)

Alona Pilates Studio Pairing up traditional Pilates with an innovative, full-body workout, Alona Pilates offers classes designed to tone and whip you into shape fast. It also provides a personalized experience for all its students, regardless of fitness, strength and flexibility levels. > Daily, 7.30, late. 5/F at Heavenly Spa by Westin, 1 Xinyuan Nanlu, Chaoyang 朝阳区新源南路1号威斯汀 酒店五层 ( 139 1029 0260, www.alonapilates.com)

Narcisse Beauty Brands Encompassed One of a kind! A 600 m2 brand-new concept of beauty salon——Narcisse, encompassed with professional brands on skincare, manicure and hair removal. Not only can we guarantee to give you the highest quality of products and treatments, but also an impressive one-stop beauty experience.

Brands inside Narcisse： Youngfo: Facial Cleansing Center Clean Out What’s Deeply Buried In Your Skin 10+10: Minimal-Design Nail Chic Workaholic’s Luv! Edelweiss: Laser Hair Removal Latest Technology, Safe&Permanent Deep Facial Cleaning- 880rmb/once

> 10.30am-10.30pm, Bldg. 1,No.6 West Fangyuan rd, Chaoyang (inside Narcisse Beauty Brands Encompassed)朝阳区芳园西路6号院1号楼水仙美容品 牌集合店内(5365 9418)

Daisy’s Beauty Salon Since 2001, Daisy’s beauty salon has catered to thousands of Beijing expats and locals and is renowned for its premium waxing services and imported wax that smells like hot chocolate. If waxing isn’t your thing, the salon also specializes in an array of other treatments including IPL Facial Rejuvenation and lifting, a 90-minute treatment that uses a laser to stimulate collagen production and soften lines. Laser and IPL permanent hair removal treatment is also proving popular and effective. > Daily, 10am-8.30pm, Rm301, Building B,Sunshine100 International Apartment, Guanghua Donglu, Chaoyang 朝阳区光华东路2号阳光100国际 公寓B座301室 (5100 0556 / 0557, www.daisysbeautysalon.com)

Beijing Hikers Want to experience the wild, unrestored Great Wall, away from the tourist masses?

Or do you just want to get out of the city for some exercise? Beijing Hikers offers hikes in the countryside of Beijing every week all year round. Hikes for all fitness levels! Regular hikes are priced from RMB380, with discounts for members. Cost includes hiking guide, transportation, tickets, food and water. We’ve also got adventures all over China. > For more information, visit www.beijinghikers.com

Shang Xia

>L118 & 119, L1 China World Mall, China World Trade Center 1, Jianguomen Waidajie, Chaoyang 朝 阳区建国门外大街1号中国国际贸易中心国贸商城1楼 L118 & 119 (6505 3446)

Lily Nails A long-time favorite among locals and expats alike, Lily Nails is much more than a

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | MARCH 2018 | 71

LISTINGS nail spa; they eyelash services, of pampering treatments and waxing too.

>U Town store: Daily 10am-22pm, Shop 19B, 4/F, U town Plaza, Chaoyang朝阳区悠唐购物 中心一期4层19B号 8561 5875 ; Fulllink store: Daily 10am-22pm, Shop 29/B1, Fulllink Plaza, Chaoyang朝阳区丰联广场B1-29 6588 3633 ; Yansha store: Daily 10am-22pm, 09/B1, Ping An International Finance Centre, Chaoyang朝 阳区平安国际金融中心商业B1层9号 5601 9664 ;WDK store: Daily 10am-22pm, Shop16/F4, WDK Shopping store, Haidian海淀区五道口购物 中心4层1415号 6266 6070 ; Heshenghui store: Daily 10am-22pm, Shop B1-19, Heshenghui Mall, Chaoyang朝阳区合生汇B1层19号 5601 9664 ; Pingan store: Daily 10am-22pm, Shop 09/B1, Ping An International Finance Centre, Chaoyang朝阳区平安国际金融中心商业B1层9号 8444 2483 ; Taiyanggong store: Daily 10am22pm, Shop B1-09, CapitaMall Taiyanggong, Chaoyang朝阳区太阳宫凯德购物中心B1-15A号 8443 0619 ; WeLife store: Daily 10am-22pm, WeLife store, Shop B1/F, WeLife Shopping store, Chaoyang朝阳区远洋未来汇购物中心 B1-116号 8588 6896 ; Wanliu store: Daily 10am-22pm, Shop 19/F4, Wanliu BHG, Haidian 海淀区华联万柳购物中心4层 8258 9517 ; Hongmei store: Daily 10am-22pm, Shop 38241, Shanghai上海市长宁区老外街虹梅路3824-1号 021-6215 5192

HAIR SALONS Laurent Falcon

nese, Russian.

> East Avenue BLD Ground Floor, No.10 Xindong Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区新东路10号逸盛阁首层(8442 5120, 135 2147 3492, eastavenue@catherinedefrance.com, Wechat: CDFSalon, www.catherinedefrance.com)

Sport Broadwell International Tennis Academy Located inside Chaoyang Park’s Tennis Center, this indoor club boasts a complete state-of-the-art air-supported structure for all-weather year-round indoor tennis, with an advanced lighting system and controlled climate. Ideal for peeps looking to perfect their service and batting a few balls. > Nongzhan Nanlu, Chaoyang 朝阳区农南路1号朝 阳公园网球中心(400 6406 800/ 6595 8885, www. broadwell.cn1)

California Fitness Beijing Club California Fitness Beijing’s Group X program is among the best in the region, and with membership you have access to over 150 weekly Group X classes and a team of professional personal trainers in Asia. Your membership also includes free towel usage and a fitness assessment. >South Tower, L4, 9 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang (4008 100-988,www,californiafitness.com)

Cycle China Inc. 北京非常之旅 Cycle China provides organized cycling and hiking tours in and aroundBeijing as well as longer tours throughout China.

Some of their more popular tours take cyclists through the Olympic Green, Tian’anmen Square, and Beijing’s traditional hutongs.

>12 Jingshan East Street, Dongcheng 东城区景山东 街12号 (6402 5653 ,139 1188 6524)

Heyrobics “Sweat like a Swede!” they say with annoyingly smug grin and toned abs. The only fitness craze worth following in Beijing, Heyrobics is all about a punishing full-body workout set to pumping beats – not forgetting the fluorescent spandex. Differing classes for all abilities, check online for the full schedule. > www.heyrobics.com, info@heyrobics.com

Yihe 42° Hot Yoga 2 locations in Beijing: the best Yoga for Beginners! No previous experience necessary - and if your body is a bit stiff – that’s okay!

Yihe knows it can be a little intimidating to begin your journey into Yoga, so they are available to answer any questions you may have. It’s a great workout for the body and calming for the mind. Call them today on (5905 6067, 8599 7395)

> Daily 10am-8pm. 3/F, No. 2 South Building, Blue Castle, Dawang Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区大望路蓝堡 国际中心南写字楼2座3层 (8599 7395/96, www. yh42.com); 3/F, Bldg. 14, Solana, No. 6 Chaoyang Gongyuan Xilu Chaoyang 朝阳区朝阳公园西路6号,蓝 色港湾14号,三层 (5905 6065/67, www.yh42.com)

As China’s first REAL French hair salon we promise each and every one of our customers that we’ll treat your hair like it’s our own. We use only the finest imported products to guarantee that your experience with us is as relaxing and professional as possible. Come in and meet our specialist stylist and visit our facilities. Your hair deserves a true touch of French sophistication. Man cut 115RMB up; Women cut 165RMB up; Color 500RMB up; Highlight 610RMB up. > SanLiTun salon: No.43 Building, SanLiTun Beijie South, Chaoyang 朝阳区三里屯北街南43号楼 (6409 4243, 1350 137 2971); GuoMao Salon: 209, 2/F, Phase 3 China World Shopping Mall, Chaoyang 朝阳区建国门外大街1号国贸商城北 区3L209(8535 1002, 1314 667 9913)Catherine de France

Blow+Bar This salon is equipped with more than shampoo – the team here provides haircuts, dye, updos, hair treatments and more. With prices for almost everything listed under RMB1,000, Blow+ is a haven of reasonably priced good taste in Sanlitun’s 3.3 Mall. They have champagne and a wellstocked bar, so bring your friends and make a night of it. >3/F 3.3 Mall, 33 Sanlitun Lu, Sanlitun, Chaoyang朝 阳区三里屯路33号3.3服3/F (for appointments, call 5136 5432)

Catherine de France Awarded best expat salon in 2014/ 2015, with a trained team of international and local stylists, colorists and beauticians, this salon welcomes all ages and budgets in a modern and relaxed atmosphere for a wide range of hair and beauty treatments, include manicure, pedicure and waxing.

