Beijing’s Best Nightlife

Best Live Music [1]: Witness Beijing’s thriving live rock music scene at MAO Livehouse [1]. Local bands cut their teeth here, and it’s sure to be a stop for international indie, rock, and punk groups on tour.

Best-Kept Secret [2]: Hidden away down a narrow alley off Gulou Avenue in Houhai, Amilal [2] is a cozy little bar with a great whiskey list.

Best Cocktails [3]: Enjoy a cocktail like the “Martinez” martini prepared by expert mixologists using only the best ingredients at Apothecary [3].

Most Beautiful View [4]: Admire the distant mountains while you drink at Atmosphere [4], Beijing’s highest bar.

Best Hutong Atmosphere: [5] Among the warren of alleys in a trendy part of town, El Nido [5] is a tiny, unpretentious bar that represents the hutong vibe that Beijing nightlife is famous for.

Hidden Gem [6]: Beijing’s first (and only) Prohibition-style speakeasy, Fubar [6] lies behind a secret wall in a hot dog restaurant.

Best Snacks [7]: Sate your mid-party hunger pangs with some of Luga’s [7] hearty Mexican bar food.

Most Upscale Bar [8]: XIU [8] is pronounced “show” in Mandarin, and it’s certainly a place to show off. Pricy drinks keep things exclusive; make sure to check out the gorgeous roof terrace.

Best People-Watching [9]: Arguably one of Beijing’s best-known clubs, the World of Suzie Wong [9] is a nightlife staple in the capital city, and a great place to observe the clubbing scene in action.

Best Concept [10]: In the Houhai district, Bed Bar [10] combines drinking with lounging, allowing you to recline on actual beds as you enjoy your beverage.