Danwei is the latest of the hip hideouts to hit the swelling Beiluogu Xiang, and we were thrilled to see the man behind it is long-time vintage fiend and Delia owner, Fai. The Hong Kong native says he and his team carefully considered the design details that give the bar its subtly old-school vibe, from the collectible panda glasses down to the vintage wallpaper. That, combined with a Nirvana theme that runs throughout (why Nirvana, I ask? Why not?), make up the heart in what Fai hopes will become Gulou institution.

Perhaps most attractive though, is the fact that the owners insist on using real alcohol. They say they sacrificed many a morning to try no small amount of liquor to make sure that the booze they use will leave you feeling hangover free, well, if you don’t overdo it.

Their menu is a simple one: A few bottled beers, Vedett Extra White on draft, wine, spirits and a handful of classic cocktails. What we were most interested in were the two Danwei “specials,” for RMB 25, one of which consisted of a smooth mix of homemade Chinese wine with ginger ale. And we can’t get past those adorable glasses.

They’re still in soft opening, but now is a good time to give them a try because if you stop by this week on a bike, you’re in for a free drink. On their Wechat, they say “If you already had the free drink and want more, just come back and get it!”

We approve.

Look for our full review in an upcoming issue of the Beijinger magazine.

Danwei
6 Huafeng Hutong (at the corner with Beiluoguxiang), Dongcheng District (8408 4194)
东城区华丰胡同6号在北锣鼓巷的路口

Photos: Jessica Rapp