The Beijinger Blog - Lists

Lace Up: Where to Ice Skate in Beijing

thebeijinger — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 10:00:00 +0800

Whether you're a shaky amateur or can knock out a double axel like the pros, here are a list of rinks and lakes where you can work on your Olympic-worthy technique. Now throw on a spandex unitard, lace up the skates and hit the ice.

Gearing Up for All Hallow's Eve

thebeijinger — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 14:00:00 +0800

It’s crunch time, folks. As of today, you have just under two weeks to choose, find and execute a smashing Halloween ensemble. Before you start freaking out, turn to our trusty lists from years past (2009 and 2010) of venues to stock up on wigs, masks, fishnet stockings – you name it.

Eat, Drink and be Merry: Beijing's Best Party Restaurants

thebeijinger — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 10:00:00 +0800

It’s no secret that bars (and clubs) are still a fairly new invention in Beijing. Until as recently as the mid-1990s, Hard Rock Cafe was about the only place in town where a mixed drink didn’t mean tea leaves and hot water. Beijingers have traditionally done their serious drinking in restaurants, and most still do.

Wokipedia: N is for…

thebeijinger — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 19:00:00 +0800

… nen 嫩
What is nen? Tenderness. Think baby pigeon, veal, pea sprouts and spring bamboo shoots. All are harvested very young to preserve their tenderness, not to mention market value. Whenever you exclaim “Hao nen a!” (“It’s so tender!”), your tongue should touch your upper teeth. Be careful not to bite your tongue – it’s also fairly nen.

Grape Press: Beijing's Best Party Wines

thebeijinger — Sat, 18 Jun 2011 13:00:00 +0800

The most basic rule – never to be broken – for a serious party: Do not run out of booze! But with the very wide range of wines out there, the kind of wine you choose and how it is served make a real difference.

Sparkling wines are a fun starting point, but the high acidity of Champagne can turn stomachs. Make sure you serve ample food that is easy to eat while holding a glass of wine – this can counter the effects of acidity. Or, choose sparkling wines like Prosecco, Cava or Asti that are lower in acid.

For white wines, it’s best to go for something crowd-pleasing. Oaked Chardonnay or Viognier can be attractive. Also, New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, although higher in acid, can be a popular option.

North Korea Names China the Happiest

thebeijinger — Sun, 05 Jun 2011 16:00:00 +0800

North Korea has released its rating of countries based on happiness, awarding China perfect marks. Where does North Korea place itself and others?

Love, Madness and Loneliness: Zhang Si'an's Playlist

thebeijinger — Thu, 26 May 2011 13:00:00 +0800

“Subterranean Homesick Alien” by Radiohead. When I was around 15, I was hoping for aliens to take me away from my boring life. It never happened ...

Wokipedia: M is For …

thebeijinger — Mon, 16 May 2011 12:00:00 +0800

… mantou 馒头
Usually made from wheat flour, water and yeast, this Chinese staple has a dense texture reminiscent of the interior of bagels and soft pretzels, though it lacks a chewy outer shell. The plain steamed mantou demands strong accompaniments –

Scandalicious: Top 10 Chinese Food Scares

tomomalley — Thu, 05 May 2011 12:00:00 +0800

What’s on your plate (or in your bowl) tonight? Food scandals in the world’s most populous country have been in and out of the media over the last few years faster than, well, a dodgy kebab passing through a drunkard. We’ve reported a few, like toxic oil and recycled chopsticks (here) and melamine-tainted baby milk (here).

Full Guide to Valentine’s Day Dining in Beijing

lauren_mccarthy — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 16:00:00 +0800

Valentine's Day is here which means chocolate, flowers and romantic meals. If you're still searching for that perfect place here is a full list of options with dinners ranging from fun tasting plates at TERRA for a (relative) deal to caviar and champagne extravagance at Maison Boulud.