This time-tested stalwart has become a veritable institution in Beijing’s dining scene, as well as a consistent prize-bagger in local dining awards. Hatsune’s elegant decor and neo-Japanese fare have aged well in its seven plus years of operation–expect a wide selection of mouth-watering rolls, fresh sashimi and bento box lunch specials starting at RMB 75, with selections ranging from fresh salmon sashimi and sushi, to grilled mackerel and diced beef. Ideal for a business lunch or, considering its ample selection of sake, an after-work celebration.

The Sanlitun branch features a “shoal of fish” display inspired by the work of UK artist Dominic Bromley and delicate Japanese-style prints embellish the walls and sofa coverings. A large bar adorned with taiko drums is stocked with sake, wines and spirits in floor to ceiling racks accessible by a moveable ladder (bartenders bang on the drums each time sake is served).

The venue’s sole 12-person, glass-encased VIP room features an intricately woodworked sunken table, and a cozy terrace on the opposite side of the restaurant overlooks The Village’s main plaza area. Behind two sushi counters and inside the split-level kitchen, chefs prepare the same dishes as the Guanghua Lu branch. Voted "Best Japanese" and "Outstanding Decor" in the Beijinger's 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards.

Address: 2/F, Heqiao Bldg C, 8A Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District 朝阳区光华路甲8号和乔大厦C座2层

Source: thebeijinger.com