2011 Jun 16 Zajia: Art, Drinks and Squirrels
This self-billed “art lab/bar/performing arts space” is in constant flux, from the rotating art exhibits and video installations to an ever-evolving menu. Come for the endearing quirks; no two chairs are the same, and the space is peppered with tchotchkes handmade by the staff.
The eclectic decor pays homage to the building’s history – figure out which wall is a vestige of a Daoist temple and which that of an old tofu shop. Heightening the ever-so-alternative vibe, there’s a pet squirrel usually perched atop a bartender’s shoulder or snuggled in a patron’s lap.
Ask the refreshingly unpretentious staff about their selection of rare imported whiskies (RMB 25-50) and hard-to-find Mongolian vodka (RMB 50). For a burst of tangy sweetness, try Zajia’s Chinese liquor (RMB 40), homemade with fresh ingredients from Yunnan. There are two options – mugua jiu (木瓜酒) and meizi jiu (梅子酒) – infused with papaya and plum respectively.
If you love la dolce vita, indulge in the Italian house wine (RMB 35 per glass, RMB 180-260 per bottle) or a zesty limoncello nightcap (RMB 25), all selected by Zajia’s creative director, Ambra Corinti. As you cozy up in a nook, sit amidst candles on the hutong steps or sprawl out in the open loft space, you can snack on over ten flavors of handmade, bite-sized dumplings (RMB 20 for 15 steamed, RMB 25 for 15 lightly-fried).
On any given night, you might walk into an informal Italian wine tasting, spontaneous jam session, international performance art piece, or improv show. Whatever type of experimental it is, it’s welcome at Zajia.
Good for: Hipsters, contemporary art without the trip to 798
Also try: Amilal, El Nido
Zajia
Daily 11am-late (call ahead on Mondays). Doufuchi Hutong (next to Contempio Temple Bar), Xicheng District (8404 9141)
西城区豆腐池胡同 (Contempio旁边)
Photos: Sui
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