By Simon Lim, Judy Zhou and Rob Patterson (that's beijng)
Updated: 2006-08-24 08:58

If one can measure the quality of a city by the diversity of its nightlife, then it is fair to say that Beijing is becoming a cosmopolitan contender. From super clubs on Gongti Xilu, to ten kuai beers on Sanlitun, Beijingers are increasingly spoiled for choice when it comes to finding a suitable spot to wind down, rev up, be seen or get heard.

Over 1,500 votes were cast by our readers to nominate the crème de la crème of Beijing's bars and clubs across 20 different categories, determined by 100 of Beijing's bar experts, boozehounds and nightlife mavens. Each category was subject to standard statistical testing to determine its validity. We turned down free cocktails, lifetimes of unlimited beers and tossed out the ballot stuffers. The top three contenders in each category were selected: one winner and two runners-up, to whom, on behalf of our readers, we tip our hats. tbj staffers also make passionately unconvincing arguments for our own favorites, in the form of Editor’s Picks. A special thanks to Century 21 China Real Estate and Hotel Kunlun for their support. Oh, enough of the technicalities – let's announce this year's winners!

tbj presents the toast of 2006. The envelope please …

Best Cocktails - Centro

On top for yet another year, Centro owes its continued success to staff that know the difference between "a dirty Grey Goose on the rocks and a martini." Readers also cite the overall "quality of the drinks" and "pleasant environment" as the main draws. Don't forget the cool jazz and the beautiful people, essential as ever when looking for the ultimate cocktail lounge.
Runners-up - Alfa, Q Bar

Editor's Pick - Q Bar
If cocktails were judged on their infusion of legend, Q Bar would take the prize, hands down. George and Echo are as famous around Beijing for their modesty and integrity as they are for their mixed-with-love potions. But when it gets right down to it, a drink is a drink and the aces at Q still make the city's finest.

Best Beer Selection - The Tree

"Get the hops in your teeth!" slurred Mike Graham after voting The Tree as the place with the Best Beer Selection. We weren't quite sure what he was on about, but he seemed enthusiastic enough.
Runners-up - Beer Mania, Browns

Editor's Pick - Schindler's Filling Station
Technically a restaurant-but nothing stops you from pulling up a stool at the bar and ordering one of the sumptuous German lagers on offer (many are brewed on site), which are served up with expert German efficiency and care.

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