Beijing Boyce

Charlie Flint: The first to step up with a shirt.

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T-shirts don’t make and deliver themselves, people! So, if you want to join the T-Shirts for Jackson contest, please deliver your short-sleever to the bar man pictured above at Sanlitun Salud (map). [Note: Make that Tun, Saturday, March 20, at 10 PM for his going-away party.]

In addition to the bottle of 7-year-old Havana Club and bottle of sparkling rose announced earlier, the prize package now includes a bottle of Jameson’s whiskey I received in the gift bag at the opening of Molly Malone’s (map) and a bottle of wine received in same at a recent event at Enoteca (map). I also had a quick talk with Jackson to learn what makes the man tick.

How did you end up in Beijing?

I came to Beijing on the eve of Spring Festival in 2001 from Jilan. Since then, I have worked for several places, such as Xiaowangfu, [the former] Golden Elephant, and Shut Up, Just Drink.

What’s best about working in Beijing bar scene?

I like working in a bar that caters to foreigners. I can talk to the customers and learn about the places they come from. By working in bars, I can also learn management skills, how to make drinks, English, public relations, sales – everything.

What’s your favorite drink?

My favorite is a Gin Tonic, but if I go to other bars, I like to order a Long Island Iced Tea. It’s usually good value.

What do you do when you’re not in the bar?

I like to exercise – running, biking, climbing, a little boxing. I like reading books about sales, marketing, and psychology, or watching DVDs, especially war movies. I also like hanging out with friends – we cook at each other’s houses.

Why did you pick Beijing?

I didn’t see a good future in my hometown, but Beijing has lots of challenges and opportunities. It’s tough if you don’t have any choices.

The second shirt, courtesy of yours truly.