Two of Beijing's New Southeast Asian Restaurants Go Head to Head

We’re officially done saying Beijing doesn’t have good Southeast Asian food. Because lime is money, the city’s time-honored mall-stitutions – Taikoo Li and China World Mall – have entered the game with a new Thai restaurant and a new Vietnamese restaurant, respectively. Here, a rundown.

Little Susu

What You’re Eating: Vietnamese classics – pho, fish, curry and lunchtime banh mis.

What You’re Drinking: Cocktails on the weekend, lime sodas on weekdays (this is Guomao, so likely the latter).

The Highlight: On clear days, the view over the CCTV Headquarters.

The Downside

On smoggy days, the uninspiring interior. We prefer Susu’s original hutong location for charm.

See a listing for Little Susu

Home Thai

What You’re Eating: Thai classics – papaya salad, curried prawns and mango sticky rice.

What You’re Drinking: Thai tea. Not exactly the most authentic version, but tasty nonetheless.

The Highlight: The curries – sweet and fresh with just the right amount of spice. 

The Downside

Sanlitun crowds. This is Taikoo Li South, so prepare to wait.

See a listing for Home Thai