Nothing to do with Spock, Vulcan shares its name with the affiliated bookshop next door and is the latest addition to the fine array of cafes and bars on the newly renovated Nanluoguxiang.

In keeping with the quaint nature of the street, Vulcan has gone for the "ye olde dynasty" look, with high timber ceilings, simple wooden furniture, a Chinese tea set here and there and, er, a widescreen TV for good measure. Sadly, parts of the bar are adorned with the unnecessary tack championed by some of Houhai's more forgettable venues, such as swing seats - a baffling addition to any establishment that serves alcohol. While there¡¯s nothing particularly wrong with Vulcan, it's certainly a step down from the quality of other establishments currently gracing Nanluoguxiang, though it is partially redeemed by the price of draft beer, which seems to be negotiable. Oliver Robinson

Vulcan
Daily 10am-late. 145 Nanluoguxiang, Dongcheng District
Tel: 010-84040561