The Sky's the Limit: Five Rooftop Bars to Chill on this Summer
With summer heading into full swing and club's winding in for a period of hibernation it's time to get acquainted with the best the city offers for al fresco drinking. Here we bring you the best (in our humble opinion) of Beijing's outdoor swigging spots.
Located on the top floor of the Eastern Inn Hotel, Echo Sun, one of the Beijing bar scene's veterans is a partner behind the operations. Known for its excellent lychee martini and Caipirinha's, the outdoor terrace boasts top-floor views of Sanlitun, with simple wood decking and a minimalist feel.
The Bar at Migas
Set atop Nali Patio on Sanlitun Bei Lu, Migas has become a popular hangout for a diverse crowd of people. Although not situated on your average city high rise, the view does not disappoint. The outdoor décor is a fusion of Dali-esque furniture with egg chairs, mushroom lamps and cacti. A classic Spanish cocktail list includes mojitos, margaritas and daiquiris. The intimately sized dance floor has local stalwarts DJing the spot from dusk till dawn.
Resting on the sixth floor rooftop of the Park Hyatt Hotel, Xiu is set against a palatial water terrace with a traditional Chinese pavilion, containing a large saloon and wine room. Xiu looks out across a vista of lit skyscrapers as the city comes to life at night. There's room for dancing, and live bands and DJs make regular appearances. The laid back wine bar is an added bonus with a smoking space replete with comfortable easy chairs to relax on and puff away.
Yin Bar
Few of Beijing's rooftop bars are distinguished by views worth scaling the stairs for, but from Yin's patio you can see the rooftops of the Forbidden City across to Jingshan Park and Beihai's White Dagoba. The highlight of Yin is the jacuzzi, with chaise lounges, and innovative huangjiu cocktails. Described by World’s Best Bars as "the definitition of cocktail party colonial chic."
China Bar
This bar isn't exactly outdoors but its views are unparalleled. Perched high above other rooftop bars on the 65th floor of the Park Hyatt (Hyatt really knows how to do rooftop bars) the 360 degree view is breathtaking and so is the cocktail and wine menu.
Let us know your favorite rooftop hangouts below.
