Last week, we explored the finest rooftops and terraces in Sanlitun and Gongti, and now we’re shifting our focus to the hutongs around Beixinqiao, Gulou, and Andingmen. There are numerous rooftops and terraces hidden within the capital's hutongs, so we’ve selected some of our favorites, including a few lesser-known gems.
**Toast at The Orchid**
The Orchid, a boutique hotel, features the delightful restaurant Toast, which boasts a beautiful rooftop in the heart of Beijing's historic area. If you're concerned about the heat but still want to take in scenic hutong views, they offer an indoor terrace with large windows that can be opened, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors while staying cool.
A popular brunch destination, Toast also serves afternoon tea and dinner, offering a variety of East Mediterranean-inspired mezze and tapas perfect for sharing. Brunch classics include Shakshuka (RMB 78) and Turkish Çılbır (RMB 78), as well as unique options like the Full Chinglish (RMB 98). For those who want a taste of everything, the Mixed Mezze Supreme (RMB 168) offers a delightful assortment of bites.
Toast at The Orchid
65 Baochao Hutong, Dongcheng District 东城区宝钞胡同65号
Hours: 10am-10pm
Phone: 010 6402 0824
**Pebbles Courtyard**
Wudaoying Hutong is filled with rooftop spots, but our favorite is the Mexican eatery Pebbles Courtyard. Their spacious rooftop features simple wooden benches, wicker chairs, and a tiled floor, creating a rustic atmosphere.
You can't miss their tacos (RMB 58-65 for three), which are available as a special deal of RMB 98 for six daily, or on Taco Tuesday, where ten tacos can be had for RMB 108. Other deals include Tortas Wednesday, featuring their tortas (Mexican sandwiches made with fresh, homemade bolillos), and Char-Grill Thursday, with special meaty dishes. A visit wouldn’t be complete without sampling their signature mezcal and tequila cocktails, many of which are often available on a buy one get one free basis.
Pebbles Courtyard
74 Wudaoying Hutong, Dongcheng District 东城区五道营胡同74号
Hours: Tue-Thu 5pm-10pm; Fri-Sun noon-10pm
Phone: 010 8404 0767
**Celestial**
Strategically located between Beixinqiao and Zhangzizhonglu stations, Celestial is a live house and bar that now features a charming rooftop. Adorned with greenery and warm yellow lighting, it’s a perfect place to relax with drinks. Its west-facing position makes it an ideal spot to enjoy sunset views. They serve a selection of craft beers on tap, as well as bottled options, cocktails, wine, and soft drinks, accompanied by various Western dishes. Downstairs, they frequently host live music events, comedy shows, poetry nights, and more, providing plenty of entertainment if you choose to step away from the rooftop.
Celestial 空想酒吧
2/F, 27 Dongsi Beidajie, Dongcheng District 东城区东四北大街27号2层
Hours: 2.30pm-1.30am
Phone: 185 1917 5294
**OVERTONE**
Next to Celestial and sharing the same rooftop is the Scottish Brewery OVERTONE, which opened last year. One section of the roof has a deck area with comfy chairs, while the other side offers more formal seating. Here, you can enjoy one of over 20 beers on tap along with delicious food, including their burgers, which ranked #13 in this year’s Juicy Burger Cup.
OVERTONE (Beixinqiao branch)
2/F, 74 Dongsi Beidajie (next to Lawson Station) 东城区东四北大街74号罗森便利店旁上二楼右手
Hours: Tue-Sun, 4.30pm-1am
Phone: 135 0126 2135
**The Factory**
The Factory has a lovely hidden rooftop where you can escape the hustle and bustle of Gulou Dongdajie. Surrounded by wood paneling, the rooftop has a serene pub garden vibe, complete with a great selection of rotating beers on tap. They frequently host cask ale events in collaboration with local brewers and other brewery tap takeovers. You can also enjoy events like Reggae Factory, which combines unique Jamaican dishes with live reggae DJ sets. For updates, follow their official WeChat account by scanning the QR code provided.
The Factory
135 Gulou Dongdajie, Dongcheng District 东城区鼓楼工厂鼓楼东大
Next, we will explore some rooftop locations in the hutongs.