Newest from Cafe de la Poste: O' Steak

The people behind Cafe de la Poste have noted the emergence of the Xingfucun stretch between Great Leap Brewpub and Heaven Supermarket as a serious nightlife destination (at least for those too jaded, scared or old for Sanlitun’s back alleys). Their latest venture, O’Steak, hasn’t yet recaptured the charm of its sister restaurant, but should eventually find its stride.

O’Steak offers a slightly broader selection of French bistro fare than Cafe de la Poste but the menu drops enough hints that you’re in the same hands. Prices are broadly comparable, though O’Steak will likely set you back a few extra kuai.

The “guillotines” – brown slabs of toast with a variety of toppings – are good for three or four to share. We enjoyed chomping through the cheese and mushroom option (RMB 38), although I regretted not going for the prosciutto alternative.

Some might find the 140g “petit steak” (RMB 86) too small, but served with a portion of fries, large side salad and choice of a sauce, it was enough for one. For taste, the steak itself didn’t quite meet the standard I was expecting, but these were early days. With the track record these guys have, I would definitely give this place another chance. For RMB 338, you can have a 500g steak with five different sauces. If you don’t fancy the eponymous beef, try the cordon bleu (RMB 88) or duck breast with balsamic reduction (RMB 88).

Like other restaurants on this strip, O’Steak will have no trouble attracting customers for a drink on the terrace, which offers some of the finest people-watching in Beijing. Of course, seeing also means being seen, so if you’re up to something you shouldn’t be doing, grab a table inside or even upstairs. To pass yourself off as a Frenchman, order a pastis (RMB 10). Otherwise, beers start from ten-kuai Beijing draft, with Vedett also on tap (RMB 35) and a selection of bottled Belgian beers. Wine is pricier than at Cafe de la Poste, with most bottles over RMB 300; glasses are RMB 48.

Also try: Chez Julien, La Taverne

Photos: Lova