Beijing's Hottest Rooftop and Terrace Hangouts

By Rachel Weiss, June 24, 2024

Beijing, with its rich blend of tradition and modernity, offers an incredible variety of rooftop and terrace spots perfect for any occasion. From hidden coffee shops in the historic hutongs to sleek rooftops in the bustling CBD, there's a perfect place for everyone to enjoy the cityscape. With summer in full swing, it's the ideal time to head outside and soak up the gorgeous weather with an Aperol Spritz or a pint in hand. Here's your guide to some of the best rooftops and terraces in the city, organized by Beijing neighborhood.

Gulou Hutongs

Zarah Cafe

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Image via @有一个小张。/小红书

Zarah Cafe is a favorite hutong spot known for its comfortable atmosphere that’s excellent for coworking or brunch with friends. The rooftop terrace offers a serene escape with views of the surrounding hutongs.

Address: 46 Gulou East Street, Dongcheng

地址: 北京市东城区鼓楼东大街46号

Cafe by Alba (南锣店)

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Cafe by Alba is a cozy cafe perfect for a relaxing afternoon with friends. The rooftop area provides a quaint and intimate setting amidst the bustle of Nanluoguxiang.

Address: 70 Nanluoguxiang, Dongcheng

地址: 北京市东城区南锣鼓巷61号

Toast at the Orchid

Image via Sina

Toast at the Orchid is a hutong rooftop restaurant offering delicious Mediterranean-inspired bites and brunch options with a great view. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy a leisurely meal while taking in the sights of the hutongs.

Address: 65 Baochao Hutong, Dongcheng

地址: 北京市东城区宝钞胡同65号

静水StillWater (南锣鼓巷店)

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静水 StillWater provides a tranquil spot to enjoy a peaceful coffee break away from the busy city. The rooftop offers a serene environment perfect for unwinding.

Address: 74 Nanluoguxiang, Dongcheng

地址: 北京市东城区南锣鼓巷74号

Kodo 口多

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Kodo’s rooftop space is a hidden gem, offering a quiet escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Address: 31 Nanluoguxiang, Dongcheng

地址: 东城区东城区南锣鼓巷31号

ZSPACE 自如

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ZSPACE 自如 is a large hutong coffee shop great for hosting meet ups and meetings. It also boasts a stylish hutong rooftop space offering a blend of comfort and sophistication.

Address: 9 Xiaojingchang Hutong, Dongcheng

地址: 北京市东城区小经厂胡同9号

MOONEE

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MOONEE is a vibrant top spot for enjoying drinks on a night out with friends. The rooftop offers a lively atmosphere with a panoramic view of the city, and the bar hosts weekly DJ and music events

Address: 31 Gulou West Street, Dongcheng

地址: 北京市东城区鼓楼西大街31号

Regain Element

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Regain Element in Wudaoying Hutong is a chic terrace perfect for a quiet evening of pints and chats.

Address: 35 Wudaoying Hutong, Dongcheng

地址: 北京市东城区五道营胡同35号

Pebbles Courtyard

Image via @卵石庭院岳师傅/小红书

Pebbles offers a delightful fusion of Mexican cuisine and a laid-back rooftop atmosphere. It’s an excellent spot for enjoying tacos and margaritas with friends.

Address: 74 Wudaoying Hutong, Dongcheng

地址: 北京市东城区五道营胡同74号

Aotu Space 凹凸空间

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Aotu Space is an artistic venue combining creative events with a charming rooftop and courtyard nearby Beixinqiao station. It’s a great place to enjoy art, music, and drinks in a unique setting.

Address: 67 Beixinqiao Toutiao, Dongcheng

地址: 北京市东城区北新桥头条67号

Shichahai Lake Area and Xicheng

Great Leap 大跃啤酒

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Great Leap Brewing is a favorite of craft beer enthusiasts and has a beautiful outdoor hutong courtyard.

Address: 6 Doujiao Hutong, Chaoyang

地址: 北京市朝阳区豆角胡同6号

Polonio

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Nestled in the charming Baitasi area, known for its picturesque White Dagoba Temple, Polonio stands out among the many coffee shops that populate this historic neighborhood.

Address: 81 Gongmenkou Dongcha, Xicheng

西城区宫门口东岔81号

Sugar House Coffee 糖房咖啡

Image via Rachel Weiss

Sugar House Coffee is a sweet escape with excellent coffee and a cozy rooftop. It’s perfect for enjoying a relaxing afternoon with a great view of the lake.

Address: 2 Houhai Beiyan, Xicheng

地址: 北京市西城区前海东沿22号(庆云楼饭庄3层4层,银锭桥旁)

Sanlitun

Forno

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Forno is known for its authentic Italian pizzas and outdoor Sanlitun rooftop. It’s an excellent spot for pizza lovers to enjoy a slice in a charming setting.

Address: 19 Sanlitun Road, Chaoyang

FORNO意角(三里屯太古里店) 三里屯路19号太古里南区3层 S6-33

Casa Bacardi

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Casa Bacardi is a lively rooftop perfect for enjoying cocktails and music. It’s a popular spot for those looking to experience the vibrant Sanlitun nightlife.

Address: 81 Sanlitun Road, Chaoyang

地址: 北京市朝阳区三里屯路81号

Liangma / SOLANA

Arrow Factory Rooftop

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With its scenic view and selection of craft beers, Arrow Factory Rooftop provides a perfect place for unwinding. The relaxed atmosphere on its terrace invites guests to unwind and enjoy the surroundings at their leisure.

Address: 22 Liangmahe South Road, Chaoyang

地址: 北京市朝阳区亮马河南路22号

Carpaccio

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Carpaccio, located along Beijing’s scenic Liangma River, offers a delightful Italian dining experience with a beautiful terrace. It’s an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.

Address: 6 Chaoyang Gongyuan Road, Chaoyang

地址: 北京市朝阳区朝阳公园路6号

Adagio and Bar Carolle

Image via @小曼_Mandy/小红书

Adagio and Bar Carolle is a sophisticated spot ideal for enjoying cocktails with a view. The rooftop provides a chic and elegant setting for a night out.

Address: 8 Baijiazhuang Dongli, Chaoyang

地址: 北京市朝阳区白家庄东里8号

QMEX Solana

Image via @mandy/Dianping

With a lively outdoor seating area and upstairs space, QMEX Solana is a great spot for enjoying tacos, margaritas, and a fun atmosphere with its mix of Mexican flavors.

Address: 6 Chaoyang Gongyuan Road, Chaoyang

地址: 北京市朝阳区朝阳公园路6号

Guomao

Beersmith Terrace

Image via @我不想减肥/Dianping

Beersmith Terrace, with its vibrant outdoor space, offers a wide selection of craft beers and hosts live music nights. It’s the perfect spot for beer enthusiasts to relax, soak up the lively atmosphere, and enjoy some tunes.

Address: 1 Jianguomenwai Avenue, Chaoyang

地址: 北京市朝阳区建国门外大街1号

Migas Mercado

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Migas Mercado is a popular spot for its Spanish cuisine and lively rooftop terrace. It’s perfect for enjoying tapas and cocktails with a panoramic view.

Address: 81 Jianguo Road, Chaoyang

地址: 北京市朝阳区建国路81号