It seems hutongers have a lot to celebrate these days. The latest victory? Slow Boat Brewery finally unveiled their long-awaited Dengshikou location. The taproom feels very familiar: It retains the same burgers (new ones too!) and the same beers, however, the atmosphere is a lot more laid-back.
While the Sanlitun location has the feel of a bustling restaurant, where patrons have to sit with most customers seemingly there for the grub, the new setting puts the bar back at the center.
This bar houses an impressive 20 taps, with all their classics on offer as well as a number of limited, small-batch brews and guest beers. This focus on making the space somewhere to really get your drink on definitely enhances the cheery vibe (and makes us drink a lot more). The new Slow Boat is a place where you can meet your mates and hang out, whether you’re eating, drinking or just chilling.
For those who have been in the city long enough to remember the original Slow Boat hutong location, the Dengshikou bar has very similar feel – it’s small and sociable, yet the clean, modern interior is a step up. The wooden tables inside encourage you to mix with other beer fanatics and repurposed kegs for tables and stools outside offer the same social atmosphere.
Any fears you may have about the food standards slacking should be put on hold. The burgers maintain the same high standard. The staple Fryburger (RMB59) is as good as ever and the kimchi wings (RMB70) are a great sharing plate – perfect to wash down with a Monkey’s Fist IPA (RMB45). Aside from the classics, the menu here is a bit different from the Sanlitun brewpub’s offerings with some new burgers exclusive to this location only.
Image via Simon Taylor for That's
The only issue facing the new Slow Boat is the slightly awkward location, with Dengshikou not offering much in the way of alternatives if you and the gang want to move on, however, as a meeting spot to kill time at, it’s only ideal.
So the next time you want a mean burger, a decent pint and a place to hang out, be sure to float by Slow Boat’s new digs.
[Images courtesy of Slow Boat Brewery]
See a listing for Slow Boat Dengshikou Taproom and read more Beijing restaurant reviews
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