(That's beijing)
Updated: 2006-09-22 16:14

Location, location, location! The mantra for bar owners everywhere, except, it seems, in Beijing. Apart from the few that are lucky enough to find a spot in the vicinity of Gongti Beilu/Sanlitun or Chaoyang Park West Gate, many places in town sink into relative obscurity for the simple reason many people are all too happy to stick to what they know.

The folks at Bar 3000 will be hoping, then, that their business is the exception that proves the rule, having set up shop in the relatively innocuous location of Jianhua Nanlu, just south of Jianguomenwai. However, those who do find themselves in the area could do worse than to stop by. With darts, a pool table and PS2, the place has a cozy feel to it, a bit like the garage of that spoiled school friend we all had. The similarity stops here, as Bar 3000 has a license to purvey alcohol – a privilege beyond even the most doted upon 16-year-old. Beers start at RMB 35 and cocktails range from RMB 30-55 (avoid the margarita). Somewhat bizarrely, Bar 3000 shows three classic movies every day, though noir fans may have to ask the staff to turn down the Snoop Dogg in order to catch the dialogue.


Bar 3000
Daily 12pm-2am. Meihua Century Plaza, Jianguomenwai Dajie, 15 Jianhua Nanlu, Chaoyang District (6568 4616)