Wella, SP, INOA, TIGI Language: French, English, Spanish, Chi72 | MARCH 2018 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM

HEALTH SERVICES American-Sino OB/GYN/Pediatrics Services 北京美华妇儿医院

> 18 anyuan road,chaoyang district,Beijing 北京市 朝阳区安苑路18号 (8443 9666, bj.americanobgyn. com)

Amcare Women’s & Children’s Hospital With a zero waiting-time policy, top-quality inpatient facilities, home visits, night services and transportation assistance, Amcare provides a trustworthy experience.

English-speaking services include pediatrics, gynecology and obstetrics.

> 9 Fangyuan XiLu, Chaoyang District 朝阳区芳园西 路9号 (6434 2399, 24hr hotline 800 610 6200, www. amcare.com.cn)

Beijing United Family Hospital and Clinics 北京和睦家医院 > Wi-fi internet. Lido, Emergency Room is open 24/7/365, Mon-Fri, 8.30am-5pm; 2 Jiangtai Road, Chaoyang District, 朝阳区将台路2号. (5927 7000 / 5927 7120 Emergency Hotline);United Family CBD Clinic和睦家朝外诊所 Mon-Sat, 9.30am-6.30pm, Suite 3017, Building AB, Vantone Center, 6 Chaowai Street, Chaoyang, 朝阳区朝阳门外大街6号万通中 心AB座2层3017室(5907 1266); Jianguomen Health and Wellness Center和睦家建国门保健中心, Wi-fi internet, Mon-Sun 8:30am-5pm, 21 Jianguomen Dajie, B1, The St. Regis Residence, St. Regis Hotel 朝阳区建国门外大街21号北京国际俱乐部饭店 ( 8532 1221 / 8532 1678 Immigration Clinic ); Shunyi Clinic 和睦家顺义诊所, Wi-fi internet, Mon-Fri, 9.30am5.30pm, Sat and Sun, 9.30am-4.30pm.Pinnacle Plaza, Unit 806, Tian Zhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District, 顺义区天竺开发区荣祥广场806 号(8046 5432); Shunyi Dental Clinic顺义牙科诊所, Wi-fi internet, Mon-Sat, 9.30am-7.30pm, Pinnacle Plaza, Unit 818, Tian Zhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi 顺义区天竺开发区荣祥广场818号 (8046 1102) ; Liangma Clinic亮马诊所 , Wi-fi internet, Mon-Fri, 8.30am-5pm, 2nd Floor Grand Summit, 19

Dongfang East Road朝阳区东方东路19号1号楼会所 27号 外交人员公寓B区官舍16号 (5927 7005 www. ufh.com.cn, patientservices@ufh.com.cn)

Beijing International Medical Center (IMC) Established in 1993, the International Medical Center-Beijing counts on an expert team of foreign doctors, 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 are also available. English, Farsi, Japanese, Chinese, Arabic and Russian spoken. > 24hours. Room S106/111 Lufthansa Center, 50 Liangmahe Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区亮马桥路50号燕莎 中心写字楼1层S106 (6465 1561/2/3, 6465 1384/28, www.imclinics.com)

Raffles Medical International SOS and Raffles Medical Group have formed a joint venture to enhance and expand the services of its China Clinics. From March 30 the International SOS clinics in China will be branded and operated by Raffles Medical with expanded services to all patients and privileged access for International SOS members. Patients of the clinic will continue to have access to the same doctors, the same facilities and same level of high quality care.

Raffles Medical Group is a leading medical provider in Singapore and has been operating for 40 years with over 100 clinics and hospitals in Asia. The joint venture is committed to maintain the high standard of quality with a focus on innovative and expanded clinical services and excellent patient care. > Suite 105, Wing 1, Kunsha Building, No.16 Xinyuanli, Chaoyang 朝阳区新源里16号琨莎中心1 座105室(6462 9112/ 6462 9100, www.internationalsos.com)

OASIS International Hospital OASIS International Hospital specializes in serving the expatriate community with the latest world-class technology and a broad range of services, all in a pristine facility designed to provide patients with the utmost comfort, care and privacy.

> Mon-Fri, 8.30am-5.30pm; Sat-Sun, 8.30am12.30pm; 24 Hour Emergency Bldg C1, 9 Jiuxianqiao Beilu Chaoyang 朝阳区酒仙桥北路9号C1 栋 (400 876 2747, 5985 0333, www.oasishealth.cn)

Beijing HarMoniCare Women and Children’s Hospital 北京和美妇儿医院

> Wi-Fi available. Chaoyang: 2 Xiaoguan Beili, Beiyuan Lu 北苑路小关北里甲2号 (6499 0000. contact@hmcare.org, en.hmcare.net)

Hongkong International Medical Clinic, Beijing 北京港澳国际医务诊所

> Dongsishitiao: 9/F, Office Tower, Hongkong Macau Center-Swiss Hotel, 2 Chaoyangmen Bei Dajie 朝阳门北大街2号 港澳中心瑞士酒店办公楼9层 (6553 9752, 6553 2288/2345/6/7; service@hkclinic. com; www.hkclinic.com)

DENTAL PrettySmile Dental If you are looking for professional and comfortable dental care, PrettySmile Dental ishighly recommended by many patients.

The clinic is standing out because of the professional team, all doctors are from the dental hospital of Peking University and most of them got professional training in USA. The strictest sterilization processes and high-end imported equipment and materials all help guarantee the highest quality of all dental services. >Mon-Fri, 9.30am-6pm (closed Thu); 5-105-1, Building 5, Sanlitun SOHO Chaoyang 朝阳区三里屯SOHO 5号 商场1层5-105 (5785 3689/5785 3898, www.prettysmiledental.cn, psd3898@163.com)

Joinway Dental A reputable and trusted dental practice, Joinway Dental provides the perfect combination of cutting edge technology and comfortable treatment, while maintaining the strictest sanitary and sterilization processes.

The clinic uses high-quality imported materials, and its professional, US-trained staff offers a personalized and private service. > Mon-Sat, 9am-6pm; 11D, Building D, Oriental Kenzo Plaza (Ginza Mall), 48 Dongzhimen Wai Dajie, Dongcheng 东城区东直门外大街48号东方银座D座 11D (8447 6092/93, mobile:1326 181 6708, joinway@ dentalcn.com, www.dentalcn.com)

Arrail Dental Affiliated with the University of Pennsylvania, Arrail Dental has access to top-class equipment. Its well-trained staff, multiple locations across town and excellent facilities make it one of the best dental providers in Beijing. English-speaking staff. Dental services including examinations, whitening,

root-canal treatment, orthodontics and implants.

>Rm 201, the Exchange-Beijing, 118B Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区建国路乙118号国贸桥东南角京 汇大厦201室 (6567 5670); Rm 208, Tower A, CITIC Building, 19 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang 朝阳 区建国门外大街19号国际大厦A座208室 (6500 6473); Rm 308, Tower A, Raycom Info Tech Park 2 Kexueyuan Nanlu, Haidian 海淀区中关村科学院南路2号融科资讯 中心A座308室 (8286 1956); Rm 101, Bldg 16, China Central Place, 89 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区建国 路89号华贸中心公寓16号楼101室 (8588 8550/60/70); 1/F, Somerset Fortune Garden, 46 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区亮马桥路46号燕莎东侧盛捷福景苑 1层 (8440 1926)

SDM Dental 固瑞齿科 The full spectrum of dentistry. Services include teeth cleaning, root-canal treatment, porcelain crowns, dental implants, orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry, fillings, pediatric dentistry, extraction, teeth-whitening and veneers. Credit cards accepted. >Mon-Fri 9am-8pm. NB210, 2/F, CBD, Guomao, China World Shopping Mall, 1 Jianguomenwai Dajie建外 大街1号国贸商城地下2层 (6505 9439/31/93, www. sdmdental.com); Mon-Fri 9am-8pm.Olympic Area,F0186B, Sunshine Plaza, 68 Anli Lu(east of Sunshine Plaza)亚运村安立路68号阳光广场东侧 (6497 2173,6498 2173) ; Mon-Sun 10am-19pm.LB07-08, Euro Plaza, No.99 YuXiang Road,Shunyi 北京顺义区 天竺镇裕翔路99号欧陆广场LB07-08号 (8046 6084); Mon-Fri 9am-8pm. FC222, 21st Century Hotel, 40 Liang Maqiao Lu,Sanyuanqiao 亮马桥40号21世纪饭 店2层 (6466 4814, 6461 2745); Mon-Fri 9am-8pm.

