20 for 20: Capital Restaurateur David Connolly

In celebration of our 20th anniversary, we're profiling 20 movers and shakers who, much like The Beijinger, have called the capital home for 20 years or more.

In no uncertain terms, the expats who have called Beijing home for the last 20 or more years are largely responsible for helping to transform the capital into the international metropolis that we know and love today. Case in point is David Connolly, the man behind Sanlitun dining mainstays including Bottega, Forno, El Barrio, and Daruma. From a teenager following at his parents heels in 2000 to one of Beijing’s most prolific restaurateurs, Connolly’s impact on the lives of both his fellow expats and locals can’t be overstated.

What brought you to Beijing, and when?
I moved with my parents from Australia in February 2000, when I was 14 years old.

What were some of your first impressions of the city?
Fast, dynamic, exciting. Remember being blown away by all the outdoor food vendors selling breakfast, barbecue, etc.

Did you imagine at that time that you’d still be here >20 years later?
Definitely not.

Tell us about one of your quintessential first experiences in the city.
One year after I arrived, 网吧 Net Cafés started spreading across the city and there was one game called Counter Strike, that was played in every wangba across the city for at least two years nonstop. We used to do all nighters or even 48 hour stints at these 24 hour joints, sustained only by instant noodles and Zhongnanhai cigarettes. Those were the good old days.

How you do think Beijing has changed you as a person?
Like the city itself, Beijing has made me a more dynamic and flexible person. It is a place that constantly adapts and you need to adapt with it. This adaptability is great preparation for the future.

Name your three favorite places in the city (aside from your home), could be restaurants, parks, cafes, tourist attractions, neighborhoods, experiences.
-Chaoyang Park: Big open spaces and the perfect place to relax after work or meet friends over the weekend.
-Sanlitun: It’s where I’ve spent most of my time in the city and it is still the heart of Beijing’s night scene.
-No.8 Hot Springs

What’s one piece of advice you have for relatively recent arrivals (within the last year)?
Dive deep into the Chinese language as soon as you arrive. Speaking and understanding the language allows you to connect with the culture on a much deeper level and ultimately will bring you an even greater appreciation of the city.

Are you still doing what you came here to do, 20 years ago?
No. I came here to study and now I ended up opening and running restaurants here.

READ: 20 for 20: Michelle Hemsin of Bodhi Therapeudic Retreat

Images courtesy of David Connolly