Dining Out

Building a reputation

By Mike Fuksman (China Daily)
Updated: 2009-08-29 10:32

Not many bars can combine upscale looks with downscale prices, but The Brick manages to bring the best of both worlds to the scene.

Located near Shuangjing subway station on Line 10, the newly-opened bar has a decidedly intimate vibe.

"I want it to be relaxing, comfortable and chill," says owner, bartender and chef Ryan Johnston. With just three people working the bar, running the kitchen and mingling with customers, The Brick has a personable and friendly atmosphere.

The dcor tends toward a minimal feel, referencing art deco and industrial interior design. The bar itself is made of brick (hence the name), and the rest of the space is dominated by well-lit seating areas and diamond-plate steel counters. T-shirts featuring obscure indie rock bands are framed on the walls on the first floor.

Pool sharks can practice on the pool table located on the second floor balcony, and customers are encouraged to write on the chalkboard walls. Outdoor seating is available as well. For those customers who choose to stay inside, strategically placed flatscreen TVs offer sports games and music videos. The bar's music (handpicked by Johnston) varies wildly from underground hip-hop to old-school soul to alternative rock.

The Brick has a competitively priced selection of beers from around the world. However, it's the cocktails that really make The Brick stand out from the crowd. Classic cocktails like the Bloody Mary and Mojito get a new twist at The Brick: The Brick Bloody Mary (50 yuan) is spicy, while the Brick Mojito (40 yuan) has a refreshing mint syrup in addition to the usual mint garnish.

No bar is complete without some tasty snacks, and The Brick has these in spades. There is a wide variety of gourmet chips and salsa which can all be had for 40 yuan.

The Brick. Happy hour: 4-7 pm; open from 4 pm till late. 2-11 F1 of Tianzhi Jiaozi Building, north of Shuangjing Qiao, Chaoyang district. 1590-149-7008

天之驕子一層2-11, 朝陽區雙井橋北