Set in a picturesque Chinese pavilion on Houhai Lake, this trendy bar adjoins the highly prestigious Xiao Wang's Home restaurant and offers lovely views over the lake. Ideal for sundowners.

CHAOYANG DISTRICT. A sophisticated jazz bar that serves up great champagne cocktails and offers a wide selection of fine imported wines. Set as a split-level restaurant and bar, this is an excellent choice for a quiet business meeting or a civilized night listening to live jazz music.

If a Mexican night on the town beckons, then this is your place. Early evenings for tacos and burritos and pitchers of margueritas; then the salsa starts and everyone has a ball. Latino dancing might go on til the early hours on Fridays and Saturdays. Good food, excellent cocktails and the best of Latino music.

CHAOYANG DISTRICT. You might be inclined to ignore a bar that's so obviously marketing one brand, but the Flair Bar is so friendly and fun it's worth it ­ if you drink whisky, that is. Staff are chatty and the atmosphere is often like a fairground. Try the strawberry cocktail.

DONGCHENG DISTRICT. As much a cozy cafe as a bar. Overlooking the courtyard between the Drum Tower and the Bell Tower, this rooftop bar is hidden down a hutong (alleyway). The Drum and Bell is difficult to find, but worth the search. Offers great views over this part of the city. In winter there are coal stoves to keep you warm. Local draft beers available.