(joannarealestate.com)
Updated: 2006-07-28 10:08

As most of Sanlitun south street sits in rubbles, there are signs that it's coming back to life. At the entrance to old "Nan Jie," behind the City Hotel, is the flashy new "Blue Apple." Don't be intimidated by the "Proper dress required," sign. Although the well-groomed hostesses and classy interior may appear in line with a dress code, one look at the casually garbed clientele and you can tell the sign is more for effect than anything else.

The interior is spacious and comfortable with private booths on the sides and plenty of tables towards the center. A large stage at the front plus a medium sized dance floor make a good venue for both live entertainment or dancing, or both at once. A DJ was spinning hip-hop around 11pm but the music varies at different hours of the night.

Beams of green light rain down on dancers from the ceiling. The psychedelic rays can be dizzying if you're on the dance floor, especially after a drink or two, but they provide a nice effect for onlookers. You can do plenty of people watching from the wide balconies above, and you'll find all the basic cocktails on the drink list average the standard RMB 30. An additional room with more of a jazz lounge atmosphere and a live band offers a respite for those who want a break from the booty shaking.

Blue Apple
Location: A8 Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang District
Tel: 010-51673333