Sparks Flying: P.Y.T.s in the CBD

Some longtime Beijingers may wax nostalgic about Song Music Bar & Kitchen, the artful electronic venue that formerly occupied the basement space of The Place. Wait until they meet its shiny new replacement. Since opening day, Spark has been teeming with Beijing’s better-looking twentysomethings.

Just as with its sister club in Taipei, there is a translucent dance floor, crowd-pleasing hip-hop and R&B, and some housier electronic tunes. Pricier drinks and tables (from RMB 3,000) keep the younger Vics crowd away. There’s no cover charge yet, though we’re guessing this won’t last for long.

But can Spark maintain its sheen after the initial buzz dies down? With Haze now open down the street, the prospects look good. Just one word of warning – beware the laser-lit entrance.

Good for: Rekindling old and new flames, late-night dancing
Also try: Latte, Vics

Spark
Mon-Thu 10pm-2.30am, Sat-Sun 10pm-4am. Unit B108, B1/F (below Zara), The Place, 9 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District (186 1841 5929) 朝阳区光华路9号世贸天阶地下1层B108室

Photos: Ted Alcorn