4076B, 4/F, New Yansha Mall, Yuanda Lu,Haidian 远 大路金源燕莎购物中心Mall4层4076B (8859 6912/13); Mon-Sun, 10am-7pm, Rm 5, 3/F, North Tower, China Overseas Plaza, 8 Guanghua Dongli 北京朝阳区光华 东里8号中海广场北楼3层05号(5977 2488)

United Family Shunyi Dental Clinic The Beijing United Family Dental Clinic in Shunyi is a satellite of the main hospital in Lido (which has its own dental clinic onsite). A comprehensive range of services are at hand, including restorative dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. Call ahead for all appointments.

> 818 Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi 北京和睦家医院牙科诊所, 顺义区天竺开发区荣祥广场818 (8046 1102)

Vista Medical Center 维世达诊所

> 24hours. Wi-Fi internet. 3/F Kerry Center. 1 Guanghua Lu 光华路1号嘉里中心商场3层 (8529 6618, vista@vista-china.net, www.vista-china.net)

Beijing New Century Harmony Pediatric Clinic

> Shunyi, K-01, Building No.19, Harmony Business Centre, Liyuan Street, Tianzhu Town 天竺镇丽苑街荣 和商业中心19号楼K-01 (6456 2599; harmonypeds@ ncich.com.cn, www.ncich.com.cn)

Beijing Passion International Medical Center This full-service international clinic provides 24-hr general medical care and a patient-centered attitude. Beijing Passion International Medical Center is equipped with the latest in medical technology and is designed to support the comfort, safety and privacy of patients.

> 24hours, B1/F, Borui Building, 26 Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang 朝阳区东三环北路26号博瑞大厦B1层 (6517 7667, www.passion-medical.com)

Parkway Health Clinic

> Mon-Sat, 10am-7pm; CBD, 1-2/F, Vantone Center, 6 Chaowai Street 朝阳门外大街甲六号万通中心AB座一 二层 (4000 662 -882, 24hrs; enquiry@parkwayhealth. cn; www.parkwayhealth.cn); No.101-201, Beijing link, block2, No.6 Yuan, Jing Shun Dong Street, Chaoyang 朝阳区京顺东街6号院2号楼北京Link101-201室

IDC Dental

>Daily: 9am-6pm, Room 209, Bldg 7, Richmond Park Clubhouse, Fangyuan Nanli, Chaoyang 朝阳区芳园 南里丽都水岸会所209 (6538 8111, info@idcdentalbj. com)

EDUCATION Mandarin Schools Gloria Chinese School Focusing on teaching Chinese, making sure your improvements, organizing taskbased. practical activities and providing 180-day student visa.

>R202 East Building, No.78 Maizidian Street, Chaoyang 朝阳区麦子店街78号一幢二层202室(6500 8201. WeChat:1381 186 4656,www.gloriachinese.com)

Hutong School Learn Mandarin with Beijing’s best Mandarin school, Hutong School. Our experienced teachers will customize your classes and help you learn in a fun environment. >Room 1501, 15/F, Zhongyu Plaza, A6 Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang 朝阳区工体北路甲6号中宇大厦1501室

Beijing Mandarin School Established in 1998, Beijing Mandarin

LISTINGS school is the city’s top institute for teaching spoken and written Mandarin as a second language, more than 5,000 students from over 66 countries and more than 80 companies and embassies have successfully learned with us each year. Also recognized and recommended by BBC News as one of the most professional Chinese language school. Also awarded as the ‘the best Mandarin school in Beijing’ by That’s Beijing magazine. >E-Tower School(Guomao Area): Room 904-905, 9/F E-tower building 数码01大厦904-905 (6508 1026/1126); Guangming Hotel School (embassy area): Room 0709, 7/F, Guangming Hotel (near US embassy) 光明饭店7层0709室美国大使馆附近 (8441 8391, info@beijingmandarinschool.com, www. beijingmandarinschool.com, Skype ID: beijingMandarinschool1998, Wechat: BJMS-Etower)

The Bridge School 北京桥汉语言学校

>The Bridge School Head office, Room 503, 5/F, Guangming Hotel, 42 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang 朝 阳区亮马桥路42号光明饭店5层503室(186 1244 1282 Grettchin)

The Frontiers School

Shunyi 顺义区安华街9号南侧 (8047 3558, www.britishschool.org.cn, admissions@britishschool.org.cn)

Western Academy of Beijing 京西国际学校 The Western Academy of Beijing (WAB) is a creative and innovative IB World School built upon a solid foundation of core values and our mission to Connect, Inspire, Challenge; Make a Difference. Our students exemplify these values through their awareness of the world around them, service to others, can-do spirit and commitment to excellence. WAB graduates are accepted into world-class colleges and universities across the globe. > 10 Lai Guang Ying Dong Lu, Chao Yang 朝阳区来广 营东路10号(5986 5588)

Beijing City International School 北京乐成国际学校 Located in Beijing’s Central Business District, Beijing City International School (BCIS) lives by its motto: “Empowering and Inspiring through Challenge and Compassion.” This non-profit, independent co-educational day school offers an international curriculum under the International Baccalaureate (IB) World School system and is authorized to teach all three IB programs (Primary Years, Middle Years, and Diploma Programme). > 77 Baiziwan Nan’er Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区百子湾南 二路77号 (8771 7171, www.bcis.cn)

Beijing BISS International School 北京BISS国际学校

> Building 17, Area 4, Anzhen Xili Chaoyang 朝阳区 安贞西里4区17楼 (6443 3151 www.biss.com.cn)

3e International 北京3e国际学校

>9-1 Jiangtai Xilu Chaoyang 朝阳区将台西路9-1号(四 德公园旁) (6437 3344 , www.3eik.com)

Join the friendly and professional team at Frontiers, who’ve been teaching Mandarin for 11 years. > 3/F, Bldg 30, Dongzhongjie, Dongzhimenwai, Dongcheng 东城区东直门外东中街30号三层 (6413 1547, www.frontiers.com.cn, frontiers@frontiers. com.cn)

Beijing Juncheng Language School 北京君诚语言学校 > 1) Room 208, 1 Panjiapo Hutong, Chaoyangmenwai, Dongcheng District 东城区朝阳 门外潘家坡胡同1号东城区职工大学208办室 (6525 9932/6526 7539) 2) Gucheng Village, 15 Huosha Lu, Houshayu Town, Shunyi District 顺义区后沙峪镇火沙 路古城段15号 (8049 0307)

The Bridge School 北京桥汉语言学校 > (The Bridge School Head office)Room 503, 5/F, Guangming Hotel, 42 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District 朝阳区亮马桥路42号光明饭店5层503室 (15321793321 Grettchin)

International Schools Canadian International School of Beijing 北京加拿大国际学校 Located in the Third Embassy Quarter of downtown Beijing, the Canadian International School of Beijing (CISB) opened its doors in September 2006. This world-class facility offers an internationally recognized Canadian & IB PYP, IB MYP and IBDP education. The Canadian International School of Beijing develops the whole child in an environmentally sensitive school within a kind, caring community to become a citizen of the world. > 38 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区亮马桥路38 号 (6465 7788,www.cisb.com.cn)

Springboard International Bilingual School 君诚国际双语学校 Springboard International Bilingual School is a place where children, staff and parents work in partnership to enable all their students to realize their full potential. They are offering a stimulating and full international curriculum as well as an exciting after school program, which will include Kung Fu, calligraphy, health and fitness and football. > 15 Gucheng Duan, Huosha Lu, Houshayu Town, Shunyi 顺义区后沙峪镇火沙路古城段15号 (8049 2450; www.sibs.com.cn, office@sibs.com.cn)

The British School of Beijing 北京英国学校 The British School of Beijing, established in 2003, has campuses in Shunyi (primary & secondary) and Sanlitun (primary). BSB offers an enhanced English National Curriculum to 1,500 expatriate students, aged 1 to 18, beginning with Early Years Foundation Stage, Primary, Secondary, IGCSE exams in Year 10 and 11 and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma programme in Year 12 and 13. Admission & Fees: RMB102,993246,057. Contact our Admissions team to arrange a school tour.

> Mon-Fri, 8am-4.30pm, South Side, 9 An Hua Street,

The International Montessori School of Beijing 北京蒙台梭利国际学校 Founded in 1990, MSB is Beijing’s first fully registered international Montessori school.

The school also boasts an unsurpassed dual Mandarin/English program geared towards helping students achieve fluency in either language from an early age. Curriculum aside, MSB boasts spacious classrooms, a high teacher-student ratio and impressive staff longevity. Tuition: RMB98,000 - RMB177,000/year. > Bldg 8, 2A, Xiangjiang Beilu, Chaoyang 朝阳区香 江北路甲2号院8号楼 (6432 8228 ext. 800, www.msb. edu.cn, admissions@msb.edu.cn)

Beijing World Youth Academy 北京世青国际学校 Beijing World Youth Academy (BWYA) is an international school for students of all nationalities ages 6 to 18, offering programs on its campuses conveniently located in Wangjing and Lido. An IB World School since 2001, BWYA values holistic education and seeks to give students ample opportunity to develop as globally-aware critical thinkers. A wide varity of co-curricular activities are offered to further enrich student life. Graduates of BWYA have been accepted at prestigious universities around the world. Age range: 6-18. Tuition: RMB 100,000- 140,000/year.

