Run by a group of pragmatic Buddhists, Champoo in OCT-Loft has the cozy feel of a yurt from the set of Wolf Totem. Though the bar is not Mongolian themed, it could easily be mistaken as such, with a lupine pelt on the wall, pictures of ruddy grassland women and fireplaces glowing orange in each of the upper rooms.
Champoo takes its name from the Chimpu caves, a mountain hermitage for lamas and nuns in Tibet. Arranged similarly to its namesake, the bar’s two-story complex contains concealed, cave-like rooms of varying sizes as well as an expansive main area on its second level. Holes cut out of the second-floor patio allow trees to grow through the ground, casting shaded natural light.
The space feels comfortable with large stuffed cushions and wooden furniture, yet simultaneously mysterious with its basement wine cellar, multiple passageways and faint smell of incense.
The bar itself is tucked away in the back of the first floor but worth the search to see the Macanese bartender and his cocktails adorned with intricately cut fruit. The blood and sand (RMB45) contains a powerful mango and bourbon flavor with a tart hint of passion fruit. According to the bartender, this is a “woman’s drink.” So what does he have for a macho beefcake?
Apparently, men like a lot of chartreuse, mixed with maraschino Luxardo, maraschino ale and dry London gin. All combine to give the widow’s kiss (RMB45) the flavor of licorice and peppermint mixed with strong alcohol. Watch out for the sliced apple garnish on top though, as it could easily get stuck in larger nostrils.
Bottled beers run RMB35-55 while the nonalcoholic, frothy iced kumquat juice with passion fruit (RMB26) will give teetotalers something to indulge in.
Even though they’re Buddhists, the team at Champoo does not adhere to strict Buddhist dietary guidelines and offers several meat options on the menu. We recommend the beef with hot pepper and celery (RMB58) and an old Chinese staple, spicy chicken (RMB68). Both dishes, true to their names, heat up the mouth and have delicious, chewy meat.
Diners and drinkers can enjoy live music that fluctuates between Chinese folk and country western music every night, starting at 8.30pm.
Centrally located in OCT-Loft, right across from My Coffee, Champoo is more of a place for a nightcap than for meditation, but it’s relaxing, peaceful and lovely all the same, especially on still, spring evenings.
Price: Approx. RMB90
Who’s going: Concertgoers from B10, local artists, foreign tourists
Good for: Private chats, interesting cocktails, a place to eat a full meal late in OCT-Loft
// Listing.
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