Beijing Boyce

Another quick update, this one based on yesterday’s visits:

The Den: I spent the afternoon watching The Olympics here. This place has done a great job the past two week - the food (great fries!), the consistently good service, the five TVs, the decent prices, the proximity to Sanlitun and Workers’ Stadium. They have also gotten into the spirit of The Games by offering special dishes, including a “torch” Sundae and beef and mashed potatoes in the shape of the Beijing Olympics chop!

Face Bar: A “happy hour” visit found the place pretty much deserted, but nonetheless relaxing. By the way, note that the discount applies to standard drinks and some draft beers. If you’re unsure if your beverage qualifies, check before you order, or you might get a bill that makes you less than happy.

Blue Frog: I popped in to watch the US-Argentina basketball game (much scrappier than the score showed). The place is a bit pricey and for numerous patrons the view of the big screen was partially blocked by two decorative posts (can these be put on hinges and raised during games?), but overall it is a comfortable place to watch a game.

Luga’s II: Located in the former Marguerite, just around the corner from Tongli Studio, it featured a fun live band as well as good service, RMB15 Coronas, and good RMB35 burgers.

The Saddle Cantina: A solid crowd upstairs, both on the deck and inside. Using the wall of Nali studio as a giant projection screen for Olympic events is a nice touch.

Second Floor: I didn’t visit this relatively new place, but I could see from the street that it was absolutely packed.

Kokomo: We got halfway up the stairwell and ran into a lineup.

China Doll: Again, long lineups - at both the front and back entrances (apparently, Usain Bolt turned up in the wee hours.)

The Rickshaw: A moderate crowd meant available tables meant a final pit stop to fuel up on guacamole and Brooklyn Lager.