> Mon-Fri, 8am-4.30pm. 18 Huajiadi Beili, Wangjing, Chaoyang Inside 94 Middle school 北京市朝阳 区望京花家地北里18号(6461 7787 ext.32, 8454 3478/0649, admissions@ibwya.net, www.ibwya.net)

La Maison Montessori de Pekin 北京中法双语蒙氏儿童之家 The first bilingual French-Chinese Montessori kindergarten in Beijing, it welcomes children between ages 2 to 6 years old.

The kindergarten is located in a beautiful courtyard in the hutongs. Schedule: Monday to Friday: 8:30am to 3:30pm. After class activities also offered. > 50 Dongsi Shisitiao, Dongcheng 东城区东四十四条 50号 (131 2025 0341/ 8401 3974; lamaisonmontessoripk@gmail.com; www.lamaisonmontessoridepk. com)

Beijing Mandarin School Established in 1998, Beijing Mandarin School is the city’s top institute for teaching spoken and written Mandarin as a second language, more than 5,000 students from over 66 countries and more than 80 companies and embassies have successfully learned with us each year. Also recognized and recommended by BBC News as one of the most professional Chinese language school. > E-tower School(Guomao Area): Room 904-905, 9/F E-tower Building E数码世界9层904-905(6508 1026/1126); Guangming Hotel School (Embassy Area): Room 0709, 7/F Guangming Hotel(near U.S Embassy) 光明饭店7层0709室 美国大使馆附近 (84418391, info@beijingmandarinschool.com, www. beijingmandarinschool.com, Skype ID: beijingmandarinschool1998)

Harrow International School Beijing 北京哈罗英国学校 www.harrowbeijing.cn Harrow International School Beijing prides itself on its high academic standards, a close-knit school community, a rich extracurricular activity program and the quality of its pastoral care provision. Leadership skills are promoted school-wide, with a range of enrichment activities to help students develop teamwork and creative thinking skills, as well as independence and responsibility. Students graduating from Harrow Beijing have won places at a range of universities across the world including Princeton, Yale, Oxford and Cambridge. > Address: 287, Hegezhuang, Cuigezhuang County, Chaoyang 朝阳区崔各庄乡何各庄村 287 号 (8610 6444 8900 Ext. 6900 Fax: 10 6445 3870 ,enquiries@ harrowbeijing.cn)

Yew Chung International School 耀中国际学校 Located in downtown Honglingjin Park since 1995, Yew Chung International School of Beijing (YCIS Beijing) offers a truly international curriculum for children of foreign nationals in China. The school follows the National Curriculum for England but also integrates an extensive Chinese language and culture program, allowing foreign nationals to get the best out of their time in China. YCIS Beijing is one of only five schools in China accredited by three separate accreditation organizations and has a 100 percent pass rate within the IGCSE and IB programs. In addition, YCIS Beijing is the only international school in China to receive the Cambridge Award for Excellence in Education from the University of Cambridge International Examinations. > Honglingjin Park, 5 Houbalizhuang, Chaoyang 朝阳区后八里庄5号红领巾公园 (8583 3731,www. ycis-bj.com)

Kindergartens House of Knowledge International Kinde garten (HOK) House of Knowledge International kindergarten (HOK) has locations in both Shunyi and Chaoyang. Both locations offer a Kindergarten program for children aged 10 months to 6 years (Pre-school). Students are treated as competent learners and the school emphasizes critical thinking and collaboration skills, in an environment where children “Lean to Learn”. In additional, the Shunyi location also has a elementary school starting from grade 1 in September 2014. > Quanfa Gardens Campus: North gate of Quanfa compound, 15 Maquanying, Chaoyang District 朝阳区马泉营15号泉发花园北门 (6431 8452, www.hokschools.com);Victoria Gardens Campus: 15 Chaoyang Gongyuan Xilu, Chaoyang District 朝阳区朝阳公园西路15号维 多利亚花园公寓(6538 2624, www.hokschools. com)

EtonKids International Kindergarten 伊顿国际幼儿园 > LidoRoom C103 Lido Country Club, Lido Place Jichang Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区蒋台路机场路丽 都广场 (6436 7368 www.etonkids.com) ;3/F, Block D Global Trade Mansion Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区光华路世贸国际公寓D座3层 ( 6506 4805) ; Southwest corner of Beichen Xilu and Kehui Lu, Chaoyang District 朝阳区 北辰西路与科荟路交汇处西南角(8437 1006); Kehui Lu, Chaoyang, Beijing 朝阳区科荟路大 屯里社区(8480 5538) ;Bldg 19, Central Park, 6 Chaowai Dajie Chaoyang 朝阳区朝外大街6 号新城国际19号楼 (6533 6995); Palm Springs International Apartments 8 Chaoyang Park Nanlu Chaoyang 朝阳区朝阳公园南路8号棕榈 泉国际公寓 (6539 8967); Bldg 21, Guangqu Jiayuan, Guangqumen- wai, Dongcheng东城区 广渠门外广渠家园21号楼 (6749 5008); Baoxing International Phase 2, Wangjing Chaoyang朝阳 区望京宝星园国际社区2期 (8478 0578); Block 1, Arcadia Villas, Houshayu Shunyi 顺义区后沙峪罗 马环岛北侧天北路阿凯笛亚庄园1座(8047 2983); 20A Xidawang Lu, Chaoyang District 朝阳区西大 望路甲20号首府社区内 (5870 6779)

Beanstalk International Bilingual School 青苗国际双语学校 > Kindergarten: 1/F, Tower B, 40 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区亮马桥路40号B座一层 (6466 9255); Primary School: Block 2, Upper East Side, 6 Dongsihuan Beilu, Chaoyang 朝阳区 东四环北路6号阳光上东二区 (5130 7951);Middle & High School : 38 Nan Shiliju, Chaoyang朝阳区 南十里居38号 (8456 6019)

Ivy Schools 艾毅幼儿园

> www.ivyschools.com ; East Lake Campus C-101, East Lake Villas, 35 Dongzhimenwai Main Street, Dongcheng 东城区东直门外大街35号东 湖别墅C座101室(8451 1380/1) ; Ivy Bilingual School 艾毅双语幼儿园 Ocean Express Campus: Building E, Ocean Express, 2 Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang 朝阳区东三环北路2号远洋新干 线E座 (8446 7286/7) ;Orchid Garden Campus: Orchid Garden, 18 Xinjin Lu, Cuige Xiang, Chaoyang 朝阳区崔各乡新锦路18号卓锦万代 (8439 7080); Wangjing Campus: Kylin Zone, Bldg 11, Fuan Xilu, Wangjing, Chaoyang 朝 阳区望京阜安西路11号楼合生麒麟社内 (5738

9166/1332 110 6167) ; Rm106, warehouse4, 653 Waima Lu, by Wangjia Matou Lu 外马路653 号4库106室, 近王家码头路 (3376 8308)

MBA & EMBA Schools Rutgers International Executive MBA

> 5/F China Life Tower, 16 Chaowai Dajie Chaoyang 朝阳区朝阳门外大街16号中国人寿大厦 (5877 1706, www.rutgersinasia.com)

BBA at BFSU-SolBridge 北京外国语大学国际商学院

> 19 Xisanhuan Beilu, Haidian, 海淀区西三环北 路19号 (solbridge.bfsu.edu.cn, 8881 6563/8881 6763/8881 8537)

LEMBA The Leadership EMBA from the University of Maryland Robert H. Smith School of Business is a unique learning experience in Beijing. The program offers world class executive and leadership education from some of the best professors the world has to offer. Every month one of the professors from the University of Maryland comes to Beijing to instruct the class for 4 consecutive > days (Thurs – Sun). The program lasts 18 months; the impact lasts a lifetime. (8526 2528/29, beijing@ rhsmith.umd.edu)

Other Atelier Art School 阿特黎尔艺术工坊 Atelier is the reference art school for artistic education for all ages and profiles in Beijing. Founded in 2012 by a team of french professionals, Atelier offers a high quality instruction, with sensibility, creativity and openness to the world in the center of its educational programs. >Sanlitun campus: C202, Jinxiuyuan, Xingfucun Zhonglu, Chaoyang 朝阳区幸福村中路锦绣园C202 (6416 1614 / 132 4018 4908); Shunyi campus: 204205, Bldg 2, Central Park, 16 Yufeng Lu, Shunyi (Go to 2/F from Entrance A of Commercial Buildings) 顺 义区裕丰路16号院会展誉景2号楼204-205 商铺A入口 2楼 (5686 4243 / 151 1009 8260, contact@atelier. cn.com, www.atelier.cn.com)

Bookstores The Bookworm * This glass cube looks over Sanlitun Village, providing a cozy atmosphere for browsing bibliophiles. The Western bookstore, library, film house, bar, bistro-cafe and event space always has a cultured evening on its shelves for both adults and kids. > Daily 9am-2am. Building 4, Nan Sanlitun Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 三里屯南街4号楼 (6586 9507, www.beijingbookworm.com)

Page One The go-to shop for new releases and special requests. With sister venues in Hong Kong, Taiwan and Singapore, and two locations in Beijing, its network allows for fresh authors whilst upholding an extensive collection of titles.

