Exploring Wudaokou's New Eateries and Watering Holes

Wudaokou is a bustling locale brimming with a diverse range of people, educational institutions, and businesses. Having previously spent six months living in its vibrant embrace, I can't deny that it holds a special place in my memories. Recent times have seen a sprouting of fresh culinary establishments in this neighborhood. Here's a handpicked selection of these new eateries that you might find intriguing.

Torisho

Known for its delectable poultry dishes, Torisho, an esteemed Japanese fried chicken restaurant with an impressive string of 250 outlets in Japan, has recently launched its maiden venture in China. Interestingly, Wudaokou has been chosen as their first Chinese foothold.

Torisho, an interesting moniker, translates to 鸡笑, or “laughing with chicken,” an invitation to savor their chicken offerings and find joy in them.

Torisho's culinary prowess has been cemented by their nine consecutive victories at the Tangyang Fried Chicken Association. It would be criminal for you to not to sample their acclaimed signature dishes: TangYang Fried Chicken (RMB 18) and Nanman Fried Chicken (RMB 25). Additionally, their menu presents a range of chicken options including wings, cartilage, and stomachs. Complementing these are curry rice and the Tangyang Bento Box (RMB 32), which offers a pairing of their famed chicken with rice.

Torisho 鸡笑日式唐扬炸鸡专门店
B1F-14, Wudaokou Shopping Center, Haidian District
海淀区五道口购物中心B1F-14号
Hours: 10am-10pm
Phone: 182 0126 4735


My Bagel

Shuangjing's resident bagel haunt, My Bagel, has expanded its presence to Wudaokou. In addition to their traditional Plain Bagel (RMB 12), their Sea Salt Rosemary Bagel (RMB 14) has also been a crowd favorite.

Here, you'll discover a range of bagel sandwiches, from the savory Philly Steak (RMB 49) to the wholesome Shrimp Egg Avocado (RMB 52). The menu also extends beyond typical bagel dishes, featuring succulent beef ribs (RMB 258), classic fish and chips (RMB 69), and flame-grilled salmon (RMB 89).

My Bagel 我的贝果
Room 1204, No.35 Chengfu Road, Huaqingjiayuan, Building 12, Haidian district
海淀区成府路35号华清嘉园12号楼底商1204
Hours: 8am-8pm
Phone: 180 0135 1912


BA Hamburger

Upon visiting BA Hamburger, one might not immediately notice the establishment due to its modest size. However, the aroma of their sizzling beef patties is hard to ignore.

Customers on Dianping rave about the succulent, juicy patty and the perfectly textured bun of their Angus Beef Burger (RMB 36). What sets this place apart is the owner's personal touch. He expertly cooks the burgers right before your eyes, taking the time to inquire about your preferred cooking level for the patties and choice of toppings, making sure the burger is tailored to your liking.

BA Hamburger
4/F, BOM Xifanli, Qinghua Donglu, Haidian District
海淀区清华东路BOM嘻番里4层
Hours: 10.30am-9.30pm
Phone: 130 5199 8369


Monolog of Beans

Monolog of Beans, a gem hailing from distant Urumqi, is another newish establishment up in WDK. This store was once an independent coffee brand, making its mark in various coffee festivals before journeying to the capital city.

Upon setting foot inside, we were greeted by four bold characters, 宇宙客厅, which, quite fittingly, mean cosmic living room. Off to the side, a freezer caught our eye. It was stocked with an array of beers and cocktails, promising a good time.

By daylight, the place doubles as a haven for coffee lovers. One could easily envision spending a quiet afternoon here, with coffee in one hand and a good book in the other. As the sun dips, the ambiance subtly shifts. The place, now a bar, invites you to enjoy a drink or two and engage in conversation with the owner.

The cherry on top is their occasional movie screenings. It's as if Monolog of Beans has managed to capture the essence of a living room, offering a taste of coffee, music, liquor and literature all under one roof.

Monolog of Beans
Huaqing Business Hall 1601, Haidian District
华清商务会馆1601
Hours: 10.30am-2am
Phone: 181 9991 6952

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Images: Irene Li