CITYLIFE / Bars & Cafes

Feel the vibe
By Simon Farnham (Beijing Weekend)
Updated: 2006-04-14 10:15

Factory 798 in Dashanzi is a popular day out for many, roaming in and out the different studios, cafes, workshops and even homes. But this Bauhaus industrial complex is overlooked by many outside the art community, as a place to go for a night out.

Having recently been given a lick of paint and an injection of cash and life by its new owners and the BOA promotion team, the three levels of Vibes are now home to some of Beijing's more alternative nights out.

Entry through the steel clad doorway reveals a surprisingly large venue with a simple bar with the rest of the space devoted to people's leisure and pleasure. Vibes maintains the area's industrial feel, while delivering an ambience often only found in much larger settings, as the DJ booth high above the dance floor sets the pace for party people below.

For those wishing to take it a bit easier, sofas and low tables are dotted around above the turntables.

Local beers are 20 yuan a bottle, with European house wines at 25 yuan for red and 30 for white. Other attractions besides DJs include live bands, occasional film showings and theme parties. It remains to be seen whether Vibes can overcome its location difficulties and win its mindshare of the capital's nightowls, but the set up is certainly in place for success. For more information log onto www.boaevents.com.

Location: 4 Jiuxianqiao Lu, Factory 798, Dashanzi, Chaoyang District
Opening time: Daily, 2pm - 12pm
Tel: 010-64378082