By Viva Goldner (Beijing Weekend)
Updated: 2007-08-01 10:27

In a tiny stone alley behind one of the city's most popular hutong lies the sort of secret garden featured in childhood fairytales. Wind your way through lush greens to the charming Candy Floss Cafe to discover one of Beijing's most unique places to play.

This courtyard bar is found behind the Central Academy of Drama, just off the hip Nanluoguxiang, in Dongcheng District. Turn off the bustling strip onto a narrow lane and look out for a small, neon pink square marking your destination.

Candy Floss' natural, shady setting makes it a top spot to lounge on a lazy weekend afternoon. A romantic weeping willow sways among pretty ponds and steppingstones, while creeping ivy adorns the old courtyard walls.

Arrive early to nab outdoor seating, or take the spiral stairs leading to a rooftop terrace. Up here, a swinging lovers' seat is perfect for the bohemian dreaming of the thespians who, along with foreign expats, frequent the area.

Inside, several rooms are furnished with a jumble of rustic wood tables and chairs, or wide sofas that have certainly seen better days but lend the space a homely touch. On shelves in a far room, guests can choose from a selection of books and games, or just sit back and gaze out the windows to the tangled growth outside. Low lighting, mirrors and antique kitsch add to the comfortable atmosphere.

With its low archways, mosaic open fireplaces and corridors, the bar has retained the feel of an original siheyuan, or courtyard home. The foliage theme extends inside, too, with flowering pots and trailing plants along the walls.

Service is friendly, with drinks priced from around 30 yuan. The menu also contains a selection of home-style meals and snacks.

Location: Candy Floss Cafe 35 Dongmianhua Hutong, Dongcheng District
Opening hours: 3pm-midnight
Tel: 6405-5775