If you walk along Yangji’s main thoroughfare, you’ll likely catch sight of what appears to be your run-of-the-mill siu mei restaurant. However, if you venture inside this Cantonese eatery, you’ll find a backdoor that leads to Choi Chi College.
Image by Ryan Gandolfo/That’s
Best described as a bar with speakeasy characteristics, this sweet spot is secretly accessible from the street while also being completely visible to shoppers inside Xintiandi Garden.
Image by Ryan Gandolfo/That’s
Patrons can read all about Choi Chi College’s drink options on their newspaper-style menu. We opt for the bar’s classic negroni (RMB69) and the Shazam IPA (RMB39); however, the establishment also offers cognac, whiskey, gin and wine by the bottle. The negroni doesn’t disappoint – bringing a cool, bold gin and orange flavor that is perfect for combating Guangzhou’s sticky, summer heat. As for the Chinese wheat brew, putting its low alcohol content (4.0% ABV) and small stature (230 milliliters) aside, it’s an enjoyable and refreshing beer with a fruity aroma and hazy yellow body.
Image by Ryan Gandolfo/That’s
Image by Ryan Gandolfo/That’s
On the backside of their paper menu you’ll find a tasty selection of siu mei (roasted meats), which make for an ideal end to a boozy night. After finishing our drinks, we venture back through the street-side eatery and order the lao niang cha shao rice dish (RMB28) – a delicious combo of barbecue pork, pickled vegetables and rice.
Image by Ryan Gandolfo/That’s
We really like the vibe of Choi Chi College and its roasted meats neighbor, as we find the staff to be helpful and accommodating and the atmosphere to be pleasant and laid-back. With a handful of tables inside and outside the bar, as well as cushiony high-top chairs at the bar top, it’s easy to find a comfortable spot to sit. As for the restaurant, it caters more towards pick-up, with only a few small tables lining the wall.
Price: RMB50-100
Who’s going: trendy types, college graduates
Good for: hard drinks and roasted meats
Nearest metro: Yangji (Exit B), 10 minutes’ walk
See listing for Choi Chi College.
[Cover image by Ryan Gandolfo/That’s]
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