> Daily 10am-9pm. Shop 3B 201, Zone 3 China World Mall, No.1 Jian Guo Men Wai Avenue, Chaoyang District 朝阳区国贸商城三期地下二层3B201 (8535 1055, www.pageonegroup.com); Page One Indigo.

Shop LG50, INDIGO, 18 Jiuxianqiao Lu, Chaoyang District 朝阳区酒仙桥路18号颐堤港商业中心B1楼50号 (8426 0408, www.pageonegroup.com)

GALLERY 798 Art District Picks Galleria Continua * In the often-insular 798, Galleria Continua is the international gallery. Their warehouse space is a forum for high-caliber artists from nearly every continent, including several of China’s artistic nobility. > Free. Tues-Sun 11am-6pm. 798 Art District, 2 Jiuxianqiao Lu, Chaoyang District 朝阳区酒仙桥路 2号798大山子艺术区 (5978 9505, www.galleriacontinua.com)

Long March Space Founder and curator, Lu Jie abides by exacting standards from both the 20-odd Chinese artists he represents and the overall design of his topical and uncompromising exhibitions. International clout was inevitable. > Free. Tues-Sun 11am-7pm. 4 Jiuxianqiao Road, Chaoyang District 朝阳区酒仙桥路4号798艺术区 (5978 9768, www.longmarchspace.com)

Pace Beijing With locations in New York, London and Beijing hosting the likes of Zhang Xiaogang, Yue Minjun, Robert Rauschenberg, Mark Rothko, Kiki Smith and Sol LeWitt, Pace inhabits Bauhaus-style buildings 798 is idealized for. Go there!

> Free. Tues-Sun 10am-6pm.798 Art District, 2 Jiuxianqiao Lu, Chaoyang District 朝阳区酒仙桥路2号 大山子艺术区 (5978 9781, www.pacegallery.com)

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CLASSIFIEDS ACCOMMODATION

Ascott Beijing >No.108B Jianguo Road,Chaoyang District,Beijing 北京市朝阳区建国路乙108号 (6587 0888) Ascott Raffles City Beijing Located in Dongzhimen, one of the most vibrant areas, Ascott Raffles City is near the second embassy district, which is rich in cultural heritage and is only a 15 minute drive to The Forbidden City.

Other nearby leisure attractions include Food Street (Gui Jie) and Sanlitun nightlife district. > No.1-2 Dongzhimen South Street Dongcheng District Tel: 8405 3888

commercial,shopping and recreation areas.

Fully equipped apartments with impeccable quality offer you a cozy living system and will meet all of your requirements for room decoration, furniture, electric appliances etc..

Unique sky garden with golf practice field and barbecue area is another symbol of GTC Residence. > sales@gtcresidence.com, website: www. gtcresidence.com Tel:56756666 Beijing Lianbao

Ascott Raffles City Chengdu > No. 3, Section 4, South Renmin Road, Wuhou District, Chengdu 610041, China Post code: 610041,Telephone:(86-28) 6268 2888 ,Facsimile:(86-28) 6268 2889 ,GDS Code: AZ, Reservations Telephone:400 820 1028 (China toll-free) ;(86-512) 6763 1021 Email:enquiry.china@the-ascott.com

Oakwood Residence Beijing Oakwood Residence Beijing offers 406 fully equipped luxury apartments ranging from studios to four bedroom penthouse and terrace apartments, all exquisitely furnished in elegant and stylish decor. Each apartment is fitted with a state-of-the-art air purification and air conditioning system which ensures 99.9% pure, triple filtered air, so you can trust in Oakwood and breathe easy. > No. 8 Dongzhimenwai Xiejie, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100027, China reschaoyang@oakwoodasia.com Website: www.oakwoodasia.com/resbeijing Tel: 5995 2888 Fax: 5995 2999

Ascott Riverside Garden Beijing With a stunning east-meets-west architecture, the residence provides spacious studios, stylish one-bedroom apartments as well as unique two-bedroom penthouses and luxurious three-bedroom premiers.

The lifestyle amenities and unparalleled recreational facilities offer the residents various options for relaxation and entertainment > No.33A Zhou Zhuang Jiayuan Dongli, Chaoyang District, Beijing Telephone Number: (86-10) 8783 1666 Website: www.ascottchina.com Email:enquiry.beijing@the-ascott.com Beijing Kerry Residence Whether you’re a single business executive or a busy family, Beijing Kerry’s fullyfurnished 1, 2 and 3-bedroom apartments will feel just like home. As well as enjoying all the comforts of modern living – including a well-equipped kitchen, entertainment systems, high-speed broadband and much more – residents are just moments away from the Kerry Centre’s shopping mall and sports facilities. The rest of the CBD is on your doorstep too. >1 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang 朝阳区光华路1 号 (8535 6888, www.beijingkerryresidence. com) Lee Garden Service Apartments A newly renovated high-end premier living residence in a central location next to the shopping and cultural sites of Beijing’s Wangfujing, suites range from studios to 4-bedroom apartments (60-610sqm in size) and are tastefully furnished with specially selected materials. > 18 Jinyu Hutong, Wangfujing, Dongcheng (100m East of Sun Dong An Plaza) 东城区 王府井金鱼胡同18号 (新东安东侧100米); 24hr front desk: 6525 8855, Fax: 6525 8080, general.manager@lgapartment.com, www. lgapartment.com) FraserSuite CBD Beijing The ultimate luxury in apartment living, Fraser Suites CBD Beijing epitomizes style and comfort, that surpasses the service level of many Beijing hotels. The 357 Gold-Standard Beijing apartment features contemporary concepts designed for luxury living. > 12 Jintong Xilu Chaoyang District Beijing Tel: 5908 6000 GTC RESIDENCE BEIJING One of the top residences in Beijing, GTC Residence is located beside the third ring road with 5 minutes’ walk to subway line 5 , 10 minutes’ drive to Hou Hai . It is also within easily reach of CBD, embassy area, Financial Street and other urban

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contemporary fully serviced apartments from studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, three-bedroom and four bedroom suites available, measuring 64 to 260 square meters. There is a 24-hours guest reception, and housekeeping is offered twice a week.

Nestled within the landscaped gardens of the Ocean Express commercial and residential complex, Oak Chateau Beijing is very close to the third Embassy Area and shopping and dinning services at the Beijing Lufthansa Center. There are only 19 kilometers to the Beijing Capital Airport. >北京市朝阳区东三环霞光里66号远洋新干线 D座 邮编 100027 Block D, Ocean Express, 66 Xiaguang Li, Third East Ring Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100027, P.R.C Tel: (86-10) 84465888 Fax: (86-10) 84465999 Email oak.chateau@oakchateau.com Website: www.oakchateau.com

> Unite 1C, Building 7, Xingfu Yicun Xili, Chaoyang District 朝阳区幸福一村西里 7号楼1C (6415 8001, 138 1093 6118, hanxingyue1127@126.com) Lusongyuan Hotel A traditional compound of quadrangle composing of 5 courtyards which lies in the "hutong" area of Beijing. The hotel building is famous for its imperial living taste of the Qing Dynasty with a history of nearly 170 years. The original owner of this large private house was the Grand General SenggeRinchen, who lived here while he carried out top official duties, such as defense minister. > Tel: (86 10) 6404 0436, Fax: (86 10) 6403 0418 , Address:No.22 Banchang Lane , Kuanjie, Dongcheng District 东城区宽街板 厂胡同22号 www.the-silk-road.com, E-mail: webmaster@the-silk-road.com Marriott Executive Apartments Ideally located in the center of Wangfujing area where the prestigious business, commercial, entertainment, and shopping center of Beijing. The Imperial Mansion, Beijing – Marriott Executive Apartments reflects an exceptional level of luxury. > Gate, No. 1 Xiagongfu Street, Dongcheng District Tel: 6564 9999 The Millennium Residences of the Beijing Fortune Plaza The Millennium Residences of the Beijing Fortune Plaza is located in the heart of the Beijing CBD which bears the most momentously potential of development and value elevation. While 25 minutes away from the Beijing International Airport, the Millennium Residences is walking distance from nearly all Embassies. > 7 Dongsanhuan Zhonglu Chaoyang District. Tel: 8588 2888 Oak Chateau Beijing Oak Chateau Beijing has 236 stylish and

Oakwood Residence Damei Beijing The only serviced apartment in the city that has its own in-house supply of natural hot spring water supply. Expansive city views are available from floor to ceiling windows with the apartments situated from level 23 to 35 in the building complex.

