Tony’s Workshop sits comfortably in the upper echelons of unconventional Beijing bars. It’s a one-bedroom studio space hidden away on the eleventh floor of an apartment block, and wears its cocktail bar disguise pretty thinly. Position yourself at the bar in the living room, sit as a small group on armchairs in the bedroom, or go and take a quick shower, if there’s not a long queue for the bathroom. Tony’s Workshop is a perfectly functioning bar, but by day it may very well be Tony’s actual apartment.
It’s owned by a Mr Tony Zhao, an expert cocktail-mixer with a penchant for flowery drinks and wallpaper. He’s the kind of man who would describe his mixology as an art form, and supporting that claim is the fact that every item on the drinks list is meticulously hand-drawn and written out.
Pick something from that menu or simply ask for a creation based on which spirits and flavors you like. The latter may be a good idea if you don’t dig anything too sharp or floral – most drinks here are of that type. The two prepared for us are shades of green and pink that might look better as a neon sign. First up is a World Traveler (RMB98), a mix of Japanese shochu and Midori, a melon liqueur, which scores highly for originality, if nothing else. Next, we try a Rose Lady (RMB98), which you’ll need to drink slowly to let the rose-petal-infused ice ball fully melt into the liquid. Both drinks are tart, but not enough to lose their balance.
photos by Noemi Cassanelli
Tony’s previous establishment, the now defunct Lush House, was a bar whose over-peacocked interior made for a slightly uncomfortable drinking spot. The Workshop is the complete opposite: quiet, comfortable and withdrawn. Lounge bars don’t get more lounge than this.
Price
Around RMB100 and up for cocktails
Who’s Going
Drinkers looking for post work tranquility
Good For
Tony’s cocktail-loving neighbors
See a lisitng for Tony's Workshop
Read more Beijing Bar Reviews
0 User Comments