La Platea Brings Mediterranean Vibes to Sanlitun’s No 4. Courtyard

A couple of months back we broke the news that Belgian-style bar De Refter was closing and would be reopening as La Platea’s second location in the capital, after having a bit of a Mediterranean face lift, of course. We were naturally sad to hear that De Refter, at least in name, would be no more, but were still excited to hear that Beijing would be gaining a second La Platea.

For those who haven’t heard of La Platea, they're a Mediterranean fusion restaurant combining the tastes of France, Spain, Italy and more from the region. Their original location is just east of The Place, and the restaurant design is inspired by Europe's many food halls and markets, complete with counters where various cold cuts, cheese, wine and other Mediterranean delicacies can be purchased. 

The new location in Sanlitun’s No. 4 Courtyard has a more traditional restaurant feel, with a long bar that’s been kept over from De Refter, though updated with colorful new tiles, being a key focus point, rather than a cold counter. However, there are still some distinct market vibes with various strings of onions or pepper, pasta, homemade pickles and other products decorating the walls. 

The terrace has been given a colorful update with bright chairs and tables added which really pop in contrast to the black and white tiled floor. The slight update turns it into a really lovely terrace area that is bound to quickly become a hit this summer now things have opened up again. 

The food menu is a slightly reduced version of that at the original La Platea, with classics such as their Trapizzino (RMB 42), Pizzetta (RMB 68-98), selection of Tapas (RMB 28-38), and various other Mediterranean offerings still here. This also means that they have the same fantastic daily deals such as RMB 10 Tapas Tuesdays or BOGO Trapizzino Mondays. 

When it comes to the drinks menu, this also remains mostly the same as the first La Platea, with a selection of beer, wine, cocktails, coffee and soft drinks available. This includes an impressive beer fridge with a wide selection of great quality beer available. However, they have a larger draft beer selection than the original location, owed to the seven beer taps previously used at De Refter. 

Although part of us will miss De Refter and its Belgian bar ambience, a second La Platea is a very happy replacement and we’re sure it’ll prove to be just as popular as their original location.

La Platea 兰蒂地中海餐吧 (Sanlitun branch)
Bldg 11, No. 4 Courtyard, Worker's Stadium North Road, Chaoyang District
朝阳区工人体育场北路四号院11号楼

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Images: Katie Coy