With summer in full swing, Beijingers are on the hunt for places to soak up the warm weather. MOONEE, a bar in Beijing's historic Gulou hutong area, is one of the summer hot spots you need to add to your rooftop rotation.
With its white and teal decor, comfy lounge sofas, and sun umbrellas arranged around low white tables, MOONEE gives the hutong a feeling of the Mediterranean. It also still keeps the local charm of Beijing, offering a stunning view of the iconic Drum and Bell Towers.
The three-story building, which was previously a well-known international hostel, was transformed into MOONEE when owner Kerry Fang started the renovations in March 2021 and eventually was able to open the bar in the spring of 2022.
Fang spent most of his childhood in Beijing, before moving to Australia with his family. He returned to Beijing three years ago, with an idea to create a Western-style bar that would reflect the interweaving of ancient Chinese tradition and modern culture, and the meeting of East and West.
The bar has become a popular destination for locals and expats alike, with regular live music performances and DJs spinning all week long.
On Saturdays, Sunset Balcony Mix nights are held, where international and local DJs mix a wide range of musical genres, including House, Afro-house, Afro-beat, Hip Hop, RnB, and more. On Sundays, Sunset Groove Rooftop Parties are held to close out the weekend with a more laid-back vibe.
There's more to MOONEE than just its rooftop though. MOONEE Underground, located on the first floor, is a live house space that has partnered with The Warehouse, a well-known rock bar in Beijing. This joint effort offers music lovers access to some of Beijing's top post-punk and rock artists.
MOONEE also recently held a soft opening for its third floor, which offers a groovy and laid-back ambiance where guests can dine and drink. Fang plans to host more musical performances, parties, and other events on this floor.
Wine, beer, mixed drinks, and a number of speciality cocktails are available on their menu, including the "MOONEE," a vodka roselle mixed with cranberry, peach, and lime juice. Cocktail prices range from RMB65 to 90 and Asahi and Coronas cost RMB40. 
For non-drinkers who are still looking for a refreshing summer drink, their mocktail list includes an "Amalfi Sunray" and "Sparkling Sicily", both of which cost RMB65.
MOONEE also offers shisha for RMB258, with blueberry, watermelon, mint, peach, and apple flavors available.
The food selection at MOONEE ranges from fries, pizza, soups, salads, and tacos, to burgers, grilled ribs, and New Zealand salmon. Their recent additions include tiger prawns, rose-salted edamame, freshly cut sashimi, and sushi, as well as baked oysters with garlic and cheese.
Whether you want to check out the Beijing rock scene, join a sunset dance party, or simply relax on the rooftop with a drink in hand, MOONEE will give you the summer fix you're looking for. Head over to the Gulou hutong and experience the Mediterranean magic for yourself.
[Cover image via MOONEE]
0 User Comments