My girlfriend and I decided to splurge for a dinner at 1001 Nights a few evening ago, and our experience was one of mixed emotions. We were told there would be belly dancing inside and the interior looked really impressive, so inside we went. We were definately wowed by the impressive ceiling and decorations. It felt like we were in a desert caravan or something. The menu was huge so it took as a while to decide what we wanted, but the first thing we noticed was a message on the menu threatening a Y300 fine for outside drinks. I'm not clear whether this applies to bottled water, but if it doesnt they certainly didn't make that clear. Their non alcoholic drinks were insanely priced. Y18 for a regular can of diet coke that I payed 5 for at a Chinese restaurant for lunch that day. I'm sorry but that's downright extortion.
When the food came though, we were in bliss. The bread and hummus was amazing, the chicken kabob succulent and perfectly flavored, and the white bean salad was great. The falaffel wasn't up to the same standard but still quite good. I wish I could say the same about the service though. We had to wait forever for someone to come take our order since the belly dancing started and it was too deafening for us to even be able to hear the waiters or vice-versa. We were also charged for a double portion of hummus when they never asked us how much we wanted and therefore expected to get a single portion.
Overall, the food was probably the best we've had in the city, which is why I'm so disappointed that I feel disinclined to return. If they revoke their ridiculous drink policy, lower their prices a bit, and focus on delivering more attentive service, they could be one of the greatest restaurants in Beijing, cause I'm telling you: That chef can cook!