The 171 stylish contemporary serviced residences range from studios to threebedroom apartments and offer an elegant range of amenities and facilities to ensure each resident’s stay is comfortable and well taken care of.

Building No.1 Damei Center, 7 Qingnian Road, Chaoyang District Beijing北京市朝阳 区青年路7号达美中心1号楼 Tel: 86-10 8585 2211 (8:30am-5:30pm) 86-10 8585 2888 (5:30pm-8:30am) Fax: (86-10) 8585 2666 website OakwoodAsia.com THE WESTIN EXECUTIVE RESIDENCES The Westin Executive Residences at The Beijing Financial Street offer an array of world-class cuisine options and Westin’s signature amenities designed to elicit personal renewal. Just 40 minutes from the airport, the Westin Executive Residences provides direct access to Beijing’s business, entertainment and shopping district and close proximity to cultural landmarks such as The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. Each apartment is also fitted with contemporary furnishings, fully equipped kitchens, state-of-the-art appliances, home entertainment system and LCD flat screen televisions. > Email: reservation.beijing@westin.com Website: www.westin.com/beijingfinancial Tel: 6606 8866

BUSINESS CENTER Regus Serviced Office 雷格斯服务式办公室 •Flexible office leases from 1 day to 1 year •Quick and easy to set up for 1-200 people •Prices from RMB180 per month •Find more on Regus.cn •Tel: 400 120 1207 >> BEIJING (20 LOCATIONS) << Lei Shing Hong Plaza [New] 北京利星行广场 5/F, Tower C, Lei Shing Hong Plaza, No.8 Wangjing Street, Chaoyang District

北京市朝阳区望京街8号利星行广场C座5层 Sun Dong An Plaza [New] 北京新东安广场 7/F, Office Tower 2, Sun Dong An Plaza, No.138 Wangfujing, Avenue, Dongcheng District 北京市东城区王府井大街138号新东 安广场写字楼2座7层 Zhongyu Mansion [New] 北京中宇大厦 6/F, Zhongyu Mansion, No.6 North Workers Stadium Road, Chaoyang District 北京市朝阳区工体北路甲6号中宇大厦6层 Diplomatic [New] 北京亮马桥外交办公大楼 17/F, Tower E, Liangmaqiao, Diplomatic Office Building, 3rd Embassy District, Chaoyang District 北京市朝阳区第三使馆区 亮马桥外交办公大楼E座17层 Kerry Centre - South Tower [New] 北京嘉里中心-南楼 10/F, South Tower, Kerry Centre, No.1 Guanghua Road, Chaoyang District 北京市朝阳区光华路1号嘉里中心南楼10层 Landgent Building [Coming Soon] 北京乐成中心 5/F, Block A, Landgent Center, No.20 East Middle 3rd Ring Road, Chaoyang District 北京市朝阳区东三环中路20号乐成中心A座5层 China World Tower 3 北京国贸三期 15/F, China World Tower 3, No.1 Jianguomenwai Street, Chaoyang District 北京市朝阳区建国门外大街1号国贸中心3座 15层 China Central Place 北京华贸中心 9/F, Tower 2, China Central Place, No.79 Jianguo Road, Chaoyang District 北京市朝阳区建国路79号华贸中心2号楼9层 Lufthansa Centre 北京燕莎中心 C203, Lufthansa Centre, No.50 Liangmaqiao Road, Chaoyang District 北京市朝阳区亮马桥路50号燕莎中心C203 Kerry Centre 北京嘉里中心 11/F, North Tower, Kerry Centre, No.1 Guanghua Road, Chaoyang District 北京市朝阳区光华路1号嘉里中心北楼11层 Pacific Century Place 北京盈科中心 14/F, IBM Tower, No.2A North Workers Stadium Road, Chaoyang District 北京市朝阳区工体北路甲2号IBM大厦14层 Parkview Green 北京侨福芳草地中心 15/F, Office Building A Parkview, Green, No.9 Dongdaqiao Road, Chaoyang District 北京市朝阳区东大桥路8号芳草地办公楼A座 15层 China Life Tower 北京中国人寿大厦中心 5/F, China Life Tower, No.16 Chaoyangmenwai Street, Chaoyang District 北京市朝阳区朝阳门外大街16号中国人寿大 厦5层 China Life – West 北京中国人寿大厦-西 West, 5/F, China Life Tower, No.16 Chaoyangmenwai Street, Chaoyang District 北京市朝阳区朝阳门外大街16号中国人寿大 厦5层西区 IFC 北京财源国际中心 10/F, IFC East Tower, No.8 Jianguomenwai Street, Chaoyang District 北京市朝阳区建国 门外大街甲8号财源国际中心东座10层 Prosper Center 北京世纪财富中心 6/F, Tower 2, Prosper Center, No.5 Guang Hua Road, Chaoyang District 北京市朝阳区 光华路5号世纪财富中心2号楼6层

CLASSIFIEDS Financial St. Excel Centre 北京金融街卓著中心 12/F, Financial Street Excel, Centre, No.6 Wudinghou Street, Xicheng District 北京市 西城区武定侯街6号卓著国际金融中心12层 NCI Centre 北京新华保险大厦中心 15/F, NCI Tower, No.12A Jianguomenwai Street, Chaoyang District 北京市朝阳区建国 门外大街甲12号新华保险大厦15层 Taikang Financial Tower 北京泰康金融大厦 23/F, Taikang Financial Tower, No.38 East Third Ring Road, Chaoyang District 北京市 朝阳区东三环北路38号泰康金融大厦23层 Zhongguancun Metropolis Tower 北京中关村欧美汇大厦 7/F, Metropolis Tower, No.2 Dongsan Street, Zhongguancun Xi Zone, Haidian District 北京 市海淀区中关村西区东三街2号欧美汇大厦7 层 Servcorp Smart businesses understand that flexibility is the future of the workplace. They choose the world's finest Serviced Offices to grow their businesses, run critical projects and give their people flexibility.

Level 26 Fortune Financial Center, 5 Dongsanhuan Zhonglu, Chaoyang 朝阳区 东三环中路5号财富金融中心26层 (Servcorp. com.cn; tel: 5775 0310; fax: 5775 0350) Need flexible and affordable ready workspace to enhance your business or register a representative office for your temporary projects in Beijing? We have the perfect solution. Located within a Grade-A building in the popular Lufthansa Business Area, our work-spaces provide you, or your company, with the ideal business identity, and most importantly, come with the most competitive rates to minimize your cost and risks. > Gateway Plaza, Tower A, Suite 16D , NE 3rd Ring Road, Chaoyang 朝阳区东三环 北路霞光里18号佳程广场A座16D T:01084400606 M:15910782518 Cynthia LU CSO (Singapore) Beijing Business Center We have 10 years experience in managing serviced offices in the Asia and Pacific region, and our headquarters is in Singapore. CSO Beijing is our first business center in China . We are mainly providing fully renovated and equipped offices to clients for immediate use, and all the serviced offices can be used as incorporation purpose, and we offer maximum flexibility and complete smart office system to help our clients save cost. We also provide virtual offices, meeting room and conference room, video conferencing, incorporation services and many other services.

Level 6, Sun Palace Building, Taiyanggong, Beijing Ms. Stephanie Yan, Mobile: 18210080591, Email: sales.beijing@ corporateso.com, Website: www.csochina. cn, Tel: 86 10 64697000

BEAUTY SERVICES Black Golden Tanning Salon Sanlitun Branch Grand Opening Black Golden Tanning Salon is the only fivestar China flagship store by Ergoline. As the 2011 model of Ergoline Esprit 770’s, to bring a continuous tanning effect 25% above standard machines with unique aquacool and aroma functions, we provide customers with the safest and most comfortable tanning space. > Open time:11:00-21:00 Sanlitun SOHO Branch 2rd Floor Building 3, Sanlitun SOHO,Chaoyang District Tel: 57853711; Wangjing Branch Add: Room T5 3rd Floor, BOTAI International Building, No. 36 North Guangshun Street, Wangjing, Chaoyang District, Website: www.bjtanning.com Tel: 84722855 LA BELLEZA La Belleza means Beauty and Aesthetics in Spanish. Professional hair-designers from Hong Kong ,Korea and China gather here.

