Chongwenmen-崇文门

Owned by Pierre Cardin, with nine branches around the world, Maxim's was only the second French restaurant in Beijing when it opened in 1983 - in those austere times the ravishing Art Nouveau interior and the glittering clientele electrified the city. It was the site of Beijing’s first modern fashion show and a magnet for well-heeled foreigners and Chinese insiders. Today, Pierre Cardin licenses the Maxim’s name to the Chongwenmen establishment, subject to guarantees of quality and service.

Zhejiang is one of China’s wealthier provinces, and that much is evident when you eat at the local branches of Zhang Sheng Ji, Hangzhou's most successful restaurant chain. The design of the Anzhen Xili store – little more than a large, wide-open white room with endless round wooden tables – is in the simple tradition of Zhejiang restaurants (the second branch in Chongwenmen is decidedly more upscale). For a delightful mix of both taste and presentation, try the fried and steamed fish (xizhi huangyu pu) delivered in an aluminum foil boat and the succulent stewed duck.

Founded by American-trained teachers, the academy teaches ballroom, salsa, merengue, Latin, modern, Argentinean tango and their special "Golden Dance" classes are taught in both Chinese and English. The classes double as a language exchange while you cut a rug. Over 170 classes. Year-long membership RMB 4,900, half-year membership RMB 4,000 (student discounts available).

Comprehensive state-run hospital with specialty departments including an eye hospital, ENT, orthopedic, cardiovascular and cosmetic surgery. Also specializes in diabetes and psychology. TCM department included.

Comprehensive state-run hospital with specialty departments including an eye hospital, ENT, orthopedic, cardiovascular and cosmetic surgery. Also specializes in diabetes and psychology. TCM department included.

Those in the know name this chain as haveing some of the best dim sum in town. The a la carte options aren't half bad either - try the roast pigeon, manadarin fish and durian puffs. Reservations recommended.