We Can’t Keep This New Shuangjing Cocktail Bar Confidential

Look up and down the street in Shuangjing where Plan B is and you might wonder what an old-timey barbershop is doing among the bars and restaurants. But venture behind the barber’s chair and you’ll find a cocktail bar that is exactly the new do this neighborhood needed.

Confidential is the new project from Plan B owners Trevor Metz and Ian Syer, although it certainly couldn’t be more different from that existing venue. If Plan B is the friendly neighborhood local, then Confidential is its grown-up older brother. Once you make it past the barbershop (we won't spoil the surprise of how you get in, but you'll kick yourself once you work it out), the decor is minimal raw brick and wood, with bar and small table seating at the front and cozy leather booths at the rear. One small touch we appreciated is that the pictures of Guomao on the wall were all taken by Trevor himself, transformed into paintings by a local artist. 

The drinks menu is concise, focusing on classic cocktails but not in a “whiskey or nothing” kind of way. Most drinks come in at around RMB 88-98, fairly standard for a Beijing cocktail bar these days, and for that, you're getting top-shelf spirits like British brands Black Cow Vodka and Hepple Gin. We tried a Bramble made with the latter, a sizeable glass with a hefty pour that had just the right balance of sweetness. 

Our other top pick is the pornstar martini (RMB 98), a cocktail that is practically ubiquitous on girls’ nights out in the UK but somehow hasn’t made it big in Beijing yet. It’s a passion fruit-flavored delight made with vanilla vodka and served with a shot of sparkling wine on the side. Speaking of wine, there is a selection available by the glass and bottle, as well as beer on tap. 

Confidential is hosting their grand opening party this Saturday, 21 August. The secret door will open from 6pm, and they’ll have great deals on bubbles, plus they’ll be handing out slices of their new pizzas to soak up all those cocktails. 

Confidential 
Courtyard 32, Beijing 22 International Art Plaza (just west of Plan B), Pingod Community, Chaoyang District
朝阳区苹果社区二十二院街艺术区32号院

Images: Robynne Tindall