By Carissa Welton (Beijing Weekend)
Updated: 2007-08-27 09:41

Some say the best things in life are the hardest things to find. Without a doubt, this saying can be applied to Club Obiwan. Just west of the busy bar-lined lakefront of Houhai, tucked away on the secluded shore of Xihai, the newly opened venue offers a sleek reward for savvy nightlife seekers. Much like its fictional nightclub namesake from the classic '80s movie, Obiwan recreates the elegance of Shanghai with subtle prestige. The zig-zag climb up the three story stairwell is like something out of an M.C Escher print. The rooftop terrace offers a romantic view of the lake above the tree tops, with a main bar housed on the mid-level and a disco-lit dance floor at the ground entrance.

A full menu offers signature cocktails and Western entrees to please the palate. Tender fillets of steak (65 yuan), pasta dishes (35-45 yuan), and homemade schnitzel (55 yuan) are just a few of the chef's selections. The fried mushroom starters (20 yuan) are definitely not to be missed.

In addition to serving top-grade Mojitos (45 yuan) and Caiprihinas (55 yuan), an extensive choice of German absinthe cocktails is also available. Obiwan is one of the few places to find imported German beer, Kostritzer (45 yuan).

The specialty drinks and subtle lavish design aren't the club's only attractions. Since its opening this past Spring, Obiwan has hosted a range of events. Live Capoeira music and performances, free Samba lessons, electronic DJs and theme parties have repeatedly shown up on the monthly schedule.

Every Sunday, from 3pm until late, Obiwan offers a taste of the Caribbean with a free all-you-can-eat Jamaican barbeque and rotating DJs spinning laid-back reggae tracks.

"We're always looking for new and different kinds of parties and entertainments to host," said Obiwan manager, Christiane Gross. Coming this fall, the club will offer a full schedule of diverse events, potentially transforming the dance floor into an occasional cinema.

Its unique location, understated class, high-end service and quality cocktails make Obiwan a gem among the rough.

Club Obiwan
Location: 4 Xihai Xiyan, Xicheng District, 300m from Jishuitan subway station
Open time: 1pm-2am (weekends 1pm-till late)
Tel: 010-66173231