The silhouette of a horse’s head looms into sight as we approach the gated patio that marks the entrance to Longjing. A matte black, steel slatted fence forms a paddock for a bizzare equine welcome. Located in Courtyard 4, an area densely packed with watering holes of repute, we can’t blame this new kid on the block for trying to stand out.

The cocktails are a combination of familiar drinks with unfamiliar inspiration. The namesake cocktail, the Longjing combines No 3 London gin with Japanese sochu and green tea. The citrus and juniper berry notes of the gin are bolstered by a wave of strong sochu before the subtle herbaceous flavors and softer greens seep in between the cracks opened by the potent alcohol. A refreshing tipple despite an ingredient list that is essentially straight booze.

The same can be said of the Rich. Start with a Maker’s Mark old fashioned, but hold the water and don’t forget to infuse the bourbon with fermented pu’er tea that has been aged within a mandarin orange. The levels of flavour rendered through the fermentation, ageing, infusing and dilution evolve sip after sip. It’s a complex drink that goes down at bit too smooth at 90RMB a pop. Other originals are not as successful at delivering objectively pleasing flavours and sensations, but they never fail to intrigue at the very least. If the tea doesn’t get your engine going, the house-pour standard drinks won’t let you down, but they will make you wonder what you’re doing here.

Address: Building 22, Courtyard 4, Gongti Bei Lu, Chaoyang District 朝阳区工体北路4号院22号楼东南角

Source: timeoutbeijing.com