the Beijinger

Like it or not (let's face it, you don't have much choice), the Valentine's Day pressure is on, and it's increasing by the hour. And you've got no plans yet. Ah yes, that's what the Beijinger is here for. To help you get your Valentine's act together, we've compiled this first of two lists rounding up what restaurants are doing for Valentine's Day, how much you'll pay and how to get in touch to make your reservation.

We’re not long into the Year of the Dragon and the big chains are already putting the drag into it. Starbucks, Pizza Hut and McDonald's have riled netizens for raising prices on many of their products China-wide. The increases may seem small (the odd kuai here or there) but is it a sign that more retailers will be raising prices in the year ahead? An article on ABC News, reporting on Starbucks' similar pricing increases in the States, certainly seems to think so; they've listed another 11 things that American consumers can expect to pay more for in 2012.

Here we are with the second of our two-part Valentine's Day dining guide. After yesterday's roundup of everything that isn't a buffet, today we present our list of all your options if you want an international feast of self-served, all-you-can-eat cuisine. One or two even have free-flow alcohol thrown in to help move your evening along ...

With his new restaurant 4corners opening in the former Orange Tree space near Houhai, we asked Canadian chef Jun Trinh what’s cooking.

Do you love exploring the city to find new restaurants and dining options? Do you like the grubby alleyway dives as much as the high-end venues? If you have a way with words and never tire of talking about food, then the Beijinger wants you.

Although we’re big fans of the “and Grille” part of Union Bar and Grille, there’s nothing we like more than a seat at the bar, a happy hour pint and a handful of their complimentary salty chips. Led by the ever-affable Andy Bright, Union’s staff is also top-notch.

With Valentine's Day approaching, new pasta deals at Flamme and much more to report, here we are with this week's roundup of the latest news, gossip and scandal from Beijing's restaurant scene. Let's go!

Coffee, in case your wits are too inert to notice (go brew a pot right this second) has reached its tipping point in China. Starbucks has been here for over two decades, but only lately has it found serious traction, expecting to triple its stable of 500 stores over the next three years.

As the Chinese coffee market diversifies, companies are scrambling to find their niche. Not only is this heralding the arrival of the latest American coffee trends (organic, “farm-to-cup” and microroasting) but the emergence of weird and wonderful new retail models that cater to the demands of the local market.

This new pizza restaurant takes over from twice-unsuccessful Hungarian restaurant Budapest (and Norwegian flop 66 North before that) on the second floor of China View at Gongti Donglu. Go there at the first opportunity you get.