New Branch of Cutesy Local Chain Wiggly Jiggly's Brings Pub Grub at Dongzhimen

If you’re looking to take your grandfather somewhere in Beijing, then you’re in luck.

That’s because the newly opened Dongzhimen branch of small local bar and restaurant chain Wiggly Jiggly’s seems tailormade for elderly gents. The venue (whose most well known counterpart being on Nanluogu Xiang) features wooden walls and furniture on both the first and second floor, along with the plush animal images etched onto the backs of its chairs, all hark back to a log cabin from the late 70’s. Sure it’s a bit tacky, but the owners have certainly gone all-in with a rustic retro vibe that'll engross if for nothing more than because of their sheer degree of the commitment.

Wiggly Jiggly’s menu very much reflects that venerable woodsman’s theme, going heavy on simple sandwiches, burgers, and other common Western pub grub, along with a handful of bottled beers, standard cocktails, and spirits.

The RMB 50 avocado beef burger packed quite a wallop thanks to its hearty, generously portioned patty. Its fresh avocado slices balanced well with the meat, which was just juicy enough to not be overly greasy, a tricky balance to strike, though I wish they’d had more success with the texture, which lacked the sturdiness needed to keep it from falling apart too readily and becoming a sloppy mess. The side of chips, thankfully, were more successful in that regard (as you would hope), thanks to their crispy outer layer and fluffy potato insides.

What really makes Wiggly Jiggly's stand out, however, are the desserts, including tiramisu cheese cake, classic red velvet cake, chocolate brownie cake, matcha peach moose, chestnut cake, and many others (priced between RMB 30-35). Sweeter still: the chocolate hot pot (RMB 48), essentially a chocolate fondue made with Belgian chocolate, fresh seasonal fruit, cotton candy, biscuits, and cookies, a surefire hit among selfie takers and chocolate lovers alike.

Wiggly Jiggly's might not be doing anything new but its unabashedly quirky decor, distinctively old-school bar, and lack of competition nearby for quick burger give it enough personality to warrant a visit.

Wiggly Jiggly’s
Daily 10am-10pm. 6-8 Dongzhimen Neidajie, Dongcheng District (8402 9588)
东城区东直门内大街6-8号

Photos: Kyle Mullin