Here are all the bars and restaurants we featured in our July 2019 issue:
1. Dragon Seafood Roll
Image by Ryan Gandolfo/That’s
Tucked away within the labyrinth of small food joints that coexist on the basement floor of Tianhe’s Grandview Mall is Dragon Seafood Roll, a relatively new sandwich shop offering lobster rolls, cod sandwiches and, of course, bubble tea.
The eatery’s Boston lobster roll (RMB42) comes packaged in a hot dog box (kind of authentic, if you ask us). The roll didn’t disappoint, however, with garlicy lobster chunks packed inside a crisp, buttery bun. The portion of lobster in the sandwich is meager in comparison to what you’d find in Beantown, but come on, we’re surprised they even sell ’em.
As far as lunches go, though, you can find a litany of nearby food options that will leave you satisfied for far less kuai. We washed the seafood sammie down with a cold cup of lemon passionfruit juice (RMB17), a particularly refreshing juice to take on-the-go for these hot summer days.
Price: RMB60
Who’s going: hungry window shoppers, people who’ve never been to Boston
Good for: garlic and butter-laden lobster rolls, not much else
Nearest metro: Tianhe Sports Center (Exit B), 5 minutes’ walk
Read our full review here. See listing for Dragon Seafood Roll.
2. Evening Standard
Image via Smoki Wong
Gin is in. At least that’s our impression after visiting Evening Standard, a new gin bar tucked away in Yangji. This bar offers thirsty patrons in Guangzhou an escape from the summer heat, with cool cocktails and a bevy of gin and tonic combos on the menu. It’s a welcome addition to the neighborhood, albeit at a pretty penny.
When we visited on a Thursday evening, the bar had a lively atmosphere, with a buzz of excitement about the one-alcohol stop. Evening Standard is sectioned off into two main seating areas as well as an upstairs section that was roped off at the time of our visit. Music played overhead but didn’t intrude on conversation, making for a nice change of pace.
We kicked off our evening with an English Negroni (RMB90), which comes slow but strong. Set in an old fashioned glass with a large square cube for optimal chill, it’s a quality drink that we’d order again. The Bees Knees (RMB90), on the other hand, doesn’t quite hit the spot. While we’re fans of the flavor lemon juice and egg white brings, we could hardly taste Malfy gin con limone, making this beverage a softball meant for those less passionate for the taste of the colorless spirit.
Price: RMB100
Who’s going: ginholics, people looking for something new, the neighborhood
Good for: gin and tonic, catching up with friends
Closest metro: Yangji (Exit B), 10 minutes’ walk
Read our full review here. See listing for Evening Standard.
3. Urban Grill
Image via Urban Grill
Urban Grill is a beef-focused shop specializing in burgers and steaks, all of which are made with imported beef, according to the shop’s menu.
After perusing the burger and steak options, we opted for the meat patties, ordering the ‘guacamole’ (RMB78) and ‘cowboy’ (RMB68) burgers. While we waited for the cook to whip these bad boys into shape, we indulged ourselves with a round of decently priced Coronas (RMB20 per 330-mililiter bottle). For those not passionate about Mexican cervezas, Stella Artois can be had for RMB25 per bottle.
The burgers arrived on a round wooden plate and were served with a side of thick-cut potato wedges, with ketchup and Tabasco sauce conveniently located on the table for added flavor.
While we didn’t try any steaks on our visit, Urban Grill serves Australian beef ribs (RMB168) and Picanha (RMB108), among other bovine options. The shop also offers vanilla ice cream milkshakes, giving patrons with a sweet tooth a creamy treat, with flavors like banana Nutella, avocado and coconut mango.
Price: RMB80
Who’s going: curious passersbys, meat freaks, cheap beer seekers
Good for: burgers and beer, creamy shakes, quality TV programming
Nearest metro: Tiyu Xi Lu (Exit H), 10 minutes’ walk
Read our full review here. See listing for Urban Grill.
Read more Guangzhou restaurant reviews, cafe reviews and bar reviews.
[Cover image via Urban Grill]
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