the Beijinger

What's going on this week in Bars & Clubs? There are openings, dragons, qipaos, tattoos, love, hate, comedy and quizzes. Not all in the same bar, unfortunately.

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!

The ski season is starting to wind down. It's time to strap your skis on and hit the slopes before all that lovely powder turns to shui. Here’s a list of ski resorts, plus some organized trips if you don’t want to arrange it all yourself.

Yes, snowboarders are welcome too.

Hungry? You will be soon. With news on a promising new pizza restaurant, a hot new Indian restaurant, hot dogs in Sanlitun Village, desserts to die for in China World Hotel and the latest whereabouts of all-star chefs Max Levy and Zach Lewison, here's a quick roundup of the latest Beijing restaurant news ...

A few hours later than normal – lots going on this week – here's your weekly check-in on what's making the news in Beijing's bars.

Sanlitun renovations

Friendship Supermarket will officially reopen on June 3 with a brand-new interior and layout. The groceries have been relocated to the second floor, but the variety is similar to what was available previously, mainly imported goods ranging from cheese sold by weight, delicatessen products to fresh vegetables and fruits. However, they’ve changed their bread supplier to Bruno Bakery, distinctive from the bread offerings at Jenny Lou’s and April Gourmet.

Move over, CourtYard – there’s a new “romantic fine-dining in historic setting” restaurant set to steal your guidebook crown. But Temple Restaurant Beijing (TRB), run by former Maison Boulud GM Ignace Lecleir, is too lovely for mere tourists. The dining room itself is housed in a modern annex. However, tall windows capture the astonishing site, just outside of a hitherto forgotten, centuries-old Buddhist temple.

It was supposed to be called The Arrow Factory, named after Jianchang Hutong, the alleyway it sits on connecting Wudaoying Hutong with Guozijian (also home to European deli Chez Gerard). But alas, there’s already an ‘Arrow Factory’ at number 38, a tiny, ever-changing art space well-worth seeking out. So, Vineyard Cafe owner Will settled on the less adventurous Vine Leaf for his latest dining project.

Up until now, Topshop and Topman have only been accessible to China residents via their online websites. All that’s about to change.

FEI Space – a concept store in 798 that’s been likened to New York’s Opening Ceremony (by us), a “genteel flea market” (by Stylites.net) and “a creative bazaar” “with a salvaged-chic vibe” (by the New York Times) – sits at the helm of Topshop and Topman's first collaboration and presence on the Chinese mainland.