Nibbles and Sips: July/August 2017 Edition

Robynne Tindall, Contributing Editor | Jul 3, 2017 8:30 am | Add a comment | 1109 reads

Following much anticipation in recent weeks, Migas Mercado (pictured above) in China World Mall has officially opened. Departing from the style of the original Migas, this second project is more of a multifunctional space, divided into several different areas: three market stalls inspired by Barcelona’s food markets, a taperia (serving tapas dishes), a bar, a fine dining area, and a 400-square-meter balcony with views of the CBD and the CCTV Headquarters. The first edition of their tasting menu includes dishes like roast Iberian pork belly, grilled foie gras fillet, tuna tartar, and lamb loin.

Speaking of hot off the presses openings, Q Mex has launched their second location, Q Mex Taqueria, a taco and tequila joint by the Liangma River. The food will move away from the crowd-pleasing Tex-Mex that Q Mex is known for, towards more “authentically” Mexican dishes.

Over in the hutongs, Jeff Ji, owner of popular cocktail bars Mai and JW Tailor Bar, has opened a breezy courtyard eatery called Mai Fresh. The menu is light, with plenty of brunch-friendly dishes such as a trio of open bagel sandwiches and a selection of wraps.

As the Great Bricking of 2017 continues apace throughout many areas of the city, we’re happy to report that many displaced F&B businesses are coming out fighting, with new locations or reworked spaces.

One such venue is Sanlitun stalwart Aperitivo, which has relocated from Houjie to the comparably stable confines of Sanlitun Soho. Aperitivo 2.0 is smaller than its predecessor but has a more polished, modern vibe. The menus remain relatively unchanged, highlights being their famous bruschetta and affordable wine list.

Over on Xingfucun Zhonglu, Frost has survived the rash of closures in the area and is back with a newly renovated space and a smartly edited menu that features a number of bowls, rolls, and sandwiches.

Finally, Rager Pie is back with a bakery-only location and delivery business after their storefront was recently bricked up. The way it works is simple: add Rager Pie on WeChat (ID: wilnos), and message them with your order. Alternatively, you can find them on the Meituan and Baidu Waimai apps, or you can pick up from their new spot at 20 Beijianzi Xiang (北剪子巷20号).

This article first appeared in the July/August issue of the Beijinger.