Unknown Pleasures: A Walk Through Fangjia 46

It would be a bit of a cliche to call this collection of galleries, bars, restaurants and shops near Andingmen the new 798. But it kind of is.

Entering from Fangjia Hutong, you're greeted by a broad, paved space with industrial units converted to gallery spaces. It's built on the site of a former factory. Sound familliar?

Pictured above and below is Cenci Cafe, a cosy spot at the entrance to the complex.

Coffees and teas range from RMB 15-25, and a snack menu features croissants and Danish pastries.

Behind Cenci you'll find Aimo Town (pictured above and below), a Yunnan restaurant on the second floor. It's above Hot Cat Club (pictured above, street level), a jazz bar with a bohemian clientele. For info on upcoming shows, e-mail lee.rock@live.cn.

Aimo Town is a depository of Yunnan folk arts and crafts. Dishes range from RMB 10-50, and the place is packed on weekend evenings. Try the suan la quan yu - whole sour and spicy fish (RMB 42).

Beside Aimo Town is Shall Shine (pictured above and below), a chuan'r and grill joint with a smart roof terrace.

The menu is centered around wings, meat skewers and grilled fish, with Beijing beer on draft.

The center of the site is dominated by Red Theater.

Opposite the theater is the most upscale of Fangjia Hutong's dining options.

Cai Huo Che, or "Trainspotting." The food is a bizarre fusion of Cantonese and several Western cuisines.

The casual bar area has a minimalist loft feel.

The main dining room benefits from floor-to-ceiling windows letting in plenty of light.

At the southern end of the site is Napa bar. A decent selection of drinks is complemented by a pool table and menu of simple noodles, burgers and pasta.

Studio X is the name of the large gallery space at the front entrance of the site.

We had a peek through the locked doors and clocked the gallery, which is at present still empty. Keep an eye on the Beijinger blog for further openings and news of upcoming events at Fangjia 46.

Fangjia 46. 46 Fangjia Hutong (off Andingmennei Dajie, south of Guozijian), Dongcheng District.