The Best Bars In Zhongguancun Beijing

Zhongguancun might be known as China’s Silicon Valley, but it’s also the university hub of Beijing. And where there are universities, there are thirsty students and teachers. These are the best places to grab a drink in Zhongguancun.

1. Lush

Bar, Restaurant, Bistro, Cafe, Nightclub, American

Lush is one of the rare bars in Beijing that has stood the test of time. Ever since opening in 2003, it has only grown in popularity, thanks to the affordable food and drink (try the burger) and lively, community-focussed atmosphere. Lush has weekly pub quizzes that attract a large crowd, and it was the first place in China to host open-mic nights – many performers got their big break here.

2. The Steps

Bar, Restaurant, Mexican

This popular neighbourhood restaurant and bar works just as well for a family meal as it does for an after-work drink or weekend party. The bar is simple and straight to the point with a short drinks menu of beers and mixed drinks. Its food menu is also concise, offering burgers, sandwiches, pizzas and other typical bar food. There’s nothing fancy about The Steps, but then that is part of its charm.

3. 13 Club

Bar, Cocktails

Underground rock girls band called Black Barika at the 13 Club in Beijing, China.

This place is all about good music and good drinks. More of a live-music venue than a club, 13 Club books bands and performances from within China and abroad. Some nights it’s an indie band, and, on other nights, it can be punk rock or even folk artists. So grab a beer or a cocktail from the bar, sit back and rock on.

4. Catail

Bar, Cocktail Bar, Pub, Japanese, Chinese

Zhongguancun may not be known for high-end cocktail bars, but that hasn’t stopped Catail from setting up shop here. A cocktail bar and lounge offering creative concoctions in a cool, speakeasy-esque setting, Catail is a versatile space where you can easily come with a date or a larger group.

5. Orange Bar

Hotel

Even though Orange Bar is technically a hotel bar, sitting on the ground floor of the Ariva Beijing West Hotel, don’t rule it out. It’s a solid place to grab a drink in the area, with a strong list of spirits, especially whiskies and cognacs.

6. Pyro Pizza

Restaurant, Italian

Pyro Pizza is a restaurant and bar where you can get classic New York-style thin-crust pizza and beer at an affordable price. Opened by the group behind Lush, Pyro Pizza has become a favourite among Zhongguancun residents for friendly gatherings. They also have beer-pong tournaments on Thursday nights, which are always good fun even if you’re not a student.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.