LA BELLEZA is the hairdressing salon for you with its pleasant atmosphere, excellent service, and finest products.

New haircut! Good mood! Excellent life!

Add: F4 No.408, Jinbao Place .Jinbao Street No88,Dongcheng District, Beijing, china.

Website: www.labelleza.com.cn Tel: 010 8522 1626

MegaSun Tanning Salon As the only flagship store for this popular German tanning salon, megaSun Tanning will provide for each client the finest sun tanning experience.

Our center has prepared the newest functional 7900 alpha and pureEnergy chamber systems, combined with easyCare optical testers. At megaSun, enjoy our professional UV and tanning services. > 8 Dongdaqiao Road, sShangdu SOHO North Tower, Rm. 2302 Chaoyang District, Beijing Website: www.imegasun.com e-mail: 1019771453@qq.com Sina Weibo: @麦肤堂 Tel: 5900-2236/2238

STORAGE China Self Storage Co. Ltd As a member of SSA and SSAUK, China Self Storage Co. Ltd. introduces an international industry standard to professionally developed Self Storage for private, family and business. Safe, clean, air-conditioned, 24h access, flexible size. To learn more, visit www.selfstorageinchina.com. To make a reservation, contact 400-600-6378 info@ selfstorageinchina.com.

Jin’an Building, Tianzhu Garden West Rd., Shunyi District, Beijing.

Koala Ministorage Koala Ministorage is the first professional self-storage provider in Beijing. To learn more, visit our website www.koalaministorage.com. To make a reservation, call us toll free at 400-017-8889, email us at questions@koalaministorage.com, or visit one of our stores.

FURNITURE Crossover Crossover Center Flagship Store, is mainly marketing international super home furnishing brand products.

Our agent brands include Poltrona Frau, Cassina, Fritz Hansen, Moroso, Cappellini, Timothy Oulton, Tom Dixon etc, over 20 international super home furnishing brands.

Our products are covered with all of fields in daily-life home furnishing, including furniture, furnishing, lighting, dinning, and office supplies etc.

Website: www.crossovercenter.com NO.81 North Road San-Li-Tun Bar St. ChaoYang District.Beijing.100027,P.R.C. Tel: 5208 6112/6113 Fax: 8610-5208 6123

HOUSEKEEPING JNY Home Service JNY Home Service was established in 2007, supplying foreign families with English speaking/non-English Speaking nannies(maids), either daily or live-in.

As a part of our service,we make sure all references and ID cards are thoroughly checked to guarantee the safety and health of your family.

Email : jieniyou@hotmail.com Mobile: 13426362833(24h) Beijing EX-PATS Service Healty, reliable, experienced, Englishspeaking housemaid/ nanny. Free agency and 24- hour English service. Medical and Accident insurrance covered. EXPATS Life Group also serves with Mandarin, car leasing, English-speaking driver, Chinese driving license, vehicle registration. service@expatslife.com Website: www.expatslife.com Tel: 64381634 Mobile: 13501237292

MOVING AND SHIPPING Rex Service Moving and Relocation Is a dedicated and professional removals company based in China, Established in 1995, which operates worldwide.

•Free of Charge Pre-Move Survey •Professional Packing Material •Professional Packing & Loading •Special Crating •Efficient Customs Clearance •Shipment Forwarding •Destination Delivery •Unpacking and Set-up •Transit Insurance for "All-Risks"

•Global Network in more than 200 Countries As a respected member of global organisations such as the International Association of Movers (IAM), Fédération Internationale des Déménageurs Internationaux (FIDI) and Japan International Movers Association (JIMA), we have sought and established relationships with over 2000 companies from around the world which gives us successfully logistics network worldwide.

Contact us: Hotline: 400 8821 060 Tel: (86) 18222169211/ 15010058549 E-mail: sales1@rexmovers.com; ew@ rexmovers.com Website: www.rexrelo.com

REAL ESTATE AGENTS JOANNA REAL ESTATE RELOCATION SERVICE We are one of China’s leading real estate agencies boasting an extensive database of high-end properties for rent. We have helped thousands of expatriates find their homes as well as hundreds of companies re-locate their employees. Once we have found you your ideal home we will be on hand to deal with any post move issues and our dedicated after sales team will be contactable 7 days a week to help you with any queries you have throughout your stay in our country. > For more information please contact us:Email: paulquin@joannarealestate. com.cnWebsite: http:>beijing. joannarealestate.com.cn/ (Tel: 84585667 ; 13501358971) Replus-Benchmark “Replus-Benchmark” is one of the leading real estate agencies and relocation service provider for expatriates in Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Chengdu and Shenzhen.

• Residential Home Search Service • Visa Application • Commercial Office Space Search Service • Buying and Selling Property Service E-mail: marketing@replus-benchmark.com Website: www.replus-benchmark.com > A-1509,Xiaoyun Center, No.15 of Xiaoyun Road, Chaoyang District Beijing Tel: 84467119 Fax: 84467577 Silk Road Travel Management Ltd. Silk Road Travel is a pioneer in organizing Silk Road tours and other classic routes in China. Founded in 1997, we are specialized in tailor making travel packages that allow travellers to truly experience the local cultures and explore the amazing heritages. Whether you are a small group of 2-9 persons or a corporate group, our professional staff will tailor make the tour programme based on your needs.

Email: travel@the-silk-road.com www.the-silk-road.com TUI China An affiliate of World of TUI, the world’s leading tourism group, TUI China was established in late 2003 as the first joint venture with foreign majority share in the Chinese tourism industry. Its headquarters are in Beijing whilst its operations reach deep into the far corners of China. World of TUI generated approx.50,000 predominantly western tourists to China yearly and provides M.I.C.E services for renowned companies worldwide. > Add: Bright China Chang An Building, Tower 2, Unit 921-926, 7 Jianguomen Nei Avenue (Fax: +86 (0)10 6517 1371; Email: sales@tui.cn; Website: www.tui.cn; Tel: 8519 8800

CONSULTING SERVICE Harris Corporate Services Ltd Beijing | Shanghai | Guangzhou | Hong Kong Established since 1972 WFOE & Rep. Office Set Up Accounting & Tax Compliance Payroll, HR & Visa Solutions Hong Kong & Offshore Company Registration Hong Kong & China Bank Account Opening

Serving all your business needs for investing in China. Call us for a free consultation.

Tel: (86)10-6591 8087 Mobile: 186-019-43718 Email: info.bj@harrissec.com.cn Beijing: Room 2302, E-Tower, No.12 Guanghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, PRC.北京市朝阳区光华路12号数码01大厦 2302室 Shanghai: Suite 904, OOCL Plaza, 841 Yan An Zhong Road, Jing-An District, Shanghai, PRC.上海市静安区延安中路841号东方海外大 厦904室 Guangzhou: Room D-E, 11/F., Yueyun Building, 3 Zhongshan 2nd Road, Guangzhou, PRC.广州市中山二路3号(东山 口)粤运大厦11楼D-E室 Hong Kong: 7/F., Hong Kong Trade Centre, 161-167 Des Voeux Road Central, Hong Kong.香港德辅道 中161-167号香港贸易中心7楼 MHI China LTD 凯特威（北京）咨询有限公司 Room 971, 9/F，Poly Plaza，No.14， Dogzhimen Nan Dajie，Dongcheng 东城区 东直门南大街14号保利大厦写字楼9层971室 (6551 0663) Beijing Office-TMF Group In order to enable clients benefit from the increasing globalization of the worlds economy, TMF Group offers a comprehensive range of corporate administrative outsourcing services in 67 counties across the globe. With a genuine global network and qualified staff, TMF group provides an array of accounting, corporate secretarial and HR administrative outsourcing services. > Colin.Zhang@TMF-group.com Website: www.tmf-group.com CCTV Tower and Kerry Centre Suite 3107, Tower A Beijing Fortune Plaza,7 Dongsanhuan Zhong Road, Chaoyang District Tel: 65330533-860

CAR RENTAL SERVICE Beijing First Choice Car Rental Service Co., Ltd We offer short and long term vehicle leasing services for both business and sightseeing. Our commpany could provide the latest elite, high-end vehicles such as Mercedes Benz S300, BMW S5 and more!

Contact our friendly representatives for more information.

Tel: 138 1015 6525/6434 0778 www.fccars.cn fccars@live.cn Beijing TOP-A Vehicle Service Co., Ltd Beijing Top-A Vehicle Service provides: *English -speaking driver *Long-short term leasing *Airport-Pick up/Drop off *Sedan, Van and Bus We, ES-PATS Life Group, also serves with Mandarin, housemaid, Visa, driver, driving license, vehicle registration service.

