After a renovation over the summer, north Gulou’s The Other Place is Beijing’s latest multi-purpose drinking and gigging destination.

Formerly a sleepy courtyard bar suffering from an insularity problem, the new Other Place is lighter, brighter and more forthcoming. Pleasingly mismatched furniture is complemented by ubiquitous Edison lightbulbs and a relaxed, friendly vibe from the clientele, which skew young, Chinese and musical.

On the other side of the courtyard, the Other Shop’s mixers, monitors and more separate Beijing musos from their English-teaching kuai. Over the summer, local promoter Josh Feola took over the booking for the bar’s teeny-tiny stage, including recently landing a secret drone set from Canadian electro band Holy Fuck. Drinks of choice include old standby Harbin (RMB 15), a perfectly acceptable mojito (RMB 30) and soothing honey-ginger tea (RMB 25), which is greatly enhanced by a slice of lemon. Be aware that on busy nights, making small change is sometimes an issue for the bar.

Open: daily 12:00 pm - 2:00 am

Tel: 86 10 6401-3269

Address: 1 Langjia Hutong, Dongcheng District

Source: Cityweekend