July 4^th is just around the corner, and as a former New Yorker, Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest is the first thing that comes to mind. Last year, Joey Chestnut set a new record by downing 68 dogs in 10 minutes. Wow. And soon, folks, you too can join the infamous ranks of competitive hot dog eating right here in Beijing.

Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs is coming to Beijing in early August, the first one will open at Le Mall in Wukesong. For those reluctant to venture past the 4th Ring, no fear, they plan to open another on the East side in the near future. Finally, great hot dogs in Beijing! Not that I haven’t made satisfying pit-stops at Stadium Dog and No More Bunz, but I’m thrilled about getting my hands on a Nathan’s dog and crinkle-cut fries.

But enough about weenies! Kitchen Igosso has opened up on Chaoyangmenwai. This Italian restaurant is operated by the people behind the Japanese restaurant Le Igosso in 798 and the former (and fondly remembered) Guomao-area Italian restaurant Le Café Igosso. Likewise, Kitchen Igosso will be helmed by an Italian-trained Japanese chef, and there are high hopes for this restaurant. (A review is forth-coming.)

Speaking of Japanese, two new Japanese restaurants have recently opened. Haru Teppanyaki and Sushi Bar has opened up its second location in Sanlitun Village North, and Du, located in The Place, is having a soft opening this week.

As usual, the Sanlitun area is full of new arrivals. Word is that Mosto is opening up a new eatery/wine bar on the top floor of Sanlitun Village, and there are at least three new restaurants also slated to open soon in that space, including Flamme (rumored, though not surprisingly, to be a barbeque place). 

In the spirit of the World Cup, I’ll finish up by listing two new African restaurants. The first is the reincarnation of Ras Ethiopian, relocated from its former Sanlitun location to new digs next to 2 Kolegas. Then there is Turay’s in Sanlitun, which is brand new and hence still a mystery … we will report back shortly.

And as is only natural, while some things come, others things go. Ginkgo has shut its doors (at least temporarily) as the owner is seeking new partners. This bar/restaurant had a small but loyal following among the expats in the Gulou area, especially on the nights when raucous live bands would play, and will be missed. Also, the peppy Shanghai chain Element Fresh just closed its Qianmen branch, but no worries, the other two locations are still alive and kicking.