Tel: 6438 1634, 1350 123 7292, service@ expatslife.com www.expatslife.com Beijing Top Rate Car Rental Service Co., Ltd *Long/Short term leasing *Daily car service *Sifht-seeing car service, Tailor-made car service *Airport-Pick up/Drop off *Sedan (Audi A6, Audi A6L, VWPassat, Accord, Lacross 2.4, Benz MB100, Benz Vito, Hyundai) and Buses *Native drivers with good English *More information please contact Tel:6504 7266/6504 7256 FAx:6504 7256 www.sxsdcar.com Email:car-rental@live.com

OTHERS Individual Beijing American Club Individual Beijing American Club membership for sale. I am leaving Beijing and want to sell my Beijing American Club Individual Membership at a price of RMB 150,000. The admission fee for a new member is RMB 200,000. Please contact Ted Chan at (86) 139 1613 2921, tedktchan@ hotmail.com, or WeChat at tedktchan, if you are interested.

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tj Tianjin reviews, events and information

Wulong Shan Bojue Theater

‘Crab’ has no job, no house and no car – and to make matters worse, Crab is wanted by the police for a bank robbery he didn’t commit. Either him or the real robber faces death. So, which guy is it? Watch to find out.

Sat Mar 10, 7.30pm; RMB80-1,080; Binhai Performing Arts Center, 347 Xusheng Lu, Binhai New District滨海新 区旭升路347号 (tickets via piao.damai. cn)

Wine tasting Drinking

Tianjin may be rough for the wineinclined, but fear not, because Le Loft has heard le call of duty. This month the restaurant and bar hosts its popular social networking event, featuring imported French wines paired with an all-you-can-eat buffet – and all this for RMB100 a pop.

Fri Mar 2, 8.30-10.30pm; RMB100; Le Loft, 4 Jinsong Li, Nanjing Lu, Heping 和平区南京路劲松里4号 (add Peter on WeChat to reserve a spot: ptshilei)

Hunan Food Festival with Spicy Fragrance at The Ritz-Carlton, Tianjin Buffet

Enjoy a special Hunan Food Festival at The Ritz-Carlton, Tianjin this month brought to you by ZEST’s chef Henry Li, alongside special guest Unilever executive chef Yongjun Fu. The guest chef is an expert in Hunan cuisine, so be prepared to sweat – Hunanese isn’t for the faint of heart.

All month; from RMB4,888/table; 126 Weiguo Dao, Hedong 河东区卫国道126 号 (022 2457 1234)

Masquerade Ball Party

The Tianjin International Community Center celebrates its 20th anniversary with glamor and intrigue at Sheraton Hotel Tianjin’s ballroom. The theme is ‘masquerade’ so put on your best mask and get ready for mystery. Expect a live band, raffle and door prizes, a buffet, wine, beer and soda.

Fri Mar 23, 6.30pm; Tianjin Sheraton Hotel, Zijinshan Lu, Hexi 河西区紫金山路 (022 2731 3388)

Bloomy Love Wedding Package / Celebrations

Celebrate your special love at Renaissance Tianjin Lakeview Hotel this spring with one of the hotel’s beautiful wedding packages. With its amazing wedding venues, such as a Grand Ballroom and lawn garden, plus delicious food and drink deals, you’re guaranteed to have a memorable day at Renaissance Tianjin Lakeview Hotel.

Wedding packages start from RMB5,399; Renaissance Tianjin Lakeview Hotel, 16 Binshui Lu, Hexi 河西区滨水路16号 (022 5822 3923)

Revel’s World of Shakespeare Poetry

This one-man show is a tour-de-force by American writer-slash-actor-slash-director Joseph Graves. It draws upon Graves’ experiences at school where he was taught Shakespeare by a Bard-mad, alcoholic professor. An intense and impressive performance.

Sun Mar 25, 7.30pm; RMB60-280; Jinwan Grand Theater, Bldg 4, Jinwan Plaza, Jiefang Beilu, Heping和平区解放北路津湾广场4号楼 (tickets via piao.damai.cn)

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G² COCKTAIL BAR Raising the Bar in Tianjin

by S i d G u l i n c k

78 | MARCH 2018 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM

G² Cocktail Bar is a true speakeasy – patrons must press a button on a fake vending machine to enter.

(Though don’t worry about finding it – the stream of customers going in and out of this place will ensure you won’t have trouble getting in.) Once the vending machine door slides open, we’re greeted by the owner’s trademark: a statue of a face protruding from the wall like Han Solo emerging from carbonite.

With its low ceilings, cozy niches and pink leather sofas, the well-thought-out decor feels sophisticated, if a tad prefab. Despite its cheeky Prohibition-style allure, for most patrons, getting buzzed discreetly seems less of a priority than taking the perfectly framed selfie. This is perfectly understandable, though, because each drink in this place is an experience in itself – with funky glasses and props included. As ambient and triphoppy music fills the cellar-like space, impeccably groomed bartenders with dandy-esque aprons and slicked-back hair mix concoctions for the wellto-do regulars hanging around the bar.

We try The Old Man and the Sea (RMB85), which comes served in a book (really), and whose Pernod absinthe base is complimented by tangy grapefruit juice and frothy egg white. The Coffee Negroni (RMB85) comes dripping into the glass like a pour-over brew, and other inventive takes on classics, like the Bacon Old-Fashioned (RMB80) grace the diverse menu.

Admittedly, the drinks could pack more of a punch, given the steep price-point (cocktails average RMB80, and Hoegaarden clocks in at RMB55 – ouch). But the clientele doesn’t seem to mind, which would explain the long queues and the buzz this place has been generating.

Fortunately, affordable classics like the Moscow Mule (RMB65) and original takes on staples made with homemade infusions, foams and syrups can be found alongside a decent selection of whiskeys, which are certain to attract even the stingiest of bon vivants.

With their second concept already buzzing in Tianjin, the G² crew have once again raised the bar for the city’s cocktail scene.

Daily, 8pm-2am; 66 Changsha Lu, Heping 和平区长 沙路66号 (155 2248 3690)

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MARCH

ing ’s Beij

That

Horoscopes

Finally, a horoscope that understands your life in Beijing.

by D o m i n i q u e Wo n g a n d N o e l l e M a t e e r

2.20~3.20

3.21~4.20

Aries

Taurus 4.21~5.21

5.22~6.21

The full moon on the 1st favors love, and the bigger the better. Publicly propose to your lover outside Taikoo Li Uniqlo or, if you’re single, ask out that jianbing guy who always gives you extra hot sauce.

After the New Year is a good time to refocus on your health. Get an air purifier. But only the expensive kind with wheels – buying second-hand off a WeChat group so soon after the New Year is not auspicious.

Explore a new, unchartered area of the city like Shunyi, or Xicheng district. If you become lost or scared, get back to the Second Ring Road via bus 991. Godspeed and good luck.

Your career takes focus this month: finally all those nights working overtime are paying off. Not literally, but, like, your boss finally knows your name now, and you’re not simply referred to as ‘laowai.’

Pisces

Cancer

Leo

Virgo

Gemini

Libra

6.22~7.22

7.23~8.23

8.24~9.23

9.24~10.23

You are keen to learn new skills. Try a cooking class at The Hutong or experiment with how many of those giant frozen margaritas at The Local you can drink before you pass out.

You decide.

You have a lucky star in the house of travel. You may receive a flight upgrade, or, a month’s worth of free bike share credit. However, you must pay it forward by leaving your bike unlocked after each ride.

Sorrow and despair will strike on March 15th – in the form of a very bad hangover from a night drinking fake alcohol in Gongti. Sooth your pain with zhou and an extra-large bottle of Pocari Sweat.

Use your natural talent for reasoning to get a dirt-cheap rickshaw ride home from the bar this month.

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Capricorn

Aquarius

Spring cleaning season is upon us.

Hose off all the dust in your hutong courtyard and brace yourself for the inevitable sighting of cockroach corpses. Also, buy some earplugs – your neighborhood drilling’s about to start up again.

Just because you traveled over CNY doesn’t mean you can’t travel again for Tomb Sweeping Day. Book your tickets though, like, now – or you’ll have to take the same annoying flight route you did when you booked late for Spring Festival, you dummy.

10.24~11.22 You’re about to take a big risk – but think carefully before investing all your money in a bootleg DVD shop, or purchasing property in Yashow. Ask a fortune teller outside Lama Temple before making any rash decisions.

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11.23~12.21

It’s time for you to stop living in the past. Stop hanging around Fangjia Hutong waiting for Cellar Door to reopen. The year 2015 was a glorious one, yes – but you’re probably better off not boozing so hard.

12.22~1.20

1.21~2.19

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