I enjoy an evening that transports you to an unexpected and slightly enchanting place. Recently, after finishing a late dinner with friends, we were not quite ready to head home, yet the usual KTV option didn't excite us. Then someone suggested, “How about going to The Dali Dali?” I was puzzled at first—what was this place?
It turns out that the hutongs of Beiluoguxiang have been hiding a gem from me! This fun bar is named after the surrealist artist and drink enthusiast Salvador Dali, who famously stated, “Wine cheers the sad, revives the old, inspires the young, makes weariness forget his toil.”
This Beiluoguxiang location is one of two branches (the other one is located just west of Andingmen), and the small entrance leads into a chic yet artistically whimsical bar, featuring plush seating around shiny tables and a three-dimensional stucco depiction of the namesake above the bar.
The drink menu includes variations of classic sidecars, G&Ts, and martinis, along with a seasonal selection of cocktails that are not only visually stunning but also well-balanced and easy to sip. My top picks were the Golden Age, a rum and passion fruit mix served on a spinning golden carousel and misted with gold spray, and the Make A Wish, a vodka-based fruity delight that arrives at your table emitting smoke like a genie from a bottle. I must admit, I appreciate a little theatrical flair!
Less extravagant but equally delightful were the Passion Beijing, Alice in Wonderland, and Purple Martini. Prices for cocktails ranged from RMB 80 to RMB 100, with most landing at the lucky number 88. It was a fantastic way to wrap up the evening in a charming spot, and we will certainly return to sample the drinks we didn’t get to try.
The Dali Dali (Beiluoguxiang branch)
26 Beiluoguxiang, Dongcheng District
东城区北锣鼓巷26号
Hours: 6pm-1:30am
Phone: 187 1506 9770
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Images: Julie Wolf
It appears that the hutongs of Beiluoguxiang have been hiding a secret from me!