Rickshaw Closed, Changes at Block 8

Submitted by thebeijinger on Mon, 02/01/2010 - 12:55



The Rickshaw closed its doors for the last time yesterday. Beijing Boyce reports here on the demise of what was arguably Beijing’s most popular bar from its opening in spring 2007 through to around the Olympics, conquering our Bar & Club Awards along the way. As more challengers to the Rickshaw’s burritos, wings and beer crown came on the scene, the bar re-launched with a more upscale diner approach in late 2009, but it seems they’ve decided to call it a day with the expiry of their lease. We’re expecting a comment from the Rickshaw’s management later today, but feel free to add your own comments below on the passing of a Beijing legend.

Boyce’s post also notes rumblings going on over at Block 8. It’s our understanding that significant renovations are going on at the venue – including the main elevator entrance – so customers are being asked to enter via the stairs around the back of the building. Japanese restaurant Haiku remains open for business as usual, but other venues, including Ruby Khi, are under renovation.

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Re: Rickshaw Closed, Changes at Block 8
Posted Feb 2, 2010 12:23pm by Iain S

Good to see people chipping in with their comments and memories on the Rickshaw's glory days.

The Rickshaw's manager Gordon Kutil, had this to say to us: "Basically, the lease was up and we decided not to renew the contract. With so many new places opening up, and our lease coming to an end, we decided to keep our options open. We're not going to rush into anything, but we will be looking at other locations and - if the right spot comes up - you might just see a revived Rickshaw. In the meantime, it's business as usual at The Saddle Cantina and Side Saddle!"

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Re: Rickshaw Closed, Changes at Block 8
Posted Feb 1, 2010 6:18pm by venus01

going to miss that place.. great memories.. thanks chad. Smile

he's a real no where man.!

Re: Rickshaw Closed, Changes at Block 8
Posted Feb 1, 2010 4:45pm by lodgerly

Damn, I love that location!

The top two bars I introduced to my Chinese classmates are Rickshaw and Obiwan... and comparing the business of the two bars, I always thought Obiwan would be the first one...

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Re: Rickshaw Closed, Changes at Block 8
Posted Feb 1, 2010 4:30pm by badr

man.. the summer of 2007 would have never been the same without the Rickshaw... pitchers of long island ice tea, burritos and 1RMB wings, Beijing Rob and sunrises from the deck are nothing but distant memories now!

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Re: Rickshaw Closed, Changes at Block 8
Posted Feb 1, 2010 2:08pm by admin

I figured that would be the case when they announced they were going upscale

http://www.thebeijinger.com/forum/2009/11/19/Rickshaw-out-with-burritos-and-sports-in-with-candlelight-and-wine

it was legendary for a while. But hey, most places follow a similar up and down trend.

it's the nature of the business.

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